Welsh for Hello: How to Say Hello in Welsh (With Pronunciation)

How do you say “hello” in Welsh?

Welsh has several ways to greet someone, depending on how formal you want to be and which part of Wales you're in. Below you'll find the most common greetings, how to pronounce them, and when to use them.

There are a number of different forms of Welsh for Hello depending on location and formality. Here are some examples.

👋 The Most Common Way to Say Hello in Welsh

Helô (or Hylô)

Pronunciation: heh-LOH
Meaning: Hello

“Helô” is the standard, widely understood way to say hello in Welsh. It’s suitable in both formal and informal situations and can be used anywhere in Wales.

Use it:

• When meeting someone for the first time
• In shops, cafés, pubs and workplaces
• When answering the phone
• In polite conversation

😊 Informal Ways to Say Hello in Welsh

Welsh has some friendly, conversational greetings that are commonly used in everyday speech.

Shwmae (South Wales)

Pronunciation: shoo-MY
Meaning: Hi / Hello

“Shwmae” is a very popular greeting in South Wales. It’s informal and friendly, similar to saying “Hi” or “Alright?”

Su’mae (North Wales)

Pronunciation: see-MY
Meaning: Hi / Hello

“Su’mae” is the northern variation of “Shwmae.” The meaning is the same, the difference is regional pronunciation.

Haia

Pronunciation: HI-ah
Meaning: Hiya

“Haia” is very informal and casual. You’d use it with friends or people you know well.

💬 A Conversational Greeting in Welsh

Ti’n iawn?

Pronunciation: teen YOW-n?
Meaning: Are you alright?

This is often used the same way English speakers say “Alright?” as a greeting. It doesn’t always require a detailed answer, it’s simply conversational.

🗣️ How Welsh Greetings Work

Welsh greetings often reflect tone and relationship. While “Helô” works anywhere, greetings like “Shwmae” or “Haia” feel warmer and more relaxed.

Regional differences are normal in Wales, and locals will immediately recognise whether you're using a northern or southern variation — but both are widely understood.

📚 Welsh Words, Welsh Sayings, Welsh Phrases

This Page forms part of the Welsh Words section of this website which gives an English language translation for useful Welsh words, phrases and sayings.

Browse ALL Welsh Words, Sayings and Phrases
Have a look around