Want to learn a few Kannada words quickly to make an impression

Whenever we visit a new place, that has a completely different language than our mother tongue, we usually find it difficult to communicate. Every language has some common words that anyone could easily learn and be able to communicate in a new place. A few common words used in Kannada language that anyone can use without even learning or becoming a pro at Kannada are

“Namaskara” is a word used to greet anyone. It works just like the English words “Hello” or “Hi” . Using this word to greet someone would definitely create a welcoming impression because someone who does not know the language but tries to make an effort towards learning it is very heartwarming.

Another word to continue the conversation that you just began with “namaskara” is “Chennagi iddira” it means “How are you” in English which also gives an impression of someone who is very considerate of others well being. And the reply to this in Kannada is “Naanu chennagi iddini “ Which in English means “ I am fine.”

Some more frequently used Kannada words and phrases that can be very useful to a beginner or someone who doesn’t know Kannada are “Ee address yalli ide” which means “ Where is this address” in English, so incase you are looking for an address you can ask the local by saying this phrase. Another such phrase is “Neevu yalli eerodu” which means “Where do you live” in English.

When you like something or someone you could praise or compliment in Kannada by saying “ Idu tumba chennagi ide “ which translates to “ This is very nice “ in English and “Nivu tumba chennagi iddiri “ which means “ You are very nice.” Complimenting someone can be a very sweet gesture and complimenting someone in their own language would mean a lot to them so next you meet a Kannadiga try saying this.

If you want to know the price of something you can say “Idakke yashtu” which means “ How much for this” in English.

Another sweet gesture could be asking someone if they had their food or inviting them for a meal. You can do that by saying “ Oota aayta ?” meaning “ Did you have your food?” and “Banni oota maadkondu hogi” meaning “ come have some food”. You can surprise your Kannadiga neighbor or friends by saying this and that would really make them feel at home.

These small gestures made by speaking in someone’s native language can mean a lot to someone and making a huge impression on them. These gestures can really make someone’s day or help you save yours!