17 Expressions for Asking About Well-Being
“How are you?” is fine, but English has many warmer, fresher choices. Master these 17 expressions for asking about well-being and you’ll sound caring and natural every time you check in.
Common Expressions for Well-Being Checks
Casual & Friendly
- How’s it going? Relaxed opener. “Hey Maya, how’s it going?”
- How are you holding up? Asks after stress. “Finals week—how are you holding up?”
- What’s new? Light check on life updates. “Long time! What’s new?”
- How’ve you been? Short past-focused greeting. “Haven’t seen you—how’ve you been?”
- You doing okay? Quick concern. “You look tired—you doing okay?”
- How’s life treating you? Playful tone. “So, how’s life treating you these days?”
Polite & Warm
- I hope you’re doing well. Classic email starter. “Hi Sam, I hope you’re doing well.”
- How are things on your end? Checks remote situation. “Project wrap-up—how are things on your end?”
- Is everything alright? Shows caring concern. “You sounded stressed— is everything alright?”
- How are you feeling today? Gentle health check. “After the flu—how are you feeling today?”
- I’ve been thinking about you—how are you? Personal warmth. “I’ve been thinking about you—how are you?”
- How’s your week been so far? Short-term focus. “Wednesday already—how’s your week been so far?”
Professional & Considerate
- Hope all is well with you. Formal email friendly. “Dear Dr. Lee, hope all is well with you.”
- How are you managing? Asks about coping. “Heavy workload—how are you managing?”
- Is there anything you need? Offers support. “During recovery— is there anything you need?”
- Just checking in—how are you doing? Shows initiative. “Just checking in—how are you doing after the move?”
- Let me know how you’re getting on. British-tinged follow-up. “New role—let me know how you’re getting on.”
Real-Life Dialogues
Roommate: Hey, how’s it going?
You: Pretty good, just tired. How are you holding up with finals?
Manager: Hope all is well with you. How are things on your end?
Employee: Thanks—everything’s smooth. I’ve been thinking about you too—how are you?
Friend: Long time no see—what’s new?
You: Lots! New job, new city. How’ve you been?
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Check-In
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Quick text | How’s it going? | Short, relaxed. |
| After tough event | How are you holding up? | Shows extra care. |
| Formal email | Hope all is well with you. | Professional and warm. |
Practice Tip
Swap “How are you?” for “How’ve you been?” or “How are you holding up?” today—notice the instant upgrade in your chat!
Why This Matters
- Native speakers rarely repeat “How are you?”—variety sounds natural.
- Warm check-ins build stronger friendships and networks.
- Correct phrases boost speaking-test fluency scores.
Choose one new expression, try it today, and watch your conversations feel warmer. Happy learning! 😊
