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15 Essential Words and Phrases

15 Essential Words and Phrases

Learning a few words and phrases in the language of the country you're visiting can significantly enhance your experience. The following greetings and basic pleasantries are essential building blocks for communication. Being able to use them in conversation demonstrates respect for the local culture and people, which can lead to more positive and welcoming interactions. 

Additionally, engaging with the language can provide deeper cultural insights, helping you understand traditions, customs, and social nuances that might otherwise be overlooked. This fosters greater empathy and global awareness and can transform a standard trip into a richer, more immersive adventure.

Word or Phrase in English Word or Phrase in Estonian Phonetic Pronunciation
Hello (daytime) Tere TEHR-reh
Hello (evening) Tere TEHR-reh
Hello (on the telephone) Halloo ha-lo
Goodbye Head aega HEH-ahd AH-eh-gah
Yes Jah YAHH
No Ei ay
Excuse me; I'm sorry Vabanda; Vabandust VAH-bahn-dah; VAH-bahn-doost
My name is _____ Minu nimi on MEE-noo NEE-mee ohn
What is your name? Mis teie nimi on?  Mis te je ni mi on?
Pleased to meet you Meeldiv tutvuda mayl-div tut-vu-da
How are you? Kuidas sul läheb? Kui-das sool la-heb?
Please Palun PAH-loon
Thank you Tänan TA-nahn
Do you speak English? Kas te räägite inglise keelt? kas te ra-ge-da ing-li-sa kelt?
I don't understand Ma ei saa aru ma ai sah a-ru
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