The Australian Dictionary of Invisible Culture for Teachers
saying ‘how are you?’
norm: when it is like this, it is good to do some things (see more)
People in Australia know that often something like this happens:
Someone (e.g. Jane) is in the same place as someone else (e.g. Fleur) at some time
Jane knows Fleur. Jane was not with Fleur on this day, before now.
Jane knows that she will be with Fleur for a short time.
Before Jane says something else to Fleur, Jane says these words to Fleur “How are you?”
Note
'How are you' can also be used as a generic greeting to acknowledge someone. However, even in these contexts, the general expectations remain the same."Harold walks past Steve in the corridor. Harold says 'Hi Steve, how are you?' Steve says 'Fine thanks, and you?'. After this they do not have to say anything more."
"Joan arrives at a party and meets her friend Tegan. Joan says 'Hi Tegan! How are you?'"
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