gros bisous
In French, 'lots of kisses' is translated as gros bisous.
This phrase is an affectionate way to close a conversation, letter or message with friends or family. Other informal options include Bisous tout plein and plein de bisous.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase gros bisous literally translates to 'big kisses'.
Which one should you use?
plein de bisous serves as a more literal translation of the English phrase 'lots of kisses'. Both are used in informal settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Gros bisous is an informal expression intended for use with friends and family. It is inappropriate for professional contexts. For a more formal way to say 'receive my tender kisses', you can use Recevez mes tendres baisers.
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as a sign-off, the phrase is almost always used in the plural form gros bisous rather than the singular gros bisou.
When do people say it?
In French written communication, it is a common practice to add an X at the end of a message to represent a kiss.
Did you know?
- The word baiser can be a risky choice in conversation because, while it means 'to kiss' as a noun, the verb form is a vulgar slang term for sexual intercourse.
- While gros bisous is used in messages, the physical act of kissing in France often involves la bise, a social ritual of kissing cheeks that varies in number depending on the region.
- The word gros shares its root with the English word 'gross', but in this French context, it conveys warmth and generosity rather than something disgusting.
Examples in context
- On se voit bientôt, gros bisous !See you soon, lots of kisses!
- Gros bisous à toute la famille.Lots of kisses to the whole family.
Example conversation
Emma sends a text message to Lucas to end their chat.
- EmmaMerci pour l'invitation, Lucas !Thanks for the invitation, Lucas!
- LucasDe rien, à samedi alors.You're welcome, see you Saturday then.
- EmmaParfait, gros bisous !Perfect, lots of kisses!
- LucasBisous, Emma.Kisses, Emma.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gros, CC BY-SA 4.0.
