What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ciao (hi/bye), per (for) and ora (now).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Because it uses ciao, ciao per ora is informal and suitable for friends or family. To make the phrase more formal or polite, you can replace ciao with arrivederci, resulting in arrivederci per ora. Other formal ways to say goodbye for now include La saluto per il momento. or Le auguro una buona giornata. While ciao per ora is casual, informal alternatives include Ci vediamo dopo!, A dopo! or Ci sentiamo! The phrase A presto (see you soon) is versatile and works in both formal and informal contexts.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of ciao per ora is /ˈtʃa.o per ˈo.ra/. It has 4 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
When do people say it?
You may also use Alla prossima to mean "until next time", or Buona giornata which literally means "good day" and serves as a polite way to bid farewell during the daytime.
Did you know?
- When using ciao per ora, you are essentially using a word for 'slave' to tell a friend you will see them soon.
- Italian speakers often accompany a casual goodbye like ciao per ora with a 'double cheek kiss' on the cheeks, starting with the left.
Examples in context
- Ciao per ora, ci vediamo domani.Goodbye for now, see you tomorrow.
- Devo andare, ciao per ora.I have to go, goodbye for now.
Example conversation
Two friends are ending a short phone call.
- MartinaHo finito di leggere il libro, Francesco.I finished reading the book, Francesco.
- FrancescoOttimo, ne parliamo domani a pranzo.Great, we will talk about it tomorrow at lunch.
- MartinaPerfetto, ciao per ora!Perfect, goodbye for now!
- FrancescoA domani, Martina!Until tomorrow, Martina!
