How to “Hello” or “Hi” in Creole? (with audio pronunciations)

Greeting someone in Haitian Creole is a little more complicated than simply saying “hello.” There are slight changes depending on the time of day, specifically if it’s before or after noon. Follow along with the recorded phrases below and practice to improve your pronunciations:

Atik kijan yo salye moun
Article about how they greet people

Bonjou – Good morning (hello before 12 pm)
Bonswa – Good evening (hello after 12 pm)
Sali – Hello (often written in French “salut”)
Kòman w ye  – How are you
Bon apwè midi  – Good afternoon (can be used between 12pm and 5pm)
Bònn nwit – Good night (when parting for the evening)
Alò – Hello (frequently used to answer the telephone)
A demen – See you tomorrow (Na we demen)

How do you say “hi” in Creole?

“Alò” is a Haitian Creole word that means “hi.” It is a common way to answer the telephone in Haiti.

How do you say “hello” in Creole?

“Bonjou” and “Bonswa” are common words for “hello” in Haitian Creole. The former is used before noon and the later after noon.