Let's All Have More "French Friendships"

In the realm of social interactions, every culture has its unique approach and unwritten rules. If you happen to be in France for a bit and you are looking to...connect with others, you'll be curious about French friendships. And you're right to inquire, because all places have their unique customs and social norms. French social dynamics might seem complex, but understanding them and navigating the cultural newness can give you a new perspective on interpersonal relationships.

So switch your NFL team gear to black turtlenecks and berets, opt for croissants and espresso over macmuffins and white claw, and dive right into becoming a french friend for a bit.

To begin, it's important to recognize that French friendships often take time to form. Unlike some other cultures where friendships might be expected spring up quickly and easily from shared interests or just plain serendipity, in France, relationships are generally built over an extended period.

This slower pace allows for a deeper, more meaningful connection to develop, like a bottle of wine enjoyed over the course of a night. However, once you're considered a friend in the French context, it usually signifies a bond that is deep, loyal, and enduring.

French Friendships are Like a Fine Wine

Secondly, you might notice a certain elevated level of frankness in French friendships. It's common friends in France to openly criticize or debate with each other, even being demonstative with discussions in public.

But don't mistake this enthusiasm for ill-intentioned rudeness. It's more about honesty, depth and intellectual exchange. This kind of pragmatic communication can strengthen bonds, encouraging the growth of trust and mutual respect within the friendship.

Speaking of Wine…

Finally, in France, friendships often revolve around the social intimacy of shared meals. Food and drink famously play a vital role in French culture, and friendships are no exception. Sharing a meal is more than just eating—it's about taking the time to sit down, catch up, and truly enjoy each other's company.

So, what can we learn from French friendships? Perhaps it's the importance of patience in cultivating deep connections, the value of honesty in communication, and the shared experience of meals as a bonding activity. These elements come together to create friendships that, once established, stand the test of time– and might just inject some authentic passion into your life.

So, if you're ever in France or meet someone French who you want to connect with, keep these nuances in the back of your mind, and you'll be well on your way to building a beautiful "amitié."

Making friends in France? Use these common words.

1. Bonjour (Hello): The most basic of greetings, this is an essential phrase to establish any kind of relationship.

2. Ami/amie (Friend): Know the word for what you're trying to become!

3. Merci (Thank you): A simple 'thank you' can go a long way in any social interaction.

4. S'il vous plaît (Please): A sign of respect and politeness.

5. Excusez-moi (Excuse me): Useful for getting someone's attention or apologizing for a minor offense.

6. Comment ça va? (How are you?): This phrase is used to inquire about someone's well-being and shows you're interested in their life.

7. Pardon (Sorry): Essential to apologize if you make a mistake or need to pass by someone.

8. Oui (Yes) and Non (No): Two of the most crucial words in any language.

9. Enchanté(e) (Nice to meet you): This is used when you first meet someone.

10. A bientôt! (See you soon!): This phrase is a friendly way to say goodbye and indicates that you're looking forward to seeing them again.