hola
/ˈola/
The English phrase "hi (formal)" can be expressed in Spanish using hola.
hola is a common greeting used to say hello to another person.
Which one should you use?
While hola is the standard way to say hello, it is considered neutral to informal and is not strictly a formal greeting like Buenos días.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈola/
Did you know?
- While hola is the universal greeting, in Spain people often say buenas as a standalone greeting that works for morning, afternoon and evening.
- In Spanish, the letter 'h' is almost always silent, which is why the 'h' in hola is not pronounced.
Examples in context
- Hola, ¿cómo está usted?Hello, how are you?
- Hola, es un placer conocerle.Hello, it is a pleasure to meet you.
- Hola, buenas tardes.Hello, good afternoon.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena meet at a business conference.
- JavierHola, señora Elena.Hi, Ms. Elena.
- ElenaHola, señor Javier.Hi, Mr. Javier.
- Javier¿Cómo ha estado?How have you been?
- ElenaMuy bien, gracias.Very well, thank you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hola, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
