Monday, May 10, 2010

In Argentina how do they say Hello and What's up in Spanish?

First we should clarify that cheek-kissing is very common in Argentina between women and even between men! Argentines are affectionate and warm. It is also common for men to greet friends with a hug followed by a pat on the back strain.

In Argentina how do they say hello and what's up in Spanish? After cheek-kissing, the Argentines say hola (hello), cómo estás? (What's up?). Cómo va? It is another alternative that also means what's up and it’s a bit more informal. Another common expression is Todo bien? (Hey, all right?).

Another expression that will surprise you is Qué hacés, che? (What's up, hey.) The che is used to call someone's attention, but it is informal and should be used with someone you know. In the 60s and 70s the use of "Che" was more widespread and was less informal. We do not recommend using the Che expression unless you are very sure of when you should use it. In other Latin American countries, the term 'che' is used to refer to a person from Argentina, in like the famous Che Guevara.

In Argentina how do they say hello and what's up in Spanish? If you know someone for the first time, it is appropriate to say: Encantado de conocerlo, mucho gusto, which is equivalent to the expression nice to meet you. In other formal situations, you should also use this expression. Also on these occasions should shake hands, cheek-kissing is too informal and may seem odd.

When the Argentines answer the phone they just say Hola? (Hello?). You should reply: Hello, introduce yourself and explain why are you calling. For example: Hola soy Roberto y me gustaría hablar con María (Hello, this is Robert and I would like to speak with María).

Hello and what's up expressions vary in different countries of Latin America. In Mexico, they say: qué onda Guey? ("What wave, Guey?) and in Colombia, Qué hubo? (How are things going?).

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