If you have an hour to spare, we bet you can make your upcoming Istanbul trip a lot easier for yourself by trying to learn some of the most common Turkish words that we use almost every day which you are likely to use to get around in your trip. Equipping yourself with a few essential Turkish slang can enhance your experience in many ways like helping you connect with the locals, make some friends, and most importantly maybe not get scammed.
In this guide, we'll explore key phrases that will not only make your interactions smoother but also add a touch of authenticity to your exploration of this enchanting city!
Common, Simple, and Useful Turkish Words
1. Merhaba (Mehr-hah-bah) - Hello
Start your conversation with a warm "Merhaba" as you greet the friendly locals. This simple word will open doors to conversations and set a positive tone for your interactions. It is one of the best ways to approach a Turkish.
2. Teşekkür ederim (Teh-shehk-kur ed-air-im) - Thank you
Expressing gratitude is universal, and in Turkey, a sincere "Teşekkür ederim" will be appreciated. If you want to sound more casual, you can simply say "Teşekkürler" for a friendly thank you.
3. Lütfen (Loot-fen) - Please
Politeness goes a long way, and "Lütfen" is your go-to word when making requests or seeking assistance. Whether you're ordering a meal or asking for directions, a "Lütfen" can make your interactions more pleasant.
4. Evet (Eh-vet) - Yes / Hayır (Ha-yuhr) - No
Mastering these two basic words will help you navigate various situations. Whether confirming your order in a restaurant or politely declining an offer, "Evet" and "Hayır" will be your allies.
5. Hoşgeldiniz (Hosh-gel-din-iz) - Welcome
Feel the warmth of Turkish hospitality with a gracious "Hoşgeldiniz" when you enter a shop, restaurant, or someone's home. This is likely to be told to you in many places by Turkish people to welcome you in this lovely city!
6. Nasılsınız? (Nah-suhl-suhn-uhz) - How are you?
Building connections with locals becomes even more enjoyable when you show genuine interest. "Nasılsınız?" is a polite way to inquire about someone's well-being, and you might receive a warm response like "İyiyim, teşekkür ederim" (I am well, thank you).
7. Günaydın (Goo-nahy-dun) - Good morning/ İyi günler (Ee goo-nlehr) - Good day
"Günaydın" is perfect for morning encounters, so you are likely to hear this in the breakfast places you will go to try the famous Turkşsh breakfast. Although "İyi günler" works well during the day, Merhaba (Hello) would be an excellent equivalent in most cases.
8. Ne kadar? (Neh kah-dar) - How much?
Prepare for a shopping spree by mastering the art of bargaining. Especially when shopping in touristic areas, be aware that things will be pricier and you can always bargain. "Ne kadar?" will be your go-to question when inquiring about prices, ensuring you navigate the bazaars with confidence.
A small local tip: The Turkish trading system rarely needs someone to pay with any currency other than TL. So if you are given the dollar or euro price, consider bargaining!
9. Bir şey değil (Beer shey dey-eel) - You're welcome / No problem
If someone expresses gratitude to you, responding with "Bir şey değil" communicates that it was no trouble at all. It's a friendly way to acknowledge thanks.
10. Hesap lütfen (Heh-sap loot-fen) - Check, please
When you've enjoyed a delightful meal and are ready to settle the bill, a polite "Hesap lütfen" will signal to the waiter that you're ready for the check.
There are soo many people who believe that Turkish=Arabic because they believe we share the same culture. Completely wrong. So, learning some Turkish will also enable you to understand when something is written in Turkish and when it is in Arabic. From a local to a tourist's ear: Try not to go to the restaurants, shops, and places that have Arabic banners, menus, and such instead of Turkish. Those places are likely to be trying to catch the eye of the rich, clueless Arabic tourists; so most of the time those are not places any local would choose.
Slang to Spice Up Your Conversations:
Beyond the basics, incorporating a bit of slang can add flair to your conversations and endear you to the locals.
1. Afiyet olsun (Ah-fee-yet ol-sun) - Enjoy your meal
Share a moment of culinary appreciation with this phrase after your first bite. It's a courteous way to express your enjoyment of the delicious Turkish cuisine.
2. Tamam (Tah-mahm) - Okay / All right
In casual settings, "Tamam" is a versatile word conveying agreement, understanding, or assurance. It's a friendly way to go with the flow in various situations.
3. Naber? (Nah-ber) - What's up?
Inject a bit of informality into your conversations by using "Naber?" It's a common way to greet friends and strike up casual conversations.
4. Sağ ol (Sah-ohl) - Thanks / Cheers
A colloquial way to say thank you or cheers, "Sağ ol" is a friendly expression commonly used among friends and acquaintances.
5. Beş para etmez (Besh pah-rah et-mez) - Worthless
If you find yourself in a bargaining situation and believe the offered price is too high, you can use this slang phrase to express your opinion that something is not worth the asking price.
6. Aman Allah'ım (Ah-man ah-lah-um) - Oh my God / Goodness gracious
For moments of surprise or disbelief, this exclamation adds a touch of Turkish flair to your expressions.
7. Çok Lezzetli (Chock Lez- zeth- lee) - So delicious
To express if you like the food or not use the phrase above. Locals love to hear it!
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