The official language of France is French. The French language is known for its formal politeness.

When the French greet one another, they usually combine the verbal greeting with a series of kisses on the other person's cheeks. The name of the other person is usually a part of the greeting, as well.

The number of cheek kisses can vary between two and four, but the first kiss should always be given on the person's left cheek. The cheek kiss is not a real kiss: instead, only the cheeks of the two persons touch. Among men, handshakes are more common than cheek kisses.