Basic Words

1. Eny

   Yes

   Usage

   Simple affirmative. Nodding while you say it removes any doubt

2. Tsia

   No

   Usage

   Simple negative. Also used to turn down offers and street vendors

3. Azafady

   Please

   Usage

   Add it to any request. Combined with pointing it works almost anywhere

   Grammar Note

   "Azafady" can go before or after a request and also serves as "excuse me" when passing someone.

4. Misaotra

   Thank you

   Usage

   The single most useful word. Use it after paying or being given directions

5. Miala tsiny

   Excuse me

   Usage

   To get a stranger’s attention, or when passing in front of someone

6. Mifona aho

   Sorry

   Usage

   A real apology: after bumping into someone or making a mistake

   Grammar Note

   "Mifona" is the verb for a formal apology — heavier than "miala tsiny," which is a light excuse-me.

7. Tsy maninona

   It’s OK / I’m fine

   Usage

   Reassures someone who is worried, and softly declines an offer

8. Tsy azoko

   I don’t understand

   Usage

   Say it when you miss what was said; it prompts them to rephrase

9. Azoko

   I understand

   Usage

   Confirms you followed the explanation and the conversation can move on

10. Vita

    I’m finished / Done

    Usage

    Signals you have finished a meal, a form, or a payment

11. Andraso azafady

    Please wait

    Usage

    Use it while you dig out your wallet or wait for a travel companion

12. Andraso kely

    Just a moment

    Usage

    For a few seconds only — at a counter or on the phone

13. Olon-dehibe iray

    One adult, please

    Usage

    At a ticket window or entrance gate when stating your party size

14. Tsy nanao famandrihana aho

    I don’t have a reservation

    Usage

    The first thing to say when walking into a hotel or restaurant unannounced

15. Nanao famandrihana aho

    I have a reservation

    Usage

    Say it at reception before giving your name; show the booking if you have it

16. Ampio aho azafady

    Please help me

    Usage

    Shout it in an emergency — it is meant to draw attention fast

17. Avereno indray azafady

    Once more, please

    Usage

    For asking someone to repeat; pairs naturally with “I don’t understand”

18. Miteny miadana azafady

    Please speak slowly

    Usage

    When the speed is the problem rather than the words; most people oblige

19. Miteny kely aho

    I speak a little

    Usage

    Say it early; people then choose simpler words and slow down

20. Miteny anglisy ve ianao?

    Do you speak English?

    Usage

    For complicated business — check whether you share a language first

21. Ity

    This

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at something in front of you

22. Io

    That

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at something near the other person

23. Iry

    That over there

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at something further away

24. Eto

    Here

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at a place

25. Eo

    There

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at a place

26. Ery

    Over there

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at a place further away

27. Izaho

    I / Me

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at yourself

28. Ianao

    You

    Usage

    Show it while pointing at the other person

29. Miaraka

    Together

    Usage

    Use to say you want to go along with someone

30. Ampy izay

    That is enough

    Usage

    Point at it to stop someone from serving more

31. Olona iray

    One person

    Usage

    Point at it to give the size of your party

32. Olona roa

    Two people

    Usage

    Point at it to give the size of your party

33. Olona telo

    Three people

    Usage

    Point at it to give the size of your party

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