Meaning
hello!
- goodbye!
In a sentence
Ciao, come stai?
Hi, how are you?
Dico ciao alla nonna.
I say hello to grandma.
Non dire solo ciao, entra un momento.
Don't just say hi, come in for a moment.
Usage notes
- Use 'ciao' only with friends, family, or children. Never with strangers or in formal settings.
- Italians say 'ciao' both when arriving and leaving. Context clarifies the meaning.
- Avoid overusing 'ciao' in writing; it’s primarily spoken. 'Salve' is a safer written greeting.