20 Vietnamese Phrases Every Beginner Should Learn
A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors to Vietnam
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, even a few simple Vietnamese phrases can go a long way. While English is spoken in many tourist areas, using the local language helps you connect with locals, navigate daily situations, and show respect for the culture. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ve selected 20 must-know Vietnamese phrases, each with pronunciation tips, meanings, and usage examples—perfect for travelers, short-term visitors, or anyone looking to make their first trip smoother.
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1. Basic Greetings and Self-Introductions
- Xin chào (sin chao) – Hello
The most common greeting in Vietnam. Use it any time of day, with anyone.
- Tạm biệt (tam byet) – Goodbye
A simple, polite way to say farewell when leaving shops, hotels, or restaurants.
- Cảm ơn (kahm uhn) – Thank you
Saying thank you always leaves a good impression. You can say “Cảm ơn rất nhiều” for “Thank you very much.”
- Tôi là [your name] – I am [your name]
A quick self-introduction. Example: “Tôi là Sarah” = “I’m Sarah.”
- Rất vui được gặp bạn (zuht voo-ee duoc gap ban) – Nice to meet you
A warm phrase to use when meeting someone for the first time.
2. Useful Phrases for Restaurants and Cafés
- Cho tôi menu (cho toy menu) – Please give me the menu
Use this when you’re seated and ready to browse the food or drink options.
- Tôi muốn gọi món (toy muon goi mon) – I’d like to order
This shows you’re ready to place your order.
- Cái này là gì? (kai nai la zee?) – What is this?
Great for exploring local dishes or unknown items on a menu.
- Không cay, cảm ơn (khong kai, kahm uhn) – Not spicy, thank you
Use this if you want to avoid chili or strong spices.
- Tính tiền, làm ơn (ting tien, lam uhn) – The bill, please
A polite way to ask for your check after a meal.
3. Handy Phrases for Shopping and Transportation
- Đi đến [place] (dee den [place]) – Please take me to [place]
Perfect for taxis, Grab, or asking for directions.
- Bao nhiêu tiền? (bao nyew tien?) – How much is it?
Use this at markets, shops, or even for services.
- Mắc quá! (mak wa!) – That’s too expensive!
A friendly way to express shock or start negotiating.
- Giảm giá được không? (yam za duoc khong?) – Can you give me a discount?
A must-have when bargaining in markets or street stalls.
- Tôi không hiểu (toy khong hieu) – I don’t understand
Useful in any confusing situation when you’re lost in translation.
4. Emergency Phrases and Asking for Help
- Giúp tôi với! (zoop toy voi!) – Help me!
Say this if you need urgent assistance.
- Tôi bị lạc đường (toy bee lak duong) – I’m lost
Combine with showing a map or address to ask for directions.
- Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu? (nya veh sin uh dow?) – Where is the restroom?
One of the most useful questions when you’re out and about.
- Có ai nói tiếng Anh không? (koh ai noy tieng anh khong?) – Does anyone speak English?
Say this when you’re struggling to communicate and need help.
- Gọi cảnh sát! (goy kahnh saht!) – Call the police!
For emergency situations—ideally, this one will stay in your back pocket.
5. Final Tips: Why Every Word Counts
Even if you’re not fluent, trying to use Vietnamese phrases shows effort, respect, and interest in the culture. Here’s why these 20 phrases matter:
- They help you navigate everyday interactions with confidence
- Locals are often surprised and delighted when foreigners try their language
- You’ll avoid misunderstandings and enhance your travel experience
You don’t need to memorize them all at once. Start with 3–5, practice saying them out loud, and build from there. You can also keep this list saved in your phone or print it out before your trip.
Ready to dive into Vietnam? With these 20 phrases in your pocket, you’ll feel more confident, connected, and ready to explore everything this amazing country has to offer.
（Photo by Unsplash.com）
