What Time Is Appropriate to Say Good Evening?

Learn the ideal time to greet someone with 'good evening' and why it's an important social norm.

128 views

You can say good evening typically between 5 PM and 8 PM. This greeting is used to acknowledge someone during the end of the afternoon and the early part of the night, providing a polite and friendly way to welcome others as the day transitions into night.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the origin of the greeting 'good evening'? The greeting 'good evening' has roots in the English language, used to wish someone well as night approaches.
  2. Can you say good evening after 8 PM? While 8 PM is commonly considered the end of the evening greeting period, it's acceptable to say 'good evening' until the context shifts significantly to night.
  3. What other greetings can I use in the evening? In addition to 'good evening', you could use 'hello', 'hi', or even 'how are you?' depending on the formality of the situation.