The appropriate time to say "Good evening" is generally from around 5:00 or 6:00 PM (when the sun starts to set and evening begins) until midnight. It is used as a greeting to say "hello" during the evening hours, particularly in formal or professional contexts or when meeting someone after the day has transitioned to night. After around midnight, "Good evening" can still be used especially in contexts like night shifts, but it is more common to switch to "Good night" when ending an interaction or going to sleep. Friends usually use informal greetings instead of "Good evening."
When to Say "Good Evening"
- From about 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM until midnight, as a greeting when meeting someone or starting a conversation.
- In formal settings like restaurants, speeches, or professional interactions.
- After midnight during night shifts or early morning hours, "Good evening" can be used to start a conversation, whereas "Good night" is used to end it.
- Informally, friends tend to use casual greetings instead of "Good evening."
Contrasted with Other Greetings
- "Good morning": used from midnight to 12:00 noon, but more naturally in morning hours.
- "Good afternoon": from around 12:00 noon to 5:00 or 6:00 PM.
- "Good night": used as a farewell or to wish someone well when going to sleep, generally after evening.
Examples
- "Good evening, how are you?" (around 7:00 PM)
- "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen…" (speech greeting)
- At 2:00 AM during a night shift: "Good evening, let's start the shift."
- Saying "Good night" when leaving or going to bed after evening hours.
In summary, "Good evening" is best used as a greeting from early evening (5–6 PM) to midnight to say hello, and also during night shifts at late hours until 4 AM. It is distinct from "Good night," which is used to say goodbye or to wish someone a restful sleep.
