Learning a new language can be both exciting and intimidating. When starting with Icelandic, it is beneficial to get accustomed to some basic phrases that will help you interact with the locals and enhance your travel experience or start meaningful conversations. Here are some fundamental Icelandic phrases with their definitions and examples for beginners who are eager to dive into this fascinating language.
Hæ (Hi)
This is a casual greeting used just like “hi” in English.
Hæ, hvernig hefur þú það? (Hi, how are you?)
Góðan daginn (Good day)
A polite way to say hello, used during the daytime.
Góðan daginn, er þetta sæti laust? (Good day, is this seat free?)
Góða nótt (Good night)
What you would say when parting ways in the evening or before going to bed.
Sjáumst á morgun, góða nótt. (See you tomorrow, good night.)
Já (Yes)
An affirmation or agreement.
Já, ég vil gjarnan þetta. (Yes, I would like this.)
Nei (No)
A negative response or disagreement.
Nei, takk, ég er ekki svangur. (No, thanks, I’m not hungry.)
Takk fyrir (Thank you)
A polite way to express gratitude.
Takk fyrir hjálpin. (Thank you for the help.)
Afsakið (Excuse me)
Used to get someone’s attention, apologize or make your way through a crowd.
Afsakið, getur þú bent mér á næsta klósett? (Excuse me, can you point me to the nearest restroom?)
Ég skil ekki (I don’t understand)
Useful for when you need someone to repeat or rephrase something.
Hvað sagðirðu? Ég skil ekki. (What did you say? I don’t understand.)
Getur þú talað hægar? (Can you speak more slowly?)
A phrase to use when you require someone to slow down their speech for better understanding.
Fyrirgefðu, getur þú talað hægar? (Excuse me, can you speak more slowly?)
Hvar er klósettið? (Where is the bathroom?)
A very practical phrase that is universally important.
Afsakið, hvar er klósettið? (Excuse me, where is the bathroom?)
Ég tala ekki íslensku (I don’t speak Icelandic)
To inform someone that you do not speak the language fluently.
Fyrirgefðu, ég tala ekki íslensku, talar þú ensku? (Excuse me, I don’t speak Icelandic, do you speak English?)
Eitt bjór, vinsamlegast (One beer, please)
Essential for ordering a drink at a bar or restaurant.
Ég ætla að fá eitt bjór, vinsamlegast. (I will have one beer, please.)
Ég heiti… (My name is…)
An important phrase to introduce yourself.
Halló, ég heiti Jón og ég er frá Íslandi. (Hello, my name is Jón and I’m from Iceland.)
Talar þú ensku? (Do you speak English?)
A question you might often need as a beginner if you require assistance in English.
Fyrirgefðu, talar þú ensku? Ég þarf aðstoð. (Excuse me, do you speak English? I need help.)
By starting with these phrases, you can begin to break the ice and immerse yourself in the Icelandic culture. Remember, practice is key, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it’s all part of the learning process. Gangi þér vel! (Good luck!)
