greeting

A greeting is an act or expression used to acknowledge another person or group and to signal readiness for interaction. It serves to establish social contact, convey goodwill, and set the tone for a conversation. Greetings can occur at moments of meeting, departure, or introduction, and they may be verbal, nonverbal, or a combination of both.

Verbal greetings vary by language and formality. Common basics include hello, hi, good morning, good afternoon, and good evening. In many cultures, questions such as How are you? or How do you do? are conventional inclusions, though the answer may be conventional or brief. In professional or ceremonial settings, greetings tend to be more formal, often including titles and surnames. Greetings in letters or emails follow different conventions, such as Dear followed by the recipient’s name.

Nonverbal greetings reinforce or replace words. Universal forms include a handshake, a wave, or a nod. In other regions, bowing, cheek kissing, or hug-like gestures are customary. Eye contact and facial expression also communicate attitudes toward the other person. In modern communication, digital greetings—emails, texts, and emojis—have become common introductions in place of face-to-face interaction.

Cultural norms shape when, how, and with whom greetings are appropriate. They reflect status, gender, age, and relationship. Some cultures favor minimal contact, others emphasize warmth. Misunderstandings can arise from differences in personal space, touch, or timing, making context and sensitivity important in cross-cultural interactions.

Because greetings are fundamental to social interaction, they vary widely but share the universal function of acknowledging another person.