Phrases

Common phrases in every language

The essential phrases you need for greetings, travel, food and emergencies — with audio, examples and a dedicated page for each phrase.

How to actually use a phrasebook

A phrasebook only works if you say the phrases out loud. Pick five phrases for the situation you're most likely to face (ordering coffee, asking for the bill, finding the bathroom), drill them with the audio, then rehearse them in a fake conversation before you need them for real. The SPEAKZY phrase pages give you the target sentence, a literal English breakdown where useful, a "good to know" note on formality, and one example sentence in context for every phrase.

Categories you'll find on every language page

  • Greetings
    Hello, goodbye, how are you, see you later.
  • Essentials
    Yes, no, please, thank you, excuse me.
  • Small talk
    Where are you from, what do you do, nice to meet you.
  • Food & restaurants
    A table for two, the bill please, I'm vegetarian.
  • Shopping
    How much is it, do you take card, do you have it in another size.
  • Directions
    Where is the…, turn left, near the station.
  • Travel
    I'd like a ticket to…, when does it leave, is this seat taken.
  • Emergency
    Help, I need a doctor, call the police.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most useful phrases to learn first in any language?+

Greetings, please / thank you, asking for the bill, ordering food, asking 'where is…?' and the numbers 1–10. These eight categories cover roughly 80% of beginner travel conversations.

How do I memorise foreign phrases without forgetting them?+

Use a phrase out loud the same day you learn it (even in a fake conversation), then revisit it on day 2, day 4 and day 7. SPEAKZY automates this with spaced repetition and voice practice.

Are these phrases used by native speakers, or are they textbook?+

Every phrase listed is one natives actually use in everyday situations — greetings, ordering, asking for directions, emergencies. Audio is included so you can match the natural rhythm.

Is this free? Do I need to sign up?+

Every language hub and every phrase page is free with no signup. A SPEAKZY account unlocks lessons, conversation practice and progress tracking.