The Australian Dictionary of Invisible Culture for Teachers
beginning a conversation
norm: when it is like this, it is good to do some things (see more)
When it is like this: I see someone in a place, I know this person well, I want to say some things to this person.
It is good if I say something like “I want to know how you are”
Note
The phrase 'hi, how are you', and other variants for this entry, can also be used as generic greetings. To use them as a conversation starter, tone of voice and body language are important."When Ariella sees Bronwyn while walking in the park, if Ariella wants to talk to Bronwyn, it is good if Ariella stops and says 'Hi, how are you going?'"
"David arrives at a party and sees a friend, Laura. If David wants to talk to Laura, it is good if David says 'Hi Laura! How are you?' Laura can then say 'I'm pretty good thanks, how about you?'. After this, they can talk for some time."
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