hi
heye
Hi (interjection) means a friendly, casual greeting. Example: “Hi, I'm Sam, and I just moved into the flat next door.”
interjection
1
A friendly, casual greeting.
"Hi, I'm Sam, and I just moved into the flat next door."
"I just dropped by to say “hi”."
"Hi, how are you doing?"
"She waved and said hi as she walked past."
How to use hi
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe everyday, casual way to say hello.
When to use it
Informal — appropriate for most everyday situations but not for very formal introductions.
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Word forms
- Plural
- his
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____, I'm Sam, and I just moved into the flat next door.
Etymology
Recorded in American English from the mid-1800s, likely a variant of the older greeting/attention-call "hey."
Class of 1800
hi joined the language around 1800.
See the full Class of 1800 →
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “hi” mean?
The word “hi” means a friendly, casual greeting. In plain terms, the everyday, casual way to say hello.
How do you pronounce “hi”?
“Hi” is pronounced heye (/haɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “hi” in a sentence?
Here is “hi” used in a sentence: “Hi, how are you doing?”
What part of speech is “hi”?
“Hi” is an interjection.
Where does the word “hi” come from?
The word “hi” dates back to around 1800. Recorded in American English from the mid-1800s, likely a variant of the older greeting/attention-call "hey.".
Is “hi” a common word?
“Hi” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between 'hi' and 'hello'?
Both are greetings, but 'hello' is more neutral and works in formal and informal settings, including answering the phone. 'Hi' is warmer and more casual, better suited to friends, colleagues, and relaxed situations. In a job interview you might say 'hello'; with a friend, 'hi' feels more natural.
Is 'hi' formal or informal?
'Hi' is informal. It is friendly and relaxed, ideal for people you know or casual conversations, and it is fine in most everyday emails today. For very formal or first-contact situations — a cover letter or a message to a senior stranger — 'hello' or 'dear' is a safer choice.
What is the difference between 'hi' and 'hey'?
Both are casual greetings, but 'hey' is even more informal and familiar than 'hi.' 'Hi' suits almost anyone you are on friendly terms with. 'Hey' works best with people you know well and can sound too casual, or even abrupt, with strangers or in professional settings.
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