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Basic Latvian Phrases For Travel in 2024

• Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Looking to learn some basic Latvian phrases? You’ve come to the right place!

Latvia is a small country full of rich culture and pristine nature. From the Art Nouveau architecture of Riga to the serene Baltic coastline, Latvia’s beauty lies in its simplicity and unspoiled charm.

Latvian, the official language of this Baltic nation, is a key to unlocking the essence of Latvia’s identity. It’s a language that resonates with the history of the Latvian people and their deep connection to the land.

Table of Contents

Speaking even a tiny bit of the language will enrich most interactions, showing respect and appreciation for the local culture. That’s why, in this post, I’ll be guiding you through some essential Latvian words and phrases.

Basic Words in Latvian

Embark on your Latvian language journey with these basic words. They’re the perfect starting point for everyday conversations and connecting with locals in Latvia.

• Sveiki – Hello
• Uz redzēšanos – Goodbye
• Paldies – Thank you
• Lūdzu – Please / You’re welcome
• Jā – Yes
• Nē – No
• Labrīt – Good morning
• Labvakar – Good evening
• Labdien – Good afternoon
• Ēdiens – Food
• Ūdens – Water
• Tualete – Bathroom
• Vīns – Wine
• Pārtikas veikals – Grocery store
• Jūra – Sea
• Saule – Sun

Common Latvian Phrases

The Latvian language, with its complex grammatical structures and unique vocabulary, can seem daunting at first. However, mastering a few basic phrases is a sure-fire way to have a more authentic, memorable experience.

These common Latvian phrases are essential for navigating daily life. Ideal for casual chats, they’ll help you feel more integrated into Latvian culture.

• Kā jums klājas? – How are you?
• Man klājas labi, paldies – I’m good, thanks
• Prieks iepazīties – Nice to meet you
• Mani sauc… – My name is…
• Atvainojiet – I’m sorry / Excuse me
• Vai jūs varat man palīdzēt? – Can you help me?
• Cik skaisti! – How beautiful!
• Uz redzēšanos – See you
• Uz drīzu redzēšanos – See you later
• Veiksmi! – Good luck!

Basic Latvian Phrases for Travellers

Whether you’re walking the historic streets of Riga or hiking in the thickly forested countryside, this little repertoire will enhance your adventures.

• Man ir rezervācija – I have a reservation
• Kur ir tualete, lūdzu? – Where are the bathrooms, please?
• _Kā es varu tikt līdz __ ? – How do I get to ___?
• Cik tas maksā? – How much is this?
• Vai jūs runājat angļu valodā? – Do you speak English?
• Kur atrodas tuvākais viesnīca? – Where is the nearest hotel?
• Es esmu apmaldījies. Vai jūs varat man palīdzēt? – I’m lost. Can you help me?
• Vai šī teritorija ir droša? – Is this area safe?
• Vai šī teritorija ir droša naktī? – Is this area safe at night?
• Paldies par jūsu viesmīlību – Thank you for your hospitality

Useful Latvian Phrases for Information

When you need to know more, these Latvian phrases can be invaluable. Simple and effective, they make asking questions and getting answers easy.

• Man ir jautājums – I have a question
• Kā to sauc latviski? – What is this called in Latvian?
• Vai jūs varat runāt lēnāk, lūdzu? – Can you speak slower, please?
• Es nerunāju labi latviski – I do not speak Latvian very well
• Es nesaprotu – I do not understand
• Vai jūs varat to atkārtot, lūdzu? – Can you repeat that please?
• Man vajag informāciju – I need information
• Kur atrodas informācijas birojs? – Where is the information office?
• Ko tas nozīmē? – What does this mean?
• Cik ir pulkstenis? – What time is it?
• Kāds ir jūsu e-pasta adrese? – What’s your email address?
• _Kā latviski saka ___ ? – How do you say ____ in Latvian?
• Kas tas ir/šis ir? – What is this/that?
• Vai es varu izmantot jūsu telefonu? – Can I use your phone?

Useful Phrases for Directions in Latvian

Navigate Latvia’s charming cities and unspoilt countryside with the following phrases. Whether exploring ancient castles or modern streets, they’ll help you always find your way.

