Salutations

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Hello.

I've recently begun to notice that I see several common sayings as salutations and not for the meanings the words denote. Part of this realization is due to overhearing a conversation where the manager scolded the cashier for saying "How are you?" before "Hi" or "Hello."

I don't think there is too much trouble with "How are you?" replacing "Hello" because eventually, if someone really wants to know, it is asked a second time a little bit later in the dialog. I seem to be having more trouble with leave takings when people say "Have a good day" or "Thank you" or any variation on those and my response is "I'll see you later."

Not only have I not wished them a good day in return nor thanked them nor even told them "You're welcome" but perhaps I am telling a perfect stranger that I will see them later when I have no intent of ever seeing them ever again.

This language is tricky stuff, I think.

Take care, have a good day, thank you, and good bye.

Comments

the girl in the red hat said…
The most confusing greeting for me is 'What's up?' I still do not know how one is supposed to answer this. Clearly, if something was up, I wouldn't be standing around chatting. and if the greeter is concerned that something truly is up, why does she not give me time to answer?
9:43 AM
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