how do you do

[elgm]

Hi native speakers,

just a quick question. Do you use the sentence "how do you do" to ask "how are you"?

I thought it just meant "nice to meet you" in formal situation. But, probably I am wrong.

Actually, in my multiple choice test, I have got the sentence "how do you do"? (with a question mark) and the following options:

1. Well, thanks, you? 2. Very well 3. Very well, thanks 4. How do you do?

Shoud I opt for the first answer?

Thank you

 

[BLUEGLAZE]

"How do you do" is a question and therefore ends with a question mark. How would you respond to it?

 

[velisarius]

Don't opt for the first answer. As you say, it's a formal greeting and it needs a formal reply. The correct answer is #4 .

More about the use of the phrase here:
Greeting - How do you do? [and responses]

 

[elgm]

Don't opt for the first answer. As you say, it's a formal greeting and it needs a formal reply. The correct answer is #4 .

More about the use of the phrase here:
Greeting - How do you do? [and responses]

thank you