Greeting & bise quiz

Tu or vous? Bise or shake? In Paris: 2 bisous. In Lyon: 3. In Pays Basque: 4 (or more). Pick the right one — or take the quiz and see how many you'd get right.

Pick a scenario

What this tool actually solves

French greetings have a deep grammar. Three axes: formality (tu vs vous), physical contact (shake, bise, both), and regional bise count. The right combination depends on age, context and region — and the rules vary by 30% between Paris and Provence.

How to read the result

The result shows the right greeting for the scenario, with the regional variation. The "common mistake" tells you what tourists typically do wrong.

Limitations

Greeting rules evolve. The post-Covid 2020–2022 dip in bises (many people replaced with a wave or a handshake) has rebounded but is still ~10% below 2019 norms. Personal preference varies.

FAQ

Do I have to initiate the bise?

Usually no. Watch for the cue: if the French person leans forward or extends a cheek, follow. If they wave or shake, mirror. The host usually sets the pattern.

What if I do the wrong number of bisous?

It's mildly awkward but not offensive. The other person will usually adjust. Continue normally — don't apologize.

About

1 of 38 tools in France Trip Toolkit. Independent. Based on the 2019 CNRS "bise count by region" survey and the Académie française guide on tu/vous usage.

Privacy

No tracking.

Disclaimer

Estimate only. Personal preference varies.