How to Say Hello in Vietnamese: "Chào"

The standard Vietnamese greeting is "Chào" (pronounced like chow with a rising tone).

Usage Nuances

• Chào bạn – Hello friend/peer (informal)
• Chào anh / Chào chị – Hello older brother/sister (respectful, common)
• Chào ông / Chào bà – Hello sir/ma'am (elders)
• Chào em – Hello younger person
• Chào cả nhà – Hello everyone (group)

Key Points

• Vietnamese is tonal—chào uses falling-rising tone (dấu hỏi)
• Pronouns encode age/relationship—choose correctly to show respect
• No single "hello" works universally; context matters
• Handshake + slight bow common in business

Other Greetings

• Dạo này khỏe không? – How have you been?
• Ăn cơm chưa? – Have you eaten? (classic friendly opener)

When in doubt: smile, say "Chào anh/chị" (safe default for adults).