How to greet people in different French regions
In different French regions, greetings can vary slightly due to local dialects and customs, especially regarding the cheek-kiss greeting called “la bise.” Here are some regional variations of greetings in France:
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In general French usage, “Bonjour” is the standard polite greeting during the day, and “Bonsoir” is used in the evening. “Salut” is casual and used among friends and family. “Coucou” is playful and affectionate, often for close friends or children.
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In Normandy, the cheek kiss greeting is referred to as “se boujouter,” derived from the local greeting “boujou,” meaning “to hello each other.” It’s a regional verb form related to greeting rather than a direct cheek reference.
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In the regions bordering Germany, the term used for cheek kissing is “se faire un schmoutz,” derived from Old German. Despite the modern meaning of “schmutz” as dirt in German, here it means giving a kiss.
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In French-speaking Swiss regions (Romandy) and some parts of Canada, cheek kissing is called “se faire le bec,” from the Swiss-French word “becquer,” meaning “to peck” or “kiss.” Another related term used is “se bécoter.”
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The side on which one starts the cheek kisses can differ: in southern France, people typically start with the left cheek while in northern France, starting with the right cheek is more common.
These regional greetings reflect local linguistic influences and cultural habits beyond the country’s widely recognized French greetings. 1 2 3
Understanding “La Bise”: The Art of the Cheek Kiss
“La bise” is more than just a greeting—it’s a fundamental cultural practice tied to social etiquette and interpersonal relationships in France. While the number of kisses varies regionally (usually two, three, or four), the act itself serves as a sign of warmth and familiarity.
- Number of kisses:
- In Paris and much of northern France, two kisses are the norm.
- In Provence and the south, three or sometimes four kisses are common, often alternating cheeks starting from the left.
- In Brittany, it may vary between one and two kisses depending on familiarity.
Confusion over the correct number can unintentionally create social awkwardness for newcomers. When unsure, observing locals or following their lead is a safe strategy.
Comparing Formal and Informal Greetings: When to Use What
Knowing when and how to choose greetings appropriately can enhance communication and show respect for social norms:
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Formal “Bonjour” and “Bonsoir”: Suitable for business, official settings, or meeting strangers. They signal politeness and distance. For example, in an office environment or with an elder, always prefer these greetings.
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Informal “Salut” and “Coucou”: Reserved for friends, family, and close acquaintances. “Coucou” carries affectionate and playful connotations and is often used with children or intimate friends.
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In some southern regions, informal greetings might also include brief handshakes instead of la bise, particularly in professional contexts where people are less familiar.
Regional Linguistic Influences in Greetings
The regional differences in greetings often reflect deeper historical and cultural intersections:
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Normandy’s “se boujouter” emphasizes the verb form derived from their local greeting tradition. This shows how even verb forms morph regionally to express shared customs.
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Alsace-Lorraine’s “se faire un schmoutz” stems from Germanic influence due to history as a contested borderland with Germany. The term’s evolution from “schmutz” (dirt) to “kiss” illustrates linguistic adaptation reflecting cultural connection, despite seemingly contradictory meanings.
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In Romandy and parts of Quebec, expressions like “se faire le bec” or “se bécoter” indicate the influence of Swiss French and Canadian French dialects, emphasizing how French greeting customs adapt outside France but retain regional uniqueness.
Practical Tips for Using Regional Greetings
When traveling or learning French for everyday use, adapting greetings to the regional context can create a positive impression:
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Listen carefully to the greeting form locals use and mirror their style. For example, using “se boujouter” in Normandy shows cultural awareness.
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Pay attention to kiss etiquette: the number of kisses and which cheek to start with varies and reflects local customs.
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Avoid overusing informal greetings like “coucou” unless well-acquainted, as it can seem too familiar or disrespectful in formal or unfamiliar settings.
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When in doubt, default to the polite “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” until the relationship or setting clearly calls for informal alternatives.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions about French Greetings
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Mistaking “la bise” customs across France: Many learners assume two kisses are universal. However, assuming this can create social slips, especially in the south where more kisses are customary.
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Confusing “Salut” with “Bonjour”: Saying “Salut” in formal contexts can come across as impolite or careless, affecting first impressions.
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Ignoring regional dialect terms: Overlooking local expressions like “se boujouter” or “se faire le bec” may lead to missing cultural nuances or not fully integrating in the region.
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Misunderstanding kiss side conventions: Starting la bise on the wrong cheek may momentarily confuse locals, as this aspect is surprisingly standardized within regions.
FAQ: French Regional Greetings
Q: How many kisses should I give in Paris?
A: Usually two — one on each cheek, starting with the right cheek.
Q: Is it always appropriate to do la bise?
A: Not always. In formal or business contexts, a handshake is often preferred unless otherwise indicated.
Q: What greeting is best for meeting someone for the first time in France?
A: “Bonjour” is the safest choice regardless of region. La bise can come after establishing familiarity.
Q: Are there special greetings for children or close family?
A: Yes, “coucou” is a playful and affectionate greeting often used with children, and la bise is common with family members.
Standard French greetings include:
- Bonjour (Hello/Good morning/Good afternoon)
- Bonsoir (Good evening)
- Salut (Hi, informal)
- Coucou (Hey, very informal/playful)
Regional and localized terms enrich the social texture of greetings across France.