Do you say "hi" in Russian?

How to Say "Hi" in Russian

Wondering how to say "hi" in Russian? The most common and casual way is “Privet” (Привет). Think of it as the Russian equivalent of a friendly “hey” or “hi” in English—perfect for texting your friend, walking into your cousin’s apartment, or greeting a buddy at the park.

Unlike the more formal “Zdravstvuyte” (Здравствуйте), which you'd use in professional settings or with people you don’t know well, Privet is relaxed and approachable. You’ll hear it all the time in everyday conversations among young people, family, or colleagues you’re close with.

And just like in English, the response is usually just a mirrored “Privet!”—simple and natural. Sometimes, people might switch it up with a different greeting depending on the time of day, like “Dobroye utro!” (Good morning!), but when in doubt, “Privet” works.

It’s worth noting that Russian uses the Cyrillic alphabet, so pronunciation can trip up beginners. “Privet” sounds like PREE-vyet, with a soft “e” and a slight stress on the first syllable. Once you get the hang of it, tossing out a quick “Privet!” makes you sound instantly more local.

So next time you're chatting with a Russian speaker—or just want to impress someone with a bit of language—start with Privet. It’s warm, easy, and opens the door to real connection. After all, every great conversation begins with a simple hello.