What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the root привет, which means "hi" or "hello".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Russia's Muslim-majority regions, the greeting Ассаламу алейкум is used, which means "peace be upon you".
How does it change in a sentence?
The neuter noun приве́тствие becomes приве́тствия in its plural form (greetings). It changes to приве́тствием when used in the instrumental case, such as when saying "with a greeting".
How do you pronounce it?
privétstvije
When do people say it?
Russian speakers use various greetings depending on the social context. For formal situations, Здравствуйте is the most common way to say "hello", while Добрый день (good day) or Добрый вечер (good evening) can be used throughout the day or evening respectively. For friends and peers, Привет is the most common way to say "hi" or "hello" and Здравствуй serves as the informal version of Здравствуйте. More affectionate or youthful options include the informal Приветик (hi) and the popular informal greeting Здарова, often used by younger generations.
Did you know?
- While English speakers might shake hands during a formal greeting, Russians traditionally avoid shaking hands across a threshold or doorway, as it is considered a sign of bad luck.
- The formal greeting Здравствуйте literally contains the word for 'health', making its root meaning 'be healthy'.
- If you use the formal Здравствуйте with a close childhood friend, it might actually sound like you are being sarcastic or jokingly cold towards them.
Examples in context
- Здравствуйте, меня зовут Анна.Hello, my name is Anna.
- Добрый день, как ваши дела?Good day, how are you?
- Добрый вечер, расскажите о вашем дне.Good evening, tell me about your day.
- Привет, как дела?Hi, how are you?
- Здравствуй, давно не виделись!Hello, long time no see!
- Ты самый лучший друг! Приветик!You're the best friend! Hi!
- Здарова, что нового?Hey, what's new?
- Приветствую всех здесь присутствующих.Greetings to everyone present here.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “greeting” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
