greeted each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'greeted each other' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when two people meet and exchange pleasantries. For example: When the two old friends met at the party, they greeted each other warmly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They greeted each other.

The New York Times - Travel

They greeted each other as strangers.

The New Yorker

Former neighbors greeted each other with hugs.

The New York Times

They greeted each other warmly.

The New York Times

We greeted each other quite fondly.

The Washington Post

They greeted each other in a hug.

The New York Times

The two presidents warmly greeted each other.

The New York Times

Friends greeted each other with hugs.

The Guardian

"We greeted each other like two long-lost war veterans".

The New Yorker

"We greeted each other like long-lost war veterans.

The Guardian

New Zealanders of Bangladeshi, Syrian, Palestinian and Indian heritage greeted each other with hugs and sorrow.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "greeted each other" when you want to emphasize the reciprocal action of two or more people acknowledging each other upon meeting. It's suitable for describing both formal and informal encounters.

Common error

While phrases like "offered salutations" are technically correct synonyms for "greeted each other", they can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday conversation. Stick to simpler alternatives like "said hello" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greeted each other" functions as a verb phrase indicating a reciprocal action. It describes the act of two or more entities acknowledging each other's presence upon meeting. This aligns with Ludwig's analysis, which confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "greeted each other" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively describes the reciprocal action of acknowledging someone upon meeting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile expression suitable for various contexts, ranging from formal news reports to informal conversations. While alternative phrases like "exchanged greetings" or "acknowledged one another" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of the register and context when selecting an alternative, and avoid overly formal language in casual settings. By understanding the nuances of "greeted each other" and its alternatives, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

met and greeted

Emphasizes the meeting aspect in addition to the greeting.

exchanged a greeting

Similar to "exchanged greetings" but focuses on a single greeting.

exchanged greetings

Focuses on the action of exchanging greetings, rather than the manner or emotion of the greeting.

welcomed one another

Highlights the welcoming aspect of the greeting, implying a positive reception.

acknowledged one another

More formal and emphasizes the act of recognizing each other's presence.

formally greeted

Stresses the formality of the greeting.

said hello to each other

More casual and direct way of expressing the greeting.

exchanged pleasantries

Focuses on the polite conversation exchanged during the greeting.

made introductions

Highlights the act of introducing themselves if they were not previously acquainted before greeting.

offered salutations

Formal and somewhat archaic way of saying greeted.

FAQs

How can I use "greeted each other" in a sentence?

You can use "greeted each other" to describe any situation where people meet and exchange greetings. For example: "The two presidents "greeted each other warmly"", or "After the long separation, the siblings "greeted each other with hugs"".

What are some alternatives to "greeted each other"?

Alternatives include "exchanged greetings", "acknowledged one another", or "welcomed one another", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify how people "greeted each other"?

No, it's not always necessary. Sometimes, simply stating that they "greeted each other" is sufficient. You only need to add detail if the manner of greeting is important to the story or description. For example, specifying they greeted each other "formally" or "warmly".

What's the difference between "greeted each other" and "met each other"?

"Met each other" simply indicates that two or more people came into contact. "Greeted each other" implies that, upon meeting, they exchanged some form of acknowledgement or pleasantry. So, greeting is an action that typically follows meeting, especially when people already know each other.