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If you're looking to add a French flair to your New Year celebrations, learning how to say "Happy New Year" in French is a great start!
BONNE ANNÉE !
The most straightforward way to say "Happy New Year" in French is Bonne année! (pronounced: bun ah-nay). This phrase translates literally to "Good year!" and is commonly used from January 1st onwards to wish others a prosperous and joyful year ahead.
ADDING WARM WISHES
To make your greeting more heartfelt, you can extend the phrase:
Bonne année et bonne santé! – "Happy New Year and good health!"
Je vous souhaite une très bonne année! – "I wish you a very Happy New Year!"
Health (santé) is a particularly valued wish in French culture, as good health is considered essential for a happy life.
FORMAL VS. INFORMAL GREETINGS
In informal settings, you can simply say Bonne année! to friends and family. However, in professional or formal contexts, a more polite version is appropriate:
Je vous présente mes meilleurs vœux pour la nouvelle année. – "I extend my best wishes for the New Year." This phrase is ideal for writing in New Year’s cards or emails to colleagues and clients.
NEW YEAR'S EVE TOASTS
During New Year’s Eve (la Saint-Sylvestre), you may want to make a toast. Raise your glass and say:
À la nouvelle année! – "To the New Year!"
Santé! – "Cheers!" (literally, "Health!")
CULTURAL TIPS
In France, it’s customary to exchange New Year’s greetings throughout the month of January. Unlike in some cultures, sending New Year’s cards or wishes doesn’t have to be limited to the first few days of the year!
THE NEW YEAR CARD SET: SHARE YOUR WISHES WITH A PARISIAN TOUCH
In France, tradition gives us the whole month of January to send good wishes. This year, why not add a Parisian touch to your messages? With these elegant "Paris in Color" cards, you can share your best wishes while bringing your loved ones on a journey to the City of Light!
(amazon)
BONNE ANNÉE À TOUS ! ✨
👉 Want to learn more ?
Every week, on French Smile’s Instagram stories, you’ll find words or expressions like these, along with explanations and cultural anecdotes. It’s a chance to enrich your vocabulary and dive into the heart of the French language!
Et vous, comment célébrez-vous la nouvelle année ?
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