On a journey to master the Vietnamese language? Then look no further! We’ve handpicked a selection of short Vietnamese phrases that will take your speaking skills to new heights in this blog post. Focusing on Vietnamese words and their pronunciation, we’ll guide you through the nuances of essential phrases covering crucial areas such as greetings, pleasantries, socializing, business, shopping, ordering food, asking directions, and even emergency phrases. Let’s begin!
If you’re looking to learn Vietnamese, starting with short phrases is a great way to get started. Short phrases are easy to remember and practice and give you a good sense of the rhythm and intonation of the language. You see, learning short phrases also allows you to quickly and easily start communicating in Vietnamese, even if you’re a beginner. By mastering short phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you), you can start interacting with Vietnamese speakers right away, even if you don’t yet have a deep understanding of the language.
Let’s get to know more about it in today’s post!
Short Vietnamese Phrases
While starting with grammar is also a great way to learn Vietnamese, we understand that grammatical complexities may easily scare anyone! Our advice? Start learning short phrases because they are highly effective and a practical way to begin your journey. From those simple expressions, you can quickly gain some familiarity with the language and culture, allowing you to communicate with native speakers even if you’re still a beginner.

Common Vietnamese Phrases For Greeting
Navigating through the vibrant streets of Vietnam, you’ll often encounter friendly local people eager to exchange warm greetings with you. That’s why having a handful of handy Vietnamese phrases for greeting is essential. The phrases we’ve compiled in the table below cover the basics, ensuring you can easily communicate when meeting new people.
English | Vietnamese |
Hello | Xin chào |
Good morning | Chào buổi sáng |
Good afternoon | Chào buổi chiều |
Good evening | Chào buổi tối |
Goodbye | Tạm biệt |
How are you? | Bạn có khỏe không? |
Nice to meet you | Rất vui được gặp bạn |
What’s your name? | Bạn tên gì? |
My name is… | Tôi tên là… |
Excuse me | Xin lỗi |
Getting To Know Someone In The Vietnamese Language
Connecting with locals is an enriching part of any cultural experience, and mastering the Vietnamese language is vital in forging these connections. In this section, we’ll discuss essential phrases to help you get to know someone better in Vietnamese. Whether conversing with younger people or engaging with individuals of different ages, these basic phrases will be instrumental in bridging the communication gap.
English | Vietnamese |
What’s your name? | Bạn tên gì? |
My name is… | Tôi tên là… |
Nice to meet you | Rất vui được gặp bạn |
How old are you? | Bạn bao nhiêu tuổi? |
Where are you from? | Bạn đến từ đâu? |
Do you speak English? | Bạn có nói được tiếng Anh không? |
What do you do? | Bạn làm công việc gì? |
I’m a student | Tôi là sinh viên |
Do you have any siblings? | Bạn có anh chị em ruột không? |
How do you say… in Vietnamese? | Làm sao để nói… bằng tiếng Việt? |

Phrases For Socializing With Vietnamese People
In Vietnam, socializing is an integral part of the culture, with most people cherishing the opportunity to unwind over food, coffee, or drinks. So whether you’re seeking to create lasting memories with friends, forge stronger bonds with colleagues, or even spark a connection with potential lovers, having these basic Vietnamese phrases handy will be invaluable.
English | Vietnamese |
Cheers! | Chúc sức khỏe! |
What do you like to do for fun? | Bạn thích làm gì trong thời gian rảnh? |
Have you tried this dish? | Bạn đã thử món này chưa? |
Can you recommend a good restaurant? | Bạn có thể giới thiệu cho tôi một nhà hàng ngon được không? |
This is delicious! | Món này ngon quá! |
Would you like to hang out sometime? | Bạn có muốn đi chơi không? |
What’s your favorite Vietnamese dish? | Món ăn Việt Nam yêu thích của bạn là gì? |
Do you prefer coffee or tea? | Bạn thích uống cà phê hay trà? |
Let’s take a group photo! | Chúng ta chụp một bức ảnh nhóm nhé! |
Thank you for a great time | Cảm ơn vì một khoảng thời gian tuyệt vời |
Essential Phrases For Doing Business In Vietnam
Doing business in Vietnam is a unique experience. It relies heavily on building strong relationships with clients and colleagues. To help you understand the subtleties of Vietnam’s business culture, we’ve created this table of crucial phrases to help you engage in meaningful dialogue, build stronger relationships, and succeed in this dynamic environment.
English | Vietnamese |
Nice to meet you | Rất vui được gặp bạn |
What do you do? | Bạn làm công việc gì? |
How can I help you? | Tôi có thể giúp gì cho bạn? |
Please send me an email | Làm ơn gửi email cho tôi |
Can we schedule a meeting? | Chúng ta có thể hẹn gặp nhau được không? |
I’m sorry, I don’t understand | Xin lỗi, tôi không hiểu |
Can you speak more slowly, please? | Bạn có thể nói chậm hơn được không? |
How much does it cost? | Món này giá bao nhiêu? |
I need this by tomorrow | Tôi cần điều này vào ngày mai |
Thank you for your help | Cảm ơn bạn đã giúp đỡ |