Plus, asking a real person is much more rewarding than being glued to a map on your phone!

• Kur atrodas…? – Where is the…?
• Kā es varu tikt līdz…? – How do I get to…?
• Vai jūs varat man parādīt kartē? – Can you show me on the map?
• Ejiet taisni uz priekšu – Go straight ahead
• Pagriezieties pa labi/pa kreisi – Turn right/left
• Tas ir tuvu/tālu – It’s near/far
• Tas ir aiz stūra – It’s around the corner
• Šis ir stūris – This is the corner
• Kurā virzienā ir…? – Which way is it to…?
• Vai es varu tur aiziet kājām vai man vajag taksometru? – Can I walk there or do I need a taxi?

Basic Latvian Phrases for Transportation

Travel around Latvia effortlessly with these transportation phrases. From buses to trains and taxis, they’ll ensure your journeys are smooth and enjoyable.

• Kur es varu saņemt taksometru? – Where can I get a taxi?
• Cik maksā brauciens uz…? – How much does it cost to go to…?
• Es gribu doties uz… – I want to go to…
• Kur atrodas autobusa pietura? – Where is the bus stop?
• Kur atrodas autobusu stacija? – Where is the bus station?
• Cikos izbrauc nākamais vilciens? – What time does the next train leave?
• Cik ilgi aizņem brauciens līdz…? – How long does it take to get to…?
• Kā es varu tikt līdz lidostai? – How do I get to the airport?
• Vai šis autobuss iet uz…? – Does this bus go to…?
• Man ir vajadzīga turp un atpakaļ biļete – I need a round trip ticket
• Kur es varu nopirkt biļetes? – Where do I buy tickets?

Basic Latvian Phrases About Accommodation

These phrases will help you find somewhere comfortable to stay during your time in Latvia. They’ll also help you communicate your needs and preferences, ask about amenities, and manage any housekeeping requests.

• Vai jums ir brīvas istabas? – Do you have any rooms available?
• Cik maksā par nakti? – How much does it cost per night?
• Vai brokastis iekļautas cenā? – Is breakfast included in the price?
• Man vajag divvietīgu istabu – I need a double room
• Vai ir istaba ar divām gultām? – Is there a room with two beds?
• Es gribu istabu ar skaistu skatu – I want a room with a nice view
• Vai ir bezmaksas Wi-Fi? – Is there free Wi-Fi?
• Vai ir gaisa kondicionētājs? – Is there air conditioning?
• Kur atrodas lifts? – Where is the elevator?
• Kur atrodas sporta zāle? – Where is the gym?
• Es gribētu rezervēt istabu – I would like to book a room
• Vai ir istabas apkalpošana? – Is there room service?
• Istaba ir netīra – The room is dirty
• Es būtu pateicīgs, ja jūs varētu iztīrīt manu numuru – I’d be grateful if you could clean my room
• Mans numurs ir pārāk trokšņains – My room is too noisy
• Es jūtos droši šajā viesnīcā – I feel safe in this hotel
• Vai jums ir kontaktligzdas adapteris? – Do you have a plug adaptor?
• Vai istabā ir seifs? – Is there a safe in the room?
• Vai jūs varat mani pamodināt (septiņos) no rīta? – Can you wake me up at (seven) a.m.?
• Man ir vajadzīga bērnu gultiņa – I need a crib for the baby
• Cikos ir jāizrakstās? – What’s the check-out time?
• Vai man varētu iedot vēl vienu dvieli? – Could I have an extra towel, please?
• Vai man varētu iedot vēl vienu spilvenu? – Could I have an extra pillow, please? 
• Kā es varu saņemt papildu atslēgas? – How do I get an extra key?
• Man ir problēmas ar televizoru – I’m having trouble with the TV

Helpful Latvian Phrases for Shopping

Whether you’re browsing a bustling market, or a modern, chic shopping centre, it’s always useful to have a local phrase or two in your pocket.

Here are some of the most commonly used Latvian shopping phrases.

