
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, learning just a few basic Vietnamese phrases can make a big difference. Simple words like “Xin chào” (Hello) or “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) not only help you get around more smoothly but also show respect for the local culture. Locals appreciate your effort, even if it’s just a few words. From ordering a bowl of phở to asking for directions, these essential phrases can turn small moments into meaningful connections. So before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to practice—your trip will be more fun, friendly, and unforgettable!
1. Greetings & Politeness
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Xin chào | sin chao |
| Goodbye | Tạm biệt | tahm byet |
| Thank you | Cảm ơn | gahm un |
| You’re welcome | Không có chi | khong kaw chee |
| Sorry / Excuse me | Xin lỗi | sin loy |
| Yes | Vâng / Dạ | vuhng / yah |
| No | Không | khong |
2. Getting Around
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Where is…? | … ở đâu? | … uh dow? |
| How much? | Bao nhiêu tiền? | bao nyew tyen? |
| I want to go to… | Tôi muốn đi đến… | toy moon dee den… |
| Left | Bên trái | ben chai |
| Right | Bên phải | ben fai |
| Straight ahead | Đi thẳng | dee thang |
3. Food & Drink
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I’m hungry | Tôi đói | toy doy |
| I’m thirsty | Tôi khát | toy khat |
| Delicious! | Ngon quá! | ngon wah! |
| No chili please | Không ớt, cảm ơn | khong uht, gahm un |
| Water | Nước | nook |
| Coffee | Cà phê | gah feh |
| Bill, please | Tính tiền | tin tyen |
4. Shopping
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Too expensive | Mắc quá / Đắt quá | mak wah / dat wah |
| Can you lower the price? | Bớt được không? | buht duoc khong? |
| I don’t need it | Tôi không cần | toy khong gun |
5. Emergencies & Help
| English | Vietnamese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Help! | Cứu với! | koo voy |
| I’m lost | Tôi bị lạc | toy bee lak |
| Call the police | Gọi công an | goi kong an |
| I need a doctor | Tôi cần bác sĩ | toy gun bak see |


