How To Say 'Hello' In Vietnamese Like A Local
Greetings play a significant role in Vietnamese culture. There's an often-said phrase passed down through generations: "Lời chào cao hơn mâm cỗ" (A greeting is higher than a tray of banquet food). If you're planning to travel to Vietnam, learning some basic expressions in the local language can be very helpful. Knowing how to say hello in Vietnamese not only enhances your experience but also shows respect to the locals.
In this article, we will cover essential Vietnamese words and phrases for greeting people. Let's begin with the most fundamental phrase: "Xin chào."
1. Hello in Vietnamese - Xin chào!
The easiest way to greet a Vietnamese person is to say "Xin chào" /seen ciao/, which means "Hello" in English. Tourists prefer this greeting because it is short and easy to pronounce. Moreover, this expression can be used to greet anyone. However, if you want to greet someone like a Vietnamese, it may take a little longer. For the Vietnamese, a simple greeting is not enough; there are a number of rules to be respected.
![A saleswoman in the Mekong Delta greets her customers - Source: Quan Pham](/pic/blog/images/hello-in-vietnam-1.jpg)
2. How To Say 'Hello' Respectfully In Vietnamese
As we explained earlier, saying hello in Vietnamese is a simple phrase and a social part of Vietnamese culture. With its historical and cultural traditions dating back more than a thousand years, the latter is deeply rooted among the Vietnamese, whether at the level of the honorary hierarchy, based on age, social status, family relationships, and also an individual's personal situation. Therefore, we use different pronouns depending on who we are talking to. These pronouns are placed just after the word "chào".
Different pronouns are used depending on who you are addressing, placed just after the word "chào." For greeting people slightly older than you, add "anh" (older brother) for men or "chị" (older sister) for women after "chào." Use "em" at the end of the greeting for younger or lower-ranking individuals.
For peers of the same age, "bạn" is used regardless of gender. However, avoid saying "chào bạn" or "chào em" to people older than you or to someone you wish to show great respect to. For much older individuals, use "chú" (uncle) or "ông" (grandfather) for men, and "cô" (aunt) or "bà" (grandmother) for women. Adding a person's name at the end is optional.
![Vetnam uses more plural forms in its vocabulary compared to other English-speaking countrie](/pic/blog/images/hello-in-vietnam-3(1).jpg)
In Vietnamese, there isn't a specific word for "you" or "I." The word you use for "I" depends on who you're talking to. For much older people (like cô, chú, ông, bà), use "cháu" before "chào." For those slightly older than you (like anh, chị), use "em" before "chào." For younger people, you would say "anh" (if you are a man) or "chị" (if you are a woman) before "chào."
![An old ethnic woman in northern Viet Nam](/pic/blog/images/hello-in-vietnam-2.jpg)
Below is the basic phonetic transcription of the words and phrases “"hello in Vietnamese"” which are mentioned above. While this pronunciation guide may not be entirely accurate compared to standard Vietnamese pronunciation, it will help you read and pronounce these words more easily. After all, something is better than nothing!
- Em chào chị / [em chao chee]: Women slightly older than you.
- Em chào anh / [em chao ahn]: Men slightly older than you.
- Cháu chào cô / [chow chao koh]: Women much older than you (about the same age as your mother) or your aunt.
- Cháu chào chú / [chow chao choo]: Men much older than you (about the same age as your father) or your uncle.
- Cháu chào bà / [chow chao bah]: Very old woman (about the same age as your grandmother).
- Cháu chào ông / [chow chao awm]: Very old men (about the same age as your grandfather).
- Anh (chị) chào em / [ahn (chee) chao em]: People younger than you (both men and women).
![Children of the Dao ethnic group in northern Viet Nam](/pic/blog/images/hello-in-vietnam-4.jpg)
3. Understanding Vietnamese Language Accents
You might wonder if pronunciation and accents are important for communicating in Vietnamese, especially during a first meeting. When you greet the locals, even if you don't have the right accent, the Vietnamese will still understand you. However, if you want to learn a few sentences, accurate pronunciation is very important; misunderstandings can arise when a word is not pronounced correctly or if you fail to include an accent. For example, your friend's name is Hải ("sea" in Vietnamese). If you pronounce it wrong, people may think of several possibilities:
- Hai: Number 2.
- Hài: Comedy.
- Hái: To pluck a fruit.
