"A vos souhaits!" (to your wishes" is what we say in France to someone who sneezes in our presence. It's an old expression from the Middle Ages, and Monsieur de France tells the story.
The Romans already had a formula for greeting a sneeze. They said "May Jupiter preserve you", and considered that this sneeze marked the passage of a god and his exit from the soul. It was customary to entrust this divine spirit with a wish to be granted. It stuck.
In the Middle Ages, the Roman formula was replaced by "God bless you". During the Great Plague, the "à vos souhaits" came back into vogue because it was thought that the plague could enter the body through the mouth, and saying "à vos souhaits" meant wishing to block the disease.
Eon and Tellus, two Latin gods. Illustration chosen by monsieurdefrance.com; bibi Saint-Pol via wikipedia.
What next?
Some will add "à tes amours " to the second sneeze, and it's sometimes customary to say "que les tiennes durent toujours" to the 3rd sneeze.
Bless you may not be polite
Some say that "bless you" isn't necessarily polite in the sense that, since it's often embarrassing to sneeze in people's presence, it wouldn't be good manners to point it out. In fact, it's better to pretend it never happened... It's up to you!
Jérôme Prod'homme
Jérôme Prod'homme is Monsieur de France. He is a French author, historian by passion, and recognized specialist in French culture, heritage, and tourism. For many years, he has written for French media, cultural magazines, radio, and editorial projects focused on the history of France, historical figures, cultural traditions, religious heritage, and regional gastronomy.
As the creator of Monsieur de France, he shares expert insights and documented knowledge about France: from medieval kings and cathedrals to royal palaces, UNESCO sites, charming villages, and authentic local cuisine. His articles are based on historical research, verified sources, and a real love of transmitting knowledge.
Jérôme lives in France, travels extensively through its regions, and personally explores the places he recommends — ensuring first-hand experience. Through his writing, he aims to make French history accessible, highlight real stories and local heritage, and guide visitors to the most meaningful and authentic French destinations.
Monsieur de France is more than a travel guide: it is a cultural bridge for readers around the world who want to truly understand France — its history, its identity, its symbols, and its living heritage.
Jérôme Prod'homme is Monsieur de France. He is a French author, historian by passion, and recognized specialist in French culture, heritage, and tourism. For many years, he has written for French media, cultural magazines, radio, and editorial projects focused on the history of France, historical figures, cultural traditions, religious heritage, and regional gastronomy.
As the creator of Monsieur de France, he shares expert insights and documented knowledge about France: from medieval kings and cathedrals to royal palaces, UNESCO sites, charming villages, and authentic local cuisine. His articles are based on historical research, verified sources, and a real love of transmitting knowledge.
Jérôme lives in France, travels extensively through its regions, and personally explores the places he recommends — ensuring first-hand experience. Through his writing, he aims to make French history accessible, highlight real stories and local heritage, and guide visitors to the most meaningful and authentic French destinations.
Monsieur de France is more than a travel guide: it is a cultural bridge for readers around the world who want to truly understand France — its history, its identity, its symbols, and its living heritage.
