Do you say ""hi"" in Russian?

How to Say “Hi” in Russian

“Privet” (Привет) is the go-to Russian word for a casual “hi” or “hey.” It’s the kind of greeting you’d use with friends, family, or anyone you’re on familiar terms with. Think of it as the Russian equivalent of knocking on someone’s door and cheerfully saying, “Hey, it’s me!”

Unlike the more formal “Zdravstvuyte” (Здравствуйте), which you’d use in professional or polite settings, “Privet” is relaxed and friendly. You'll hear it in everyday conversations—between classmates, siblings, or coworkers who know each other well. It’s short, easy to remember, and instantly makes your Russian sound more natural.

When someone says “Privet” to you, just say it right back. It’s perfectly acceptable to respond in kind, though you can also mix it up with another greeting if you’re feeling creative. That said, keep in mind that using “Privet” with strangers or in formal situations might come across as too bold or overly familiar. In those cases, it’s safer to stick with “Zdravstvuyte” until the tone of the conversation shifts to something more casual.

One thing to note: “Privet” is technically a shortened form of the more formal greeting, so it’s mostly used in speech. You won’t see it in official letters or business emails, but you’ll definitely hear it in cafés, on the street, or over text messages.

So next time you’re chatting with a Russian speaker you know well, don’t hesitate to start with a cheerful “Privet!” It’s the simplest way to sound like you belong.