Common Conversational Phrases in 5 Languages

It can be very overwhelming to start a new language, but knowing some of basic phrases makes all the difference in the world.

In this post you’ll learn 20 fundamental conversational phrases in five languages to help you break the ice and navigate common daily situations—from friendly greetings and practical questions to polite expressions. Let’s set your foundation for making connections no matter where your travels take you.

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1. Hello

It’s always nice to greet people when meeting for the first time. An easy “hello” is the simplest way to get it done.

2. How are you?

You don’t have to save this for friends and acquaintances. Even strangers appreciate when someone asks them about their well-being. You may not want to just approach someone in the street with this question, but maybe use it when you’re at a restaurant, grocery store or even the bank.

3. I’m doing well

This is a common response in almost every language. It’s polite and brief, especially when speaking to a stranger. You can elaborate if you’re more familiar with a person.

4. My name is…

This is another common introductory phrase. Basic phrases like these are short and simple and can help you get used to how words and letters are supposed to sound without stumbling over your speech too much.

5. What’s your name?

If you’re sharing your name then, of course, the cordial thing to do would be to ask a person theirs. Again, it’s a great way to start small conversations and let people know that you’re making an effort.

6. It’s nice to meet you

Many cultures are similar in how they meet and greet. You want to put your best foot forward, so telling someone that it’s nice to meet them will at least show that you’ve got some manners.

7. I’m from…

This is a great conversation starter! People are always curious to know about where you’re from.

8. Where are you from?

In the same vein, it’s always interesting to hear where others are from. Maybe you’re from the same place, maybe you’ve traveled to their home country, maybe you have friends or family from their town or country. The “where are you from” question almost always sparks a fun and interesting conversation.

9. What time is it?

Practicalities always come into play during travel, and depending on your itinerary, you may be on a schedule. If you find yourself without a watch or phone, this question is handy when you’re racing against the clock.

10. Where is…?

This phrase is good to know because it’s versatile. You could be talking about a person, place or thing. Where is Mindy? Where is my phone charger? Where is the Taj Mahal?

11. How do I get to…?

This question is very place specific. If you’re trying to get around and you don’t have access to Wi-Fi or GPS, most locals will be able to tell you how to get where you’re going if you just ask.

12. Left, Right, Straight

If you’re going to ask how to get somewhere then it might help if you understand directions. At least learning the most basic ones will get you where you need to go.

13. I’m lost

This one is definitely important to know, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar area. Seek out a safe place and let someone know that you’re lost so they can help you get back on track.

14. Pardon me

Again, it’s always good to have manners. Whether you’ve had a tiny collision or you’re trying to get through a crowd, it’s good to be able to throw out an “excuse me” or a “pardon me” so that you can avoid a confrontation.

15. Sorry, I don’t understand

You can master your basic phrases so well that you sound fluent. When that happens, locals will start speaking to you as if you’re fluent. That’s a good time to let them know that you don’t understand so that they can switch gears.

16. Can you speak more slowly please?

Switching gears usually means going slower. Let the person know that you’re still learning and you need them to slow it down. Most people will be happy to oblige!

17. I would like…

This one is great for when you’re out at a restaurant or a cafe or really anywhere that you have options. Instead of using a harsh sounding phrase like “I want,” it’s better to take the politer route.

18. I’m allergic to…

Sadly, allergies don’t go away when we’re abroad. Don’t compromise your health. Let a person know if you’re allergic to certain foods or animals. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

19. Thank you

If nothing else, a thank you is always the way to go. It’s the most basic form of polite conversation, and really, if it’s the only phrase you know in 100 languages, then you’ve done all right for yourself.

20. Goodbye

Farewell, friends. Hopefully this list of basic phrases will help you get started on the language learning adventure of your dreams!

Why You Should Learn Phrases in Different Languages

Besides being useful in everyday interactions, learning these phrases will help you get comfortable speaking in the language. Speaking is usually the biggest hurdle in language learning, especially if you’re in a place where most people know at least some English.

However, if you commit to learning a few common phrases, you’ll have identified yourself as someone who wants to learn. And people appreciate the effort. Sadly, Americans in particular have a reputation for being unwilling to learn new languages, but make the effort and you’ll see that people will be charmed by your attempt to communicate in their language.

To follow up with these phrases, learn how they’re used in context and start moving on to full conversations, you can try learning a language with FluentU.

Now that you’ve learned the most common phrases in five languages, it’s time to start using them!

Good luck!

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

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