Greetings are the first step in any conversation, and Croatian is no exception. Whether you're visiting Zagreb, Dubrovnik, or a small coastal village, knowing how to say hello properly can make a big difference. This guide covers everything from formal situations to laid-back exchanges with friends.
Formal Greetings in Croatian
In formal settings - business meetings, official events, or when addressing elders - Croatians use more structured greetings. Here are the most common ones:
- Dobar dan (Good day) – The standard formal greeting, used from late morning until evening.
- Dobro jutro (Good morning) – Used until around 11 AM.
- Dobra večer (Good evening) – Appropriate after sunset.
- Laku noć (Good night) – Used when parting ways late at night.
Casual Greetings
Among friends, family, or peers, Croatians use shorter, more relaxed greetings. Here’s what you’ll hear:
Bok
/bôːk/“Hi/Bye”
Ćao
/t͡ɕâːo/“Ciao”
Šta ima?
/ʃta ima/“What's up?”
Regional Variations
Croatia has several dialects, and greetings can vary by region. Here’s a quick look at some regional differences:
| Region | Greeting | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zagreb & Northern Croatia | Bok | Most common here. |
| Dalmatia (Coastal) | Bok, Ćao | More Italian influence. |
| Slavonia (Eastern) | Servus | Borrowed from Hungarian or German. |
Greeting Etiquette
Croatians value politeness, especially in initial encounters. A few tips:
- In formal settings, a handshake is common, often accompanied by direct eye contact.
- Among friends, cheek-kissing (once on each cheek) is typical, especially between women or between men and women.
- If unsure, default to "Dobar dan" - it’s always safe.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to get comfortable with Croatian greetings is to practice them. Try using "Bok" with friends or "Dobar dan" in shops. If you’re interested in more Croatian language tips, check out our guide on Croatian humour or compare with Slovenian greetings.