• Es meklēju… – I am looking for…
• Cik tas maksā? – How much does it cost?
• Vai ir kāda atlaide? – Is there any discount?
• Cik liela ir atlaide? – How much is the discount?
• Tas ir pārāk dārgi – That’s too expensive
• Vai jūs varat samazināt cenu? – Can you lower the price?
• Vai es varu maksāt ar kredītkarti? – Can I pay with a credit card?
• Tikai skaidrā naudā – Cash only
• Vai jums ir šis lielākā izmērā? – Do you have this in a larger size?
• Vai jums ir šis citā krāsā? – Do you have this in another colour?
• Es gribu to atgriezt – I want to return this
• Kur ir mēģinājumu kabīnes? – Where are the fitting rooms?
• Atvainojiet, kur atrodas lielveikals? – Excuse me, where’s the supermarket?
• Kur atrodas apģērbu veikals? – Where’s the clothing store?
• Man vajag somu – I need a bag
• Kur es varu atrast vietējos produktus? – Where can I find local products?

Helpful Phrases for Dining Out in Latvia

Tuck into Latvia’s rich culinary scene with these dining phrases. They help you navigate menus, order dishes, and enjoy the unique flavours of Latvian cuisine.

• Vai es varu dabūt galdu diviem? – Can I get a table for two?
• Vai jūs varat man parādīt ēdienkarti? – Can you please show me the menu?
• Kāds ir šodienas ēdiens? – What is the dish of the day?
• Es gribētu… – I would like…
• Vai jūs varat man kaut ko ieteikt? – Could you suggest something for me?
• Ko jūs ieteiktu ēst? – What do you recommend to eat?
• Es esmu alerģisks pret… – I’m allergic to…
• Vai šajā ēdienā ir…? – Does this dish contain…?
• Vai jums ir vegetārie/vegānie piedāvājumi? – Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?
• Es neēdu gaļu/zivis/piena produktus – I don’t eat meat/fish/dairy
• Vai tas ir piemērots vegetāriešiem? – Is this suitable for vegetarians?
• Kas tas ir? – What is this?
• Man tas patīk – I like it
• Vai es varu dabūt rēķinu, lūdzu? – Can I have the bill, please?
• Tas bija garšīgi! Paldies – It was delicious! Thank you
• Uz veselību! – Cheers!

Latvian Question Words

As with other languages, understanding the main Latvian question words can be useful in a wide range of scenarios. They’re also fundamental for engaging in day-to-day conversations.

• Kas? – What?
• Kur? – Where?
• Kad? – When?
• Kas? – Who?
• Kāpēc? – Why?
• Kā? – How?
• Kurš?/Kura? – Which?
• Cik daudz? – How much?
• Cik? – How many?
• Kam pieder? – Whose?
• Cik daudz?/Cik? – How much/How many?
• Vai tas ir…? – Is it…?
• Vai es varu…? – Can I…
• Vai jūs…? – Will…
• Kas tas ir? – Who is that?
• Kā tas ir? – How is it?
• Kāpēc tas ir tā? – Why is it?
• Kāpēc šis? – Why this?
• Kas ir iekš…? – What is in …?
• Kur ir …? – Where is …?
• Vai tur ir …? – Is there a …?

Numbers in Latvian

Understanding the Latvian numbering system is also helpful, especially when it comes to transactions, discussing times, and navigating transportation.

Below is a list of simple numbers along with some larger ones:

• Nulle – 0
• Viens – 1 (masculine) / Vienu – 1 (neuter)
• Divi – 2 (masculine) / Divas – 2 (feminine)
• Trīs – 3
• Četri – 4
• Pieci – 5
• Seši – 6
• Septiņi – 7
• Astoņi – 8
• Deviņi – 9
• Desmit – 10
• Vienpadsmit – 11
• Divpadsmit – 12
• Trīspadsmit – 13
• Četrpadsmit – 14
• Piecpadsmit – 15
• Sešpadsmit – 16
• Septiņpadsmit – 17
• Astoņpadsmit – 18
• Deviņpadsmit – 19
• Divdesmit – 20
• Trīsdesmit – 30
• Četrdesmit – 40
• Piecdesmit – 50
• Sešdesmit – 60
• Septiņdesmit – 70
• Astoņdesmit – 80
• Deviņdesmit – 90
• Simts – 100
• Tūkstotis – 1,000
• Desmit tūkstoši – 10,000
• Simt tūkstoši – 100,000
• Miljons – 1,000,000

To form numbers in between these, combine the tens and units. For example:

• “Twenty-one” is Divdesmit viens (20 + 1)
• “Thirty-two” is Trīsdesmit divi (30 + 2)

For numbers in the hundreds, thousands, and beyond, combine the larger number with the smaller. For instance:

• “One hundred and twenty-three” is Simts divdesmit trīs
• “Two thousand and nineteen” is Divi tūkstoši deviņpadsmit

If you’re interested in learning another Baltic language, check out my post on Basic Estonian Phrases For Travel .

