greeting

USAGE SUMMARY

"greeting" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as a noun to refer to a respectful or kind word or action when someone meets or acknowledges someone else. For example, "We exchanged pleasant greetings before beginning our meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then there is the middle aged man who has been visiting for follow up, and thinks I am fed up of seeing him again, but doesn't realise that I secretly look forward to his cheery greeting as he energetically strides into my room greeting me with friendly familiarity by the shortened version of my first name.

The Guardian

European Union officials are not necessarily known for their sharp one-liners, but European commission head Jean-Claude Juncker had a scathing welcome for Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban at a summit in Riga on Friday, greeting him with "Hello, dictator".

The Guardian

"Here is the president greeting the people with his smile that expresses kindness," it said.

The Guardian

The Daily Star continues: After the prayer, Assad was shown [on state TV] spending time with other worshippers, greeting and chatting with some of them.

The Guardian

Mr. Bouley is not really the chef at Brushstroke, though he can sometimes be seen in the large open kitchen or strolling the dining room in a fine dress shirt beneath his crisp chef's jacket, greeting guests.

The New York Times - Food

There should be no physical contact when greeting guests, and the hotel's visiting card should be presented with both hands.

The Guardian

Yet as the US president admitted after delivering the greeting "Hello Berlin!" – which despite its lack of oratory prowess drew huge cheers from the Berlin crowds at the Brandenburg Gate on Wednesday – times have changed.

The Guardian

Most ardent fan: The many shirtless dudes greeting this starry-eyed, 60s-influenced music bare-chested and with arms aloft.

The Guardian - Music

When he arrives, the old dog barely lifts its head in greeting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's not a bad man, and he's not a harsh man – as his press team say, you only have to see him greeting children in St Peter's Square to recognise that.

The Guardian - Opinion

At 8 01 on Friday morning, London's major Apple stores in Regent Street and Covent Garden had bare pavement outside – a far cry from the bustling scenes greeting the company's last major device launches, the iPhones 6 and 6 Plus.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your "greetings" depending on the context. A simple "hello" is suitable for informal situations, while a more formal "good morning" or "good afternoon" may be appropriate in professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using slang or overly casual "greetings" in professional or academic settings. Stick to standard phrases like "good morning", "good afternoon", or "hello" to maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "greeting" is as a noun, referring to an expression of goodwill upon meeting or acknowledging someone. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a correct and usable term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

24%

Science

14%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "greeting" functions primarily as a noun, signifying an expression of goodwill or acknowledgment upon meeting someone. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's a very common term, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in news and media, as well as in formal business contexts. While the formality of specific "greetings" can vary, the term itself is generally neutral. When writing, it’s important to adapt your choice of "greeting" to the context, avoiding overly informal language in professional or academic settings. Alternatives include "salutation" and "welcome".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hello

A very common and simple form of "greeting".

salutation

A more formal and traditional term for a "greeting", often used in written correspondence.

welcome

Emphasizes the act of receiving someone warmly, similar to a "greeting".

acknowledgment

Focuses on recognizing someone's presence, a core element of a "greeting".

regards

A polite expression used at the end of a message, functioning as a "greeting".

best wishes

A more elaborate way of conveying friendly "greetings", often used in formal settings.

warm reception

Highlights the positive and friendly nature of the "greeting".

address

Refers to the manner of speaking to someone, which can include a "greeting".

initial contact

Focuses on the first interaction, where a "greeting" typically occurs.

opening remarks

Highlights the initial part of a conversation or speech, which often includes a "greeting".

FAQs

How to use "greeting" in a sentence?

You can use "greeting" as a noun to refer to an expression of goodwill. For example, "They exchanged a friendly greeting" or "The letter began with a formal greeting".

What are some alternatives to the word "greeting"?

Alternatives to "greeting" include "salutation", "welcome", or "acknowledgment", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "greetings" instead of "greeting"?

"Greetings" (plural) is used to convey general well wishes, especially in written form (e.g., "Greetings from our team"). "Greeting" (singular) refers to a specific instance of acknowledging someone.

What is the difference between a "greeting" and a "farewell"?

A "greeting" is an expression used upon meeting someone, while a "farewell" is an expression used when parting from someone. They serve opposite purposes in communication.