French Phrase
Bonne nuit !
Meaning
'Bonne nuit' is the standard French expression used specifically when someone is going to bed or when you are parting ways late at night with the intention of sleeping. It literally means 'Good night' and carries the wish for a restful sleep. Unlike 'Bonsoir', which is used as a greeting during the evening hours, 'Bonne nuit' marks the end of the day.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are leaving a friend's house late at night or when you are saying goodbye to family members before they head to their bedrooms. It is strictly a 'goodbye' and should not be used as a greeting when arriving at a dinner party.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Bonnenuit
Bonne
The feminine form of the adjective 'bon' (good), required here because 'nuit' is a feminine noun.
Nuit
A feminine noun meaning 'night'. In this context, it refers to the duration of sleep rather than the evening time.
🗨In Conversation
Il est tard, je vais me coucher.
It's late, I'm going to bed.
D'accord, bonne nuit !
Okay, good night!
✕Common Mistakes
Bon soir !
Use 'Bonsoir' to say 'Good evening' when arriving or during the evening; 'Bonne nuit' is only for bedtime.
Bon nuit !
'Nuit' is a feminine noun, so the adjective must be in the feminine form 'bonne' instead of 'bon'.
↔Alternatives
Dors bien
Sleep well
Fais de beaux rêves
Sweet dreams
Passe une bonne nuit
Have a good night
Cultural Tip
In French culture, 'Bonne nuit' is an intimate or familial phrase used when sleep is imminent. If you are leaving a restaurant at 10 PM but the other person is going to another bar, you should say 'Bonne soirée' (Have a good evening) instead. Wishing someone 'Bonne nuit' too early can sometimes imply you think they look tired or should be in bed.