Final Thoughts: Basic Latvian Phrases For Travel

Latvian can be a challenging language to learn. However, with the right resources and a bit of motivation, you can quickly pick up some basic phrases to make your travels in this country easier.

So take the plunge and give some of these useful Latvian words and phrases a try — you won’t regret it!

Finally, if you want to take your Latvian learning to the next level, I can personally recommend LingoHut’s free Latvian lessons .

Alex Tiffany

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Basic Words and Phrases in Latvian

About Latvian

Latvian is the official language of Latvia, spoken by around 1.3 million people. It belongs to the Baltic branch of the Indo-European language family and shares similarities with Lithuanian. Latvian has been influenced by German, Russian, and Swedish throughout its history. Its complex grammar system involves extensive inflection. The Latin-based alphabet with diacritical marks is used for writing, and the language has a phonetic orthography. Latvian vocabulary includes borrowings from various languages while also retaining ancient Baltic roots. Latvian is integral to Latvian culture and plays a significant role in literature, music, and artistic expression. Efforts have been made to preserve and promote the language since Latvia's independence.

• Basic Words and Phrases

Learning a foreign language opens up a world of opportunities, allowing you to connect with people from different cultures and expand your horizons. Whether you're planning a trip or simply curious about a new language, mastering some basic words and phrases is a great place to start.

Greetings are an essential part of any language. Saying "hello" and "goodbye" can create an instant connection with native speakers. In many languages, "hello" is a universal term, but learning the specific greeting for the language you're interested in can show respect and appreciation. Similarly, learning how to say "goodbye" will help you leave a positive impression.

• Conversations

Next, let's explore basic conversation starters. Asking "how are you?" or "what's your name?" in another language is a friendly way to engage with others. These simple phrases can pave the way for more meaningful conversations and help you build rapport.

When staying at a hotel in a foreign country, it's helpful to be familiar with some phrases that can assist you during your stay. Here are a few key phrases you can use in a hotel.

When dining at restaurants in a foreign country, it's helpful to know phrases that can assist you during your meal. Being able to request a table, order food and drinks, and ask for the bill are important for a pleasant dining experience.

• Food and drinks

Being able to order food and drinks, ask for recommendations, and express preferences or dietary restrictions will enhance your dining experience and allow you to explore the local cuisine.

• Places and Services

Just like how saying hello helps you connect with others, exploring phrases related to locations and services can greatly enhance your travel experience. Whether you're looking for important places like banks or post offices, these expressions can open up doors to immersing yourself in the local culture.

Knowing how to ask for the price, request a different size or color, or simply say "I'm just looking" can be useful when shopping in local markets or stores.

Learning phrases related to asking for directions, understanding common landmarks, and getting around the city will help you navigate unfamiliar places with ease.

Familiarizing yourself with phrases for using public transportation, such as asking for a ticket, stating your destination, or inquiring about schedules, will make your travel experience smoother and more efficient.

• Emergencies

When you're in a different country, it's really important to be aware of emergency phrases such as 'help,' 'hospital,' and 'police.' Using expressions like 'emergency' and 'I need help' can help you overcome language barriers and make sure you're ready for any unexpected situations that might occur. Having a good grasp of these phrases will help keep you safe and give you peace of mind while traveling.

Effortlessly asking and telling the time enhances your travel experience, from coordinating schedules to catching transportation, adding a valuable layer to your linguistic toolkit for effective communication during your stay.

Learning numbers is essential for tasks like counting, ordering quantities, or understanding prices.

• Ordinal Numbers

Ordinal numbers play a crucial role in conveying sequence and order. Whether you're navigating travel itineraries, selecting seats, or exploring historical sites, understanding expressions like 'first,' 'second,' and so on is essential.

