In German
Guten Nachmittag
Meaning: good afternoon
Formal or informal? “Guten Tag” is the general daytime greeting and works all day. “Guten Nachmittag” is more precise, from about noon to early evening.
Example sentences
GutenNachmittag,FrauMüller!
Good afternoon, Mrs Müller!
GutenNachmittag,ichmöchteeinenTischreservieren.
Good afternoon, I'd like to book a table.
GutenNachmittagzusammen!
Good afternoon, everyone!
Grammar note
“Nachmittag” is masculine (der Nachmittag), so “guten” takes the -en ending in the greeting.
Common mistake
Don't use “Guten Nachmittag” in the morning. Before noon, say “Guten Morgen”.
Quick check
Which greeting is right for 3 p.m.?
More words on this topic
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Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
Can I say Guten Tag in the afternoon?
Yes. “Guten Tag” is always safe in the daytime.
When does the afternoon end?
Roughly around six in the evening, when “Guten Abend” takes over.