When it comes to referring to “PM” or “post meridiem,” there are various ways to express it formally or informally, depending on the setting. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “PM” and provide you with tips, examples, and regional variations to help you navigate this common time reference.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “PM”
When speaking formally, it’s essential to use proper expressions to convey the time correctly. Here are some phrases commonly used:
1. Post Meridiem: This is the full Latin phrase from which “PM” is derived. It is the most formal way to express afternoon or evening time and is often used in formal written correspondence or official settings.
Example: The meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM (Post Meridiem).
In addition to “Post Meridiem,” specific expressions using numbers or symbols are commonly accepted in formal contexts:
2. 2:00 PM: This is a concise, formal way to express 2 o’clock in the afternoon or evening.
Example: The event will start promptly at 2:00 PM.
3. 1400 hours: In military or aviation contexts, using the 24-hour clock format is commonplace. This formal method indicates 2 o’clock in the afternoon or evening as 1400 hours.
Example: The aircraft will arrive at 1400 hours.
Informal Ways to Say “PM”
When speaking informally or in casual settings, people often use more relaxed expressions to refer to afternoon or evening time. Here are some common, informal ways to say “PM”:
1. Afternoon/Evening: Using these general terms to express specific times after 12:00 PM is widely accepted informally.
Example: Let’s meet for coffee in the afternoon.
2. Late afternoon/Evening: This indicates a relatively late time in the afternoon or evening, usually closer to sunset or nighttime.
Example: The party will start in the late afternoon, around 5 PM.
Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are commonly understood worldwide, different regions may have their own unique ways to refer to “PM.” Here are a few regional variations:
1. UK: “In the Evening”: In the United Kingdom, it is common to hear people refer to “PM” as “in the evening” during casual conversations.
Example: See you at the pub around 7 in the evening.
2. Australia: “Arvo”: In Australian English, “arvo” is a popular colloquial abbreviation for “afternoon” and is frequently used instead of saying “PM.”
Example: Let’s catch up for a BBQ at 3 arvo.
Tips for Choosing the Right Term
To ensure clear communication, consider the following tips:
- Know the setting: Different situations may call for more formal or informal language, so it’s essential to adapt to the context.
- Be consistent: If you choose to use a specific term, try to maintain consistency throughout a conversation or written piece.
- Consider regional norms: When communicating with people from different regions, be aware of local ways to refer to “PM.”
- Use context clues: When unsure, pay attention to the surrounding conversation or event details. It can help you determine the appropriate expression to use.
Remember, the primary goal is to convey the correct time clearly, so using widely understood terms is crucial.
Conclusion
Whether you are in a formal or informal setting, knowing how to say “PM” correctly is essential for effective communication. By familiarizing yourself with formal phrases like “Post Meridiem,” concise expressions such as “2:00 PM,” and informal terms like “afternoon,” you can confidently express time references. Remember to adapt to the specific context and consider regional variations if necessary. This will ensure that you are understood clearly and maintain a warm and welcoming tone during conversations.