• Days of the week

Knowing the names of the days of the week will help you schedule activities, make appointments, or plan your itinerary.

Being familiar with the names of the months will allow you to discuss dates, make reservations, or talk about specific time frames.

• Question Words

Understanding basic question words like who, what, where, when, why, and how will enable you to ask for information or clarification in various situations.

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Hey there! I'm Rainier and I'm the person behind Roaming with Rainier. I've always been really into traveling and photography. I've been fortunate enough to visit incredible destinations and there are still so many more on my bucket list. My plan is to explore breathtaking places around the world and share my experiences through articles and reviews.

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Other Baltic Languages

Things to do in Riga

Latvian phrasebook

• 1.3 Consonants
• 1.4 Common diphthongs
• 2.2 Problems
• 2.3 Numbers
• 2.4.1 Clock time
• 2.4.2 Duration
• 2.4.4 Months
• 2.4.5 Writing time and date
• 2.6.1 Buying Tickets
• 2.6.2 Bus and Train
• 2.6.3 Directions
• 2.7 Lodging
• 2.11 Shopping
• 2.12 Driving
• 2.13 Authority
• 2.14 Emergencies

Latvian ( latviešu valoda ) is the official language in the Republic of Latvia, spoken natively by approximately 60% of the residents of Latvia , approximately 1,250,000 people. Worldwide it is estimated to be spoken by 1,504,880 people, a 2009 estimate from Ethnologue . It is an Indo-European language that shares its own Baltic language group with Lithuanian , New Curonian, Old Prussian, and Semigallian. The Baltic languages show closest relationship with the Slavic languages, and are commonly reconstructed to have passed through common Proto-Balto-Slavic stage, during which numerous Common Balto-Slavic lexical, phonological, morphological and accentological isoglosses developed. It is a relatively new language, its first written accounts date to 1530 A.D.

Written Latvian is based on the Latin alphabet and uses 33 letters: Aa, Āā, Bb, Cc, Čč, Dd, Ee, Ēē, Ff, Gg, Ģģ, Hh, Ii, Īī, Jj, Kk, Ķķ, Ll, Ļļ, Mm, Nn, Ņņ, Oo, Pp, Rr, Ss, Šš, Tt, Uu, Ūū, Vv, Zz, Žž.

Pronunciation guide [ edit ]

Stress [ edit ].

In Latvian, the stress is almost always on the first syllable .

Vowels [ edit ]

Notice that there are long and short vowel sounds in Latvian.

Consonants [ edit ]

Common diphthongs [ edit ], phrase list [ edit ], basics [ edit ], problems [ edit ], numbers [ edit ], time [ edit ].

The 24 hour clock is used in Latvia.

Clock time [ edit ]

Duration [ edit ], days [ edit ], months [ edit ], writing time and date [ edit ].

The 24-hour clock is used in Latvia. You may find that Latvians also use it when speaking. The easiest way to tell time in Latvian is to say the hour and then the minutes, e.g. ' three-twenty '.

Colors [ edit ]

Transportation [ edit ], buying tickets [ edit ], bus and train [ edit ], directions [ edit ], taxi [ edit ], lodging [ edit ], money [ edit ], eating [ edit ], bars [ edit ], shopping [ edit ], driving [ edit ], authority [ edit ], emergencies [ edit ].

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Latvian for travelers: essential phrases and cultural insights.

January 25, 2024

Embark on a journey through Latvia, the pearl of the Baltics, equipped with essential Latvian phrases and rich cultural insights. This guide, brought to you by World Translation Center, is your gateway to a seamless Latvian adventure.

Greetings and Basic Communication

Latvian interactions begin with a warm greeting. Here are some phrases to help you blend in from the moment you arrive:

• Hello: Sveiki (sveh-kee)
• Good morning: Labrīt (lahb-reet)
• Good evening: Labvakar (lahb-vah-kahr)
• Please: Lūdzu (loo-dzoo)
• Thank you: Paldies (pahl-dyes)
• Yes: Jā (yaah)
• No: Nē (neh)

Understanding these basics is the first step to feeling at home in Latvia. For more detailed communication, consider professional Latvian translation services .

