Signification
Greeting.
Contexte culturel
The 'Ciao' transition: In Italy, you don't just start using 'ciao' with everyone. Usually, the older person or the person in a higher position of authority will suggest 'Diamoci del tu' (Let's use the 'tu' form), which signals that 'ciao' is now acceptable. Venetians are very proud that 'ciao' originated from their dialect. In Venice, you might still hear the older generation use 'S-ciavo' in a joking or very traditional way, though it's rare. 'Ciao' is used in many languages as a 'cool' or 'chic' way to say goodbye. In countries like Germany, France, and Brazil, saying 'Ciao' (or 'Tchau') makes the speaker sound slightly more international or sophisticated. In the South, greetings are often accompanied by more physical touch. A 'ciao' is almost always paired with a handshake, a hug, or the classic double-cheek kiss.
The Double Ciao
When leaving, say 'Ciao ciao' to sound more like a native speaker. It's warmer and very common.
The Formality Trap
When in doubt, use 'Buongiorno' or 'Salve'. It's better to be too formal than too rude.
Signification
Greeting.
The Double Ciao
When leaving, say 'Ciao ciao' to sound more like a native speaker. It's warmer and very common.
The Formality Trap
When in doubt, use 'Buongiorno' or 'Salve'. It's better to be too formal than too rude.
Body Language
A 'ciao' is rarely just a word. Use your hands! A small wave or a nod makes it much more authentic.
The 'Ciao' Noun
You can say 'Ti mando un ciao' (I send you a hello) in a text message to someone you haven't talked to in a while.
Teste-toi
Which is the most appropriate situation to use 'Ciao'?
You are meeting your best friend at the park.
'Ciao' is the perfect informal greeting for a best friend.
Fill in the blank to say goodbye to a group of friends.
Va bene ragazzi, io vado. ______ a tutti!
'Ciao a tutti' is the standard way to say goodbye to a group.
Match the greeting to the person.
1. Your brother, 2. A Police Officer, 3. A 5-year-old child
You use 'Ciao' with family and children, but 'Buongiorno' with authority figures.
Complete the phone conversation.
Marco: 'Allora ci vediamo alle 9?' Giulia: 'Sì, a dopo!' Marco: 'Perfetto, ________.'
Doubling 'ciao' is very common when ending a phone call.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
When to say Ciao
Friends
- • Best friends
- • Classmates
- • Roommates
Family
- • Parents
- • Siblings
- • Cousins
Casual
- • Barista (if young)
- • Children
- • Pets
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesYou are meeting your best friend at the park.
'Ciao' is the perfect informal greeting for a best friend.
Va bene ragazzi, io vado. ______ a tutti!
'Ciao a tutti' is the standard way to say goodbye to a group.
1. Your brother, 2. A Police Officer, 3. A 5-year-old child
You use 'Ciao' with family and children, but 'Buongiorno' with authority figures.
Marco: 'Allora ci vediamo alle 9?' Giulia: 'Sì, a dopo!' Marco: 'Perfetto, ________.'
Doubling 'ciao' is very common when ending a phone call.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsOnly if your boss has explicitly asked you to use the 'tu' form. If they say 'Buongiorno' to you, you should respond with 'Buongiorno'.
Both! It's used when you arrive and when you leave.
Yes, it's used in over 30 languages, but often only to mean 'goodbye'.
You don't! The 'i' is just a spelling rule to make the 'c' sound like 'ch'.
It is strictly informal in Italy.
It's a slang version of 'ciao' used to mean a big, often sassy goodbye.
Yes, 'ciao' works at any time of day, unlike 'buongiorno' or 'buonasera'.
It adds emphasis and warmth, especially during departures or on the phone.
'Salve' is a good middle ground if you aren't sure how formal to be.
Only if it's a casual email to a friend or a close colleague.
Expressions liées
salve
similarA neutral greeting.
arrivederci
contrastGoodbye (formal/neutral).
buongiorno
contrastGood morning / Good day.
ciaone
specialized formA big, often sarcastic goodbye.
bella
slangHi (slang).
