Как дела?
The English phrase "how are you?" can be translated into Russian as Как дела?
Как дела? is a common and versatile way to say "how are you?" in an informal setting. While the English "how are you?" can sometimes be used as a mere greeting, Как дела? often invites a brief, genuine update on one's life or situation. You can also use Что нового? to literally mean "What's new?" or the simple and direct Как ты? to ask "How are you?" informally.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Как дела? literally translates to "How are affairs?" or "How are things?"
How does it change in a sentence?
The word дела in the phrase is the plural form of дело, which means affair, matter or business.
When do people say it?
A common and natural response to Как дела? is Хорошо, спасибо. (Good, thank you).
Did you know?
- In some Russian circles, replying to Как дела? with Потихоньку literally means 'slowly' or 'little by little', implying that life is moving along without major shocks.
- The word дела in Как дела? is the plural of дело, which can also mean 'a case' in a legal sense or a 'crime' in police slang.
- If you use the singular Как дело? instead of the plural Как дела?, you are no longer asking how someone is, but rather asking about one specific, particular matter.
Examples in context
- Хорошо ли вы поживаете? У вас все в порядке?Are you doing well? Is everything okay with you?
- Привет! Как дела?Hi! How are you?
- Привет, как дела?Privet, kak dela?Hi, how are you?
Example conversation
Olga meets Alexander on the street.
- Ольга OlgaПривет, Александр! Как дела?Privet, Aleksandr! Kak dela?Hi, Alexander! How are you?
- Александр AleksandrПривет, Ольга. Всё хорошо, спасибо.Privet, Ol'ga. Vsyo khorosho, spasibo.Hi, Olga. Everything is good, thanks.
- Ольга OlgaЯ рада это слышать.Ya rada eto slyshat'.I am glad to hear that.
- Александр AleksandrА у тебя как дела?A u tebya kak dela?And how are things with you?
