How to Say Hello in Burmese

With ever smiling people all around, Myanmar is a country that's so rich in hospitality. Do explore the ancient temples, adore the authentic cuisine, and shop at the night markets when you are in Myanmar, but don't also forget to make friends with some locals there for that is going to be interesting. If communicating with them is your concern, use this guide to know how to do this in style. You don't need to know big words; a few simple words can show you the way.

Image by Martine Auvray from Pixabay

The language

No- the Burmese Language does not sound like Thai or Lao. Burmese is a Tibetan language and it's also a tonal one just like most of the other Asian languages. This means that one word may have at least 4 meanings depending on the tone used.

The alphabet

You don't need to know the Burmese alphabet to say hello to the locals or to exchange some ideas. But their alphabet is interesting! This is one of the most ancient writing systems in Asia that's based on an Indian script. They keep no spaces in between words, and they do have 34 round and circular letters in their alphabet.

Saying hello!

Although every word may have 4 different meanings based on the type of tone used, it will not be a big issue when it comes to saying 'hello'. Saying hello in Burmese is quick and easy as you just have to say 'min-gah-lah-Bahr'. Every local will understand this word, and even if you mispronounce it, locals will still appreciate it with a warm smile.

Welcoming gestures

In Myanmar, you don't do the prayer-like gesture with palms to say hello or to greet someone. And, they won't even shake hands with you to greet you. They will just say 'min-gah-lah-Bahr' with a smile and remain in front of you without bowing or anything. Males and females don't at least hug or shake hands with each other while greeting hello in Myanmar, and you will have to get accustomed to this when you are there.

Saying Thank You!

If you already know how to say hello in Burmese, you can proceed to the next most used word in the country. Learn how to say Thank You! When you choose a good hotel in Yangon the likes of Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon, you will have to say thank you more often because their hospitality services are renowned to be unmatched. So, why not express yourself in Burmese for a change? Just say 'chay-tzoo-tin-bah-teh' – this will be a little tongue-twisting at first, but you'll soon go fine with it the more you say it. 'Chay-tzoo-beh' also means thank you, and you may even use this to show your gratitude in Myanmar.

Saying 'you're welcome'!

Being pleasant does not only include saying Thank You. What if a local thanks you for something that you do? You also need to find a way to express 'you're welcome'. It's just as simple as saying 'yah-bah-deh'.

Washroom directions

In Myanmar, the locals will not understand words like 'restroom', 'bathroom' or 'men's room'. They are bound to get confused if you use these words so be mindful to only use the word 'toilet'. It should be noted that using the word 'washrooms' at restaurants and hotels will not be an issue, but do remember to use the term 'toilet' when using public places.

Kyat

Do not be surprised if you hear this word more often in Myanmar. Kyat is the official currency in the country, and it's pronounced more as 'chee-at'. It's strange, but it's also true.