The same as greetings, goodbyes are very important in a conversation. For example, it can be rude not to say goodbye when you finish a conversation. Also, choosing the right way to say goodbye is essential. The type of goodbye you use is going to depend on the situation you are in and the kind of person you are talking to. The same happens when you have a conversation in Spanish. That is why I put together the most common Spanish goodbyes from Spain, to make it easy to say bye in Spanish no matter what circumstance you are in.
Aspects to Take Into Account
Just like greetings, there are three major factors you need to take into account when it comes to say goodbye: Formal or informal ways, slang and cultural aspects.
FORMAL OR INFORMAL
In Spanish, we talk in a formal way by using the 3rd singular or plural person pronoun (usted) or (ustedes). Unlike in Latin America, people in Spain only use usted in special occasions such as meeting a big boss. However, people in Spain like to be more informal by using the 2nd person pronoun (tú) or tutear, and using the 2nd plural person vosotros/as to address two or more people in a familiar way (i.e. you all).
SLANG
Slang Spanish goodbyes are also part of the language. Make sure to learn this part too!
CULTURAL ASPECTS
In addition, cultural aspects are very important to take into account when saying goodbye. In Spain, people tend to be very close when saying goodbye. When two women say goodbye, they give a each other a symbolic kiss on each cheek (usually, the lips do not really touch the cheeks). On the other hand, men usually shake hands.
List of the Common Spanish Goodbyes Used in Spain
As with other languages, there are different ways to say goodbye in Spanish. Below, you will find the most common informal and formal ways used in Spain.
Abreviations
Spanish (SPAN.), English (ENG.), Preterite (pret.), somebody (sb.), something (sth.), usted (Ud.) and ustedes (Uds.).
INFORMAL WAYS
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[table “39nbspresponsiveflip” not found /]Final Thoughts
Exactly as what happens with greetings, there are a lot of ways to say goodbye in Spanish. Choose the most convenient one according to your context and situation. However, when in doubt, adiós will take you anywhere.
