How to say “hello” in Japanese

6 ways to say hello in Japanese

1. こんにちは

   konnichiwakohn-nee-chee-wah

   Slow

   Means: Hello / good afternoon

   Use it: Daytime, with people you don't see every day.

2. おはようございます

   ohayō gozaimasuoh-hah-yoh goh-zai-mahs

   Slow

   Means: Good morning (polite)

   Use it: Mornings, at work, with anyone.

3. おはよう

   ohayōoh-hah-yoh

   Slow

   Means: Morning

   Use it: Friends and family.

4. こんばんは

   konbanwakohn-bahn-wah

   Slow

   Means: Good evening

   Use it: After dark.

5. もしもし

   moshi moshimoh-shee moh-shee

   Slow

   Means: Hello?

   Use it: Only on the phone.

6. はじめまして

   hajimemashitehah-jee-meh-mahsh-teh

   Slow

   Means: Nice to meet you

   Use it: Meeting someone for the first time.