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in ESL Speaking Resources· Learn English

Different Ways to Answer the Question “How Are You?”

The most commonly asked question in English is probably “How are you?” We live in a world where greetings set the tone for interactions, so answering well this kind of simple question can have a great impact. Whether you are someone who feels awkward and can’t figure out what to say when some says “how are you” or you are someone looking for more creative ways to answer the question, we have all you need! Check out our list of different ways to answer “How are you” to help your daily interaction with others.

how to answer how are you

Meaning of How Are You

“How are you?” is a common greeting in English that is used to ask about someone’s well-being or current state. It’s a polite and friendly way to ask about a person’s physical or emotional condition. When someone asks you, “How are you?” they are expressing interest in your overall health and happiness. Some people simply say “how are you” instead of “hello” or “hi.” The typical responses to this question include “I’m good,” or “I’m fine.” However, in this article, we’ll provide you with a variety of answers going beyond the common answers.

 

Different Ways to Answer How Are You

  1. I’m doing well, thank you.
  2. I’m good, how about you?
  3. Not too bad, thanks.
  4. I’m fine, and you?
  5. I’m great, thanks for asking.
  6. Pretty good, all things considered.
  7. I’m okay, just a bit tired.
  8. Not too shabby!
  9. Surviving the day.
  10. I’ve had better days.
  11. Could be better, but I’m hanging in there.
  12. Fantastic, thanks!
  13. I’m not too bad, and you?
  14. Things are going smoothly.
  15. So far, so good.
  16. I’m managing, thanks.
  17. Could complain, but who’s listening?
  18. I’m on cloud nine!
  19. I’m feeling wonderful, thank you.
  20. Life is treating me well.
  21. I’m alright, and you?
  22. I’m having a good day, how about yourself?
  23. Better than yesterday.
  24. I’m doing just fine, thanks.
  25. Not too much to complain about.
  26. I’m enjoying the day.
  27. I’m blessed, thank you.
  28. I’m pretty happy right now.
  29. Just living the dream!
  30. Everything’s going smoothly.

ways to answer how are you

Creative Ways to Answer How Are You

The following are more creative reply to the question “how are you?”

  1. Riding the waves of life’s adventure!
  2. I’m on a rollercoaster of emotions, but it’s a thrilling ride!
  3. Floating in a sea of good vibes.
  4. Dancing through the maze of existence.
  5. Navigating the cosmic journey one step at a time.
  6. I’m a symphony of emotions, playing my own tune.
  7. Channeling my inner sunshine and rainbows.
  8. I’m a puzzle missing a few pieces, but it adds to the mystery.
  9. Balancing on the tightrope of life with a cup of coffee in hand.
  10. Walking on the clouds of optimism.
  11. Juggling the chaos and finding beauty in the mess.
  12. Like a whimsical character in a storybook.
  13. In the midst of my own little universe, thank you!
  14. Playing hopscotch on the sidewalk of destiny.
  15. I’m a kaleidoscope of feelings, ever-changing and vibrant.
  16. Riding the cosmic vibes and grooving to the rhythm of life.
  17. I’m a masterpiece in progress, brushstrokes and all.
  18. Bouncing between reality and daydreams.
  19. I’m a puzzle piece in the grand mosaic of existence.
  20. Sailing on the ship of serendipity, charting unknown waters.

FAQs About How Are You Replies

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about how to answer “how are you?” qusetion.

How do you reply to how are you?

You can reply by telling a little bit about your current state. For example, you can say “I’m doing well” or “Could be better.”

What are some flirty responses to how are you?

Following are some flirty responses to “How are you?”:

  • “I’m doing great, but I bet I’d be even better with your company.”
  • “Feeling fantastic, but talking to you would definitely make it a perfect day.”
  • “I’m on cloud nine, especially now that you’re asking.”
  • “I’m good, but I have a feeling I’d be even better if I got to see your smile.”
  • “I’m doing well, but hearing from you always adds an extra dose of happiness.”

Is it polite to say how are you?

Yes, asking “how are you” is considered polite and a common social nicety. It shows interest in the other person’s well-being and can help establish a positive connection.

Why do people say how are you?

“How are you?” is a common social greeting used to check in on someone’s well-being. It’s a way of expressing care, acknowledging the other person, and fostering a sense of connection. Some people simply say it instead of “hello” or “hi.”

Is it rude to not say how are you back?

It’s okay to not ask back when someone says “how are you?”, but some people might think you’re not interested in them. So, it’s better to ask in return or respond with a similar greeting to keep the conversation going.

What are some ways to answer nicely to how are you?

Following are some good ways to reply nicely to “how are you?”

  • I’m doing well, thank you for asking. How about you?
  • I appreciate your concern. I’m feeling quite good today, and you?
  • It’s very kind of you to ask. I’m feeling positive and grateful.
  • I’m doing fine, thanks. Your thoughtfulness means a lot.
  • Thanks for checking in. I’m having a good day, and I hope you are too.
  • I’m well, and your consideration brightened my day. How are you doing?
  • I’m feeling blessed and content. How about you?
  • I’m doing great, and your kindness in asking warms my heart.
  • I’m good, and your inquiry brought a smile to my face. How are you?
  • Thank you for asking. I’m doing wonderfully, and I hope you are too.

best responses to how are you

Daily English Resources

If you are looking for more English speaking resources like this one, check out the following topics.

  • Creative Ways to Say Thank You
  • Different Ways to Say Good Morning
  • Ways to Keep a Conversation Going
  • Common English Questions and How to Answer Them

Ways to Answer How Are You: Join the Conversation

How do you usually reply when someone says “how are you?” Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear what your go-to response is for this common English greeting!

About Jackie

Jackie Bolen has been teaching English for more than 20 years to students in South Korea and Canada. She's taught all ages, levels and kinds of TEFL classes. She holds an MA degree, along with the Celta and Delta English teaching certifications.

Jackie is the author of more than 100 books for English teachers and English learners, including 101 ESL Activities for Teenagers and Adults, Great Debates for ESL/EFL, and 1001 English Expressions and Phrases. She loves to share her ESL games, activities, teaching tips, and more with other teachers throughout the world.

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