Language Basics & Useful Phrases in Baku, Bakı, Azerbaijan

1. Azerbaijani Alphabet

Learn the 32-letter Azerbaijani alphabet used in the Latin script to read and write basic phrases.

Unique Letters: Contains several unique letters not found in the Roman alphabet.
Cyrillic to Latin Switch: Was switched from Cyrillic to Latin script in 1939, making it easy for learners familiar with Latin-based languages.
Phonetic System: A phonetic system, meaning each letter has only one sound.

Greet travelers with 'Salaam' (hello) or say farewell with 'Hoşçıqıq' (goodbye).

Common Greeting: Used widely across the country and Middle East.
Polite Farewell: A polite way to say goodbye, showing respect for those you meet.
Friendly Start: Setting a friendly and welcoming tone for your interactions.

Show appreciation with 'Şekerberam' (thank you) or politely request with 'Lütfən' (please).

Basic Politeness: Essential for showing respect in everyday interactions.
Cultural Importance: Significant in Azerbaijani culture to express gratitude and show respect.
Friendly Interactions: Promotes friendly interactions with locals during your travels.

Count your way through Azerbaijan with numbers from one to ten.

Practical Knowledge: Essential for haggling prices, ordering food, and making payments.
Number Recognition: Helps in reading signs, menus, and asking for directions.
Simple Mathematics: Aids in performing simple calculations during your travels.

Confirm affirmatively with 'Həqiqə' (yes) or negate with 'Yox' (no).

Essential Communication: Vital for understanding and conveying your needs during your travels.
Clear Understanding: Ensures clear communication with locals, avoiding misunderstandings.
Basic Etiquette: A basic form of etiquette in any conversation or negotiation.

Apologize with 'Baxtınışam' (excuse me) or express regret with 'Özür dilerim' (I'm sorry).

Politeness: Promotes politeness when you unintentionally disturb someone.
Avoiding Conflicts: Helps in avoiding conflicts and maintaining a good relationship.
Showing Respect: Shows respect to the people around you, making them more likely to help you.

Sound like a local by incorporating common phrases used in Baku such as 'Nəmasın?' (What's up?).

Cultural Immersion: Enhances your cultural immersion and travel experience.
Locals' Appreciation: Shows locals that you made an effort to learn their language.
Friendly Interactions: Encourages friendly interactions with locals, making your travels more enjoyable.

Navigate your way through Baku with 'Yolun nədir?' (Where is the way?).

Order your favorite dishes with phrases such as 'Neymən böyük şalgam?' (What's the big salad?).

Tasty Discoveries: Allows you to try traditional Azerbaijani dishes.
Culinary Experience: Enhances your culinary experience in Baku.
Happy Stomach: Prevents communication barriers related to food preferences and allergies.

Bargain like a pro with phrases such as 'Namız necədir?' (How much is it?).

Cost Savings: Saves money by bargaining effectively for your purchases.
Smart Shopping: Promotes smart shopping decisions when purchasing souvenirs and local goods.
Cultural Exchange: Encourages cultural exchange during your shopping experience.

Respect local customs with phrases such as 'Nəşrit olunur bey!' (Long live the honorable!).

Cultural Sensitivity: Shows cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs.
Honorary Titles: Used to address elders, religious figures, or other respected individuals.
Cultural Enrichment: Enriches your cultural understanding and experience of Azerbaijan.

Get assistance with phrases such as 'Laqın yardım edər misin?' (Can you help me?).

Helpful Locals: Encourages helpfulness from locals during your travels.
Problem Solving: Solves problems quickly and effectively during your travels.
Empathy: Shows empathy towards locals who might also be experiencing difficulties.

Express health-related issues with phrases such as 'Nasılsız oldum?' (I don't feel well).

Healthcare Assistance: Provides necessary healthcare assistance during an emergency or illness.
Emergency Situations: Helps in navigating emergency situations during your travels.
Medical Emergencies: Aids in communicating health issues effectively.

Politely request assistance with phrases such as 'Lütfən... (Could you please...).

Politeness: Promotes politeness and respect during your interactions.
Effective Communication: Ensures effective communication of your needs and requests.
Local Cooperation: Encourages local cooperation and assistance during your travels.

Understand common expressions such as 'Hayır, böyük olmaz' (No problem, it won't be a big deal).

Cultural Understanding: Enhances your cultural understanding and ability to communicate effectively.
Friendly Interactions: Encourages friendly interactions with locals during your travels.
Cultural Sensitivity: Shows cultural sensitivity towards Azerbaijani expressions and language.