Spanish word

chao

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtʃao/

Meaning

  • interjectionsee you

Example

Tengo que irme, chao.

I have to go, see you.

Illustration for chao (see you)

More examples

Antes de colgar, dijo chao.

Before hanging up, they said bye.

Core concept

A short, friendly parting interjection used among acquaintances.

Common phrases

  • decir chao

    say bye

  • chao, hasta luego

    Bye, see you later

Similar words

chau: Casual colloquial goodbye used in relaxed conversation and personal messages.
adiós: Polite, conventional goodbye used broadly from casual to more formal farewells.
hasta luego: Goodbye meaning 'until later', usually said when a return or reunion is anticipated.

Definition in Spanish

Se usa para despedirse de forma corta y cercana; muy frecuente en mensajes y conversaciones informales.

Word origin

The word entered Spanish as a loan from Italian ciao, itself coming from a Venetian greeting ultimately traceable to medieval Latin sclavus 'slave'.

Usage tips

  • In formal emails or with strangers, chao is inappropriate and adiós or hasta luego are the usual alternatives.

Other meanings

  • byeinterjection

Opposites

Word lists with this word