What does "how do you do" mean?
What it means: A very formal British greeting said upon being introduced to someone for the first time. Despite looking like a question, it doesn't ask about your health - it's purely ceremonial.The correct response: "How do you do?" - you say it back. Not "fine, thanks" or "very well." Literally...
What it means
A very formal British greeting said upon being introduced to someone for the first time. Despite looking like a question, it doesn't ask about your health - it's purely ceremonial.
The correct response
"How do you do?" - you say it back. Not "fine, thanks" or "very well." Literally responding to the question with the same question. This is what makes it distinctive and slightly confusing.
Do people still say it? Rarely, and mainly in formal or older contexts - formal business introductions, certain social circles, or people of an older generation. In everyday British English, "pleased to meet you" or "nice to meet you" has mostly replaced it.
The irony
"How do you do" has become slightly self-aware. Younger British speakers sometimes say it with a knowing, slightly theatrical quality - they know it sounds formal and old-fashioned, and they say it anyway.
Register
Very formal, traditional British English. Rare in modern casual settings.
What does "how do you do" mean?
A very formal British greeting said upon being introduced to someone for the first time. Despite looking like a question, it doesn't ask about your health - it's purely ceremonial.
Is "how do you do" formal or informal?
Very formal, traditional British English. Rare in modern casual settings.
Small talk and everyday replies have their own hidden rules.
LLH Tutor explains the social English that native speakers use without thinking twice.
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