Italian Phrase
Guarda come si salutano gli altri.
Meaning
The sentence invites the listener to observe the way people greet one another. It can be used literally, e.g., while watching a video of a cultural ceremony, or figuratively, to point out a social habit.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to draw attention to a greeting ritual you are witnessing – in a classroom, during a travel vlog, or when comparing customs between countries.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Guardacomesisalutanoglialtri
Guarda (imperative)
‘Guarda’ is the second‑person singular imperative of the verb *guardare* (to look, to watch). It is used to give a direct command or invitation.
come (how)
A conjunction meaning ‘how’ or ‘the way that’, introducing a clause that describes manner.
si (reflexive pronoun)
In this context *si* is the impersonal/reflexive pronoun that makes the verb *salutare* reciprocal: ‘they greet each other’.
salutano (3rd pl. present)
Third‑person plural present indicative of *salutare* (to greet). With *si* it means ‘they greet each other’.
gli (plural article)
The masculine plural definite article *gli* is used before nouns that start with a vowel or ‘gn’, ‘ps’, ‘x’, ‘y’, or ‘z’. Here it precedes *altri*.
altri (others)
Plural adjective/noun meaning ‘others’. When used with the article it functions as a noun: ‘the others’.
🗨In Conversation
Guarda come si salutano gli altri.
Look how they greet each other.
Sì, in Italia si fa spesso il bacio sulla guancia.
Yes, in Italy they often do a cheek kiss.
✕Common Mistakes
Guarda come si saluta gli altri.
Using the singular *saluta* would mean ‘he/she greets’, not ‘they greet each other’. The reciprocal form needs *si salutano*.
Guarda come si salutano altri.
Dropping the article *gli* changes the meaning; *altri* alone would be ambiguous.
Guarda come si salutano gli altri
Missing the final period can make the sentence look like a statement rather than an invitation; the imperative tone is clearer with the period or an exclamation mark.
↔Alternatives
Osserva come gli altri si salutano.
Observe how the others greet each other.
Guarda il modo in cui gli altri si salutano.
Watch the way others greet each other.
Vedi come si salutano gli altri.
See how others greet each other.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, greetings vary by region and relationship. A quick handshake is common in business, while friends and family often exchange one or two kisses on the cheek (the ‘bacio’). In the north you may hear a firm handshake, whereas in the south a more elaborate cheek‑kiss routine is typical. Remember that eye contact and a warm smile are essential components of a polite Italian greeting.