Guten Abend
neutral
In Austrian German "good evening" is Guten Abend. Schönen Abend is a friendly wish, and Servus works among friends at any time of day.
Meaning: evening greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| German | Note |
|---|---|
| Guten Abend | neutral |
| Schönen Abend | warm |
| Servus | casual, Austria |
Guten Abend is used from late afternoon on. Schönen Abend noch is often said when parting, meaning "have a nice evening".
Which one should you use?
During the day many Austrians greet with Grüß Gott, but in the evening Guten Abend is also very common.
Did you know?
- German uses Abend for evening and Nacht for night, and the greeting Gute Nacht is only used when going to bed.
Examples in context
- Guten Abend, meine Damen und Herren.Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
- Schönen Abend noch!Have a nice evening!
- Guten Abend, wie war dein Tag?Good evening, how was your day?
Example conversation
Herr Maier enters a restaurant in Vienna in the evening and speaks to the host Peter.
- Herr MaierGuten Abend, ich habe einen Tisch reserviert.Good evening, I have reserved a table.
- PeterGuten Abend. Auf welchen Namen?Good evening. Under which name?
- Herr MaierMaier.Maier.
