I. Greetings and Introductions

Introductions – Social Language

There are a number of phrases that are commonly used to introduce strangers:

(name), I don't think you've met (name).

I don't think you know (name)

May I introduce you to (name)

(name), do you know (name)?

(name), I'd like you to meet (name)

When you meet someone the first time, it is common to greet the person with "How do you do?" the correct response is "How do you do." Here is a short introductory conversation:

Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary.

Peter: How do you do?

Mary: How do you do.

Ken: Mary works for...

A variation is also "It's a pleasure to meet you." or "Pleased to meet you."

Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary.

Peter: It's a pleasure to meet you.

Mary: How do you do.

Ken: Mary works for...

Ken: Peter, I'd like you to meet Mary.

Peter: How do you do?

Mary: Pleased to meet you.

Ken: Mary works for...

In informal situations, especially in North America, introductions are also made simply saying: "This is (name)." It is also common to just say "Hi" or "Hello" as a response in this informal setting.

It is also quite common to shake hands when you are introduced.

After the initial introduction, hand shaking generally takes place in more formal, business situations. Otherwise, people just say "Hi."

Once you have been introduced to someone, the next time you see that person it is important to greet them. We also greet people as we leave people. In English (as in all languages), there are different ways to greet people in formal and informal situations.

Formal Greetings: Arriving

Good morning / afternoon / evening.
Hello (name), how are you?
Good day Sir / Madam (very formal)

Informal Greetings: Arriving

Hi / Hello
How are you?
What's up? (very informal)
How are you doing? (very informal)

It's important to note that the question "How are you?" or "What's up?" doesn't necessary need a response. If you do respond, these phrases are generally expected:

Very well, thank you. And you? (formal)
Fine / Great (informal)

Formal Greetings: Departing

Good morning / afternoon / evening.
It was a pleasure seeing you.
Goodbye.
Note: After 8 p.m. - Good night.

Informal Greetings: Departing

Goodbye / Bye.
See you (later).
Later (very informal)

Travel Greetings - Social Language

Here are a number of phrases used when saying goodbye to friends or family as they depart on trips, both short and long.