In each culture there are different phrases used to express respect and appreciation. What phrases are used in the English language? Today we’ll consider which phrases are used and why.

Let’s begin with greetings. The common greeting is, “Hi! How are you?”

The person will likely nod their head as they say this. It is used when speaking with a cashier at our local grocery store, with friends, and with coworkers. In other words, we use this greeting all of the time. Even if we will only see someone for a brief moment, such as in an elevator. It is a polite way to be friendly, and is meant as a way to show respect and acknowledge a person’s presence.

The common responses are:

“Good, and you?” – This is good for a quick response. The person that greeted you, may not even answer it, because the purpose of asking is more commonly for the purpose of being polite and respectful. However, it is best to answer such a response, because it is polite, and shows that someone is attentive.

“I’m doing well. How are you?”- This is used in a relaxed setting with a calmer pace, such as a meeting at work, or during a meeting with a child’s teacher. It is more often used when there is more time to speak with someone, or to express calmness.

“I’m fine, thanks.”- This is used when someone doesn’t have time to ask someone how they are doing. Even if their reply is “Good,” they simply don’t have time to listen to it. It is acceptable to do this, but not preferred. It is polite to ask the person the same in return.

Such customs and greetings often change and vary by location and time of day, but this is a basic idea of a common outlook of each phrase.

Try to listen for these common greetings!

-You Are Learning English Team

A group of experienced and certified ESL and English as a Foreign Language teachers.