Joanna James
If you are heading to Vietnam on a holiday or business trip, it always helps to know some local phrases; even those who may have mastered the art of nonverbal communication will find it useful! Here are some phrases well worth learning and which are bound to come in handy.
Pronounced more like "sin chow", this is a common way to greet someone; like many Asian countries in Vietnam too, honorifics are used when talking to people and determining factors include their status, age, etc. However, as a foreigner, you are not expected to know all of this! With that in mind, this general greeting is the way to go and can be used for everyone.
Instead of just pointing to yourself and saying your name, you can use this phrase which is pronounced "thoye theyn la". It is a great way to build rapport with those you are speaking to and adds a personal touch to your conversations.
In Vietnamese, there is more than one way to say "yes" but in general, you can use the phrase "da" pronounced like "yah". Another phrase worth knowing is "no" though a firm shake of the head is also usually and universally understood! To say "no" you can pronounce the word "khong" like "comb".
Chances are you are going to be visiting a lot of attractions in Vietnam and are bound to run out of your water supply. In such instances, it is always good to know this phrase which you can use when asking for water; remember, some places even offer it for free so it's always good to ask. The pronunciation of this phrase is more like "toy cun nook".
This phrase can show your gratitude, be it when enjoying things to do in Quy Nhon, Hoi An, Mui Ne or other parts of Vietnam or while staying at local properties like Anantara Quy Nhon Villas. In general, locals may not say this phrase (pronounced "gam un") as much as westerners do, but it nevertheless is a great way to express your appreciation.
Be it when nature calls at its own pace or when faced with an emergency, this phrase is always good to know! In popular tourist hotspots, the word "toilet" will usually be understood, but may not be in more rural areas. Either way, knowing how to say this phrase (you can say it like "nah vey sin uh dow?) will be useful.
Those planning to shop at markets in Vietnam can use this phrase (pronounced "bow nyew") when inquiring about the price; when pointing to an item and asking this question ideally keep your palm faced down. Of course, you should also learn a companion phrase that will be key when it comes to negotiating prices; you can say "mac qua" (pronounced "mack wha") which means "too expensive"!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
