Answers
Feb 07, 2011 - 01:04 PM
I would avoid using "garcon" when referring to a waiter. They will appreciate it more if you call them "monsieur".
Feb 18, 2011 - 03:28 PM
I was concerned when I saw garçon used in Fluenz as well. Everyone I speak to who has gone to France, as well as a local french teacher, said that I should never use garçon to call a waiter. That it is considered rude.
Mar 22, 2011 - 02:42 PM
From Wikipedia - Garçon is the French word for boy. In English, and various other languages, it was adopted in the specific meaning of a (male, usually young) waiter, especially of low rank in a larger establishment, who serves customers food and/or drinks. However, in France, it is considered rude to address a waiter as garçon. It is instead recommended to call them monsieur or mademoiselle, depending on their gender.
Apr 25, 2011 - 08:04 AM
Addressing anyone as "garçon" is impolite and very strange. I imagine this is simply a fault in the software, as this is not very good French.