Learning the local language is essential when immersing yourself in a new culture, especially if you’re attending formal occasions. Ukrainian, a language rich in history and nuances, is no exception. In order to be well-prepared for formal events such as business meetings, official ceremonies, or even upscale social gatherings in Ukraine, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some key phrases. Here are some essential Ukrainian expressions to learn that will help you navigate through formal situations with elegance and respect.

Вітаю Вас (Vitayu Vas) – This phrase means “I greet you” or “Welcome.” It’s a formal greeting that can be used any time of the day.

Приємно Вас бачити, Вітаю Вас на нашій зустрічі.

Добрий день (Dobryi den’) – “Good day,” this is one of the most common formal greetings in Ukrainian, suitable for use from morning until late afternoon.

Добрий день, пане директоре, як Ваша справа?

Дякую (Dyakuyu) – Simply means “Thank you.” It’s an important word to show appreciation in any formal interaction.

Дякую за Ваше запрошення, мені було дуже приємно.

Будь ласка (Bud’ laska) – This versatile phrase can mean “Please,” “You’re welcome,” or even “Here you go.”

Прошу Вас, будь ласка, пройти до залу засідань.

Перепрошую (Pereproshuyu) – “Excuse me.” Use this when you need to get someone’s attention or if you happen to interrupt someone.

Перепрошую, чи можете Ви допомогти мені знайти цей кабінет?

До побачення (Do pobachennya) – It means “Goodbye” in a formal manner, usually used when you won’t be seeing the person again for a while.

До побачення, з нетерпінням чекатиму нашої наступної зустрічі.

Пан (Pan) / Пані (Pani) – “Mr.” or “Mrs./Ms.” A respectful way to address someone, often followed by their surname.

Дозвольте представитися, я – Пан Ковальчук.

З повагою (Z povahoyu) – Meaning “With respect,” this phrase is typically used to close a formal letter or email.

Чекаю на Вашу відповідь, з повагою, Олександр Васильович.

Прошу пробачення (Proshu probachennya) – “I apologize” or “I am sorry.” A polite way to admit a mistake or to interrupt.

Прошу пробачення за затримку, були непередбачені обставини.

Чи можу я Вам допомогти? (Chy mozhu ya Vam dopomohty?) – It means “May I help you?” and shows your willingness to be of service.

Ви здаєтеся збентеженим, чи можу я Вам допомогти?

As you learn these phrases and incorporate them into your conversations, you’re sure to leave a positive impression on your Ukrainian counterparts. Remember, language is not just a means of communication but also a bridge to understanding a culture and its traditions. Good luck on your language learning journey, and may your experience in Ukraine be enriched by your ability to engage formally and respectfully!