Vocabulary›A1›Greetings & Introductions›Hello and goodbye›how are you
phraseA1

how are you

/haʊ ɚ ju/
Lesson: Hello and goodbye

You say this to greet someone and ask if they feel well.

It is often a friendly greeting, and the person may answer “Fine, thanks” even if you do not need a long answer. You can also say it when you meet someone again after some time.

Illustration for how are you
EXAMPLES
  • How are you? — I’m fine, thanks.
  • Hi, Maria! How are you?
  • Good morning. How are you today?
SYNONYMS
how is it goinghow are you doingare you well
GRAMMAR
Fixed phrase · usually followed by a short answer such as “Fine, thanks” · neutral and polite
COMMON COLLOCATIONS
Hi, how are you?How are you today?How are you doing?Fine, thanks.I’m well, thank you.
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