- Hãi: scary
- Hại: To threaten
The Vietnamese language is complex, and we fully understand that learning the basics of Vietnamese is complicated. Don't worry too much! Vietnamese people won't be offended if you use the wrong word or mispronounce a sentence. They know that it is not easy for a foreigner to speak Vietnamese.
![Vietnamese people are extremely hospitable, and they will not fault you for mispronunciation](/pic/blog/images/hello-in-vietnam-5.jpg)
4. Must-Know Vietnamese Phrases And Basic Vocabulary
In addition to greetings, we have made a selection of the most useful Vietnamese expressions during your trip. This will allow you to communicate a bit with the locals, go shopping, or ask for directions if you've gotten lost.
English | Vietnamese | Phonetics |
Goodbye | Tạm biệt | Tahm byet |
See you again | Hẹn gặp lại | Hen gəp laï |
Good night | Chúc ngủ ngon | Chook ngoo ngon |
How are you? | Bạn có khỏe không? | Bahn kaw kweh kohng? |
I’m good | Tôi khỏe | Toy kweh |
What is your name? | Bạn có khỏe không? | Bahn kaw kweh kohng? |
My name is… | Tôi tên là… | Toy ten lah |
Thank you | Cảm ơn | Kahm ən |
Please | Làm ơn | Lahm ən |
Excuse me! | Xin lỗi | Seen loy |
Yes | Có | Co |
No | Không | Khom |
I don't understand | Tôi không hiểu | Toy khom hïeou |
I understand | Tôi hiểu | Toy hïeou |
Where? | Ở đâu? | O dawn |
I want to go… | Tôi muốn đi… | Toy moohn dee |
How much does it cost? | Bao nhiêu tiền? | Bao nhïeu tyeen? |
Too expensive! | Đắt quá | Date what! |
Can you reduce the price? | Giảm giá được không? | Zyahm zah doo-uhk khom |
I would like to buy... That's it! | Tôi muốn mua cái này! | Toy moohn mwah kai naï! |
What is it? | Đây là gì? | Dei la zee? |
Delicious! | Ngon quá | ngawn what! |
What time is it? | Mấy giờ rồi? | May yuh roy |
You are very beautiful! (for woman) | Em/ Chị đẹp lắm | Em/ chee dep lahm |
You are handsome (for man) | Em/ Anh đẹp trai lắm | em/ ahn dep chigh lahm |
Enjoy your meal! | Chúc ngon miệng! | Chook ngawn myeeng |
Have a nice day! | Chúc bạn một ngày tốt lành! | Chook bahn moht ngai toht lahn |
One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine and ten | Một, hai, ba, bốn, năm, sáu, bảy, tám, chín, mười | Moht, high, bar, bohn, nahm, sow, bye, tahm, cheen, moo-ee |
Well, mastering a few basic Vietnamese expressions can significantly enhance your interactions with locals. Greeting someone in Vietnamese not only delights residents but also shows your interest in fully immersing yourself in their culture and traditions. This is a great way to learn more about local life and customs.
Conclusion
When traveling in Vietnam, especially in rural areas, not everyone speaks English fluently. Thus, knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases can help you communicate your needs, ask for directions, and interact with locals. This is particularly useful in situations where there are no English-speaking staff or guides available.
Besides, learning some local phrases also shows respect for the culture and people of Vietnam. It demonstrates that you’ve made an effort to understand and engage with their language. This effort often leads to more positive interactions and a warmer reception from locals.
Traveling isn't just about visiting places; it’s about experiencing the local culture. Understanding and speaking some Vietnamese can enrich your journey by allowing you to connect with locals on a deeper level, learn about their traditions, and gain insights you might otherwise miss.
Enjoy your trip to Vietnam! For an even more enriching experience, consider exploring the country with a local guide. For more details, feel free to contact us!
