neutral📍 Mexico — general
Buenas
Hi / Good day (shortened) — Mexican usage
BWEH-nahs
What does it mean?
"Buenas" is the Mexican shortened greeting — a catch-all that covers "buenos días", "buenas tardes", or "buenas noches" depending on the time of day. It's polite without being formal, perfect when you walk into a store, taxi, or restaurant.
How to use it
Universally polite. Works as your default "hi" with shopkeepers, taxi drivers, hotel staff, and anyone you don't know. For close friends, "qué onda" or "hola" feels warmer.
Example sentences
Hi! / Good day!
¡Buenas!
Hi, do you have a table for two?
Buenas, ¿tiene mesa para dos?
Hi, I have a reservation.
Buenas, tengo una reservación.
Related phrases
More mexico-greetings phrases
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