First impressions are important, so here's a guide to using the right expression. Greetings Two friends meeting Friends often say "Hi" to each other. Then they often ask a general question, such as "How are you?" or "How are things?" or "How's life?" The reply to this question is normally positive. "Fine thanks, and you?" "Fine thanks, what about yourself?" "Not bad." Or "Can't complain." Greeting people you don't know You can use "Hello" with people you don't know, but a more formal greeting is "Good morning / afternoon / evening." The other person normally replies with the same greeting as you have used and then makes polite conversation, such as "How was your trip?" or "Did you find our office easily?" Introducing yourself At an informal party "Hello, I'm Maria." Or "Hello, my name's Maria." The reply co...