good afternoon

/ˌɡʊd ˌæftɚˈnun/
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A polite greeting for the hours after midday.

Examples

  • "Good afternoon, everyone," the speaker began.
  • He smiled and wished the receptionist good afternoon.
  • At two o’clock, the teacher said good afternoon to the class.
  • Good afternoon, Mrs Lee. Is this a good time to call?
  • The guide greeted the visitors with good afternoon.

Similar words

Meanings

Afternoon greeting

social
neutral
Said when greeting someone after midday and before evening.

Examples

  • Good afternoon, Mrs Lee. Is this a good time to call?
  • The guide greeted the visitors with good afternoon.
  • At two o’clock, the teacher said good afternoon to the class.
  • "Good afternoon, everyone," the speaker began.
  • He smiled and wished the receptionist good afternoon.

Similar words

Etymology

The greeting joins good, a wish that things go well, with afternoon, the hours after midday.

FAQ

What does good afternoon mean?

good afternoon is a polite greeting after midday.

When is good afternoon used?

Said when greeting someone after midday and before evening.

How do people reply to good afternoon?

A matching good afternoon or hello is a natural reply.

Is good afternoon formal?

It is polite and works in both everyday and professional conversation.

When is good afternoon used instead of good morning?

Good afternoon is for after midday. Good morning is for the earlier part of the day.

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