A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Good afternoon" in Italian
Italian for 'good afternoon,' used from lunchtime until evening. A polite and common greeting.
Buon pomeriggio
bwon po-meh-REE-johneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase after lunch, typically from around 1 PM until sunset. It's perfect for entering shops, restaurants, or greeting people you meet on the street during these hours.
Alternatives
- BuongiornoThis is more common and can be used all day until late afternoon.
- BuonaseraThis is used from the evening onwards, so it's too late for afternoon.
Ways to get it wrong
Saying 'Buon pomeriggio' too early
This phrase is specifically for the afternoon; using it before 1 PM can sound odd.
Confusing with 'Buonasera'
'Buonasera' is for the evening, so don't use it before sunset.
A small cultural note
While 'Buon pomeriggio' is correct, many Italians simply continue using 'Buongiorno' until late afternoon, especially in less formal settings.
Frequently asked
When does afternoon start in Italy?
The afternoon in Italy is generally considered to begin after lunch, around 1 PM. 'Buon pomeriggio' is the correct greeting for this time.
Can I just say Buongiorno all day?
Yes, 'Buongiorno' is very common and can often be used throughout the day until late afternoon. It's a safe bet if you're unsure.
Is Buon pomeriggio formal?
No, 'Buon pomeriggio' is a neutral greeting. It's polite and appropriate for most situations, from shops to meeting acquaintances.
Is buona sera good afternoon?
Buona sera is used for 'good evening', not 'good afternoon'. While it can sometimes overlap into the late afternoon, it's primarily an evening greeting.
How do you greet someone in the afternoon in Italy?
The most direct translation for 'good afternoon' is 'buon pomeriggio'. However, 'buona sera' is often used starting from around 4 or 5 PM.
Do Italians say buon pomeriggio?
Yes, Italians do say 'buon pomeriggio' for 'good afternoon'. It's a correct and polite greeting, though 'buona sera' is more commonly used as the afternoon transitions into evening.
What is the difference between Buongiorno and ciao?
Buongiorno means 'good morning' or 'good day' and is a more formal greeting. Ciao is an informal greeting that can mean both 'hello' and 'goodbye'.
