What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Tere (hello) and kuidas läheb? (how goes?), which is the literal equivalent of "how is it going?" in English.
Which one should you use?
While Tere, kuidas läheb? is a standard way to ask how someone is, you can use different forms depending on the level of respect or intimacy. To address an elder or a stranger more politely, you can use Tere, kuidas teil läheb? by using the formal pronoun teil.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In formal contexts, you might use Tere! for "Hello" or Kuidas teie käsi käib? for "How are you?" The word teie is the formal form of "you". Other formal options include Kuidas te end tunnete? (How do you feel?) or Kuidas teie päev on olnud? (How has your day been?). In contrast, if you are speaking informally, you can use Hei! to say "Hey!" and ask Kuidas sul läheb? using the informal pronoun sul.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase Kuidas läheb?, kuidas is the interrogative adverb for "how" and läheb is the third-person singular present tense of the verb minema (to go).
When do people say it?
When someone asks you Kuidas läheb?, a common and natural response is Hästi, aitäh! (Good, thanks!).
Did you know?
- In very formal situations, Estonians may ask Kuidas teie käsi käib?, which literally translates to 'How is your hand walking?'
- The word tere actually means 'healthy' or 'well'. Its original meaning is rooted in wishing someone good health rather than just a simple hello.
- While Tere, kuidas läheb? is the standard translation, Estonians often omit the second part unless they are genuinely seeking a detailed update on the person's life.
Examples in context
- Tere, kuidas läheb?Hello, how are you?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tere, CC BY-SA 4.0.
