How to say hello in Lao?

When traveling to a new country, it is always polite to learn how to greet in the local language, and Laos is no exception. While you don’t need to learn Lao before traveling to Laos, it is helpful to know a few common words or phrases. A friendly greeting in the local language will make a good impression on the locals. 
Here are different ways to greet someone in Lao, depending on the level of formality of the situation. Learn how to say "Hello" in Lao like a local below!

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 25-12-2024

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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. 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.

The person who is socially inferior should be the first to bow, but it is considered polite for the older/higher social status to respond quickly. The higher the hand is raised and the lower the head is lowered, the higher the level of respect.

When speaking of social equality, both hands are often at mouth level; when speaking to someone of higher social status (including monks, regardless of age), the hands are usually placed in front of the nose; and when speaking to someone younger/socially inferior, they are usually held at chin level.

3. Different ways to say hello in Lao

When you are in Laos, you will be impressed by the way people greet you. It is not just with words like "Hello" or "Pleased to meet you", but rather with a simple action accompanied by the word "Sabaidee".

"Sabaidee" is a greeting that shows respect and modesty. It is a unique way to reflect the moral values and perceptions of the Lao people, highlighting the social structure and order of society.

For men greeting other men, it is generally customary to clasp hands and give a slight bow or nod.

For women greeting other women or men greeting women, it is common to press the hands just below the chin, accompanied by a slight curtsy.

The term "Than" or "Than Nang" is used to address elders, men as "Than" and women as "Than Nang", as well as people of higher social status to show respect.

Additionally, it is common to show respect to elders by using honorifics when addressing them. Older men are often called "Pho Thao" (grandfather), "Lung" (uncle), or "Aiy" (brother), while older women are called "Mea Thao" (grandmother), "Na Sao" (aunt), or "ueay" (sister).

It is considered rude for a younger person to address an older person without taking the initiative to bow first and use honorifics. People of the same age or younger may be addressed by their first name without using titles.

4. Cultural influences and current greetings

In modern Laos, Western cultural influences have been accepted. Lao men often shake hands when greeting each other. However, generally, women and men do not touch each other when greeting each other, as Lao people do not have a custom of touching each other, especially between members of the opposite sex. Women often adhere to the traditional greeting of shaking hands and waving. By using appropriate greeting phrases depending on the context, you show your respect for Lao culture and traditions.

5. 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. 

After the end of the Vietnam War, the use of French declined in Laos, becoming an optional language. Today, about 35% of the country's students study French, and it is used in some public buildings and spoken by the elite, the elderly, and professionals.

Similarly, the use of English language has 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.

6. 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:

• Numbers :

• Schedules / Dates and days:

• At the table!

• Health / Emergency / Safety:

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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