Dining Out in Latvia

Latvian cuisine is a hidden gem. When enjoying local delicacies, use these phrases to express your satisfaction or request assistance:

• The menu, please: Ēdienkarti, lūdzu (eh-dee-en-kahr-tee loo-dzoo)
• Water, please: Ūdeni, lūdzu (oo-deh-nee loo-dzoo)
• Cheers!: Priekā! (pree-eh-kaa)

Navigating Your Way

Exploring Latvia’s stunning landscapes and historic sites is more enjoyable when you can navigate with ease:

• Where is…?: Kur ir…? (koor ir)
• How much does it cost?: Cik tas maksā? (tsik tahs mak-saa)
• I would like to go to…: Es gribētu aiziet uz… (es grih-beh-too ahyeht ooz)

Cultural Etiquette and Insights

Latvians value respect and modesty. Here are some cultural insights to help you connect with locals:

• Personal Space: Latvians respect personal space. It’s customary to greet with a firm handshake rather than close physical contact.
• Punctuality: Being on time is important in Latvia. It’s considered respectful to arrive at or slightly before the agreed time.
• Sauna Culture: The sauna (pirts) holds a special place in Latvian culture. It’s a space for relaxation and socializing, often involving traditional rituals.

In Case of Emergency

It’s always good to be prepared for unexpected situations:

• Help!: Palīgā! (pah-lee-gaa)
• I need a doctor: Man vajag ārstu (mahn vah-yag ahrs-too)
• Where is the hospital?: Kur ir slimnīca? (koor ir slim-nee-tsah)

Wrapping Up Your Journey

As your Latvian adventure comes to an end, leave a lasting impression with these parting words:

• Goodbye: Uz redzēšanos (oos red-ze-shah-nos)
• I will be back: Es atgriezīšos (es aht-gree-zee-shos)
• Latvia is beautiful: Latvija ir skaista (lah-tee-vyah ir sky-stah)

Embarking on a journey through Latvia can be a rich and rewarding experience, especially when you can communicate in the local language. For deeper cultural immersion or professional language services, contact World Translation Center .

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Latvian phrases

Useful phrases, greetings and common words in the Latvian language.

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• Multilingual Pages

Useful Latvian phrases

A collection of useful phrases in Latvian, a Baltic language spoken mainly in Latvia, with mp3 audio recordings.

Jump to phrases

See these phrases in any combination of two languages in the Phrase Finder . If you can provide recordings, corrections or additional translations, please contact me .

Key to abbreviations: frm = formal, inf = informal

Recordings by Lilija N

Download all the audio files (Zip format, 1.47MB)

If you would like to make any corrections or additions to this page, or if you can provide recordings, please contact me .

Hear some Latvian phrases:

Information about Latvian | Phrases | Numbers | Family words | Tower of Babel | Learning materials

Collections of Latvian phrases (some with audio) https://ilanguages.org/latvian_phrases.php https://www.languagehelpers.com/words/latvian/basic.html https://mylanguages.org/latvian_phrases.php https://wikitravel.org/en/Latvian_phrasebook

Phrases in Baltic languages

Latvian , Lithuanian , Samogitian

Phrases in other languages

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Learn Basic Latvian | Greetings and Introductions

• Post author By Matosan314
• Post date November 29, 2022

Latvian Greetings and Introductions

– essential words and phrases to know –.

Learn the essentials of Latvian easily with this vocabulary list that contains all the most basic words and phrases used in Latvian for greetings and Introductions, with their english translations. If you’re a beginner, it will come in handy to review or learn Latvian by yourself before traveling, or if you want to enrich and improve your Latvian vocabulary to better express yourself in writing and speaking!

Do you spot any errors or want to add a vocabulary word to the list? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment to improve the site!

➡️ More Latvian vocabulary lists:

• Basic words to learn
• 100 most common Latvian verbs
• Useful adverbs
• Useful adjectives
• Family and friends
• The city and public places
• The human body, head and face
• Contrary words
• Travel and tourism
• The calendar (days, months, seasons)
• Colors and shapes

©Extralanguages.com – Do not copy on other sites

• Tags Latvian

• 500 Popular Words
• Translation
• Learning Tips
• Amazing Languages

Latvian Phrases

Welcome to our seventh lesson about popular Latvian phrases . This page will include greetings , questions , emergency and survival expressions , asking for direction , language practice , introducing yourself , holiday wishes , and finally some travel phrases .

