A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "What is good morning" in Spanish
Learn to say 'Good morning' in Spanish with 'Buenos días' for a polite and common greeting.
Buenos días
boo-EH-nos DEE-ahsneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase from sunrise until around noon. It's perfect for greeting anyone you encounter in the morning, from shopkeepers to colleagues.
Alternatives
- Buen díaMore common in some South American countries, can be slightly more casual.
- HolaA general 'hello' that works anytime, but less specific than 'Buenos días'.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Bueno días'
The adjective 'bueno' must agree in gender and number with the noun 'días', so it becomes 'buenos'.
Pronounce the 'd'
The 'd' in 'días' is softer than in English, almost like a 'th' sound, especially between vowels.
A small cultural note
While 'Buenos días' is standard, in some regions, people might use 'Buen día' as a more common morning greeting.
Frequently asked
When should I stop saying Buenos Dias?
Generally, you switch to 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon) around noon or after your midday meal. However, this can vary by region and personal habit.
Is Buenos Dias formal or informal?
It's considered a neutral greeting, suitable for both formal and informal settings. You can use it with anyone you meet in the morning.
What is the plural of Buenos Dias?
'Buenos días' is already plural, referring to 'good days'. You don't need to make it plural; it's the standard way to say 'good morning'.
How do you greet someone in the morning in Spanish?
The most common way to greet someone in the morning in Spanish is 'Buenos días'.
How do Mexicans say good morning?
Mexicans say 'Buenos días' for good morning, just like in most other Spanish-speaking countries.
How do I respond to 'Buenos Dias'?
You can respond to 'Buenos días' with 'Buenos días' or simply 'Hola'.
How to say good morning in Spanish to a girl?
You can say 'Buenos días' to a girl. For a more affectionate greeting, you could say 'Buenos días, hermosa' (Good morning, beautiful).
