Language is an essential carrier of culture, and diving into the cultural and traditional expressions of any language can offer deep insights into the heart of its people. Armenian, a language with a rich history spanning over millennia, is brimming with unique phrases and expressions that capture the essence of Armenia’s culture and traditions. In this exploration of Armenian colloquialisms, we’ll delve into some vibrant expressions and the stories behind them.

Շնորհավոր (Shnorhavor)
“Շնորհավոր” is an essential word meaning “congratulations” or “best wishes.” It is often used in various celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, New Year’s, and other joyous occasions.
Ծննդյան օրըդ շնորհավոր: (Tsnundyan ord shnorhavor.) – Happy birthday to you!

Հաճույք է (Hachuyq e)
This phrase translates to “It’s a pleasure” or “With pleasure,” and it is used when someone thanks you for something you’ve done. It reflects the hospitable nature of Armenian culture.
Դուք կարող եք համեմատել իմ բառարանը: Հաճույք է: (Duk karogh ek hamematel im bararan@. Hachuyq e.) – You can borrow my dictionary. With pleasure.

Ձեր առողջությանը (Dzer aroghjutyan@)
Literally meaning “to your health,” this expression is often used as a toast during drinking, reflecting the importance of health in Armenian culture.
Եկեք բարձրացնենք բաժակները ձեր առողջությանը: (Yeq barjratsnenq bajakner@ dzer aroghjutyan@.) – Let’s raise our glasses to your health.

Կենաց (Kenats)
“Կենաց” is an equivalent of “cheers” and is used during toasts, usually accompanied by the clinking of glasses. It embodies the community feeling and the celebratory spirit of Armenian gatherings.
Կենաց, որ մեր բոլոր երազանքները իրականանան: (Kenats, vor mer bolor yerazanknery irakananana.) – Cheers, may all our dreams come true.

Բարի գալուստ (Bari galust)
A standard greeting which means “welcome,” it is used to greet someone upon their arrival. A show of Armenian hospitality, it is often heard in both personal homes and in businesses.
Բարի գալուստ Հայաստան: (Bari galust Hayastan.) – Welcome to Armenia.

Թող լինի (Togh lini)
This phrase, meaning “Let it be” or “May it happen,” is used to wish for something to come true or to give someone your blessing or approval.
Թող լինի, որ դուք արագ ապրեք: (Togh lini, vor duk arag arek.) – May it be that you recover quickly.

Խնդրում եմ (Khndrum em)
Translated to “please” or “I request,” this is an expression of politeness used when asking for something or making a request.
Խնդրում եմ, կարող եք այստեղ տեղադրել ձեր տոպրակը: (Xndrum em, karogh eq aystegh teghadrel dzer toprak@.) – Please, can you put your bag here?

Every language expresses its cultural richness through phrases and idioms that resonate with its history and social norms. By understanding and using these Armenian expressions, language learners and enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the color and tradition of Armenian life, offering a more genuine connection with its people and customs. Whether you are toasting with friends, congratulating someone, or extending a warm welcome, these expressions give a taste of Armenia’s cultural heritage.