How to say “hello” in Italian

5 ways to say hello in Italian

1. Ciao

   CHOW

   Slow

   Means: Hi / bye

   Use it: Friends, family, people your age.

2. Buongiorno

   bwohn-JOR-noh

   Slow

   Means: Good morning / good day

   Use it: Polite, until mid-afternoon.

3. Buonasera

   bwoh-nah-SEH-rah

   Slow

   Means: Good evening

   Use it: From late afternoon.

4. Salve

   SAHL-veh

   Slow

   Means: Hello

   Use it: Polite but neutral, when ciao is too casual.

5. Pronto

   PROHN-toh

   Slow

   Means: Hello?

   Use it: Answering the phone.