French Phrase
Enchanté!
Meaning
A polite, slightly formal way to say “Nice to meet you” when you are introduced to someone for the first time. It conveys that you are pleased to make the acquaintance.
When to use
Use it right after the initial introduction—often after a handshake or a cheek kiss (la bise). It works in both formal and semi‑formal settings, but in very casual contexts you might prefer "Ravi de te rencontrer".
✦Grammar Breakdown
Enchanté!
Fixed expression
"Enchanté" is a set phrase meaning "pleased to meet you"; it is not used as a verb in conversation.
Gender agreement
If a woman says it, she adds an extra "e": "Enchantée!" The extra "e" is silent but changes the spelling.
Pronunciation of nasal vowels
The "en" is nasal /ɑ̃/ and the "ch" is pronounced /ʃ/.
🗨In Conversation
Enchanté !
Nice to meet you!
Moi de même.
Likewise.
✕Common Mistakes
Elle a dit: Enchanté.
A woman should use the feminine form "Enchantée"; the extra "e" is silent but required in writing.
Enchanté à vous.
The phrase stands alone; adding "à vous" is unnecessary and sounds unnatural.
Je suis enchanté de vous rencontrer.
Do not confuse the verb "enchanter" (to enchant) with the greeting.
↔Alternatives
Ravi de vous rencontrer
Delighted to meet you
Heureux de faire votre connaissance
Happy to make your acquaintance
Content de te rencontrer
Glad to meet you (informal)
Enchantée ! (if spoken by a woman)
Nice to meet you! (female speaker)
Cultural Tip
In France, the first meeting is often sealed with a handshake in business contexts or with two (sometimes three) cheek kisses among friends. "Enchanté" is more common in the former; with the latter, you might also add a smile and say "Ravi(e) de te rencontrer". Remember to match the gender of the adjective to your own gender, not the other person's.