Guten Tag
polite, daytime
Guten Tag means "good day" and is the standard polite greeting in German. You say it during the day, and it fits shops, offices and meeting someone new. It is also called Hallo.
Meaning: good day, a polite greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| German | Note |
|---|---|
| Guten Tag | polite, daytime |
| Hallo | casual |
What does it mean word for word?
Guten means "good" and Tag means "day". You can also say Tag alone in a relaxed way.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
With friends, Hallo is more usual. In the evening you switch to Guten Abend and in the morning you can use Guten Morgen.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In southern Germany and Austria many people say Grüß Gott instead of Guten Tag.
How do you pronounce it?
Say it as "GOO-ten TAHK". The final g of Tag sounds like a "k".
Did you know?
- The same pattern gives Guten Morgen for the morning and Guten Abend for the evening, while Gute Nacht is only said when going to bed.
Examples in context
- Guten Tag, Herr Müller.Good day, Mr. Müller.
- Guten Tag, ich suche die Bank.Good day, I am looking for the bank.
- Guten Tag, wie kann ich helfen?Good day, how can I help?
Example conversation
Frau Weber enters a pharmacy in Hamburg and speaks to the pharmacist.
- Frau WeberGuten Tag.Good day.
- ApothekerGuten Tag. Was darf es sein?Good day. What can I get you?
- Frau WeberIch brauche etwas gegen Kopfschmerzen.I need something for a headache.
