What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Selam, which means "hi" or "peace" and nasılsın?, which means "how are you?"
Which one should you use?
The phrase Selam, nasılsın? is a casual way to greet someone. For a more polite or formal version, you can use Merhaba, nasılsınız? Another formal option is İyi günler, Nasılsınız?, which translates to "Good day, how are you?"
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Selam, nasılsın? is an informal greeting used among friends, peers or people of the same age. In contrast, Merhaba, nasılsınız? is the formal and polite way to greet someone. You can also use Merhaba, Nasılsın? in informal contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the word nasılsın, the suffix -sın indicates the second person singular (you) in the informal form.
When do people say it?
A common response to the question nasılsın? is İyiyim, teşekkürler, which means "I am fine, thanks."
Did you know?
- The word Selam shares its origins with the Hebrew word shalóm, meaning they both stem from a common concept of 'peace'.
- In many parts of Turkey, a greeting is often accompanied by a subtle handshake or even a light touch on the chest to show sincerity.
- The informal term naber? is actually a contraction of the phrase Ne haber?, which literally asks 'What is the news?'
Examples in context
- Selam, nasılsın? Her şey yolunda mı?Hi, how are you? Is everything okay?
- Selam, nasılsın? Çok uzun zaman oldu.Hi, how are you? It has been a long time.
Example conversation
Two friends meet randomly on the street.
- CanSelam, nasılsın?Hi, how are you?
- Elifİyiyim, teşekkürler. Sen nasılsın?I am fine, thanks. How are you?
- CanBen de iyiyim, sağ ol.I am fine too, thanks.
- ElifHarika, seni gördüğüme sevindim.Great, I am glad to see you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries selam, CC BY-SA 4.0.
