Ten french faux pas8/31/2023 ![]() It’s always understood everyone will show up at least ten to fifteen minutes late. ![]() Otherwise, it’s more polite to stick with “vous” until then.Īs someone who is extremely punctual, this one is hard for me to grasp, but the French are NEVER on time for social events. If they use “tu” then it’s safe for you to do it too. When in doubt, follow the lead of the person you’re speaking with. “Tu” is used when speaking to children or friends/acquaintances. “Vous” is more polite and typically used when speaking to you don’t know well, older people, or in a business setting. While in English, we just say “you” regardless of who we’re addressing, in French there is a difference. Knowing just a few words will go a long way!Ĭhances are, if you’ve studied French at all, you already know this, but it’s worth reiterating: make sure you understand the difference between the informal “tu” and the formal “vous.” The majority of the French, especially those working in tourism/hospitality, speak English.īut it’s always appreciated to learn a few words in French, especially basic words of politeness: hello, goodbye, please, thank you, I’m sorry, excuse me, do you speak English, and so on.ĭon’t be that “ignorant American” stereotype brought to life by only speaking English and not even making an attempt in the local language. If you’re just traveling to France for vacation, you can easily get by without speaking much French. In Paris, it’s common to just do one kiss on each cheek (and they can be very light or even air kisses) but in other parts of France, the process is repeated twice or even more! It’s also considered weird by the French to greet a friend/acquaintance with a big American-style hug, so stick to “la bise.” I found this a little jarring when it was someone I just considered an acquaintance and not a close friend, such as a classmate, but it’s the norm. However, after a couple meetings, “la bise” becomes an appropriate greeting. A handshake is more standard in that situation. To walk into a shop and not greet the shopkeeper, for example, might result in you receiving poor service due to the perceived slight.Īs an American, “la bise” or greeting someone with a kiss on both cheeks, might seem like an extremely strange practice and one that can take some getting used to!įirst of all, it’s usually not normal to kiss someone you just met. It’s considered extremely rude not to greet someone. For instance, you would greet your waiter with “Bonjour monsieur.” When entering a shop, cafe, bar, or anywhere, you should always greet the worker with “bonjour” (or “bonsoir” if it’s in the evening.) For added politeness, this can be followed by madame/monsieur depending on their gender. Here are seven French etiquette essentials to know before you go: Related: 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Paris No matter where you go or who you’re around, these are important things to keep in mind to be polite. ![]() Honestly, you can’t put too much stock in stereotypes.Īfter living in Paris, I can’t say that the French people I met fit any one stereotype.īut there ARE quite a few overarching cultural norms and etiquette that are standard in France. ![]() The French get positively stereotyped for being cultured and refined, and negatively stereotyped for being snobby and aloof. Traveling or moving to France? Make sure you know this essential French etiquette first! ![]()
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