In this article, I explain how to say hello and thank you in Catalanto learn the basics of communication. And I'll give you the most important words to know for your stay!
Here you'll find
- An introduction to the useful Catalan lexicon
- Translations of terms like hello and thank you into Catalan
- The most useful words for your trip
- Good reasons to speak Catalan locally
- And much more!
If you're looking for information on the Catalan languageyou'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Bonjour et Merci en Catalan: article summary
How do you say hello and thank you in Catalan?
When travelling, it's always a good idea to know polite expressions in the local language. During a stay in BarcelonaIt's not enough to speak Spanish!
Indeedthe catalansproud of their region and their traditions (such as the astonishing Caga Tió) speak Catalan first and foremost. You'll notice this as much in the public transport in the stores, or during your exchanges with the local population.
You might as well learn the basics so you're comfortable! Here are the basics, including Good morning and thank you in Catalan :
- Hello : Bon dia
- Thank you: Grà cies / Thank you (!)
Easy, isn't it? Before continuing this exploration of the useful lexicon in Catalonia, let me explain why it makes sense to make this little effort learning.
Why is speaking Catalan on the spot a good idea?
If you know anything about the desire for independence of Catalonia, which regularly stirs up political debate (if not, visit Museum of the History of Catalonia !), you know that the region and its inhabitants feel that they belong not to Spain, but to the rest of the world. to Catalonia first and foremost.
Billboards, advertisements, menus and most signage are in Catalan (and usually in classic Spanish - Castilian - too); and even in businesses, Catalan is spoken whenever possible.
It's important to understand that we're not talking about a dialect or a sub-language here. a language in its own rightwith its own specific features and vocabulary.
If you make the effort to greet and thank in this language (you already know how to say hello and thank you in Catalan!), and prefer it to Spanish, you'll enjoy an even more pleasant experience. The locals are highly sensitive to this kind of effort!
In bars, the restaurants or in stores, or during your evenings in Barcelonayou'll be treated to smiles and to real exchangessimply by opting for the local language! Believe me, it's well worth it! So don't be shy, and put your knowledge to the test.
What are the most useful Catalan words for your stay?
Ready for an express Catalan course? Visit 20 words and expressions to get started and deal with the most common everyday situations. You have to start somewhere!
- Hi : Hola
- Good afternoon: Bona tarda
- Good evening: Bon vespre
- Good night: Bona nit
- Au revoir : A reveure / Adeu
- How are things? Com va?
- All right! Be graciès!
- Please / You're welcome : Si us plau
- I don't speak Catalan: No parlo catalÃ
- Sorry: Disculpe / Perdone
- Today : Avui
- Tomorrow: DemÃ
- Tonight: Aquesta nit
- Water : Aigua
- Bread: pa
- Cheese : formatge
- Beer: Cervesa
- The bill: El account
- My name is ... : Em dic ...
- Pleased to meet you: Molt de gust
As well as knowing how to say hello and thank you in Catalan, you'll also find a few useful words here. to everyday life. You'll be able to say hello, introduce yourself and say thank you, while still feeling at ease in the restaurant for the most common elements.
Why does Catalan sound so similar to French?
You will notice, via the glossary above or during the your peregrinations in Barcelonathe Catalan sounds like French in many ways. Coincidence? Not at all!
Catalan is a combination of Spanish (derived from Latin) and the langue d'Occommonly known as Occitan. It's the language once spoken in certain regions of south-west France, and is still very much alive today.
So it's not surprising to hear certain similarities, even identical words like Thank you !
The most fervent defenders of this language are fighting to don't switch to Castilian (the official Spanish language), as was compulsory during Franco's dictatorship. In fact, the slightest word you utter in the language could be perceived as a sign of resistance.
You might as well make the most of it, since it's not so far from your native French...!
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