see you around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "see you around" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to say goodbye to someone in an informal way. For example, "It was nice talking to you. See you around!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

See you around.

The New York Times

"Well, see you around".

The New Yorker

"I'll see you around," he said, finally.

The New York Times

"Well, see you around, I guess".

The New Yorker

I'll see you around in the Mariposa some time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

If I don't see you around, I'll just assume you're doing that.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Ain't seen you around lately".

The New Yorker

I've seen you around.

HuffPost

I've seen you around and was wondering if you wanted to grab lunch together sometime.

WikiHow

When they see you're on the site, they might add you, because they've seen you around.

WikiHow

All you need to say is, "Hi my name is (your name here) and I've seen you around.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "see you around" in informal settings when you expect to encounter the person again but don't have a specific time or place planned. It's perfect for casual goodbyes among acquaintances or colleagues.

Common error

While "see you around" is widely understood, it's generally too casual for formal emails, presentations, or interactions with superiors. Opt for more professional closings like "goodbye" or "farewell" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "see you around" functions primarily as an informal valediction. It's used to express goodbye, indicating an expectation of future encounters without specifying a definite time or place. Ludwig shows numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "see you around" is a common and informal way to say goodbye, implying a future, unspecified meeting. As verified by Ludwig, this expression is grammatically correct and frequently used in casual settings. Its primary function is to conclude conversations on a friendly note, suitable for acquaintances or colleagues you expect to encounter again. While "see you around" is widely accepted in informal contexts, it's best to avoid it in formal or professional environments, opting for more formal alternatives such as "goodbye" or "farewell". Top sources like The New York Times and The Guardian showcase its prevalent use in news and media, further confirming its commonality in everyday language. Remember to use it when you want to convey a casual and optimistic farewell.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'll be seeing you

Emphasizes the speaker's intention or expectation of a future encounter.

see you soon

Suggests a meeting in the near future.

catch you later

An informal way of saying goodbye, implying a future meeting at an unspecified time.

later

A very short and informal goodbye.

so long

A casual farewell, similar in tone and usage.

until next time

Highlights the expectation of a future meeting or interaction.

until we meet again

A more formal and slightly sentimental way of saying goodbye, suggesting an eventual reunion.

farewell for now

Indicates a temporary goodbye, emphasizing the present moment.

take it easy

Combines a farewell with a wish for well-being.

have a good one

A general well-wishing farewell.

FAQs

How can I use "see you around" in a sentence?

You can use "see you around" at the end of a conversation as an informal way to say goodbye, implying you expect to encounter the person again. For instance, "It was great catching up, "see you around"!"

What's a more formal alternative to "see you around"?

In professional or formal settings, consider using alternatives like "goodbye", "farewell", or "I hope to see you again soon" instead of ""see you around"".

When is it appropriate to use "see you around"?

"See you around" is appropriate in casual settings when you anticipate seeing someone again without a specific plan. It works well with friends, colleagues, or acquaintances you frequently encounter.

What does "see you around" imply?

"See you around" implies a casual goodbye with the expectation of a future, unplanned encounter. It's less committal than "see you soon" but friendlier than a simple "goodbye".