How to say "Hello" in Japanese

こんにちはTransliterationkonnichiwaPronunciation/koɴ.ni.tɕi.wa/FormalityNeutral

Meaning

A standard greeting used to acknowledge someone when meeting them.

Usage

This is the most common and versatile greeting in Japanese, suitable for daytime use (roughly from morning to evening). It can be used with strangers, acquaintances, and friends. Pronounce it with a slightly rising intonation on the last syllable.

Example sentences

  • Hello, how are you?

    こんにちは、お元気ですか？

  • Hello, I'm John.

    こんにちは、ジョンです。

Related expressions

  • おはようohayō— Good morning

    Used in the morning until around 10 AM. Casual tone.

  • こんばんはkonbanwa— Good evening

    Used in the evening after sunset. Neutral tone.

Full dictionary entry

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