"Bonjour" is French for what greeting?

“Bonjour” is French for “hello,” a common greeting used when addressing someone. It is also literally formed from words meaning “good day,” so it can carry the sense of wishing someone a good day.

In French-speaking regions, bonjour is generally used when meeting someone during the daytime, including in polite encounters with strangers, shop staff, colleagues, or acquaintances. It can be followed by a title or name, such as “Bonjour, madame” or “Bonjour, Pierre.”

The greeting is usually more formal or neutral than “salut,” which is commonly used among friends and can mean either “hi” or “bye.” Later in the day, French speakers often use “bonsoir,” meaning “good evening.” In written messages, bonjour is also a standard way to begin an email or letter.

A related expression, “bonne journée,” means “have a good day” and is more often used when saying goodbye rather than opening a conversation.