The French still greet each other by touching each other, kissing or shaking hands. Faire la bise is not only an intimate gesture that can be observed within a couple, it is also a gesture for greeting and saying goodbye.
The most common greeting in French is the very useful “bonjour”, and “bonsoir”. The first can be used throughout the day, and the second in the evening. “Salut” is also widely used in a more informal setting. These are the most basic greetings that will commonly be learned in lessons for French for kids.
Adults say "tu" to children and kiss them on the cheek, even if they have just met for the first time. To greet people, you say "Bonjour". Among young people and students, "Salut" is used more frequently.
In France, saying bonjour in French is a sign of respect and a cultural norm. It's not optional to forgo the greeting if you want people to know that you understand French manners.
Generally speaking, bonjour is the standard method of saying “good morning.” But depending on where in the world you are, you may also be able to say bon matin! Interestingly, you generally want to say bonjour to someone once per day.
Use a Light Handshake
The French usually use a light handshake for business. A strong American handshake may make you seem aggressive. The typical French double kiss greeting called bise is reserved for long time business partners and friends. Only use this when your French business partner initiates it.
Men will greet each other by shaking hands. Men who are close friends may hug. Women will often greet each other with a handshake or by kissing once on each cheek. Men who know the woman they are greeting, may exchange a kiss on each cheek.
Begin with Monsieur, Madame or Mademoiselle followed by the recipient's full name, as in Monsieur Jacques Untel. This is polite form for both formal and informal letters. For a married couple, use Monsieur et Madame Untel.
The French do not just say 'Salut'. They also shake hands or kiss. At work in the morning, colleagues shake hands, and sometimes it is also customary to shake hands again at the end of the day. Shaking hands is thus a ritual at the beginning and end of each encounter, even if the encounter only lasts five minutes.
Salut is not a way that you would greet strangers either, while it is used in informal settings, it is mainly said to people you know. This can include any acquaintances, though, not just friends and family.
Of Latin origin, the greeting kissing persists in countries where the culture of contact dominates, and this culture is deeply rooted in France. The French still greet each other by touching each other, kissing or shaking hands.
You can either reply saying "Bonjour" back or you could say "salut" which also means hello but in an informal way.
French etiquette tips for French greetings
The French shake hands almost whenever they meet, and always when meeting someone for the first time or for business. Arriving at work in the morning, it is common to greet colleagues with a handshake and to shake hands again when leaving.
It is rude to sit with one's legs spread apart unless in a relaxed context. Rather, sit straight with your legs crossed at the knee or knees together. Feet should not be placed on tables or chairs. If someone is invited to a restaurant or a business function, it is acceptable to arrive at the specific time.
Salut is a casual French expression. There are pretty strict rules about when to use salut. This is an informal greeting and because it's considered so casual, salut should only be used as a greeting between close friends.
This difference might seem a little trivial like the difference between saying “hello” and “hello again,” but it's considered rude to say bonjour instead of rebonjour if you've already seen them once that day. This is because when you say bonjour you're implying that this is the first time you've seen them that day.
Good Morning/Good Day/Good Afternoon/Good Evening
These are general polite greetings that can be used in all situations and are used at particular times of the day (like good morning when you greet a colleague or manager as you enter the office in the morning.)