What is the correct way of saying ‘good evening’ in Spanish?

The correct way to say “good evening” in Spanish depends on the region and context, but the most common and widely accepted expressions are:

1. “Buenas tardes”

• Meaning: This translates directly to “good afternoon,” but it is also used to mean “good evening” in Spanish, particularly in many Spanish-speaking countries.
• Usage: In most Spanish-speaking countries, “buenas tardes” is used from around noon or 1 PM until approximately 8 PM. It’s an appropriate greeting during this part of the day, regardless of whether it’s still light outside or already getting dark.
• Literal translation: “Good afternoon.”
  • Example:
    • ¡Buenas tardes! ¿Cómo estás? (Good evening! How are you?)

2. “Buenas noches”

• Meaning: This phrase literally translates to “good night,” but it can also be used as a greeting in the evening, typically from around 8 PM onwards, or when it is dark outside.
• Usage: While “buenas noches” can mean both “good evening” and “good night,” its use shifts more towards “good night” as the evening progresses, particularly if you are about to go to bed or leave for the night. It’s commonly used in the later evening or night when people are winding down for the day.
• Literal translation: “Good night.”
  • Example:
    • ¡Buenas noches! Que descanses. (Good evening! Have a restful night.)

Contextual Use

• Before 8 PM: In many Spanish-speaking regions, “buenas tardes” would be used to greet someone in the evening until about 8 PM, after which “buenas noches” would be more appropriate, especially if it’s after dark.
• After 8 PM: “Buenas noches” is typically used when the day is coming to an end, and people may be preparing to sleep or go to bed.

3. Regional Variations

Although “buenas tardes” and “buenas noches” are standard across most Spanish-speaking countries, there are slight regional differences in how and when they are used. For example:

• Argentina: In Argentina, people may start saying “buenas noches” a little earlier, even at 6 PM or 7 PM.
• Mexico and Central America: “Buenas tardes” might be used for a longer period, extending until 9 PM or even later in some areas, particularly in rural regions.

4. Additional Notes

• Tone and Context: The way you say these phrases can vary depending on your relationship with the person and the time of day. If you’re greeting a group or someone formally, you might say “buenas tardes” or “buenas noches” more politely or with a slight nod or smile. If you’re with friends or in a casual setting, it can be said more casually.
  • Example in a formal context:
    • ¡Buenas tardes, señor! ¿Cómo se encuentra? (Good evening, sir! How are you?)
  • Example in a casual context:
    • ¡Buenas noches, chicos! (Good evening, guys!)

Conclusion

• “Buenas tardes” is used to say “good evening” in the afternoon to evening time (until about 8 PM).
• “Buenas noches” is used more as a greeting in the late evening, from around 8 PM onward, and often transitions to “good night” as the evening goes on.

Both phrases are widely understood across the Spanish-speaking world, with regional variations in when they are used. Understanding the time of day and the context will help you use the most appropriate greeting.