>>>You may also want to consider:
>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month:
JANUARY | FEBRUARY | MARCH | APRIL | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUGUST | SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER | NOVEMBER | DECEMBER
Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
![Image Form Gift](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/67bcfd6e-e114-4195-8048-eea5a1c2abf6-w.800-q.80.jpg)
![<div class=fs18>Mrs. DUONG Thi Lan</div>Travel Consultant](/pic/reviews/226c2dac-350c-4f69-b162-dc4dc7f275b0.png)
![Is Vietnam Safe To Travel? 7 Must-Know Tips For Travelers!](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/e0ba952c-d033-472f-b98e-14b89569bf3c-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Train Travel 2024: Essential Local Guide & Tips](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/60638fcb-0c15-404f-bef5-b8feec23581f-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Travel Cost: 3 Key Tips First-Time Travelers Shouldnt Ignore](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/9aa9559f-a064-485c-b6d8-e3a9546b038a-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam’s Money: Pocket Information About Currency Exchange - [2024]](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/68c7449d-2149-4da6-aa76-65de10f7d4f3-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnamese Desserts: 10 MUST-TRY Dishes Without Further Delay!](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/41262b90-ab32-4fde-8cea-356478dc7bf1-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![What Not To Do In Vietnam: 12 Things To Avoid](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/1af24bb4-7557-4b63-b91e-cbd17b2e324d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![What to Buy in Vietnam: Traditional Gifts & Where to Find Them](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/5084dba5-64dd-4f94-8147-9bcb153c52a6-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Time to Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Weather Guide](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/d01b3dbf-e55b-4ed3-b531-23be8c361e34-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Vietnam SIM Card for Tourists 2024: All You Need To Know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/12467b01-7d18-47d4-8d7b-6080d7584f02-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Cultural Immersion Through Homestays in Vietnam with Local Hosts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/f4d0940b-6240-4a5a-8b67-251ca2952b01-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![How to Travel to Vietnam? Your Ultimate Guide to Reaching Vietnam!](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/bb0ee7fe-b2da-4353-a78a-8a14dc1ecb38-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Travel insurance Vietnam 2024: FULL advice from local experts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/e3900759-eb3d-47c1-8407-36bdf27a6e80-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Ultimate Vietnam Travel Tips: Plan Your Perfect Trip](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/aaafc36f-942f-4324-9489-377d2cc7b13d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Unlocking Vietnam: Visa Guide for African Travelers 2024](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2cfab5c8-7ca7-4da2-9024-5a4ae46caf21-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam E-Visa 2024: Your Gateway to Seamless Travel](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/9ae60b83-7143-4541-b48d-86dca097b8a1-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Tourist Map 2024: Your Most Complete Guide to Regions](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/b2e95615-5f21-4623-b301-f4406ca64cf7-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Visa Exemption 2024: All you need to know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2f11b2f8-b70b-44c1-8636-e7b8dd46645b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![12 Days Unveiling the Gems of Vietnam with Family](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/2239d564-e3d2-468d-baad-a7c3b82c644e-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![3 Weeks in Vietnam: A Tapestry of Authentic Experiences](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b23a1dda-118b-488d-9432-7cfefa606f99-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b671263d-a8b6-465d-925a-bd98dd77926a-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![5-Day North Vietnam: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/14322e39-a7bd-4cd6-babb-3ff570a926eb-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![A glimpse of Southern Vietnam 5 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/f165df9f-9c48-413a-ab4b-6e2f3c0473e2-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![An Unforgettable 17-Day Journey from North to South Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/32294b06-ae5f-4832-8de9-4c3e2c073235-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Beach Extension: 10 Days of Sun, Sand & Soul](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/2e8ea09e-6ce0-415a-ba0b-0b0f326faf4d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/5ce20dcb-0acf-40b5-80b9-2c3adff5901d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.360-q.80.jpg)
10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam
Discover Vietnam's vibrant diversity from south to north in 10 days. Start on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and end at the majestic waters of Halong Bay; each stop promises a unique adventure. With this tour, you can explore breathtaking destinations and experience the diverse cultures of Vietnam. Each destination on this South to North Vietnam expedition is handpicked to showcase the country's iconic beauty, ensuring you create lasting memories.
![12 Days Unveiling the Gems of Vietnam with Family](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/2239d564-e3d2-468d-baad-a7c3b82c644e-w.360-q.80.jpg)
12 Days Unveiling the Gems of Vietnam with Family
Dive into 12 unforgettable days exploring Vietnam's southern and central gems with your family! This adventure prioritizes child-friendly fun and discovery, from bustling cities to serene beaches, creating memories that will last forever. Welcome to the Vietnam Family Tour 12 Days!
