What Does 'La Bise' Mean? Understanding the French Goodbye

Discover the meaning of 'la bise', the traditional French goodbye that involves cheek-kissing.

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A French goodbye is called 'la bise'. It involves kissing both cheeks and is a traditional way to say farewell in French culture. The term can also refer to a more casual departure, where a person leaves without a formal goodbye.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are some common French greetings? Common French greetings include 'Bonjour' for hello and 'Au revoir' for goodbye.
  2. Is 'la bise' practiced in other cultures? 'La bise' is similar to cheek-kissing traditions found in countries like Italy and Spain.
  3. When should I use 'la bise'? 'La bise' is typically used among friends and family, but it's not customary in formal settings.
  4. What does 'farewell' mean in French? 'Farewell' is translated to 'Au revoir' in French.

Watch More

For a deeper dive into French culture, check out our guide on the etiquette of greetings in different cultures or the significance of other cultural practices.

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