What does “nice to meet you” mean?
"Nice to meet you" is a polite, friendly thing to say when you meet someone for the first time. It helps start the conversation warmly.
When people say it
- After you say your name: "I’m Alex. Nice to meet you."
- When someone introduces you to a new person: "Nice to meet you, Sarah."
- Before a follow-up question: "Nice to meet you. Where are you from?"
- In a first online meeting too: "Nice to meet you. Thanks for joining the call."
Tone: It is polite, friendly, and standard in both casual and more formal situations; it sounds odd if you say it to someone you have already met many times.
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Other ways to say it
More formal and a little more traditional.
Warmer and more enthusiastic; very natural, especially in British English.
Natural and slightly more relaxed, often after you have already talked a little.
Quick answers
What should I reply to "Nice to meet you"?
The most common reply is "Nice to meet you too." You can also say "You too," but that is more casual.
Can I say "Nice to meet you again"?
People will understand it, but "Nice to see you again" is usually more natural. "Nice to meet you again" can fit when you met briefly before and this feels like a more real introduction.