how are you

== English == === Alternative forms === how're you (informal) HRU (initialism) === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /haʊ ˈɑː juː/ (General American) IPA(key): /haʊ ˈɑɹ ju/ (Australian) IPA(key): /hæɔ ˈaː jʉː/, /hæɔ ˈaː jə/ === Phrase === how are you? (idiomatic) An informal greeting, not requiring a literal response. In form a question, and thus followed by a question mark. Typical responses include: (idiomatic, Ireland) (Following a noun phrase; stress on are) An expression of derision, that the preceding referent is unworthy of the name. In form of an exclamation, and thus often followed by an exclamation mark. 1967 July 20: Questions. Oral Answers. — Free Travel for Old Age Pensioners. Dáil Éireann debates Mr. Dunne: "A small point", says the Minister for Justice. Mr. Ryan: Justice, how are you! He would not recognise it in this world or the next. ==== Synonyms ==== (formal greeting) how do you do? (informal greeting) how are you doing? how's it going?, how's things?, how's tricks?, what's up? (more informal) how's it hanging? (slang) See also Thesaurus:how are you (expression of derision) my foot!, my eye!, my arse!, my ass! indeed! ==== Translations ==== === Anagrams === who are you