good evening

/ˌɡʊd ˈivnɪŋ/
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A polite greeting for the later part of the day.

Examples

  • She gave the audience a warm good evening before the concert.
  • I called at seven and began with good evening.
  • "Good evening, Ms Patel," the waiter said.
  • Good evening, everyone. Thank you for coming.
  • The host said good evening as we entered.

Similar words

Meanings

Evening greeting

social
neutral
Said when greeting someone in the evening, including at the start of a visit or event.

Examples

  • Good evening, everyone. Thank you for coming.
  • The host said good evening as we entered.
  • I called at seven and began with good evening.
  • "Good evening, Ms Patel," the waiter said.
  • She gave the audience a warm good evening before the concert.

Similar words

Etymology

The greeting joins good, a wish that things go well, with evening, the later part of the day.

FAQ

What does good evening mean?

good evening is a polite greeting after daytime.

When is good evening used?

Said when greeting someone in the evening, including at the start of a visit or event.

How do people reply to good evening?

A matching good evening or hello is a natural reply.

Is good evening formal?

It sounds polite in ordinary conversation and at formal events.

How does good evening differ from good night?

Good evening greets someone when meeting. Good night says goodbye later.

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