À tout:
* Literal meaning: "To everything"
* Implication: This phrase implies a wider range of potential future interactions or events. It's more informal and can be used in situations where you might not be sure when you'll see the other person again.
* Usage: You might say "à tout" to a friend you're leaving for a trip or to a colleague you're leaving the office for the day.
* Equivalent in English: "See you around," "Catch you later," "Take care"
Bientôt:
* Literal meaning: "Soon"
* Implication: This phrase implies a more specific expectation of seeing the other person again in the near future. It suggests a stronger intention to reconnect.
* Usage: You might say "bientôt" to someone you plan to see again at a meeting, a social event, or just for a chat.
* Equivalent in English: "See you soon," "Talk to you soon"
In short: "à tout" is more general and informal, while "bientôt" is more specific and implies a stronger intention to reconnect soon.