How to Say Hello in English: 10 Friendly Greetings for Real Life

At school many of us learned one dialogue: "Hello, how are you?" — "I am fine, thank you, and you?" It is polite. But in real life, people almost never speak like this.

Real greetings are short, warm and quick. Here are 10 phrases you can use today.

How do you say hello in English in a natural way?

1. Hi! — the most common greeting. You can use it with almost everyone.
2. Hey! — for friends and people you know well.
3. Morning! — a short, friendly "good morning".
4. How is it going? — a casual "how are you?".
5. How are you doing? — friendly and a little more polite.
6. What is new? — for friends you see often.
7. How is your day going? — good for the afternoon, at work or in a shop.
8. Nice to see you! — for someone you know and like.
9. Long time no see! — for a friend you have not seen for a long time.
10. Hi, nice to meet you. — for a new person, the first time you meet.

How to say good morning in English (casual)

With friends, family and colleagues, just say "Morning!" with a smile. In a formal email or meeting, say "Good morning".

How to answer "How are you?" in English

Short answers sound natural. Then ask the question back.

• "Good, thanks! And you?"
• "Not bad. How about you?"
• "Pretty good. Busy, but good!"
• "Not much, just busy." (answer to "What is new?")

Do I need to say "I am fine, thank you"?

You can, but it sounds a little like a textbook. "Good, thanks!" is shorter and more natural.

How to greet someone at work in English

At work, use friendly but clear phrases: "Hi, how are you doing?", "Morning! How was your weekend?", "Nice to meet you. I am Anna from the sales team."

What is more important than the words?

Your voice and your smile. Say the greeting with energy and look at the person. A short phrase with a smile is better than a long, perfect sentence.

Learn real conversation phrases every day: From A1 to A2 (Speaking & Conversation Edition). Just starting? Begin with From Zero to A1.