Why ask how are you?

Question

if you really dont want to know

Answer 1

People should have the "Fine, thank you and you" ready to be cordial. You know if somebody actually knows you and wants the God-awful truth. Just be polite and move on.

Answer 2

I don't ask unless I am willing to take the time to stop what I'm doing and attentively listen to the answer. This takes some people by surprise but that's okay by me. I don't ask rote questions because I think they're rude.

Answer 3

Whenever meeting someone for the first time I never say: "How are you?" or "How are you doing?" it sounds too rugged and open. The proper thing to do is:
a) if you are being introduced, just say "How do you do?"
b) introduce yourself then say "How do you do?"

followed by it's a pleasure to meet you.


But when it comes to why do it at all? Previous answers got it covered.

Answer 4

Good point !!!

Lets make a new rule here. From now on no one is to ask how someone else is, unless they sincerely want to know.

There - You happy?

Answer 5

Hello is the best and see the person's expression, and gauge it from there, and into the conversation ask they how've they been in general.

Answer 6

A sign of courtesy, love, support ! Not everybody says it but when they do its a sign that they care! Or they just say it cause everyone else says it ! either one who knows !

Answer 7

It's common courtesty to ask, just as it is common courtesy to say "fine" even when you aren't!

Answer 8

For some it's just another form of hello.

Answer 9

I do it to be friendly, and I genuinely do want to know.

Answer 10

I don't want them thinking I'm rude.