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interjection

hola

/ˈola/

A friendly greeting meaning "hello" or "hi."

Definitions

  1. 1

    Used to greet someone in an informal or neutral context — equivalent to 'hello' or 'hi' in English.

    “Cuando llegó a la oficina, dijo hola a todos sus compañeros.”

    When she arrived at the office, she said hello to all her coworkers.

  2. 2

    Used to attract someone's attention or express surprise, similar to 'hey' in English.

    “¡Hola, espera un momento y te explico el camino!”

    Hey, wait a moment and I'll explain the way to you!

Universally used across all Spanish-speaking regions and age groups. It works in both informal and semi-formal contexts, though very formal situations may call for "buenos días / buenas tardes / buenas noches" instead.