Learning French: when and why do we say arriver à bon port?
A phrase to use upon reaching your destination, safe and sound
This French expression indicates that a journey has been all smooth sailing
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Je suis arrivé à bon port !
We look at how to use this handy saying, which dates back to the 14th Century, and suggest similar French phrases for safe travels.
What does arriver à bon port mean?
It literally translates as: to arrive at the right port.
While the phrase directly refers to a shipping port, it can actually be used in a much wider sense - to describe reaching a destination without running into any obstacles or problems.
It is similar to the English saying: to arrive safe and sound.
You might even hear this expression used symbolically, to describe reaching a goal or objective after putting in a lot of effort over a long period of time.
Synonyms include:
Être bien arrivé(e) - To arrive safely
Arriver à destination - To arrive at your destination
Arriver sain et sauf - To arrive safe and sound
Arriver en toute sécurité - To arrive safe and well
Atteindre son but - To reach your goal
Read also: What are the most useful mobile apps for navigating life in France?
What are the origins of arriver à bon port?
It stems from the 13th Century nautical expression: arriver à droit port. This saying was used by sailors to indicate that they had safely reached dry land.
By the 14th Century, the phrase had evolved to: arriver à bon port.
The current expression is no longer exclusively reserved for sailors and can be used in a variety of situations.
Read also: Learning French: the origins and meaning of se faire mener en bateau
When do you say arriver à bon port?
You can use this phrase to indicate that you have arrived at your destination:
Say this to wish someone a safe journey:
Je compte sur toi pour arriver à bon port. - I'm counting on you to arrive safely.
Bon voyage, j'espère que vous arriverez à bon port. - Have a good trip, I hope you make it safe and sound.
It can less often be used symbolically, to show you have reached a goal:
Read also: Why bon is always a good word to use in France
To whom do you say arriver à bon port?
It is neutral language that can be used in many different situations, in spoken or written French.
You could say this to strangers, friends and family or colleagues and clients, without any risk of causing offence.
If you would like us to explain a particular word or expression, or if you have any other Learning French suggestions, let us know at: feedback@connexionfrance.com
