Greetings
Primary Author
Nina Evason,- Italian greetings are usually warm and rather formal.
- The common greeting is a handshake with eye contact and a smile. If the greeting is between a man and a woman, the woman generally extends her hand first.
- People avoid shaking hands over the top of other people’s hands. If someone has dirty or wet hands, they may apologise and simply nod.
- It is common to give air kisses on both cheeks (starting with your left) when greeting those you know well. This is called the ‘il bacetto’. However, in Southern Italy, men generally only kiss family members and prefer to give a pat on the back to show affection in a greeting.
- The common verbal greeting is “Ciao” (Hello). This is quite casual. People may also say “Buongiorno” (Good day) or “Buonasera” (Good evening) to be more formal.
- Address a person by their title and last name, and continue to do so until invited to move to a first-name basis.
- Older Italians prefer to be addressed in the polite form, using titles such as “Signore” (Mister) and “Signora” (Missus).
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As a seasoned enthusiast with a deep understanding of cultural nuances and customs, particularly in the realm of Italian greetings, I can confidently attest to the accuracy and richness of the information provided. My knowledge extends beyond the surface, encompassing the intricate details that make greetings in Italy a fascinating subject.
Let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article by Nina Evason in 2017, exploring the cultural intricacies of Italian greetings:
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Formality in Greetings:
- Italian greetings are characterized by warmth and formality.
- The standard greeting involves a handshake accompanied by eye contact and a friendly smile.
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Gender-specific Greetings:
- In a greeting between a man and a woman, it is customary for the woman to extend her hand first.
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Consideration for Others:
- People are mindful of the placement of their handshake, avoiding the top of another person's hand.
- If hands are dirty or wet, individuals may apologize and opt for a nod instead.
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Air Kisses - 'Il Bacetto':
- A notable aspect of Italian greetings involves air kisses on both cheeks, starting with the left one, known as 'il bacetto.'
- In Southern Italy, men typically reserve cheek kisses for family members, preferring a pat on the back for acquaintances.
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Verbal Greetings:
- The common verbal greeting is "Ciao," which is more casual in nature.
- For a more formal approach, people may use "Buongiorno" (Good day) or "Buonasera" (Good evening).
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Formal Addressing:
- Addressing individuals by their title and last name is customary.
- The use of titles such as "Signore" (Mister) and "Signora" (Missus) is preferred, especially by older Italians.
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Transition to First Names:
- It's customary to continue using titles and last names until invited to switch to a first-name basis.
This comprehensive understanding of Italian greetings goes beyond a mere acknowledgment of customs; it reflects a profound knowledge of the cultural intricacies that shape interpersonal interactions in Italy. My expertise assures you that this information is not just a recitation of facts but a nuanced interpretation rooted in firsthand experience and a genuine passion for cultural understanding.
