What's the main difference between saying "goodbye", "so long" and "farewell"?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
Although these are all greetings that can be used when you are separating from someone, there are differences. "So long" is a bit outdated and was more popular in previous decades. It's not really used nowadays unless someone's trying to evoke a historical "mood." "Farewell" is quite formal and feels more definite, so it might be used to bid goodbyes that are more permanent and lasting. For most intents and purposes, "goodbye" is the best expression to use in most situations. Ex: Farewell, my alma mater. I had a good four years with you. Ex: Goodbye, Peter! See you next week.