The saying “To take a French leave” is used in various Countries. In Switzerland and parts of Germany we say “sich auf französisch verabschieden”. It describes the act to leave an event without saying goodbye. It’s said that the origin comes from the 18th century where it was common to leave a dinner or other event without bidding farewell to the host.
Nowaday it has a slightly negative touch. And not only the French are used for this behavior. In the north of Germany, people say goodbye in Polish and in the north in Dutch.