I hope you enjoyed this lesson about the phrases in Latvian. Please check out our main menu here for more lessons: homepage . The next lesson is below.

Latvian/Common phrases

• Latvian: Latviešu
• Hello (informal): Sveiki!
• Hello (formal): Sveicināti!
• Good day (formal): Labdien!
• Good evening: Labvakar!
• Good morning: Labrīt!
• Goodbye: Uz redzēšanos!
• Glad to meet you: Prieks iepazīties!
• Please: Lūdzu!
• Thank you: Paldies!
• Sorry: Atvainojiet!
• I don’t understand: Es nesaprotu
• General toast: Priekā!
• How are you? (formal): Kā jums klājas?
• How are you? (informal): Kā tev iet?
• Where's the bathroom?: Kur ir tualete?
• Do you speak English? (formal): Vai Jūs runājat angliski?
• Do you speak English? (informal): Vai tu runā angliski?
• I love you: Es tevi mīlu
• See you tomorrow: Tiksimies rīt!
• What is it?: Kas tas ir?
• Where am I?: Kur es esmu?
• Where is the closest train station?: Kur atrodas tuvākā vilciena stacija?
• What time is it?: Cik ir pulkstenis?
• Happy Birthday: Daudz laimes dzimšanas dienā!
• Happy New Year: Laimīgu jauno gadu!
• Goodnight: Ar labu nakti!

• Book:Latvian

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• , October 10, 2023

#1 Comprehensive List Of Basic Words And Phrases In Latvian

Latvian is a part of the eastern group of Baltic languages. More than 2 million people speak it. Latvian is more closely related to Lithuanian. However, these two languages ​​are not similar to each other. Thus, it can happen that a Latvian and a Lithuanian converse in Russian. The Latvian vocabulary is constructed excitingly. It has many words that come from some other languages.

Those languages ​​include  German ,  Swedish ,  Russian , and  English . Recently, a few phrases and terms were created because they were missing until now. So learn these basic words and phrases in Latvian if you are planning to visit Latvia.

Additionally, Latvian has three dialects: Riga/Vidzeme (standard), Kurzeme (difference in pronunciation), and Latgallian (sometimes considered a separate language). The differences between the Riga dialect and the Kurzeme dialect, are mainly pronunciation and vocabulary. The Kurzeme dialect generally removes the last vowel and is spoken faster than the Riga accent: Septiņ-/Septiņi, the first is Kurzeme, and the second is Riga.

• Did you know?  An average native speaker who speaks Latvian uses only a small amount of basic words and phrases in Latvian daily. It means that you can talk in Latvian at a certain acceptable level simply by visiting the previous pages.

Basic Words And Phrases In Latvian – Reason To Learn

There are many purposes why people choose to learn a new language like Latvian. Having an apparent reason you want to learn will help motivate you and push you to learn when you feel out of reach. While there are much more complex reasons, here are a few to consider as you begin your language-learning journey:

Now, let’s learn some basic words and phrases in Latvian conversation. This article will teach you how to introduce yourself and simple words and phrases like yes, no, good day, and I don’t understand. Learn this, and you will be ready for short Latvian conversations.

List Of Basic Words And Phrases In Latvian

While you’ll learn the basic responses such as yes, no, or okay in Latvian, you’ll also need to learn how to say sorry or excuse me too. Don’t forget to practice these words everyday to memorize them!

Learn Latvian Common Phrases For Introduction

Grammar Tips for Basic Words And Phrases In Latvian

Latvian is written in the Latin alphabet with an accent on the first syllable. Grammar has many functions that other languages do not have. However, their rules are always distinct and clear.

While in English, an adjective does not change when the noun changes, in Latvian, an adjective, must agree with the noun in number and gender. For example:

a.  Example of Masculine to the feminine:

Šis ir mans mazais dēls (this is my little son) becomes Šī ir mana mazā meita (this is my little daughter).

