American Dictionary

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Definition hello in American English

hello interjection

interjection
/həˈloʊ/

Ways of saying hello

an informal way of saying hello

the usual polite way of greeting someone when you meet them for the first time

used in formal situations as a polite way of greeting someone when you meet them for the first time

used for saying hello to someone in the morning/afternoon/evening. Used especially when addressing an audience

a more informal way of saying hello to someone in the morning/afternoon/evening

used for saying hello to someone you already know

used when you meet a close friend that you have not seen for a long time

Examples:

Hi Katy! What a beautiful day!

“I’d like you to meet my uncle John.” “Pleased to meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you.” ♦ Nice to meet you at last, Mr Mitchell.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I’d like to welcome you on behalf of all of us. ♦ Good evening and welcome to the show.

Morning Sam. Did you have a good trip?

Dave! Nice to see you! Why didn’t you tell me you were coming?

Well, this is a surprise! Long time no see! Come in.

goodbye

1

used as a greeting when you meet someone or begin to talk to someone on the telephone

Example

Hello, my name is Anna.

Example

I need to say hello to a few people.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

used for calling to someone to get their attention

Example

Hello! We're over here!

Synonyms and related words
2

used for saying that you think someone is not being very sensible or is not paying attention to what is happening

Example

Hello! There's no way anyone will give you a job with that haircut.

3

used for expressing surprise or interest

Example

Hello. What's that he's holding?

Synonyms and related words
Definition hello in American English