How do you say hi in French?

Xyloph3r
Bonjour! I’m a traveler who just arrived in Paris and I need to ask my French host how to greet him properly. I want to learn how to say hello in French, but I don’t know the correct words or pronunciation. Has anyone else ever struggled with learning new greetings in a foreign language?

Replies

Astrid8F6gD
To say hello in French, you can use the phrase 'Bonjour' for formal situations or 'Salut' for informal ones. Pronunciation is key, so pay close attention to the emphasis on the first syllable and the soft 'g' sound. Practice makes perfect, so try repeating after native speakers or recording yourself. Don't be afraid to make mistakes - it's all part of the learning process! One helpful tip is to focus on the correct intonation, as French accents can greatly affect the overall meaning of the phrase. For example, 'Bonjour' with a rising tone sounds more like 'bone-JOOR,' while 'Salut' with a flat tone sounds more like 'sah-LOO.' By mastering the basics and getting comfortable with the sound and rhythm of French, you'll be chatting with locals in no time!
jazzykay22
When in Paris, remember that 'bonjour' is not only a greeting but also an integral part of French culture. Pronunciation may be challenging at first, but with practice and patience, you'll become more confident in using it correctly. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – the French value politeness and hospitality above all else.
Zymyrnx
Learning new greetings in French is a fantastic way to break the ice and show respect for your host's culture. Here are some essential phrases to get you started: "Bonjour" (bone-JOOR) for daytime greetings, "Bonsoir" (bon-SWAHR) for evening or nighttime greetings, and "Bonne nuit" (bown-NWEE) for goodnight. When greeting your host, make sure to use formal titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame" followed by their last name until you're invited to use first names.
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