Vietnamese is often considered one of the most difficult languages in the world for English speakers to master. It has six tones, complex grammar, and sounds that don’t exist in English.
But here is the good news: You don’t need to be fluent to survive and thrive in Ho Chi Minh City.
In 2026, many young people in Saigon speak excellent English. However, learning just a handful of local phrases is a magic key. It unlocks smiles, it gets you better prices at Saigon Square, and it shows locals that you respect their culture.
Even if you mess up the tones (and you probably will), the effort alone is appreciated. Here are the 10 essential Vietnamese phrases that will change your travel experience from “Tourist” to “Guest.”
1. The Universal Greeting: Xin Chào
- Pronunciation: Sin Chow
- Meaning: Hello
This is the first phrase you should learn. While you might hear locals using more casual greetings, Xin Chào is the safest, most polite way to say hello to anyone, anywhere. Whether you are walking into a hotel, meeting a tour guide, or buying a Banh Mi, start with a smile and a “Sin Chow.”
2. The Magic Word: Cảm Ơn
- Pronunciation: Gahm Un (Sound like “Come On” but softer)
- Meaning: Thank you
Vietnamese people value politeness. Use this constantly.
- Did the waiter bring your Pho? Cam On.
- Did the Grab driver open the door? Cam On.
- Did a vendor give you a discount? Cam On!
Pro Tip: To be extra polite, add a slight nod of your head when you say it.
3. The Attention Grabber: Em Ơi!
- Pronunciation: Em Oy
- Meaning: Hey there! / Excuse me! (Calling a younger person)
This is the most useful phrase for dining. In Western countries, you wait for the waiter to notice you. In Vietnam, you must call them. If you sit silently, you might starve. Raise your hand and shout (politely) “Em Oi!” to get the server’s attention.
- Note: “Em” is used for someone younger than you. If the server looks older, use “Chi Oi” (for women) or “Anh Oi” (for men). But in 2026, “Em Oi” is generally acceptable in busy restaurants.
4. The Bargaining Starter: Bao Nhiêu?
- Pronunciation: Bao New?
- Meaning: How much?
If you plan to shop at Ben Thanh Market or street stalls, you need this. Point to the item you want and ask, “Bao Nhieu?” Even if they reply in Vietnamese numbers, they will usually pull out a calculator to show you the price.
5. The Negotiation Weapon: Mắc Quá!
- Pronunciation: Mack Wah!
- Meaning: Too expensive!
This is part of the theater of shopping in Vietnam. When a vendor shows you a price on the calculator, look shocked (playfully) and say “Mac Qua!” It signals that you know the game and you are ready to negotiate. It usually makes the vendor laugh and immediately lower the price.
(Want to master the art of the deal? Read our full [Ultimate Guide to Bargaining in Ho Chi Minh Markets]).
6. The Closer: Giảm Giá Đi
- Pronunciation: Zam Za Dee
- Meaning: Please give me a discount.
Combine this with phrase #5. “Mac qua! Giam gia di!” (Too expensive! Discount please!). Say it with a smile. In Vietnam, bargaining should always be friendly, not aggressive.
7. The Politeness Saver: Xin Lỗi
- Pronunciation: Sin Loy
- Meaning: I’m sorry / Excuse me
Use this if you accidentally bump into someone on a crowded street, or if you need to squeeze past someone in a narrow aisle at Saigon Square. It diffuses tension immediately.
8. The Foodie Praise: Ngon Quá
- Pronunciation: Ng-on Wah
- Meaning: Delicious! / Very tasty!
Vietnamese people are incredibly proud of their food. If you are eating Com Tam or Pho and the owner looks at you, give them a thumbs up and say “Ngon Qua!” You will likely see the biggest smile of your trip. It’s the best compliment you can give.
9. The Check: Tính Tiền
- Pronunciation: Ting Tee-en
- Meaning: The bill, please.
When you are ready to leave a restaurant or cafe, catch the waiter’s eye (“Em Oi!”) and make a scribbling motion in the air with your hand while saying “Tinh Tien.” In 2026, most places accept cards, but cash is still faster for street food.
10. The Holy Trinity of Numbers: Một, Hai, Ba
- Pronunciation: Mote, Hi, Ba
- Meaning: One, Two, Three
Knowing just these three numbers is surprisingly helpful.
- “Mot Banh Mi” (One Banh Mi).
- “Hai Beer” (Two Beers).
- “Ba” sounds like “Bar”.
- “Mot, Hai, Ba, YO!” is the famous Vietnamese drinking toast (Cheers!). If you find yourself drinking beer with locals on Bui Vien street, you will hear this chant everywhere.
Bonus: Yes / No
- Yes: Da (pronounced “Ya” in the South, “Za” in the North).
- No: Khong (pronounced “Comb” with a closed mouth).
Conclusion: Don’t Be Shy!
The biggest mistake travelers make is being afraid to sound “stupid.” Locals know their language is hard. They don’t expect you to sound like a news anchor. They appreciate that you are trying.
So, go ahead. Walk into that shop, smile, and say “Sin Chow!” It’s the start of a great connection.