How to Say Hello in Italian

How to Say Hello in Italian

Learning how to greet people, how to say Hello in Italian, is one of the first and steps when picking up a new language.

I saluti in italiano

The Basics: "Ciao" and "Salve"

The most common Italian greeting you'll hear and use is "Ciao!" 

This versatile word works for both "hello" and "goodbye" and is typically used in informal settings with friends, family, or people you know well. Think of it like "hi" or "bye" in English.

For a slightly more formal or neutral greeting, especially when you're not sure if "Ciao" is appropriate, you can use "Salve." This is a safe bet in many situations, like when addressing shopkeepers, service staff, or people you've just met.

It's less common than "Ciao" but very useful.

Greetings Throughout the Day

Just like in English, Italians have specific greetings for different times of the day:

Buongiorno! This means "Good morning" and can be used throughout the morning and into the early afternoon. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

Buon pomeriggio! While less common in everyday conversation than Buongiorno or Buonasera, this technically means "Good afternoon." You might hear it, but Buongiorno often extends into the early afternoon, and Buonasera typically starts earlier than "good evening" in English.

Buonasera! Meaning "Good evening," you'll start using this as the afternoon progresses, usually from around 4 or 5 PM onwards. Like Buongiorno, it's suitable for both formal and informal situations.

Buonanotte! This translates to "Good night." Remember, this is usually used when you're leaving someone for the evening or going to bed, not as a general greeting when you arrive somewhere at night.

When in Doubt

If you're unsure which greeting to use, especially when meeting someone new or entering a shop, "Buongiorno" (in the morning/early afternoon) or "Buonasera" (in the late afternoon/evening) are always safe and polite choices.

Audo lesson Alfabeto e pronuncia - i saluti in italiano