The appropriate time to say "Good afternoon" and "Good evening" can vary based on cultural norms and personal preferences. However, here are some general guidelines:
Good Afternoon: "Good afternoon" is typically used from around 12:00 PM (noon) until early evening, usually until around 6:00 PM. It is a standard greeting during the afternoon hours.
Good Evening: "Good evening" is generally used from the late afternoon or early evening, usually from around 6:00 PM until late at night, before bedtime. It is commonly used as a greeting when you meet someone during the evening hours.
Please keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the specific times for using these greetings can be somewhat subjective. For instance, some people might start using "Good evening" as early as 5:00 PM, while others may prefer to stick with "Good afternoon" until closer to 6:00 PM.
If you are uncertain about the appropriate greeting, it's often safe to go with "Good afternoon" until the sun starts to set, and then switch to "Good evening." Also, take cues from the people around you; if they are using a particular greeting, it's a good idea to follow suit.
Ultimately, being polite and respectful in your interactions is more important than getting the exact timing of greetings right.