Translation guide
In Japanese, greeting someone depends heavily on the time of day, the relationship, and the situation. Unlike English, there is no single all-purpose verb like 'greet'. Instead, you use specific phrases or describe the action.
How do you say 'hello' in Japanese?
Use during the day. For morning, use おはようございます; for evening, こんばんは.
To greet someone face-to-face in a casual or neutral setting.
The standard 'hello' used during the day. Not used with close friends or family in casual settings.
When you see the teacher, say hello.
Good morning (polite). Use in the morning, especially in formal or polite contexts.
Every morning, I greet my colleagues with 'good morning'.
Casual 'good morning' used with friends, family, or close colleagues.
Morning! Nice weather again today.
Good evening. Used after dark in both casual and polite situations.
I greeted my neighbor with 'good evening'.
To greet with a bow or nod, often without words. Describes the physical action rather than a spoken greeting.
He gave a slight bow and left the room.
To greet someone after a long absence.
Long time no see. Casual and very common.
Long time no see! How have you been?
Polite version of 'long time no see'.
It's been a long time. Have you been well?
A formal expression used when you haven't been in touch for a long time. Often used in letters or emails.
To greet someone arriving at your home, office, or event.
Welcome. Used when someone enters your home or a casual setting.
When my friend arrived, I said 'welcome'.
Welcome (polite). Used by staff in shops and restaurants.
Welcome. Often used for guests, visitors, or in formal invitations.
To say that someone greeted someone else, using a verb.
The most common verb for 'greet'. It covers saying hello, goodbye, or exchanging pleasantries.
He didn't greet me.
It's important to greet your neighbors.
To greet or meet someone upon arrival, like at the airport or station.
To welcome or receive someone, often used for guests or in a broader sense.
To greet someone at the beginning of a letter or email.
English speakers often want a direct verb for 'greet', but in Japanese, you usually use the specific greeting phrase itself (like こんにちは) or the verb 挨拶する. Saying 'greet' as a verb without context can sound unnatural.
In Japan, a bow often accompanies a verbal greeting. The depth and duration depend on the formality. A slight nod (会釈) is common in casual situations.
He greeted me with a smile.
They greeted each other warmly.
I'm sorry I haven't been in touch. How are you?
When I entered the store, the clerk said 'welcome'.
日本へようこそ！
Welcome to Japan!
I greeted the guests at the airport.
笑顔で客を迎えた。
She greeted the guests with a smile.
前略、先日はありがとうございました。
Dear Friend, thank you for the other day.