Hello in Lao? Top 10 Lao basic phrases you should know

1. How to say hello in Lao?

To greet in Laos, the most common way is to say "Sabaï dii", which means "hello" in English. "Sabaï dii" is a common greeting, Laotians often greet guests with a smile.

• Hello: Sabaï dii
• Good evening: None lap fan dii
• Good afternoon: Sabaï dii ton suaai
• Good night: naitonkangkhun thidi

Lao people traditionally greet each other by joining their palms and bowing. The practice of Lao people greeting others by joining their hands in a prayer gesture is known as "nop." 

2. Lao phrases and basic vocabulary to know

If you're traveling to Laos, learn these phrases to communicate with locals and show your respect for their culture:

• Common words:

• Phrases for shopping:

• Phrases for transport:

• Phrases for directions:

>>>> Read more: Why Riding a Tuk-Tuk Is a Must-Do Experience in Laos? 

• Numbers :

• Schedules / Dates and days:

• At the table!

• Health / Emergency / Safety:

3. Practice 'nop': Greetings and respect in Lao culture

A "nop" can be used as a sign of respect for things as well as people. This is usually done when passing sacred places such as temples or other things of religious significance.

When locals encounter a Buddha or monk statue, they kneel down and do the "nop" from this position (men sit on their heels and women put their feet to the side), accompanied by a bow almost touching the ground. When their head almost touches the ground, they place their palms on the ground (right hand first), then raise their body into a squatting position.

In Lao culture, the socially inferior person usually bows first, while the elder or higher-status person responds quickly out of politeness. The higher the hands and the lower the head, the greater the respect.

For equals, hands are placed at mouth level; for higher-status people or monks, at nose level; and for younger or lower-status people, at chin level.

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4. Different ways to say hello in Lao

People often say “Sabaidee” with a respectful gesture to show politeness and modesty.

Men usually greet other men with a handshake and a slight nod. Women, or men greeting women, often press their hands together below the chin with a small bow.

Lao people also use respectful titles for elders or people of higher status, such as “Than” for men and “Than Nang” for women. Older people may also be addressed with family-like terms such as uncle, aunt, grandfather, or grandmother to show respect.

It is considered polite for younger people to greet elders first and use honorifics.

>>>> Learn more: What to do in Laos in 2 Weeks?

5. Top Lao Slangs

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6. Other practical information: most used foreign language in Laos

The official language of Laos is Lao, but Laotians also use Thai, English, and French. French was introduced to Laos in the 19th century, but its influence was mainly limited to Vientiane. During the period of French rule in Indochina, French became the primary language of government officials and the Lao elite, but it was not widely spoken in rural areas. 

The use of English language has also increased significantly in recent times. The growth of its use comes as a direct result of globalization, economic prosperity, and Laos' stronger relations with the global community.

English is now taught as a second language in most schools, especially in urban areas, and is considered a vital tool for accessing global opportunities.

It is commonly used in business, tourism, and higher education, particularly in institutions that collaborate with foreign universities or international organizations.

>>>> Read more: Waterfalls in Laos: 10 spectacular spots you have to visit

Our last words

Laos is a beautiful country, rich in culture and history, which has become one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. Lao people are known for their kindness and politeness. If you are planning to travel to Laos, it is important to greet in Lao and respect local customs.

A simple greeting with clasped hands and a smile is enough to start an intimate conversation with the locals. Learning a few Lao words like "hello" and "thank you" will earn you great sympathy from them.

We hope that the information in this article will be useful for you to have an unforgettable travel experience in Laos.

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