On the Sabbath (Saturday) you can also say “Shabbat Shalom” (shah-baht shah-lohm), which literally means “Sabbath peace” or “peaceful Sabbath. "
This greeting is related to the Arabic greeting “salaam alaikum” and both greetings mean literally the same thing: “peace upon you. " There’s a lot of overlap between Arabic and Hebrew because the two languages belong to the same language family.
In a more formal situation, or when speaking to someone in a position of authority, this may be too casual a greeting.
Israelis may respond “boker or,” which means “morning light. " This phrase is only used in response to “boker tov. " You can also respond by simply saying “boker tov” back.
If you want to use this phrase later in the afternoon, but before evening, add “akhar” (ahk-hahr) to the beginning of it. Since “tzoharaim tovim” means “good midday,” “akhar tzoharaim tovim” means “good after-midday” or “good afternoon. " This phrase can be used until the sun sets. [8] X Research source
In response to “erev tov,” many people will simply say “erev tov” back. They may also say “shalom” or ask how you’re doing or how they can help you.
If someone says “lilah tov” to you, it’s appropriate to say “lilah tov” back. You can also simply say “shalom. "
“Shalom” is appropriate with anyone, regardless of how old you are or how well you know them.
This is a little more difficult to pronounce than other basic Hebrew words, such as “shalom,” but if you travel to Israel, you’ll hear it quite a bit. Just start slow and practice your pronunciation. A native speaker can help you.
You can also say “yom nifla” (yahm nee-flah), which means “have a wonderful day. " It’s a little more enthusiastic than “yom tov,” but it’s also appropriate in any context with any person.
This phrase is informal and casual, so it’s best used between friends or when talking to people your age or younger.
