vale
[ˈwa.ɫeː]
The Latin way to say bye bye is vale.
Vale is used as a casual way to say goodbye to someone when you are leaving.
Which one should you use?
valete is the plural form used when bidding farewell to multiple people.
Did you know?
- The English word 'valedictorian', used for the top student in a graduating class, comes directly from the same root as this Latin farewell.
- When you say vale, you are not just saying goodbye, but actually wishing the person 'be well' or 'stay healthy'.
- In ancient Roman letters, vale was often written as a closing formula, similar to how English speakers use 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards'.
Examples in context
- Valete, omnes. Gratias vobis ago!Goodbye, all. Thank you!
- Valeas, amice!Take care, friend!
- Vale, amice!Bye bye, friend!
- Vale, mox redibo.Bye bye, I will return soon.
Example conversation
Aurelia and Gaius are leaving the market.
- AureliaHodie multum emi.I bought a lot today.
- GaiusEgo quoque.Me too.
- AureliaVale, Gai.Bye, Gaius.
- GaiusVale, Aurelia!Bye, Aurelia!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry vale, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries vale, CC BY-SA 4.0.
