Whether you’re planning a trip to Poland, have Polish-speaking friends, or simply want to immerse yourself in a new culture, learning some basic Polish phrases can be incredibly useful. Polish may have a reputation for being a tough language to learn, but starting with a few key expressions can make a world of difference in your ability to communicate effectively. Here are the top 10 Polish phrases you need to know for daily conversations.

1. Dzień dobry! (Good morning / Good day!)

A friendly greeting is always the best way to start a conversation. “Dzień dobry” is a versatile phrase that can be used throughout the day, from morning until late afternoon. It’s polite and works in both formal and informal situations.

2. Cześć! (Hi / Hello!)

“Cześć” is a more casual way to say hello, similar to “hi” in English. It’s perfect for greeting friends, family, or people your own age. You can also use it to say goodbye, making it a handy phrase to know.

3. Dziękuję (Thank you)

Expressing gratitude is essential in any language. “Dziękuję” is the standard way to say “thank you” in Polish. If you want to be extra polite, you can say “Dziękuję bardzo,” which means “Thank you very much.”

4. Proszę (Please / You’re welcome)

“Proszę” is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. It means “please” when making a request, and it also serves as “you’re welcome” when someone thanks you. Additionally, it can be used when offering something to someone.

5. Przepraszam (Excuse me / I’m sorry)

“Przepraszam” is another multifunctional phrase. Use it to get someone’s attention, like when you need to ask for directions, or to apologize if you’ve bumped into someone or made a mistake. It’s a polite way to navigate various social situations.

6. Tak / Nie (Yes / No)

Two of the most basic words you’ll need in any conversation are “tak” (yes) and “nie” (no). These are straightforward and easy to remember, but incredibly useful in all sorts of interactions.

7. Jak się masz? (How are you?)

This is a common way to ask someone how they’re doing. It’s a nice icebreaker and shows that you’re interested in the other person’s well-being. A typical response might be “Dobrze, dziękuję” (Good, thank you) or “Nieźle” (Not bad).

8. Ile to kosztuje? (How much does it cost?)

If you’re shopping or dining out in Poland, knowing how to ask for prices is crucial. “Ile to kosztuje?” is the phrase you’ll need when you want to find out how much something costs. Pair this with basic numbers in Polish, and you’ll be ready to handle transactions with ease.

9. Gdzie jest…? (Where is…?)

Whether you’re looking for the nearest restroom, a specific street, or a landmark, “Gdzie jest…?” (Where is…?) will come in handy. You can use it with almost any noun to ask for directions, making it a valuable phrase for travelers.

10. Mówię po angielsku. Czy mówisz po angielsku? (I speak English. Do you speak English?)

While it’s great to try speaking Polish, sometimes you might need to switch to English. “Mówię po angielsku” lets the other person know that you speak English, and “Czy mówisz po angielsku?” is a polite way to ask if they do too. This phrase can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in a situation where your Polish is still a work in progress.

Conclusion

These ten phrases are just the beginning, but they will give you a solid foundation for navigating everyday conversations in Polish. Whether you’re greeting someone, asking for directions, or simply being polite, these expressions will help you communicate more effectively and show your respect for Polish language and culture. Practice these phrases regularly, and you’ll soon find that speaking Polish becomes easier and more natural.

Ready to take your Polish to the next level? Our Polish classes are designed to help you build on these basics and achieve fluency. Sign up today and start speaking Polish with confidence!