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Common polite phrases to start conversations in French visualisation

Common polite phrases to start conversations in French

Speak French Like a Native: Key Cultural Mistakes to Avoid: Common polite phrases to start conversations in French
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Common polite phrases to start conversations in French include greetings and basic polite expressions that set a friendly tone. Here are some of the most useful ones:

  • Bonjour ! — Hello! / Good morning! This is the standard and polite daytime greeting suitable in most situations.
  • Bonsoir ! — Good evening! Used in the evening instead of “Bonjour.”
  • Salut ! — Hi! A casual greeting for friends or people you know well.
  • Comment ça va ? or Ça va ? — How are you? A common way to ask someone how they are doing.
  • Comment allez-vous ? — How are you? (formal) Used with strangers or in formal contexts.
  • Je m’appelle… — My name is… Used when introducing yourself.
  • Enchanté(e) — Nice to meet you. A polite phrase said after being introduced.
  • Excusez-moi — Excuse me. Useful to get someone’s attention politely.
  • S’il vous plaît — Please (formal)
  • Merci — Thank you
  • De rien — You’re welcome

These phrases will help start polite and friendly conversations in French in both formal and informal settings.

References

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