How To Say “Goodbye” in Different Languages

Learning how to say hello or goodbye in different languages is more than useful – it offers a glimpse into other cultures. While a simple “bye” in other languages works in casual settings, many goodbyes carry a deeper meaning. Some express warmth and well-wishing, like adiós in Spanish, which translates as “to God,” while others, like さようなら (sayonara) in Japanese, imply a more final parting. 

Let’s explore common and formal ways to say goodbye in different languages. Not only is “goodbye” one of a language’s most useful phrases for beginners to learn, but it also reflects cultural attitudes toward parting, from casual send-offs to heartfelt farewells.

Why Learning “Goodbye” in Multiple Languages Matters

Learning how to say goodbye in different languages allows you to demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect to friends and co-workers who speak other languages. Saying goodbye in someone’s native language is a small but meaningful gesture when traveling or building relationships with people from different cultures. 

Common Ways to Say “Goodbye” in Several Languages

People around the world say “goodbye” in different ways, from a quick, casual bye among friends to more formal farewells used either to show respect, among acquaintances, or in professional settings. Here are formal and informal ways to say goodbye in different languages:

Goodbye in Different Languages – What Are We Really Saying?

Saying goodbye isn’t just about parting – it’s also what we wish for each other while apart. Some goodbyes in different languages focus on reunion, like the Finnish Näkemiin meaning “Until we meet again” or the Vietnamese Tạm biệt meaning “Parting for a while.” Others emphasize health and well-being, like the Irish Slán leat meaning “Health/safety with you” or the Korean 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo) meaning “Go peacefully.”

Faith, too, plays a role in different languages of goodbye. For instance, in Urdu, خدا حافظ (Khuda Hafiz) means “May God be your guardian,” while in Hebrew, שלום שלום (Shalom shalom) offers double peace.

Some goodbyes are more final than others. For instance, in French, Au revoir means “until we see each other again,” while Adieu signals a more permanent farewell. And sometimes, the finality is intended as an insult! In Portuguese (Brazilian) slang, Até nunca mais translates as a taunting, “Until never again!” 

Mastering “Goodbye” in Other Languages

Mastering ”goodbye” in different languages provides insight into other cultures. Learning to say “good morning” in other languages continues the experience of exploring other traditions. 

Learning to say basic phrases like “goodbye” in other languages and then conversing with others is one of the best ways to learn another language. That’s why the Pimsleur method focuses on speaking and listening as you develop conversational fluency in fifty other languages!
नमस्ते (Namaste)! (In Hindi, this farewell conveys respect and can be understood as “go with peace and respect.”)