Hi in Spanish | 6 Phrases & Examples
Hola (pronounced “oh-laa”) is how to say hi in Spanish.
While “hi” is considered slightly more casual than “hello” in English, in Spanish, “hola” can be used to say “hi” or “hello” and is appropriate in informal and formal contexts.
It’s common to add other phrases when saying “hi” in Spanish. For example, “Hola, mucho gusto” means “Hi, nice to meet you.”
There are a few other ways to say “hi” in Spanish, but keep in mind that some are considered more informal than others.
Formal ways to say hi in Spanish | Informal ways to say hi in Spanish |
---|---|
Hola
(Hi/hello) |
Buenas
(Shortened form of good morning/afternoon/evening) |
Saludos
(Salutations) |
¿Qué me cuentas?
(What’s new?) |
Buenos días/Buenas tardes/Buenas noches
(Good morning/afternoon/evening) |
¡Hola, hola! (Hello, hello!) |
Formal ways to say hi in Spanish
“Hola,” “saludos,” and “buenos días,” “buenas tardes,” and “buenas noches” are suitable expressions to greet someone politely and respectful in Spanish.
Hola
“Hola” is a straightforward way to say “hi” in Spanish, as it is a direct translation of “hi” or “hello.”
The phrase is extremely popular and versatile. Although it’s often used in formal contexts, like when communicating with someone older than you or a superior at work, it’s also commonly used in casual conversations as well, like when speaking with a friend or family member.
Saludos
“Saludos” is another way to say “hi” in Spanish, though it conveys a strong sense of formality. It’s more accurately translated to “greetings” or “salutations.”
Additionally, “saludos” can also mean “regards,” as in “send him my regards.”
Buenos días/Buenas tardes/Buenas noches
“Buenos días,” “buenas tardes,” and “buenas noches” mean “good morning,” “good afternoon,” and “good evening”, making these phrases suitable when wanting to greet someone in Spanish. However, these phrases are also flexible and often used in casual conversations as well.
While they are typically preceded by “hola,” it’s not necessary to include it.
Please note that “buenas noches” also means “good night.” However, although “good night” is typically used when parting ways or ending a conversation in English, “buenas noches” can be used at the start or end of a conversation.
Informal ways to say hi in Spanish
“Buenas,” “¿qué me cuentas?” and “Hola, hola” are not direct translations of “hi,” but these expressions are often used as informal greetings in Spanish. They’re best used in casual conversations and relaxed settings.
Buenas
“Buenas” is a shortened form of “buenos días,” “buenas tardes,” and “buenas noches” that’s regularly used as a way to say “hi” in Spanish. This phrase can be used when speaking to people you know well, but it’s also frequently used with strangers, such as when walking into a waiting room full of people.
¿Qué me cuentas?
“¿Qué me cuentas?” is a colloquial expression that’s used as a greeting in Spanish. It’s similar to saying “what’s up” or “what’s new?” This phrase is typically used with friends, family members, colleagues, or other people you can have familial conversations with.
Hola, hola
“Hola, hola” is as casual and friendly as saying “hello, hello.” It’s a fun way to say “hi” in Spanish that conveys a sense of playfulness.
Frequently asked questions about hi in Spanish
- How do you say hi my name is in Spanish?
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“Hola” is one way to say “hi” in Spanish. “Mi nombre es” is how to say “my name is.” Therefore, “Hola, mi nombre es” is how to say “hi, my name is” in Spanish (e.g., “Hola, mi nombre es Rafael).
- How do you say hi beautiful in Spanish?
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“Hola” means “hi” in Spanish.
“Beautiful” can be translated to either “bella” or “hermosa.” Therefore, two ways to say “hi, beautiful” in Spanish are:
- Hola, bella.
- Hola, hermosa.
- How do you say hi handsome in Spanish?
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“Hola” is a direct translation of “hello” or “hi” in Spanish.
“Guapo” and “bello” mean “handsome.” Therefore, two ways to say “hi, handsome” in Spanish are:
- Hola, guapo.
- Hola, bello.