B1English

Saying Goodbye

These phrases will help you smoothly end conversations, wish people well, and say goodbye in a natural way.

Key Phrases

Voice
Announcing departure · 2 ways to say it

I should probably get going.

casual

A gentle, natural way to tell friends or colleagues you need to leave soon.

I really must be going now.

polite

A slightly formal phrase, good for professional meetings or older relatives.

Wrapping up a conversation · 2 ways to say it

Anyway, I'll let you get back to work.

neutral

A polite excuse to end a conversation with a busy colleague.

Well, it has been great talking to you.

polite

Use this to formally and warmly conclude a longer conversation.

Expressing enjoyment · 2 ways to say it

It was really nice seeing you.

neutral

A standard, friendly phrase to show you enjoyed spending time together.

It has been a pleasure meeting you.

polite

Very polite; use this only when meeting someone for the first time.

Wishing well for a trip · 2 ways to say it

Have a great vacation!

neutral

US: Used to wish someone well before they take time off.

Have a great holiday!

neutral

UK: The British equivalent for wishing someone a good time off work.

Sending regards · 2 ways to say it

Say hi to your family for me.

casual

A friendly way to pass greetings to someone's family.

Please give my regards to your team.

polite

A professional way to send greetings to other colleagues.

Staying in contact · 2 ways to say it

Don't be a stranger.

casual

A warm, informal idiom telling a friend to keep in touch.

Let's keep in touch.

neutral

A standard phrase when you know you will not see someone for a while.

Wishing a good day · 2 ways to say it

Have a good one.

casual

A very common casual alternative to 'have a good day'.

Have a nice day.

neutral

A standard, polite wish for colleagues, customers, or service staff.

Saying goodbye · 2 ways to say it

Catch you later.

casual

Use this with friends or close colleagues you see often.

Goodbye.

polite

The most standard formal farewell.

Practice Dialogue

Coworker (Leaving)
Right, I should probably get going. It's almost six.
Coworker
Are you taking the bus today?
Coworker (Leaving)
Yeah. If I leave now, I'll catch the early one.
Coworker
Good idea. Well, have a great vacation next week!
Coworker (Leaving)
Thanks! We've decided to go to the beach.
Coworker
Sounds perfect. Say hi to your family for me.
Coworker (Leaving)
I will. Catch you later.
Coworker
Have a good one!

More Greetings & Socializing (B1)

← All English survival phrases