Spanish Phrase
¡Igualmente, buenos días!
Meaning
This phrase is a polite way to return a morning greeting. 'Igualmente' means 'likewise' or 'equally,' and 'buenos días' is the standard 'good morning.' It acknowledges the other person's wish and offers the same sentiment back.
When to use
Use this in the morning when someone greets you first with 'buenos días.' It is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, such as at a cafe, the office, or with neighbors.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Igualmente,buenosdías
Igualmente
An adverb formed from the adjective 'igual' (equal) and the suffix '-mente' (equivalent to -ly in English).
Buenos días
A plural masculine greeting. Even though it refers to a single morning, Spanish uses the plural form 'días'.
🗨In Conversation
¡Buenos días, que tengas un excelente día!
Good morning, have an excellent day!
¡Igualmente, buenos días!
Likewise, good morning!
✕Common Mistakes
Igual, buenos días.
While 'igual' means same, 'igualmente' is the adverbial form required to mean 'likewise' in this context.
Igualmente, buena mañana.
'Buenos días' is the fixed expression for good morning; 'buena mañana' is rarely used as a greeting.
↔Alternatives
Para ti también.
For you too.
Y a ti.
And to you.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is considered very polite to return a greeting with 'igualmente' rather than just saying 'buenos días' back. It shows you are actively engaged in the social exchange. In some regions, 'buen día' is preferred over 'buenos días,' but 'igualmente' remains the standard response.