11 Must-Know Words/Phrases When Learning a New Language

When learning anything new, it’s important to begin small to steer clear of becoming overwhelmed and falling into discouragement.

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash

Being self-taught with a few languages, I’ve come to understand that no matter how often, how long, or how you’re taught, you will not become fluent in the chosen language until you implement it into your daily life.

Beginning small, I recommend learning, firstly, the following:

Important Words/Phrases to Know When Learning a New Language

1. Hi/Bye or Hello/Goodbye
2. Excuse me
3. Do you speak _________ (your native language)
4. I’m sorry, I don’t understand
5. What time is it/Could you tell me the time
6. Please and Thank you
7. Common food items such as milk, eggs, bread, cheese, etc.
8. How much [is] _________ (a specific food item, a plane/bus ticket, etc.)
9. Numbers at least 1–20, as well as the tens following (30, 40, 50…)
10. Where is [the] _________ (bathroom, entrance, airport, train station, etc.)
11. Simple directions such as on the left or on the right