What Basic Khmer Phrases Should I Know for Cambodia?

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Khmer phrases shows respect for local culture and often brings smiles from Cambodians you meet. Even basic greetings make a positive impression.

Here are some useful phrases:

Sua s'dei (SOO-ah s'DAY) - Hello Aw kohn (aw KOHN) - Thank you Sohm toh (SOHM toh) - Excuse me / Sorry Jah (for men) / Baht (for women) - Yes Ot teh (ot TAY) - No Sohk sabay (SOHK sa-BAI) - How are you? / I'm fine Lia haey (LEE-ah hai) - Goodbye T'lay pon-mahn? (t'LAI pon-MAHN) - How much? Ch'ngahn (ch-NGAHN) - Delicious

The Sampeah, a gesture of pressing palms together and bowing slightly, is the traditional Cambodian greeting. The higher the hands and deeper the bow, the greater the respect shown. This gesture is particularly appropriate when greeting monks or elderly Cambodians.

Related Questions

  1. Is English Widely Spoken in Cambodia?
  2. Will Guides and Hotel Staff Speak English in Cambodia?
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