Basic Italian Greetings Everyone Should Know
Learning a new language often begins with simple greetings, and Italian is no exception. Greetings are the first step to connecting with people, whether you are traveling, working, or simply exploring the culture. Here are some of the most common Italian greetings with their English translations.
1. Ciao (Hello/Hi/Bye)
Perhaps the most famous Italian word, Ciao is used informally to say both “hello” and “goodbye” among friends and peers.
2. Buongiorno (Good morning/Good day)
This polite greeting is used until early afternoon and is appropriate in both formal and informal settings.
3. Buon pomeriggio (Good afternoon)
Although less common, this phrase is used to greet people in the afternoon hours.
4. Buonasera (Good evening)
From late afternoon onwards, Italians use Buonasera as a warm, polite greeting.
5. Buonanotte (Good night)
When leaving someone at night or before going to bed, say Buonanotte. It conveys a kind, closing wish for the night.
6. Salve (Hello)
Salve is a semi-formal way to say hello, often used with people you don’t know well.
7. Arrivederci (Goodbye)
Used in formal or polite conversations, Arrivederci means “Goodbye.” For very formal situations, you may hear ArrivederLa.
8. Come stai? (How are you?)
This informal question is used with friends. For formal situations, use Come sta?
9. Bene, grazie (Fine, thank you)
A polite response to Come stai? is Bene, grazie — “Fine, thank you.”
10. Piacere (Nice to meet you)
When meeting someone for the first time, say Piacere
Mastering these basic greetings will help you make a great first impression and start conversations in Italian with confidence
