Learning how to say goodbye is a crucial aspect of mastering any language, and French is no exception. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Paris, corresponding in French over email, or simply indulging in your love for all things Francophone, knowing the right word or phrase to bid farewell can make a lasting impression.
From formal to casual, nuanced to regional, this guide dives into the many ways to say goodbye in French, helping you express yourself confidently and appropriately in any situation. By the end, you’ll know when to use “à bientôt,” how to write a polished closing for emails and even the regional quirks that make French goodbyes so interesting.
Common Ways to Say Goodbye in French
French offers a variety of phrases for saying goodbye, each suited to different contexts. Here are the most commonly used expressions you’re likely to encounter.
1. Au revoir — The Universal Goodbye
“Au revoir” is the quintessential phrase for saying goodbye in French. Its literal translation is “until we see each other again,” implying that the farewell is not permanent.
- When to use it: Use “au revoir” in almost any situation—whether formal or informal—making it the safest and most neutral option.
- Example:
- Friend: “Merci pour l’invitation!” (Thanks for the invitation!)
- You: “Au revoir!”
2. À bientôt — See You Soon
This phrase, meaning “see you soon,” is ideal when you expect to see someone again in the near future.
- When to use it: Perfect for casual settings or when you want to assure the other person you’ll meet again soon.
- Example:
- Colleague: “À lundi!” (See you Monday!)
- You: “À bientôt!”
3. À plus tard / À tout à l’heure — See You Later
These are variations that you can use when you expect to see the person again later in the day or soon—from hours to a few days.
- When to use it: Ideal for neutral or slightly informal contexts.
- Example:
- Friend at lunch: “On se voit plus tard ?” (See you later?)
- You: “À plus tard !”
4. Bonne journée / Bonne soirée — Have a Good Day/Evening
These are polite ways to part ways, often paired with another farewell phrase.
- When to use it: Common in conversations with strangers, such as in shops or cafes.
- Example:
- Store clerk: “Merci et à bientôt.” (Thanks, and see you soon!)
- You: “Bonne journée!”
More Formal Goodbyes in French
Knowing how to say goodbye formally is essential in professional or serious contexts, where respect and decorum are necessary.
Adieu — Goodbye Forever
Adieu literally means “to God” and is used for permanent goodbyes. It carries a heavy, almost dramatic nuance that makes it rarely used in casual conversation.
- When to use it: Only use “adieu” when saying farewell for an extended period or when the goodbye feels definitive.
- Example:
- “Adieu, mon ami, et bonne chance…” (Farewell, my friend, and good luck…)
Je vous remercie et au revoir
For a more polite closing, particularly in conversations or letters with authority figures or clients, pair “Je vous remercie” (thank you) with “au revoir.”
- When to use it: Ideal in professional emails, presentations, or customer service interactions.
- Example Email Closing:
“Je vous remercie de votre attention, et au revoir.”
Informal Goodbyes
For casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues, you can loosen up with these informal goodbyes.
Salut — Bye
Though “salut” also means “hi,” it’s a common way to bid farewell casually.
- When to use it: Perfect for informal scenarios and among people you know well.
- Example:
- Friend: “On se voit demain ?” (See you tomorrow?)
- You: “Oui, salut !”
[Check out our blog on French greetings to learn more about “salute”!]
Ciao — Bye (Italian Borrowing)
Borrowed from Italian, “ciao” is widely recognized and frequently used casually in French.
- When to use it: Best for relaxed, fun, or trendy interactions.
- Example:
- Colleague after coffee: “Ciao!”
[Discover more casual French slang phrases here.]
Saying Goodbye in Writing
Ending correspondence in French requires proper etiquette, especially when sending formal messages.
Formal Closures
For professional emails and letters, use these common sign-offs:
- Cordialement (Best regards)
- Avec mes salutations distinguées (Yours sincerely)
- Bien à vous (Kind regards)
Informal Closures
For personal letters and emails, opt for a friendly touch like these simple phrases:
- Amicalement (Warmly)
- Bisous (Kisses, used with close friends or family)
[Learn more in our guide to French email etiquette.]
Regional Variations of Saying Goodbye
Expressions for goodbye can differ depending on where you are in the Francophone world.
Québec
Quebecois French includes phrases like “Bon matin!” or “Salut, là!” for informal farewells.
Africa
Expressions may include local influences, often blending French with regional languages.
[Check out our article on regional French dialects for more examples!]
What Does “Au Revoir” Mean in French?
“Au revoir” is the most ubiquitous way to say goodbye in French and a cultural staple. Its literal translation, “until we see each other again,” is both poetic and practical, embodying the friendliness of French culture.
Saying Goodbye to Travelers
If you’re travelling to France or any French-speaking region, here are the essentials you need to know for daily interactions.
- Au revoir for neutral, everyday use.
- Bonne journée when leaving a shop or café.
- À bientôt or À plus tard when making plans to meet later.
Wrapping It Up
Saying goodbye in French is about more than just words—it’s about context, tone, and cultural nuances. From formal “adieu” to casual “salut,” you’re now equipped with a variety of phrases to match any situation.
Practice these expressions out loud to perfect your pronunciation, and don’t forget to share this guide with your fellow language learners! Want more tips? Sign up for our newsletter for additional French language and cultural insights, or drop a comment below with your favourite French goodbye phrase.
FAQs
1.What is the most common way to say goodbye in French?
The most common way is “Au revoir,” which works in both formal and informal settings.
2.Is “Adieu” a common way to say goodbye?
“Adieu” is rare and typically used only for permanent goodbyes.
3.How do you say goodbye in French informally?
Use casual phrases like “Salut” or “Ciao” with friends or family.
4.Are there regional differences in how people say goodbye in French?
Yes, expressions can vary by region—for example, Quebecois French often adds local nuances.
5.How do you end a formal email in French?
Sign off with phrases like “Cordialement” or “Avec mes salutations distinguées.”
6.What does “Au revoir” mean in French?
It means “until we see each other again,” making it a versatile and friendly farewell.
7.What is French for goodbye for travellers?
Stick to “Au revoir” for formal use and “Salut” or “Bonne journée” for casual situations.
