begrüßen

It is a regular verb, so it follows standard patterns. You usually use it with a direct object. You begrüßen a person, a group, or even a new idea. For example, Ich begrüße dich means 'I greet you.' It sounds a bit formal in English, but in German, it is very common. Just remember to conjugate it correctly for the person you are talking about.

Use it whenever you describe the act of saying hello. Use it when guests arrive at your house. Use it when a teacher starts a class. It is also perfect for professional settings. If you are writing a report about a meeting, you would say the manager begrüßt the team. It is the go-to word for any 'welcome' scenario.

Do not use begrüßen when you are leaving. That is a different word entirely: verabschieden. Also, don't use it as a literal greeting like 'Hello.' You don't walk up to someone and say Begrüßen! That would be like walking up to a friend and shouting 'Greeting!' instead of 'Hey!' Use it to talk *about* the greeting, not *as* the greeting.

In Germany, greetings are taken seriously. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are essential. If you don't begrüßen everyone in a small group, it can seem quite rude. In some regions, like the North, a simple Moin is the greeting. In the South, you might hear Grüß Gott. Regardless of the words, the act of begrüßen is a sign of respect.

You might hear jemanden herzlich begrüßen, which means to greet someone warmly. There is also willkommen heißen, which is a bit more poetic for 'to welcome.' If you are at a big event, the host might give a Begrüßung (the noun form). This is the official welcome speech before the party really starts.