How do you do?” is a rather formal and somewhat antiquated greeting, used professionally or in polite company. Although it is still recognized, there are plenty of other expressions available in modern English to say the same thing more naturally and interactively. Ten of these are listed below as alternatives to “How do you do?”
Why Use Alternatives?
Though “How do you do?” is a familiar greeting, it’s not necessarily the best option. For starters, it can be too formal or stodgy for everyday conversation.
Employing alternatives enables you to speak in a manner that comes across as more natural, accessible, and suitable for your audience. Furthermore, varying greetings makes interactions interesting and dynamic.
1. How are you?
This is the most common and natural alternative that works in any setting.
Example: Nice to meet you! How are you?
2. How’s it going?
A more casual way to check in on someone’s well-being.
Example: Hey, I haven’t seen you in a while. How’s it going?
3. How have you been?
This is great for greeting someone you haven’t seen in a while.
Example: It’s been ages since we last talked! How have you been?
4. What’s new?
A great way to ask if anything exciting has happened recently.
Example: Long time no see! What’s new with you?
5. How’s everything?
A broader greeting that invites a general update on life.
Example: I hope things are going well. How’s everything?
6. How’s your day going?
A friendly, situational alternative for daily conversations.
Example: We haven’t had a chance to catch up. How’s your day going?
7. How are things?
A casual and general way to ask about someone’s well-being.
Example: Hey there! How are things with you?
8. What’s up?
A very informal and popular way to start a conversation.
Example: Yo! What’s up?
9. How’s life treating you?
A more conversational and engaging way to check in.
Example: It’s been a while! How’s life treating you?
10. Nice to meet you!
If you’re meeting someone for the first time, this is a perfect substitute.
Example: Hi, I’m Jake. Nice to meet you!
Final Thoughts
Language is a strong instrument, and how we word things can make a significant difference in the reception of our message.
If you’d like to be informal, formal, or warm, these ten “How do you do?” alternatives provide an abundance of choices. The next time, give one of these phrases a try—it could make your greeting feel more natural and interesting.
