French Phrase
Bonsoir. Ça va bien, merci.
Meaning
This phrase is a polite and standard way to respond to a greeting in the evening. It acknowledges the time of day with 'Bonsoir' and provides a positive update on your well-being using the common 'ça va' construction.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone greets you after 6:00 PM or sunset. It is suitable for both formal situations, like entering a restaurant, and casual encounters with acquaintances.
✦Grammar Breakdown
BonsoirÇavabienmerci
Bonsoir
A combination of 'bon' (good) and 'soir' (evening), used as a greeting starting in the late afternoon.
Ça va
Literally 'it goes'. This idiomatic expression is the most common way to ask or say how things are going.
Bien
An adverb meaning 'well', used here to modify the verb 'va'.
🗨In Conversation
Bonsoir ! Comment allez-vous ?
Good evening! How are you doing?
Bonsoir. Ça va bien, merci.
Good evening. I am doing well, thank you.
✕Common Mistakes
Bonjour. Ça va bien, merci.
Use 'Bonsoir' instead of 'Bonjour' once the sun begins to set or after typical work hours.
Bonsoir. Je suis bien, merci.
French uses the verb 'aller' (to go) rather than 'être' (to be) to describe how you are feeling.
↔Alternatives
Bonsoir, ça va ?
Good evening, how's it going?
Bonsoir. Très bien, merci.
Good evening. Very well, thank you.
Cultural Tip
In France, 'Bonsoir' is a mandatory social glue. Not saying it when entering a shop or meeting someone in the evening can be perceived as quite rude. The transition from 'Bonjour' to 'Bonsoir' usually happens around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.