Vietnamese Words For Shopping
Vietnam is a treasure trove of shopping opportunities. Outlet stores and bustling hawker markets offer various items at incredible discounts. Here you’ll find a collection of essential words and short Vietnamese phrases, complete with examples. They will improve your ability to communicate and help you make the most of these retail experiences and get deals like a local when you visit this wonderful country.
English | Vietnamese |
How much is this? | Món này giá bao nhiêu? |
Can you give me a discount? | Bạn có thể giảm giá cho tôi được không? |
Do you have this in a different color? | Bạn có cái này màu khác không? |
Can I try this on? | Tôi có thể thử món này không? |
I’m just looking | Tôi chỉ xem thôi |
Where can I find…? | Tôi có thể tìm… ở đâu? |
Do you have a bigger size? | Bạn có cái to hơn không? |
Can you wrap this up for me? | Bạn có thể gói cho tôi được không? |
I’ll take it | Tôi sẽ mua nó |
Thank you | Cảm ơn |
Vietnamese Phrases For Ordering Food
Delving into Vietnam’s rich culinary offerings is a treat for your taste buds and a fantastic way to practice your Vietnamese language skills. In this section, we provide you with essential phrases that will enable you to order confidently from restaurants and street vendors across the country.
As you explore Vietnam’s diverse services and gastronomic delights, remember that practice makes perfect – the more you use these phrases, the more proficient you will become in this beautiful language, ultimately enriching your overall experience in this fascinating country.
English | Vietnamese |
I would like to order | Tôi muốn đặt món |
Can I see the menu? | Tôi có thể xem thực đơn không? |
What do you recommend? | Bạn giới thiệu món nào? |
I am a vegetarian | Tôi ăn chay |
I am allergic to… | Tôi dị ứng với… |
How much does it cost? | Món này giá bao nhiêu? |
Can I have the bill, please? | Làm ơn cho tôi hóa đơn |
Is there a takeaway option? | Có gói mang đi không? |
Thank you | Cảm ơn |
Enjoy your meal | Chúc ngon miệng |

Useful Vietnamese Phrases For Asking For Directions
Navigating Vietnam’s bustling streets and winding alleys can be daunting for travelers, but fear not! In this section, we provide a selection of essential words and expressions that will enable you to seek assistance from friendly locals confidently. By utilizing these phrases, you can ensure that you reach your desired destinations safely and efficiently and create opportunities for genuine interactions with Vietnam’s warm and welcoming people.
English | Vietnamese |
Where is the…<location name>? | <Location name>…ở đâu? |
Can you show me on the map? | Bạn có thể chỉ tôi trên bản đồ không? |
How far is it? | Cách đây bao xa? |
Is it within walking distance? | Có thể đi bộ được không? |
How can I get there? | Làm sao để đến đó? |
Can I take a taxi? | Tôi có thể đi taxi không? |
Is there a bus station nearby? | Có bến xe buýt gần đây không? |
What time does it close? | Mấy giờ đóng cửa? |
Can you write it down for me? | Bạn có thể viết giúp tôi không? |
I am lost | Tôi bị lạc |
Vietnamese Phrases For Emergencies
In the unfortunate event of an emergency, clear communication is crucial. This section lists essential expressions to help you effectively convey your situation to first responders and law enforcement personnel.
While we hope you never have to face such circumstances, having these phrases at your disposal can ensure you receive the timely and appropriate assistance needed during a crisis. This will ultimately contribute to your safety and well-being as you explore the vibrant landscapes of Vietnam.
English | Vietnamese |
Help! | Giúp tôi! |
Call the police! | Gọi cảnh sát! |
Call an ambulance! | Gọi xe cứu thương! |
Where is the hospital? | Bệnh viện ở đâu? |
I’m lost | Tôi bị lạc |
Can you help me? | Bạn có thể giúp tôi được không? |
I don’t feel well | Tôi không cảm thấy tốt |
Where is the nearest pharmacy? | Nhà thuốc gần nhất ở đâu? |
Please, hurry! | Làm ơn, nhanh lên! |
I need an ambulance | Tôi cần xe cứu thương |
Phrases For Learning Vietnamese Vocabulary
It can be exciting and challenging to embark on learning a new language. This section will provide the essential phrases to communicate your status as a language learner to native speakers.
Since locals are often more than willing to share their knowledge and expertise with those eager to learn, using these phrases can help foster an environment of understanding and support. Connecting with native speakers in this way speeds up your progress in learning Vietnamese and opens doors for authentic cultural exchange and lasting connections.
English | Vietnamese |
I’m learning Vietnamese | Tôi đang học tiếng Việt |
Can you help me with my pronunciation? | Bạn có thể giúp tôi về cách phát âm không? |
How do you write this character? | Viết ký tự này như thế nào? |
What does this mean? | Điều này có nghĩa là gì? |
Can you recommend any good Vietnamese language resources? | Bạn có thể giới thiệu cho tôi những tài nguyên học tiếng Việt tốt không? |
I don’t understand | Tôi không hiểu |
Can you repeat that, please? | Bạn có thể lặp lại được không? |
How do you say this in Vietnamese? | Làm sao để nói điều này bằng tiếng Việt? |
I need more practice | Tôi cần nhiều thực hành hơn |
Where can I practice my Vietnamese? | Tôi có thể thực hành tiếng Việt ở đâu? |

Learn Essential Phrases And More With Ling App
Of course, knowing all these useful phrases is good, but nothing beats good, old-fashioned learning. If you want to learn more beyond essential Vietnamese words, you only need to download an app on your phone! And the app? Ling: a platform for learning Vietnamese or any of the 60+ languages currently available. Each lesson is crafted to make learning easy, fun, and memorable!
Get started on learning Vietnamese words today by downloading the Ling app for free on Android or iPhone.