How are you? and how to answer

How are you? is often part of hello, and the usual answer takes two seconds: Fine, thanks. And you?

After hello, English speakers often ask a question about how you are. How are you? is the standard form. It works with almost anyone. In many everyday situations, for example with a colleague in the hallway or a cashier in a shop, the question is part of the greeting. The person is being friendly. They are not asking for a full report on your health or your week.

The short answer

The usual answer is short and positive, and then you ask back. Fine, thanks. And you? I’m good, thanks. How are you? Not bad, thanks. You? Asking back is important. If you only say Fine and stop, it can sound cold, as if you do not want to talk. The other person will answer in the same short way: Good, thanks.

If you are not feeling great, you can still be short and honest: Not too bad. Or: A bit tired, but OK. With a close friend, you can say more: Honestly, not great. I have a cold. Friends will usually ask what is wrong. With a stranger, a short answer is enough.

Other ways to ask

Friends and colleagues often use casual forms. How’s it going? and How are you doing? mean the same as how are you. Answer them the same way: Good, thanks! What’s up? is different. It means what is new or what is happening, and the usual answer is Not much, or Nothing much. You? Do not answer What’s up? with Fine, thanks, because it is not a how-are-you question.

When you meet someone after a long time, you can say: Long time no see! How have you been? The answer can be a little longer: Great, thanks. I started a new job. This is the start of a real conversation, so it is fine to share some news.

Sometimes a person says How are you? as they walk past and does not stop for the answer. In a busy hallway this is normal, not rude. Smile and say Good, thanks! as you pass. You do not need to ask back if they have already gone.