Learning essential Vietnamese phrases is the key to navigating daily life in Vietnam, whether you’re a traveler, an expat, or simply passionate about the language. From simple greetings to ordering food and asking for directions, mastering these basic expressions will help you communicate effectively and connect with locals. In this guide, Jellyfish will share the most useful Vietnamese phrases to help you feel more confident in everyday conversations.
1. Why Learn Essential Vietnamese Phrases?
Even if you don’t plan to become fluent, knowing some basic Vietnamese expressions can make your experience much smoother. Here’s why learning essential Vietnamese phrases is valuable:
- Enhances communication – Helps you interact with locals in daily situations.
- Shows respect for the culture – Vietnamese people appreciate foreigners who try to speak their language.
- Makes travel easier – Ordering food, asking for directions, or shopping becomes much simpler.
- Improves business connections – A few phrases can go a long way in professional settings.
2. Common Vietnamese Greetings – The First Step to Communication
Greetings are an important part of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re meeting new people, entering a shop, or greeting a colleague, these essential Vietnamese phrases will help you make a great impression.
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
| Hello | Xin chào | /sin chow/ |
| Good morning | Chào buổi sáng | /chow bu-oy sahng/ |
| Good afternoon/evening | Chào buổi chiều/tối | /chow bu-oy chee-ow/ |
| Goodbye | Tạm biệt | /tam byet/ |
| See you again | Hẹn gặp lại | /hen gap lie/ |
Learn more: 12 Best Ways to Communicate with Vietnamese People
3. Essential Vietnamese Phrases for Travelers – Speak with Confidence
If you’re traveling in Vietnam, knowing a few essential Vietnamese phrases can help you handle common situations like asking for help or understanding prices.
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
| Thank you | Cảm ơn | kahm uhn |
| Sorry/excuse me | Xin lỗi | sin loy |
| I don’t understand | Tôi không hiểu | toy khong hee-u |
| Can you speak more slowly? | Bạn có thể nói chậm lại không? | ban co tay noy chum lie khong? |
| How much is this? | Bao nhiêu tiền? | bao nyew tien? |
4. Ordering Food and Drinks – Enjoy Vietnamese Cuisine Like a Local
Vietnam is known for its delicious street food and vibrant culinary scene. Knowing these essential Vietnamese phrases will help you order food with ease.
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
| I would like to order | Tôi muốn gọi món | toy moon goi mon |
| I’d like a bowl of pho | Cho tôi một tô phở | cho toy mot to fuh |
| I don’t eat meat | Tôi không ăn thịt | toy khong an tit |
| Another cup of coffee, please | Cho tôi thêm một ly cà phê | cho them mot lee ka fe |
Did You Know? The most famous Vietnamese dish is Phở, a traditional noodle soup. Try saying “Cho tôi một tô phở” when ordering!
5. Asking for Directions – Never Get Lost in Vietnam
Getting around Vietnam can be challenging if you don’t speak the language.
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
| Where is the restroom? | Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu? | nya vay sin o dau? |
| Where can I get a taxi? | Tôi có thể bắt taxi ở đâu? | toy co tay bat taxi o dau? |
| Please show me a map | Làm ơn cho tôi xem bản đồ | lam uhn cho toy sem ban do |
| Turn left | Rẽ trái | re chai |
| Turn right | Rẽ phải | re phai |
Vietnamese Communication Course – Learn practical conversation skills for daily life.
Private Tutoring Course – Get one-on-one lessons tailored to your learning needs.
Final Thoughts
Learning these essential Vietnamese phrases will make your journey in Vietnam much easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling, ordering food, shopping, or asking for directions, these expressions will help you communicate confidently.
Want to improve your Vietnamese even more? Jellyfish offers structured courses designed for beginners to help you speak Vietnamese naturally. Join us today and start your language-learning journey!
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👉👉 Learning Vietnamese – Jellyfish Vietnam
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