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hallo — meaning in English: Hello
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Hello
hallo
selbst
wie
gewesen
hoffe
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informal
very common
Usage
Native German speakers commonly use 'hallo' in everyday situations such as greeting friends, family, or colleagues. It's the go-to word for initiating conversations in both casual and semi-formal settings, whether that's at a café, during a phone call, or when meeting someone at a social event.
Synonyms & nuances
'Hallo' is often used interchangeably with 'hi', though 'hi' tends to be even more casual, primarily among younger people. You might choose 'hallo' in a slightly more formal setting or when you want to convey a sense of friendliness without being overly familiar.
Culture
'Hallo' has its roots in the Old High German word 'halâ', which means 'to call'. Interestingly, the word evolved as a friendly way to address someone, similar to the English 'hello', which gained popularity in the 19th century. In Germany, 'hallo' is not just a greeting; it represents a warm and approachable attitude in social interactions.
FAQ
