From the young age of 5 or 6 when Korean students are set to enter kindergarten, and for some students, even a little before that age, students are exposed to English. And, for those students whom find themselves in an English kindergarten or prekindergarten, they are bombarded by English from a remarkably young age. As such, one of the inevitable first phrases that students learn is as follows;
While this phrase is grammatically correct, and might be appropriate in
SOME situations, the majority of times, students are merely repeating this phrase in a robotic-like tone without ever considering what they are actually saying. The definition of fine is as follows; “
In a satisfactory or pleasing manner; very well”, thus if you are in fact having a great day, then you are using it appropriately. However, in my opinion, it should be avoided entirely. You will not hear most native English speakers use this phrase as it is slightly unnatural and it is also quite vague. So, let’s look at some more creative and meaningful options available to you when asked “
Hi, how are you?”
If you are having a great day, say so and share it!Here are some positive responses.
“I’m doing well! How are you?”
“I’m good, thanks. How are you?”
“I’m great, thanks!” (Feel free to include a reason why you are feeling this way)
For times when your day is just going all right, here are some neutral responses. “Not too bad, and you?”
“Same old, and yourself?”
Lastly, for times when you are having a terrible day, here are some responses, but be prepared to answer “why?”
“Not so well. (Followed by a short reason why)”
“I’m Terrible. (Followed by a short reason why)”
END THOUGHT: Try to expand your vocabulary and use some of these tips the next time your teacher or a friend asks you; “
Hi, how are you”. Native speakers like to hear and use more creative phrases when they are interested in talking with the other person. To show more interest in the other person, use a more unique, thoughtful response like the ones mentioned above.
AVOID “I’m fine thank you, and you”
50, GAMASIL-GIL, HAYANG-EUP, GYEONGSAN-SI, GYEONGBUK, 38428 KOREA