A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Good day" in Spanish
A polite and common Spanish greeting used throughout the morning.
Buenos días
boo-EH-nos DEE-ahsneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this greeting from waking up until roughly noon. It's perfect for starting any interaction, whether you're entering a shop or meeting a colleague.
Alternatives
- HolaA more general, all-purpose greeting that can be used anytime.
- Buenas tardesUse this one after noon, when 'buenos días' is no longer appropriate.
Ways to get it wrong
Saying 'Bueno días'
The adjective 'bueno' must agree in gender and number with the noun 'días', so it's always 'buenos'.
Pronouncing 'días' like 'dee-ass'
The 'i' in 'días' is a short 'ee' sound, and the 'a' is like the 'a' in 'father'.
A small cultural note
While 'Buenos días' is standard, some regions might use 'Buen día' as a more casual alternative.
Frequently asked
When do I stop saying Buenos Dias?
Generally, you switch to 'Buenas tardes' around noon. The exact cutoff can vary slightly by region and personal habit.
Is Buenos Dias formal or informal?
It's considered neutral, making it safe for almost any situation. You can use it with strangers, friends, and colleagues.
What's the difference between Buenos Dias and Hola?
'Hola' is a general 'hello' usable anytime, while 'Buenos días' is specifically for the morning and has a slightly more polite tone.
How do Mexicans say "have a good day"?
In Mexico, as in most Spanish-speaking countries, you can say "que tengas un buen día" for "have a good day."
Can "buenos días" mean "good day"?
"Buenos días" literally translates to "good days" and is used as a greeting for "good morning."
How do you say "have a good day"?
To say "have a good day" in Spanish, you can use "que tengas un buen día" (informal) or "que tenga un buen día" (formal).
