GENERAL INFO

Bonjour means "hello," "good day," or "good morning." It is primarily an interjection or greeting, but can also be used as a masculine noun (e.g., *un bonjour* - a greeting).

USAGE

This is the standard, polite way to greet anyone in French, from strangers to friends, typically from morning until late afternoon or early evening. You use it when entering a shop, meeting someone, or starting a conversation.

TRAPS

Do not use bonjour at night; switch to "bonsoir" (good evening). While it means "good day," it is *not* used as a farewell. For saying goodbye during the day, use "bonne journée."