Greetings
Author
Chara Scroope,
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- Standard greetings vary from region to region. The most common and appropriate greeting for anyone is a handshake. In Brazil, handshakes are usually firm, although some may prefer lighter handshakes.
- Brazilians usually take the time to greet each person individually, making direct eye contact.
- In a group or social setting, the person arriving is expected to greet everyone first. One is also expected to bid farewell to everyone when they are leaving.
- Among men who are close to one another, they may add a pat on the back with the handshake.
- It is common for friends to greet each other with a warm hug.
- Commonly, women lightly kiss the person she is greeting on each cheek.
- If a female wishes to shake hands with a male, it is expected that she will extend her hand first.
- When addressing an adult, it is common practice to call them “senhor” (Mister) or “senhora” (Miss), followed by their first name. As a general rule, use the formal address for people you are unfamiliar with as well as those who are older than you.
- Common verbal greetings include ‘DZá’ (‘hello’), ‘bom dia’ (‘good day’), ‘boa tarde’ (‘good afternoon’) and ‘boa noite’ (‘good evening’ or ‘good night’).