bisous
xoxo in French is translated as bisous.
bisous is an informal expression used as a sign-off at the end of text messages, emails or letters to convey affection to friends and family. It is the standard French equivalent for the English 'xoxo'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
bisous is an informal term. Other informal ways to express similar affection include Gros bisous, which means "big kisses" or Je t'embrasse, which means "I kiss you".
How does it change in a sentence?
While the plural form bisous is the standard version used for closing messages, you can use the singular form bisou when referring to a single kiss.
Did you know?
- The term bisou is a diminutive of baiser, but while bisou is cute and innocent, the verb baiser has evolved into a vulgar slang term for sexual intercourse.
- The physical act of la bise can involve between two and four kisses depending on the region, and using the wrong number can cause social awkwardness.
- While 'xoxo' focuses on both hugs and kisses, 'bisous' focuses almost exclusively on the kiss, as there is no direct equivalent for 'hugs' in the standard sign-off.
Examples in context
- Câlins et bisous.XOXO.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use bisous in a sign-off.Tatoeba #11938014 by Fenrir, translation #11938003 by Fenrir
- Merci pour le cadeau, bisous !Thanks for the gift, xoxo!
Example conversation
Lucas is sending a quick text to Léa after a phone call.
- LucasÀ demain, Léa !See you tomorrow, Léa!
- LéaOui, bonne soirée !Yes, have a good evening!
- LucasBisous !Xoxo!
- LéaBisous, Lucas !Xoxo, Lucas!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
