“Hello”, “Howdy”, “Hi” are some of the most common ways that Americans greet others. Greetings are important as they let others know that you are friendly, which can be extremely important for travelers. Different countries have their own language and way of greeting each other. Here are 8 ways to say hello from around the world Hello in different languages.
China, Nin Hao
It’s not just about saying hello in Chinese, it’s about how you say it. While you say “Nin Hao” kneel on the floor and bend forward until your forehead touches the ground. This greeting is losing its popularity but is still a common way to greet elders.
France, Bonjour
This way of saying hello is one that you probably have heard before. When saying “Bonjour” to someone it’s common to kiss the other person on the cheek. In fact, some individuals kiss four times- 2 kisses on the left cheek and 2 on the right.
India, Namaste
You can say this greeting to others in a couple of ways. The first one involves folding both of your hands together while saying “Namaste”. The other way involves bending down and touching the other individual’s foot while saying it.
Hungarian, Szia
This greeting is common not only in Hungary but in the Balkans as well as some parts of Austria. No rituals need to be done while saying “Szia” to others.
Thailand, Sawaddee
This way of saying hello is often referred to as “The Wai”. It involves saying “Sawaddee” while bowing the body and the head and pressing the palms together.
Japan, Ohayo
Saying hello in Japan isn’t just about a greeting but about respect as well. While saying “Ohayo” you will also need to bow. Not doing so can be seen as offensive to some, especially elders.
Philippines, Kamusta
To say hello in the Philippines it’s more about your actions than you words. You will bow, take the individual’s hand and then place your knuckles onto the forehead of the person that you are trying to greet. This type of greeting is called “Mano”.
Turkey, Merhaba
You can use this greeting to say hello not only in Turkey but in some parts of Cyprus, Georgia and Iran as well. There’s no particular way to say “Merhaba”, but most individuals will expect you to make eye contact with them while you are saying it.
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