How To Say ‘Hello’ In 21 Different Languages
You had me at “hello” — it may be a love story cliché, but it also makes a valid point about the importance of how we greet others. The words we choose and the way we deliver them set the tone for the entire conversation, and in turn, shape our relationship with the other person. We may use something like a formal “good day” in certain situations, and a more informal “hey” or “hi” in others. Knowing how to say hello in different languages of the world and which conversation opener to use is the first step in learning a new language. Few of us would doubt that “hello” (or some variation of it) is one of the most important phrases and expressions you should learn when you’re just starting out picking up a new tongue.
So when it comes to learning how to say hello in different languages around the planet, don’t sweat; we’ve got you covered. Click through the links on some of the languages for in-depth guides to introductions around the world.
How To Say Hello In Different Languages: 21 Ways To Greet The World
1. French
Formal: Bonjour
Informal: Salut
2. Spanish
Formal: Hola
Informal: ¿Qué tal? (What’s up?)
3. Russian
Formal: Zdravstvuyte
Informal: Privet
4. Chinese
Formal: Nǐn hǎo
Informal: Nǐ hǎo
5. Italian
Formal: Salve
Informal: Ciao
6. Japanese
Formal: Konnichiwa
Informal: Yā, Yō
7. German
Formal: Guten Tag
Informal: Hallo, Hi
8. Portuguese
Formal: Olá
Informal: Oi
9. Korean
Formal: Anyoung haseyo
Informal: Anyoung
10. Arabic
Formal: Asalaam alaikum (Peace be upon you)
Informal: Ahlan
11. Danish
Formal: Goddag
Informal: Hej, Halløj
12. Swahili
Formal: Shikamoo
Informal: Habari, Hujambo
13. Dutch
Formal: Goedendag
Informal: Hoi, Hallo
14. Greek
Formal: Yassas
Informal: Yassou
15. Polish
Formal: Dzień dobry
Informal: Cześć, Witaj
16. Indonesian
Formal: Selamat siang
Informal: Halo
17. Hindi
Formal: Namaste, Namaskar
Informal: Hai, Helo
18. Turkish
Formal: Merhaba
Informal: Selam
19. Hebrew
Formal: Shalom
Informal: Hey
20. Swedish
Formal: God dag
Informal: Hej, Tjena
21. Norwegian
Formal: God dag
Informal: Hei
