English is very rich in vocabulary, but unfortunately, most of its users are oblivious of this, so in expressing an idea, they remain glued to using a particular word over and over again. Aren't you tired of doing a particular thing over and over again? If you are, follow me as I show you ten (10) different ways you can say 'goodbye' in English:
1.Have a good day
'Have a good day' is one of the different ways of saying goodbye. It is a formal expression, hence used in formal settings/organisations and among people who are not very close (e.g. among employers and employees).
Example:
Sir, you sent for me.Yes I did. I want to commend you for your relentless effort in this organisation. The management appreciates your efforts.
Thank you sir!
You are welcome.
If that's all, have a good day sir.
Yes, have a good day too.
2. Take care
You can use this with everybody but you should know that when you use it, it implies that you have no plans to see the person for quite a number of days.
Example:
Okay mum, thanks for the great love. I will be home again this weekend. Take care.
3. See you later
While composing this article, I imagined Jennifer(the main character in the trending Nigerian comedy, Jennifer's Diary) saying this. In Jennifer's voice, 'Toyo baby, see you lerra.' I can't just stop laughing.
This way of saying 'goodbye' is very common among friends but can be said to anyone as it is just a casual way of saying 'goodbye.'
Example:
Dan, I'm leaving for school.
Okay. See you later.
Yea.
4. So long
I know you are not used to this one because it is not common. Using it implies that you are not going to see the person for a long time. You use it when someone is travelling for one reason or the other and won't be back for a few months.
Example:
May your assignment in New York be accomplished.
Amen! Thanks Love!
You are welcome. Be focused. So long.
5. Peace out
This way of saying goodbye is very common in America due to the rise of hip hop music in America. It has also made its way to Nigeria as a result of our increasing contact with Americans. Have you ever noticed someone or persons echoing 'peace/shalom' after a closing prayer is made in church or any christian gathering, after which everybody dismisses? Smiles. It is kind of adopted from the original 'peace out' used by Americans.
Therefore, if you have been saying it without the 'out', you can include it henceforth.
Example:
Thank y'all for the unexpected visit!
Yea man. Anything for you mehn!
Nice! peace out guys.
6. Farewell
It is a formal and an old fashioned way to express that you are leaving. It is not common among friends but can be used with older people. Most times, we do use it to bid the dead goodbye, especially in this part of the world.
Example:
Grandpa, I should be taking my leave now. Farewell.
I really enjoyed your company son. Hope to see you next time. Farewell.
7. Have a good one
When you use this, you hope that things go well for the other person until the next time you see him/her.
Example:
I really enjoyed your company. There is no dull moment with you.
Same here!
See you again next week. Have a good one!
8. Catch you later
'Catch you later' is a slang and as such, it is highly prohibited in formal settings. Unlike 'have a good day', you can't use this with your boss or prospective employer. It is very common among friends and people who are very close.
Example:
If you are cool with it, I've gat no ish.
Okay then. Catch you later.
9. In a while
This is a very informal way of saying 'goodbye', thus, would never be said to your parents or an elderly person, even your teacher. It is commonly used among friends.
Example:
Joy, I should be going now. I need to rest my head a little.
You really need it. Do you mind coming back after resting your head so we can go for the all night reading?
Wow! That is a good idea! In a while dear.
10. Bye Bye
Hahahahaha! I knew you were expecting this and would have crucified me if I failed to include it. Lol! This most common way of saying 'goodbye' in English should complete the list. What makes 'bye bye' unique is that it can be used with anyone and in any circumstance although it is not totally formal. If you should forget any of the aforementioned, you shouldn't forget this way of saying 'goodbye.' Why am I telling you this? I know you won't forget. Lol!
Example:
Johnson, I am leaving for work.
Okay, Mum. Bye Bye.
Hope you learnt something new today?