Why do I need to know BAV? 

Because manners are important.

What does it mean?

BAV, pronounced bahv, is a short-hand way of writing bien à vous – with kind regards.

It is often used in electronic communications like sending an email or a polite text message. 

BAV is considered a little less formal than writing bien cordialement and you would probably not use it in your first written communication with someone. But once you have built up a rapport with the person, BAV can be a good way to go. 

Je reviens vers vous dans les prochaines heures. BAV – I will get back to you in the coming hours. Kind regards. 

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You should be careful not to confuse BAV with bave (drool, slime, saliva) or baver (to drool, slobber, dribble).

Ce chien bave partout – This dog drools everywhere 

Other ways to end an email or letter

There are plenty of ways to conclude a written message in France. In order of most formal to least, you can find a sample below

Dans l’attente de vous lire, je vous souhaite une bonne journée – In anticipation of hearing from you, I wish you a good day

Veuillez recevoir, Monsieur/Madame, mes salutations distinguées – Please accept, Sir/Madam, my most distinguished salutations [the French equivalent of the formal Yours Sincerely sign-off] 

Veuillez agréer l’expression de mes sentiments respectueux – Yours respectfully

Cordialement – Cordially 

Respectueusement – Respectfully

Chaleureusement – Warmly

À bientôt / à plus tard – See you soon/later

À + –  See you later 

Gros bisous/bisous – Kisses 

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