merci au revoir
The English phrase "thank you bye" is translated into French as merci au revoir.
This phrase is most commonly used when concluding a formal or semi-formal interaction, such as leaving a shop or finishing a phone call with a professional.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a combination of merci (thank you) and au revoir (goodbye/until we see each other again).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In retail or service settings, it is more common and natural to say merci, bonne journée (thank you, have a good day) instead of merci, au revoir when ending a transaction.
Did you know?
- The word merci is a distant relative of the English word 'mercy'. Both stem from the Latin word for 'wages' or 'price', reflecting a time when gratitude was linked to the payment of a debt.
- The phrase au revoir literally means 'until we see each other again'. It implies a future meeting, unlike the English 'goodbye', which historically comes from 'God be with ye'.
- In very casual settings, French speakers often replace au revoir with salut. This is unique because salut can be used as both a greeting when arriving and a goodbye when leaving.
Examples in context
- Je vous remercie de votre aideI thank you for your help
- Merci bien d'être venu(e)Thanks a lot for coming
Example conversation
Nathan is leaving a bakery after buying a baguette.
- NathanC'est tout pour aujourd'hui.That is all for today.
- ManonVoici votre pain, monsieur.Here is your bread, sir.
- NathanMerci au revoir, Manon !Thank you bye, Manon!
- ManonAu revoir, bonne journée !Goodbye, have a nice day!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries merci, revoir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
