Welcome to the World of English Greetings!
In this chapter, we are going to learn how to meet people, make new friends, and show our good manners. Learning these expressions is like having a "magic key" that opens doors to new friendships! Whether you are in Grade 1 (ป.1) or Grade 6 (ป.6), these simple words will help you feel confident when speaking English.
1. Hello! Let's Start with Greetings
When we see someone, we say "Hello" or "Hi". It is the first step in being friendly!
A. Choosing the Right Greeting
We use different greetings depending on the time of day:
- Good morning: Use this from when you wake up until lunchtime.
- Good afternoon: Use this after lunch until the sun starts to set (around 5:00 PM).
- Good evening: Use this when it gets dark or when you meet someone for dinner.
Quick Trick: In English-speaking cultures, always try to smile and look the person in the eye when you say hello. It shows you are happy to see them!
2. Making Friends: Introductions
When you meet someone for the first time, you need to tell them who you are. This is called an introduction.
How to introduce yourself:
1. Say "Hello!"
2. Say your name: "I am [Name]" or "My name is [Name]."
3. The other person might say: "Nice to meet you."
4. You should reply: "Nice to meet you, too."
Did you know? In Thailand, we Wai to show respect. In many English-speaking countries, people might shake hands or simply wave and smile. Both are very polite!
3. Checking In: "How are you?"
After saying hello, we usually ask how the other person is feeling.
Question: "How are you?"
Answers:
- "I am fine, thank you." (Classic and polite)
- "I am great!" (If you are very happy)
- "I am okay." (If you are feeling normal)
Key Takeaway: Always remember to say "thank you" after you answer, and then ask "And you?" to be extra polite!
4. Being Polite: The Magic Words
Polite expressions help everyone get along. Here are the most important ones to remember:
A. Saying Thank You
Use "Thank you" or "Thank you very much" when someone gives you something or helps you.
If someone says thank you to you, you can say: "You're welcome." (For P.4–P.6 students, you can also say "That's all right.")
B. Saying Sorry
If you make a mistake or accidentally bump into someone, say: "I am sorry."
If someone says sorry to you, you can reply: "Never mind" or "That's okay."
C. Using "Excuse me" (Important for P.4–P.6)
Use "Excuse me" if you want to walk past someone or if you want to interrupt a teacher to ask a question. It is much more polite than just starting to talk!
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don't say "I am sorry" when you want to ask a question. Use "Excuse me" instead. Use "I am sorry" only when you have done something wrong!
5. Saying Goodbye
When it is time to leave, we use leave-taking expressions. Don't just walk away!
- Goodbye: Good for any situation.
- Bye / Bye-bye: Friendly and used with friends.
- See you later: Use this if you will see the person again soon.
Cultural Tip: When saying goodbye, a small wave with your hand is a common gesture used by native speakers.
6. Summary Table for Quick Review
Check this table to make sure you remember the basics!
| Situation | What to say? |
|---|---|
| Meeting someone | "Hello" / "Good morning" |
| Starting a friendship | "My name is..." / "Nice to meet you" |
| Someone helps you | "Thank you" |
| You made a mistake | "I am sorry" |
| Leaving school | "Goodbye" / "See you tomorrow" |
Note for further study: If you want to learn how to ask for things politely, check out the chapter on "Commands, requests & asking permission"!
7. Memory Aid: The "Three S's"
To be great at greetings and polite expressions, remember the Three S's:
- Smile: It makes your English sound friendlier.
- Speak Up: Don't be shy! Speak clearly so people can hear your beautiful name.
- Say "Thank You": It is the easiest way to show you have good manners.
Don't worry if you forget a word sometimes. The most important thing is to try your best and be kind. You are doing a great job!