How to Effectively Greet People in English.

Lesson Objective

By the end of the lesson, the student should be able to appropriately greet others.

Introductions.

One of the most common activities we do on a daily basis is greeting. Greetings are important because they help strangers break the ice and build rapport. As a result, greeting is a very important activity in our daily interactions; thus, there is a need to learn not only how to do it but also how to do it correctly.

What exactly does the term "greeting" mean?

A greeting is a form of communication in which humans make their presence known to one another, pay attention to one another, and suggest a type of relationship between individuals or groups of people who come into contact with one another.

It is critical to greet people based on their age, position, and relationship with you.
If a person is older than you or in a more senior position and is not personally related to you, your greetings should be formal.

As an example,
Mr. Kalmin, good morning.
Mrs. Lufi, good evening.
Miss Maria, good night.
Hello there, Dr. Chumama.
Hello, Professor Onyando.

For instance,
hello, Uncle Nyabuti!
Hello there, Auntie Kerubo!
It is worth noting that the same rules apply when bidding someone farewell.
As an example.
Goodbye, Mr. Kariuki.
Mrs. Semba, we'll miss you.

In more casual situations, words like bye, see you, and cheerio are appropriate.
Note that the word ‘teacher’ cannot be used as a form of address.
For Instance
Good morning teacher. (Wrong)
Good morning Mrs Maraga. (correct)
In conclusion, greetings are an important part of our daily interactions, and the ability to use the appropriate greeting in any communication we engage in determines its success or failure.

If the person is related to you, however, it is acceptable to use less formal or official greetings.

The following names of occupations may be used as a form of address in greetings:

Medical Doctor, Matron, Sister, and Nurse

Religious Bishop, Reverend, Father, Pastor, Brother, and Sister

Political Your Excellency, The Honourable, Your Worship, Councillor

The Disciplined Forces: Major General, Captain, Brigadier, Chief Inspector, Sergeant, and Corporal