ciao amici
The English phrase "hi friends" is translated into Italian as ciao amici.
This is an informal greeting used to address a group of friends.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ciao (hi/bye) and amici (friends).
Which one should you use?
ciao amici is used for a group of only men or a mixed-gender group of men and women. If the group of friends consists entirely of women, use ciao amiche instead.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
salve amici is a slightly more formal way to greet a group of friends than ciao amici.
Did you know?
- The word ciao actually comes from the word for 'slave'. It evolved from the Venetan phrase s-ciao vostro, which meant 'I am your slave' or 'your humble servant'.
- In many parts of Italy, especially in the north, using ciao can feel almost too intimate if you are greeting a group of acquaintances rather than close friends.
- The term amici comes from a Latin root that is also the ancestor of the English word 'amicable', meaning friendly or peaceable.
Examples in context
- Ciao ragazzi!Hi guys!
- Salve amichetti!Hello buddies!
- Ehi amici miei!Hey my friends!
Example conversation
Giulia arrives at a cafe where Lorenzo and their other friends are sitting.
- GiuliaCiao amici! Posso sedermi qui?Hi friends! Can I sit here?
- LorenzoCertamente, Giulia! Entra pure.Of course, Giulia! Come on in.
- GiuliaGrazie, Lorenzo. Che bello vedervi.Thanks, Lorenzo. It's great to see you all.
- LorenzoAnche per noi, prendiamo un caffè?For us too, shall we have a coffee?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ciao, CC BY-SA 4.0.