![3 Weeks in Vietnam: A Tapestry of Authentic Experiences](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b23a1dda-118b-488d-9432-7cfefa606f99-w.360-q.80.jpg)
3 Weeks in Vietnam: A Tapestry of Authentic Experiences
This 3-week program in Vietnam is designed to introduce travelers to the main attractions of this S-shaped country. You will start by exploring the high mountains of the northwest, where magnificent rice fields thrive alongside villages of minority ethnic groups. From there, you will journey southward, ultimately concluding your adventure in the picturesque southern delta, crisscrossed by multiple Mekong rivers and canals. This Vietnam 3 weeks from north to south itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of the country's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
![5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b671263d-a8b6-465d-925a-bd98dd77926a-w.360-q.80.jpg)
5 Days in Mountainous North Vietnam: Ha Giang and beyond
Discover the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam with this North Vietnam 5 days itinerary, perfect for all travelers. Explore the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang, where vibrant rice terraces and traditional villages await. Visit the picturesque Dong Van, the tranquil Ba Be, and the breathtaking Bao Lac. Conclude your journey in the bustling city of Hanoi. This adventure will leave you with lasting memories of a captivating region, filled with serene waters, lush scenery, and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal North Vietnam 5 days itinerary.
![5-Day North Vietnam: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/14322e39-a7bd-4cd6-babb-3ff570a926eb-w.360-q.80.jpg)
5-Day North Vietnam: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh
Meticulously custom-made for those seeking an immersive overview of northern Vietnam, this North Vietnam 5 days itinerary will help you explore the charm of this captivating region: Hanoi - the capital, Ha Long Bay, and the Ha Long Bay on land (Ninh Binh). Delve into Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, as you explore its cultural gems. Traverse through rice fields nestled amidst the breathtaking mountainous karst landscapes while hiking, then spend a night on Halong Bay, recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This North Vietnam 5 days itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure.
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.360-q.80.jpg)
7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking
Set off on a captivating 7-day trekking adventure through the majestic landscapes of North Vietnam. Trek through Dong Van, navigate winding paths, and explore traditional villages, all while marveling at the extraordinary natural beauty. Traverse the Nho Que River, witness the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, and discover the allure of the Cao Bang region amidst the rich tapestry of mountains, valleys, and picturesque rice terraces. Ideal for those who love adventure and are sportive.
![A glimpse of Southern Vietnam 5 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/f165df9f-9c48-413a-ab4b-6e2f3c0473e2-w.360-q.80.jpg)
A glimpse of Southern Vietnam 5 days
Explore the vibrant Mekong Delta, often called the 'rice basket of Vietnam,' with this South Vietnam itinerary 5 days. Experience the local culture, bike along coconut palm-shaded paths, navigate serene canals on rowing boats, and visit the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market. This perfect family tour to Southern Vietnam will leave you with unforgettable memories of the region's rich heritage and picturesque landscapes. Embark on this South Vietnam itinerary 5 days for an immersive and delightful adventure in the heart of the Mekong Delta.
![An Unforgettable 17-Day Journey from North to South Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/32294b06-ae5f-4832-8de9-4c3e2c073235-w.360-q.80.jpg)
An Unforgettable 17-Day Journey from North to South Vietnam
Set forth for a captivating 17-day summer vacation in Vietnam with us! This fully customizable route takes you from North to South, make you engrossed in the country's essence. Enjoy enriching activities and ample relaxation time, creating unforgettable family memories. Get ready for an incredible journey that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation in one remarkable trip.
![Vietnam Beach Extension: 10 Days of Sun, Sand & Soul](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/2e8ea09e-6ce0-415a-ba0b-0b0f326faf4d-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam Beach Extension: 10 Days of Sun, Sand & Soul
A 10-day beach extension itinerary in Vietnam takes you from the vibrant city of Hanoi through the country's stunning central coast, showcasing must-see locations. This excursion offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and beach relaxation. From the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh to the majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay and the ancient charm of Hoi An, followed by the pristine beaches of Nha Trang, prepare to be immersed in a world of stunning natural beauty and tranquil waters.
![Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/5ce20dcb-0acf-40b5-80b9-2c3adff5901d-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors
Especially curated for seniors, this Vietnam 2-week itinerary allows you to commence your journey with complete peace of mind, accompanied by a constant English-speaking guide. It will take you to explore the must-visit sites to discover both the charming beauties and the authentic stories and cultures of the country. This thoughtfully designed Vietnam 2-week itinerary ensures a comfortable and enriching experience for senior travelers, blending relaxation and exploration in perfect harmony.