Bonjour or bonsoir?
Right now in France, the polite greeting is:
When to say bonjour or bonsoir?
From what time should you say bonsoir?
In France, people start saying “bonsoir” between 5:30 PM and 6 PM depending on the season. In winter, when nightfall comes around 5 PM, the switch happens as early as 5:30 PM; in summer it waits until 6 PM because it's still daylight.
Until what time can you say bonjour?
“Bonjour” stays correct until 5:30 PM all year round. After that, and at the latest by 6 PM, “bonsoir” takes over. This switching zone is typical of French etiquette.
Can you say bonjour at 5 PM?
Yes, without a doubt. At 5 PM, “bonjour” is still the norm everywhere in France, whatever the season. The transition to “bonsoir” only begins at 5:30 PM.
What's the difference between “bonsoir” and “bonne soirée”?
“Bonsoir” is used to greet someone you meet in the late afternoon or evening. “Bonne soirée” is a farewell, wishing someone a pleasant evening. You never say “bonne soirée” when arriving.
When do you say “bonne nuit”?
“Bonne nuit” is only used right before someone goes to bed. It's not an evening greeting: to greet someone in the evening, you say “bonsoir”.
Why does the time to say bonsoir change with the seasons?
French custom traditionally ties “bonsoir” to nightfall. The site uses the actual sunset in Paris, within a 5:30-6 PM window, to stay consistent with the rules of politeness.
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