Lao Basic Phrases: A Comprehensive Guide For New Learners

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Want to learn how to say ‘hello,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘good morning,’ and ‘goodbye’ in Laotian? Here’s your complete guide for a truly immersive experience in Laos, using Lao basic phrases! 

Understanding the Lao Language

Also called Laotian, the language of Laos occurs in different dialects and belongs to the Tai-Kadai family, closely related to Thai.

The Lao language is generally monosyllabic and tonal, featuring six distinct tones: low, mid, high, rising, high falling, and low falling.

Lao is A Tonal Language

Basic Lao Expressions

If you’re new to learning Lao, we’ve prepared a pronunciation guide and a complete list of useful expressions to help you interact with locals.

Note that putting your hands together in a prayer-like gesture called “nop” and bowing slightly is part of a polite greeting in Laos.

Greetings/Polite Expressions in Laos

learning the basic question-and-answer words and phrases can help you get by daily

Questions and Answer Words/Phrases in Lao

It is important to learn the basic numbers in Laos as they may come in handy when eating out or shopping

Numbers in Lao

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