‘Good Afternoon’ in Italian Is not At all times Buon Pomeriggio

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Italian greetings are sometimes the primary phrases you’ll use in a taxi, resort, or store, however they don’t at all times match the time of day as neatly as in English.

You’re in all probability already accustomed to buongiorno, which is “good morning” in Italian, and perhaps buonasera (good night), however what do you have to say when you stroll into one among Rome’s lovely museums at 3:00 p.m.? Discover out why buon pomeriggio is never used as “good afternoon” in Italian and what to say as a substitute.

How do you say ‘good afternoon’ in Italian?

Probably the most direct translation of “good afternoon” in Italian is buon pomeriggio. Nonetheless, Italians favor buongiorno (good morning) and buonasera (good night). Uncover why that’s and what your finest options are when greeting individuals within the afternoon.

Buon pomeriggio

Buon pomeriggio is made up of buon (good) + pomeriggio (afternoon). But it surely’s actually unusual to listen to it as a greeting whenever you stumble upon somebody, particularly in Southern Italy.

You gained’t sound flawed saying buon pomeriggio, nevertheless it feels overly formal. That’s why Italians have a tendency to make use of it in particular settings:

• To want others rest-of-the-day when leaving within the early afternoon, like saying buona giornata—“have day” in Italian.
• On TV or radio, when a bunch greets the viewers.
• Throughout public talking occasions, work shows, or different formal conditions.
• In emails, messages, or different non-face-to-face communication.
• As a reply to somebody wishing you afternoon.

Buongiorno

Right here’s one thing that surprises lots of English audio system: Italians use buongiorno effectively into the afternoon.

That’s as a result of giorno means “day,” and it covers your entire daylight span. Therefore, as a greeting, buongiorno can imply “good morning” and “good afternoon,” relying on the time you employ it.

It really works seamlessly in formal and casual settings. You’ll be able to say it when assembly somebody for the primary time that day, strolling into an workplace, chatting with a buddy after lunch, or making small discuss with a stranger.

• Buongiorno, hai pranzato bene? = Good afternoon, did you will have a pleasant lunch?
• Buongiorno, che caldo questo pomeriggio! = Good afternoon. This afternoon is so scorching!
• Buongiorno, com’è andata la mattina? = Good afternoon, how was your morning?

Buonasera

Buonasera is a proper expression meaning “good night” in Italian, nevertheless it additionally works as a well mannered greeting from late afternoon till late at evening.

Its use relies on the context and when the solar units. For instance, think about you’re assembly Italian purchasers for an aperitivo. It’s solely 5:00 p.m., nevertheless it’s winter and already getting darkish. On this case, buonasera is essentially the most acceptable option to say “good afternoon” in Italian.

Nonetheless, whenever you’re amongst pals, buonasera sounds too formal. Italians solely use it sarcastically in informal conditions, like when somebody reveals up late:

• Buonaseeeera! È dalle quattro che ti aspettiamo! = Good afternooooon! We’ve been ready for you since 4:00 p.m.!

Finest occasions to say buongiorno, buon pomeriggio, and buonasera

Right here’s a fast breakdown of how Italians usually greet individuals all through the day (although it could differ a bit of by area):

• Buongiorno: Use it from early morning till midday to imply “good morning” and from midday to round 4:00 or 5:00 p.m. to say “good afternoon.”
• Buon pomeriggio: Not often used, however when it does seem, it’s appropriate for any time from midday to five:00 p.m.
• Buonasera: Say it from round 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to imply “good afternoon” and after 7:00 p.m. to say “good night.”

Bear in mind: Buonanotte (good evening) is simply used when somebody goes to mattress or wrapping up their day.

What are you able to say as a substitute of ‘good afternoon’?

Should you’re unsure which greeting works finest to say “good afternoon” in Italian otherwise you’re searching for one thing extra informal, these options are at all times a protected alternative:

• Ciao (hello/bye): Excellent for pals, household, and other people your age in relaxed settings.
• Salve (good day): A well mannered, barely formal greeting that works effectively with strangers or when not sure how formal to be.

Within the chart, you’ll discover extra choices for saying “goodbye” mid-afternoon. 

Now that you understand how to say “good afternoon” like a neighborhood, why cease there? The Rosetta Stone App helps you grasp on a regular basis Italian: no awkward textbook sentences however stay classes, tales, and real-life dialog phrases.