Learning English is not only about mastering grammar and vocabulary but, more importantly, about using it naturally in real-life situations. However, textbook sentences are often too formal and differ from real-life expressions. To speak fluent and natural English, one must be exposed to authentic conversations. Here, we have selected commonly used English expressions for daily life, covering social, work, and travel scenarios. These will help you break away from 'textbook English' and learn how native speakers truly communicate. Below is this issue of '8000 Sentences for Spoken English: Greetings and Farewells.' Keep practicing, and your English will become more practical and natural!

Greetings are an essential part of daily communication. Common expressions include: "Hi, hello, good afternoon, good evening, how are you?" A typical response might be "Fine, thank you," or "Not so good." People often say "Glad to meet you," when meeting someone for the first time. Questions like "What's up?" or "How's your family?" are used to show concern. Other conversational starters include "How's business?" or "How did it go today?" Casual remarks such as "Nothing much" or "Oh, same as usual" are also common. When people run into each other unexpectedly, phrases like "I ran into him" or "Guess who I bumped into yesterday" are often used. When meeting someone new, people may say "He's a stranger to me." Greetings set the tone for friendly interaction and help maintain relationships.

When people reunite after a long time, they often use expressions such as "It's been a long time," "Long time no see," or "How have you been?" These phrases convey warmth and the joy of reconnecting. Compliments like "You haven't changed at all," "You've grown up," or "You look great" are frequently shared to strengthen rapport. Questions like "How are you feeling?" or "How's he getting along these days?" extend concern to family or friends. Sometimes people notice changes, saying "You've really changed" or "Are you gaining weight?" Such small talk helps people catch up quickly and re-establish familiarity. Reunions, even brief ones, play a role in affirming connections that time and distance may weaken.

Saying goodbye involves many polite expressions. Common ones include "Goodbye," "See you," or "I'm off now." More formal farewells are "I have to go," or "It was nice meeting you." People often add good wishes such as "Good luck," "Have a nice day," or "Take care." Some use lighthearted comments like "Don't work too hard" or "Keep it up." Other phrases extend relationships into the future: "Let's keep in touch," "Give me a call sometime," or "Please write me a letter." Farewells can express reluctance to leave with "I hate to run but..." or affection with "I'll miss you." These expressions reflect care, consideration, and the hope of meeting again soon.

When visiting someone’s home, polite language is vital. Visitors may start with "Hello, anyone home?" or "Please come in." A host may say "Make yourself at home" or "Have a seat." Hospitality phrases include "Would you care for something to drink?" or "Please enjoy yourself." Visitors might ask "May I use your bathroom?" or "Can I park my car here?" Before leaving, polite expressions are "Thank you for inviting me," or "Drop by sometime." Compliments such as "I like your house" or "I really like your apartment" make the host feel appreciated. Simple courtesies like "Watch your step" or "The floor is slippery" also show thoughtfulness. Good manners in these situations create warmth and mutual respect.

Introducing people is a common social practice. Typical phrases include "This is my boss, Mr. Sato," or "Nice to meet you." Responses often are "Nice to meet you too" or "It's an honor to meet you." When unsure about someone, people may ask "Don't I know you from somewhere?" or say "I'm not sure, maybe." Exchanges like "Oh yeah, you're Mr. Smith" or "I can't remember his name" often occur. Introductions sometimes involve giving personal details, such as "I'm John" or "Where are you from?" followed by "I'm from Canada." Such small introductions open doors to further communication, allowing people to establish background and context for their relationship.

Talking about work is another key topic in conversations. People may ask "Do you know his background?" or say "I work for a computer company." Common professions mentioned are "government employee," "self-employed," or "sales." People often ask "What department do you work for?" or "How long have you been doing that job?" Other workplace details include "How long does it take you to commute?" or "I ride the subway." Job transitions are also common topics, with phrases like "I'm changing jobs" or "I'm job hunting now." Even life changes such as "I'm retiring next year" or "I'm out of work now" are shared. Work-related conversations reveal much about someone’s daily life and long-term goals.

Conversations about hobbies and interests are common icebreakers. Questions like "What are your hobbies?" or "What do you do when you have free time?" are often asked. Typical answers include "I like to watch movies," "I'm a baseball fan," or "I like to play golf." Sports are frequent topics, with questions such as "How long have you been skiing?" or "Have you ever done aerobics?" People also talk about travel: "Have you ever traveled abroad?" or "Where do you want to go next?" Age and physical characteristics sometimes come up: "How old are you?" or "How tall are you?" These personal but casual exchanges strengthen bonds by finding common interests and shared experiences.

Weather is perhaps the most universal small talk topic. Common phrases include "It's very hot today," "It's chilly," or "It's windy today." People may ask "What's the forecast for tomorrow?" or "Is it going to rain today?" Expressions such as "It's raining cats and dogs" or "It's freezing" vividly describe conditions. Seasonal variations bring remarks like "It's humid," "It's stormy," or "It's snowing." Descriptions such as "It's gloomy" or "It's overcast" capture mood as well as climate. Weather talk often breaks silence, eases tension, and provides neutral ground for communication. Because everyone experiences it, weather remains a timeless and effective conversational subject.

The above is the summary prepared by Qicaiwang for '8000 Sentences for Spoken English: Greetings and Farewells.' We hope it is helpful to you!