Guten Tag
[GOO-ten TAHK]
Good day / Hello
Literal gloss:“Good day (accusative)”
When to use:Used with strangers, service staff, officials, doctors, and colleagues you address as Sie.
Word-by-Word Structure
| German | Meaning | Grammar Note |
|---|---|---|
| Guten | good (acc. m.) | — |
| Tag | day | der Tag (final -g devoices to /k/) |
Across Germany, Austria & Switzerland (DACH)
Germany (DE)
Guten Tag / Hallo
Austria (AT)
Grüß Gott
Switzerland (CH)
Grüezi
In Bavaria, Austria, and Switzerland, "Grüß Gott" or "Grüezi" often replaces "Guten Tag" in shops and public offices.
Example Sentences in Context
Reception desk
Guten Tag, ich habe einen Termin bei Frau Weber.
Hello, I have an appointment with Ms. Weber.
Entering an office
Guten Tag zusammen, darf ich kurz vorbeikommen?
Hello everyone, may I drop by briefly?
Natural Alternatives
- Grüß Gott!Formal (Sie)
Standard polite daytime greeting in Austria & Bavaria
- Grüezi!Formal (Sie)
Standard polite Swiss greeting (Sie)
Common Replies You Will Hear
- Guten Tag! Wie kann ich Ihnen helfen?Formal (Sie)
Hello! How can I help you?