Small talk — The weather

こんにちは

Hello

A common greeting throughout the day.

Used both formally and informally.

元気

Well

Also used to describe someone as energetic.

Having 'genki' spirit is viewed positively.

ですか？

Are you?

Ends questions, implying an expectation of response.

Commonly found in service and hospitality settings.

元気ですか？

How are you?

A standard way to ask about someone's well-being.

Commonly used in both casual and formal settings.

はい

Yes

This is a straightforward way to agree or affirm.

Used frequently to show understanding and agreement.

です

Am/is

A polite sentence ending, establishes statements.

'Desu' adds courtesy in daily conversation.

元気です

I'm fine

Used to affirm one is doing well.

Often followed by 'arigatou' to thank the asker.

いかが

How

A formal way to inquire.

Used in polite settings to ask about preferences.

いかがですか？

How about you?

A polite way to turn the conversation to the other person.

Encourages mutual exchange in dialogue.