Basic Greetings in English

greeting (noun): saying hello; a polite word of welcome
greet (verb): to say hello; to welcome somebody
(The opposite of greeting is farewell - saying goodbye.)

There are many ways to say hello in English. Sometimes you say a quick hello as you are passing somebody. At other times a greeting leads to a conversation. Friends and family members greet each other in a casual way. Business greetings are more formal.

On the following pages you can practice greeting people in a variety of situations.

In this lesson you will find:

Tips: language and gestures that native speakers use

Useful phrases: words and expressions that native speakers use

Pair practice: sample conversations (practice with a learning partner)


Useful Links


Greetings in Passing (Click)

Greetings before a Conversation (Click)

Greetings in the Classroom (Click)

Greetings in Business (Click)

Greetings at a Party or Social Event (Click)

Greetings in a Friend's Home (Click)