From お休み, “rest,” and なさい, a polite ending originally urging the other person to rest.
From お休み, “rest,” and なさい, a polite ending originally urging the other person to rest.
When do you say おやすみなさい?
Before bed or when parting from someone late at night.
Does it mean good evening?
No. こんばんは is for meeting someone in the evening.
What is the shorter form?
おやすみ is common with family and close friends.
Can it end a phone call?
Yes, if the conversation ends late at night.
Is it about taking a day off?
No. As a greeting it wishes someone rest at night.