buenas noches
neutral
In Colombia you say buenas noches for "good night", and it works as both a greeting and a farewell. To wish someone rest you can say que descanse. It is also called Dulces sueños.
Meaning: evening or bedtime farewell (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| buenas noches | neutral |
| Que descanse | polite, Colombia |
| Dulces sueños | tender |
Buenas noches is used from the early evening onward. Que descanse is polite and goes with usted. With friends you say que descanses.
Which one should you use?
Dulces sueños is more tender and is used with children or a partner.
Did you know?
- The pair buenas noches and que descanse is a standard way to close an evening visit in Colombia.
Examples in context
- Buenas noches, hasta mañana.Good night, until tomorrow.
- Que descanse, doña Ana.Rest well, Doña Ana.
- Dulces sueños, mi amor.Sweet dreams, my love.
Example conversation
Ricardo says goodbye to his host family after dinner in Manizales.
- RicardoMuchas gracias por todo. Buenas noches.Thank you for everything. Good night.
- SeñoraBuenas noches, que descanse.Good night, rest well.
- RicardoIgualmente, hasta mañana.You too, see you tomorrow.
