Hello – “Halló”
Could you help me, please? Halló, gætirðu aðstoðað mig?
Definition: A basic greeting to initiate conversation or catch someone’s attention.
Goodbye – “Bless”
I had a great time, goodbye! Ég hafði það frábært, bless!
Definition: A friendly way to part ways or end a conversation.
Thank you – “Takk”
That was very helpful, thank you! Það var mjög hjálplegt, takk!
Definition: Show your appreciation towards someone’s help or kindness.
Yes – “Já”
Would you like some coffee? Yes, please. Viltu fá kaffi? Já, takk.
Definition: An affirmative response to a question.
No – “Nei”
Are you interested in buying this? No, thank you. Hefur þú áhuga á að kaupa þetta? Nei, takk.
Definition: A negative response to a question.
Excuse me – “Afsakið”
Excuse me, where is the restroom? Afsakið, hvar er klósettið?
Definition: A polite expression used when you need to get someone’s attention or if you’re about to ask a question.
Do you speak English? – “Talar þú ensku?”
Do you speak English? I need some assistance. Talar þú ensku? Ég þarf aðstoð.
Definition: A useful question to determine if there’s a common language for communication.
How much is this? – “Hvað kostar þetta?”
How much is this sweater? Hvað kostar þessi peysa?
Definition: This question will help you when you are purchasing something and need to know the price.
Where is…? – “Hvar er…?”
Where is the nearest gas station? Hvar er næsta bensínstöð?
Definition: A phrase to ask for the location of something.
Bathroom – “Klósett”
Could you please tell me where the bathroom is? Gætirðu sagt mér hvar klósettið er?
Definition: Knowing how to ask for the bathroom is always practical in any language.
Can I get the bill, please? – “Má ég fá reikninginn, takk?”
We would like to leave now, can I get the bill, please? Við viljum fara núna, má ég fá reikninginn, takk?
Definition: A polite way to ask for the bill at a restaurant or café.
Help! – “Hjálp!”
Help! I’ve lost my bag. Hjálp! Ég hef týnt töskunni minni.
Definition: A word to call out in emergencies or when you’re in urgent need of assistance.
I don’t understand – “Ég skil ekki”
I’m sorry, I don’t understand what you’re saying. Fyrirgefðu, ég skil ekki hvað þú segir.
Definition: A polite way to indicate that you’re having difficulty understanding something.
I would like… – “Ég myndi vilja…”
I would like a cup of tea, please. Ég myndi vilja bolla af te, takk.
Definition: Use this phrase when expressing a desire or making a polite request.
Remember to speak slowly and clearly when trying out these phrases, and don’t be shy about using them. Learning even just a few words in Icelandic can enhance your connection with the local culture and make your journey much more enjoyable.