Learning a new language opens up a world of opportunities, and for those interested in the vibrant country of Latvia, delving into its language can be particularly rewarding. Latvian, or latviešu valoda, is rich with unique expressions and phrases. Here are some common Latvian sayings and how to use them.

Labrīt
This means “Good morning.” It’s a polite and common way to greet people before noon.
Labrīt! Kā jums sokas šodien? (Good morning! How are you today?)

Labdien
“Good day” or “Good afternoon.” Use this greeting from noon until the early evening.
Labdien, vai jūs varētu man palīdzēt? (Good day, could you please help me?)

Labvakar
Meaning “Good evening,” it is appropriate to use when greeting someone in the later part of the day.
Labvakar, cik skaista vakara debess! (Good evening, what a beautiful evening sky!)

Uz redzēšanos
This phrase translates to “Goodbye” or “See you.”
Paldies par jauko dienu, uz redzēšanos rīt! (Thank you for the lovely day, see you tomorrow!)

Paldies
Saying “thank you” is important in any language, and in Latvian, you say paldies.
Paldies par palīdzību ar mājasdarbu. (Thank you for helping with the homework.)

Lūdzu
This versatile word can mean “please” or “you’re welcome.”
Vai jūs lūdzu varētu man iedot sāli? (Could you please pass me the salt?)

Kā jums klājas?
When asking someone “How are you?” in Latvian, you say Kā jums klājas?.
Labrīt, kā jums klājas? (Good morning, how are you?)

Man kārtīgi
This expression is a response to “How are you?” and means “I’m fine” or more literally, “I am decently.”
Man kārtīgi, paldies! Un tev? (I’m fine, thanks! And you?)

Es mīlu tevi
The universal phrase “I love you” in Latvian is Es mīlu tevi.
Tu esi mans labākais draugs, es mīlu tevi. (You are my best friend, I love you.)

Es nesaprotu
When you don’t understand something, you can say Es nesaprotu, which means “I don’t understand.”
Atvainojiet, es nesaprotu, ko jūs sakāt. (Excuse me, I don’t understand what you are saying.)

Es runāju nedaudz latviski
To express that you speak a little Latvian, you can say Es runāju nedaudz latviski.
Esmu no ārzemēm, bet es runāju nedaudz latviski. (I am from abroad, but I speak a little Latvian.)

Latvian expressions are not only helpful for everyday communication; they also give a glimpse into the country’s culture and etiquette. Knowing these common sayings and phrases can enhance your experience with Latvian speakers, whether you’re visiting the country or just aiming to broaden your linguistic skills. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to try out your new vocabulary with native Latvian speakers who will appreciate your efforts to embrace their language.