Vietnamese · Greetings & Phrases
xin chào
Hello
Beginnerinterjection
Definition
The standard polite Vietnamese greeting, used at any time of day.
Example
Xin chào! Bạn khỏe không?
Hello! How are you?
Etymology
The term 'xin chào' combines 'xin', meaning 'to ask' or 'request', with 'chào', which means 'greet'. This construction reflects a polite request for the attention of the other person upon greeting.
How & Where It’s Used
'Xin chào' is used in both formal and informal settings, predominantly in spoken Vietnamese, and is universally understood across regions. It is often used in social contexts as a standard greeting.