When venturing into the beautiful country of Bulgaria or conversing with a Bulgarian friend, it’s always a good idea to have some basic phrases at your disposal. Language opens doors to culture, connection, and understanding, so here’s a handy set of Bulgarian phrases that you can use for simple communication.

Здравей (Zdravey) – Hello
This is a common informal greeting in Bulgaria. You can use it when meeting someone casually.
Когато срещнах Иван, казах “Здравей!”

Добър ден (Dobar den) – Good day
A more formal greeting that’s equivalent to “good afternoon.”
Когато влязох в офиса, казах на всички “Добър ден.”

Добър вечер (Dobar vecher) – Good evening
Use this phrase when greeting someone in the evening.
Видях съседа си вечерта и му казах “Добър вечер.”

Довиждане (Dovizhdane) – Goodbye
This is the standard way to bid someone farewell.
Когато си тръгнах от магазина, казах “Довиждане” на касиера.

Благодаря (Blagodarya) – Thank you
An essential phrase to express gratitude.
Когато ми подаде книгата, аз казах “Благодаря.”

Моля (Molya) – Please
This word is used to politely ask for something.
“Моля, бихте ли ми подадали солта?”

Извинете (Izvinete) – Excuse me
Whether you’re getting someone’s attention or apologizing for a minor inconvenience, this is the word to use.
“Извинете, може ли да мина?”

Да (Da) – Yes
A simple affirmative response.
Когато ме попита дали разбирам, отговорих “Да.”

Не (Ne) – No
Similarly, this is how you disagree or deny something in Bulgarian.
“Не, не съм бил в България преди.”

Може би (Mozhe bi) – Maybe
To express uncertainty or possibility, use this phrase.
“Може би ще дойда на киното вечерта.”

Извинявай (Izvinyavay) – I am sorry
A more informal or personal way to apologize.
“Извинявай, че закъснях.”

Не разбирам (Ne razbiram) – I don’t understand
Useful when you need clarification or didn’t catch what was said.
Казах “Не разбирам” когато не успях да следя разговора.

Говорите ли английски? (Govorite li angliyski?) – Do you speak English?
This question can be a lifesaver if you’re struggling with Bulgarian.
“Говорите ли английски?” попитах продавача.

Как се казвате? (Kak se kazvate?) – What is your name?
When you meet someone new, this is how you can ask for their name.
“Как се казвате?” попитах съседа си.

Къде е банята? (Kade e banyata?) – Where is the bathroom?
A practical question to know in any language.
“Къде е банята?” попитах в ресторанта.

Using these basic Bulgarian phrases will not only help you in typical daily interactions but will also show your respect for the culture and language. Remember, even a few words can go a long way in fostering friendships and understanding. Успех (Uspeh) – Good luck on your linguistic journey!