From the example above, as you can see, the adjective also takes the feminine form.

b. Singular to plural example:

Šis ir mans baltais kaķis (this is my white cat) becomes Šie ir mani baltie kaķi (these are my white cats).

From the example above, as you can see, the adjective also takes the plural form.

Other Important Basic Words And Phrases In Latvian

First, you will have to learn the basics of the Latvian language. The free dialogue example will help you speak a foreign and rare language. Also, there is no prior knowledge required. Even advanced learners can refresh and enhance their learning. You can use and learn frequently used sentences immediately. Further, you will be able to convey in a  variety of situations  where you should use this language.

Take a break or go to get off work and study for a few minutes. You can study basic words and phrases in Latvian on the go and at home. You can learn Latvian anywhere, anytime.

Latvia Fun Facts Menu — Speak Latvian

• The Latvian language phrases like pūst pīlītes (to blow little ducks) mean to talk nonsense.
• The Latvian language is a group member of the Baltic language, and it is the only living relative is Lithuanian.
• In Latvian, male names almost always end with “s” and female names with “a” or “e.” It extends to foreign names, so in Latvian English, John would become Džons.

What Is The Best Resource To Learn Latvian? Become Fluent With Ling!

Learning any language  demands time to study and resources to learn. The time and effort will be entirely up to you. So, take the time and learn basic words and phrases in Latvian. However, please search the free Ling app that can certainly help with these Latvian phrases lessons .

If you’re curious about how to become fluent in Latvian in such a short time, you should put all your effort into it. The Ling app is the best resource to try on your iOS or Android device. You can take it anywhere, and you won’t lose your progress too! With 200+ lessons and 60+ other languages, you’ll not get bored of going over the same topic or lesson. Learn languages with Ling now!

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Navigating LingoHut to learn Latvian is like going on a personalized cultural tour; every lesson is an opportunity to dig deeper into the soul of Latvia. Each 5-minute session is filled with a variety of activities and games aimed at honing your vocabulary and perfecting your pronunciation, all crafted to make the language accessible. The platform employs a drip-feed methodology to ensure that every new word or phrase is firmly planted in your memory, ready for you to use in conversations with locals, whether you are in the bustling markets of Riga or the serene landscapes of Gauja National Park.

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Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful melodies of Latvian folk songs and the architectural wonders of Riga by mastering Latvian. As one of the Baltic languages, Latvian holds the keys to a region steeped in ancient traditions and dynamic modernity. This language is not just the bridge to 1.9 million native speakers; it's an entrance into a vibrant culture that values deep familial bonds, folklore, and a rich literary heritage.

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Why learn latvian, latvian resource for homeschooling.

As homeschooling grows, parents look for good foreign language resources to teach Latvian. Your homeschooler deserves the best platform to learn Latvian, giving them the tools to communicate and understand Latvian. This free homeschool foreign language resource helps build Latvian vocabulary and provides a place to practice the proper pronunciation of Latvian. Does your child want to learn Latvian?

Latvian resource for foreign language teachers

It isn't easy for a foreign language teacher to find good foreign language resources to help students improve their new Latvian language skills. At LingoHut, we focus on building Latvian vocabulary and teaching the proper pronunciation of Latvian. It is an entirely free resource that foreign language teachers can confidently recommend. Students do not need an account to learn on the website. Do you teach Latvian? Share this free foreign language resource.

Boost your professional development with Latvian language skills

Invest in your future and learn Latvian to accelerate your career. With the rapid pace of change, you must continually update your skills and knowledge. Stand out from the crowd with Latvian language skills.

Learn Latvian and get more out of your travel experience

Before a trip, the best preparation you can do is to learn some Latvian words. Learning Latvian will provide you with a better experience during your travels. Start learning Latvian today at LingoHut.com. Click on any of the 125 + free online Latvian lessons above to start your journey to communicate in Latvian.

Learn Latvian with the "drip-feed" approach

Imagine a dripping faucet, each drop collecting to form a puddle that continues to expand with each drip. Similarly, this approach focuses on understanding Latvian in small increments. Think of each Latvian word as a drop and each Latvian phrase/sentence as a small puddle, which finally becomes the large pool of your new language mastery and success. Bit by bit, step by step, drop by drop, Latvian is integrated successfully into your knowledge base!

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