Why is the reply to English query "How do you do?" is "How do you do?"?

Answer 1

You are reciprocating the concern in the greeting

Answer 2

That's not really the reply....it's just asking the same question of the other person, without answering the query. The proper reply would be to answer the question, and tell the person how you are doing.

Answer 3

Probably much the same reason Americans answer the query, "What's up?" with "What's up?" There is probably some psychological reasoning to this, such as the unwillingness to divulge information or come up with topics for conversation, so we toss the ball back into their court and make them initiate real conversation, but I'm just speculating.

Answer 4

Because it's a dishonest question. People using this question generally are not really asking how you are, they are passing the time, eliminating a terrible silence, don't know what else to say, and are following etiquette...

Answer 5

The longer correct reply is "fine thankyou how do you do?"It shows you are as concerned for the other person as they are for you it has been truncated to "how do you do" becase a nonverbal nod and smile is implied to indicate they are fine.

Answer 6

usually accompanied by an acknowledging nod of somesort. which really makes the nod the reply, and the repeat of the question simply another question, which will in turn be nodded at.

Answer 7

I think it is an equivalent of "hello" just meant as a greeting, not elciting a lengthy response.

Answer 8

I think there's a sentence in between missing which should be, "I'm doing pretty well." then How do you do? or How are you? Otherwise, you sound like Eliza in Pygmalion / My Fair Lady.

Answer 9

Formulaic pleasantries

Answer 10

I think it's 1) to show that you know that they've spoken to you and 2) to return the polite gesture....?