mes salutations
In French, "my greetings" is said as mes salutations.
mes salutations is a formal way to express good wishes or a polite hello. It is most commonly used in written correspondence. For example, in formal letters or emails, it is often used as part of a closing formula, such as Recevez mes salutations distinguées (Please accept my distinguished greetings).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the possessive adjective mes (my) and the plural noun salutations (greetings).
Which one should you use?
While mes salutations is a formal expression used for writing, the word salut is the common, informal way to say hello or goodbye in person.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
mes salutations is highly formal and is primarily used in written correspondence rather than spoken conversation. In spoken language, you might use more common formal greetings like Bonjour (Hello/Good day) until the evening or Bonsoir (Good evening) at night. For informal spoken situations, you can use Salut (Hi/Hey) or the affectionate Coucou (Hey there/Hiya).
Did you know?
- While mes salutations is extremely formal, its singular counterpart mon salut can actually refer to one's 'salvation' or 'safety' in a religious or life-threatening context.
- The noun salutations is derived from the Latin 'salus', which refers not just to a greeting but specifically to health and wellbeing.
- In traditional French administration, the choice of adjective paired with salutations creates a strict hierarchy of respect, with distinguées being the standard for professional superiors.
Examples in context
- Bonsoir , je suis ravi de vous rencontrer.Good evening, I'm delighted to meet you.
- Coucou toi, comment ça va ?Hey there, how are you doing?
- Veuillez accepter mes salutations distinguées.Please accept my distinguished greetings.
- Je vous adresse mes salutations les plus sincères.I send you my most sincere greetings.
- Recevez, Madame, mes salutations respectueuses.Receive, Madam, my respectful greetings.
Example conversation
Chloé is finishing a formal email to Nathan.
- ChloéJe termine ce message avec mes salutations.I am ending this message with my greetings.
- NathanC'est très poli, Chloé.That is very polite, Chloé.
- ChloéMerci, Nathan, c'est pour le travail.Thank you, Nathan, it is for work.
- NathanLe ton est parfait.The tone is perfect.
