Meaning
To greet someone by speaking the word "hello".
Cultural Background
In many parts of the US, especially the South, 'saying hello' to strangers while walking is a sign of good character. Failing to do so can be seen as 'stuck up' or rude. British people often use 'say hello' as a way to avoid awkwardness. However, in London, 'saying hello' on the Tube (subway) is a major social faux pas. While 'saying hello' is important, the verbal greeting is almost always accompanied by a bow. The depth of the bow depends on the status of the person you are saying hello to. Australians are very informal. 'Saying hello' often turns into 'G'day', but the phrase 'say hello to... for me' is still the standard way to pass on greetings.
The 'To' Rule
Always remember the 'to'. You say hello TO a person. It's the most common mistake for beginners!
The 'For Me' Trick
Use 'Say hello to... for me' to sound like a native speaker when ending a conversation. It shows you are socially connected.
Meaning
To greet someone by speaking the word "hello".
The 'To' Rule
Always remember the 'to'. You say hello TO a person. It's the most common mistake for beginners!
The 'For Me' Trick
Use 'Say hello to... for me' to sound like a native speaker when ending a conversation. It shows you are socially connected.
Don't use 'Tell'
Never say 'Tell him hello'. While some natives might say it, 'Say hello to him' is much more grammatically standard for learners.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition.
I want to say hello ___ my new neighbor.
We always say hello TO someone in English.
Which sentence is the most natural way to pass a greeting?
You are talking to a friend and want them to greet their brother for you.
This is the standard idiomatic way to ask someone to pass on a greeting.
Fill in the missing part of the dialogue.
A: I'm going to the party tonight. B: Oh, great! If you see Mark, please ____.
This correctly uses 'say hello to [person] for [sender]'.
Match the phrase variation to the correct situation.
1. 'Give my regards to...' 2. 'Say hi to...' 3. 'Holla at...'
'Regards' is formal, 'hi' is informal, and 'holla' is slang.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI want to say hello ___ my new neighbor.
We always say hello TO someone in English.
You are talking to a friend and want them to greet their brother for you.
This is the standard idiomatic way to ask someone to pass on a greeting.
A: I'm going to the party tonight. B: Oh, great! If you see Mark, please ____.
This correctly uses 'say hello to [person] for [sender]'.
1. 'Give my regards to...' 2. 'Say hi to...' 3. 'Holla at...'
'Regards' is formal, 'hi' is informal, and 'holla' is slang.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your friends, or a stranger.
Yes, 'say hi' is very common but more informal. Use it with people you know well.
In English, 'say' is an intransitive verb in this context, so we need 'to' to point to the person receiving the words.
The past tense is 'said hello'. For example: 'I said hello to her yesterday.'
In most English-speaking cultures, yes, it is considered rude to ignore someone you know.
No, 'give hello' is incorrect in English. Always use 'say'.
You can say, 'I'd like to say hello to everyone.'
This is a famous movie quote from Scarface. In that context, it's a threat, but usually, the phrase is friendly!
Yes, but you should specify who: 'Say hello to John for me.'
'Greet' is more formal and often used in writing. In speaking, 'say hello' is much more natural.
Related Phrases
say hi
similarA more informal version of say hello.
greet
synonymTo give a polite word or sign of welcome.
say goodbye
contrastTo acknowledge someone when leaving.
give my regards to
specialized formA formal way to pass on a greeting.
