If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, you might be wondering: “Do I need to speak Georgian?”
The good news: many young Georgians speak English, especially in Tbilisi, Batumi, and tourist hubs.
The better news: learning a few key Georgian phrases will earn you instant respect, big smiles, and better service — whether you’re ordering khinkali, hitchhiking in the mountains, or getting directions in a small village.
Georgian (ქართული) is a unique language with its own beautiful script and no linguistic relatives outside the Caucasus. But don’t worry — pronunciation tips are included, and no one expects perfection. Just making the effort will take you far.
Here are must-know Georgian words and phrases to help you travel confidently, connect with locals, and impress your new Georgian friends.
Basics: Greetings & Politeness
1. Gamarjoba (გამარჯობა)
Meaning: Hello
Use this anywhere, anytime — formal or casual. It’s your go-to “hi” in Georgian.
2. Nakhvamdis (ნახვამდის)
Meaning: Goodbye
3. Dila mshvidobisa (დილა მშვიდობისა)
Meaning: Good morning
4. Gagimarjos (გაგიმარჯოს)
Meaning: Cheers! / Victory to you!
Say this when raising a toast — especially during a traditional supra.
Polite Words That Go a Long Way
5. Madloba (მადლობა)
Meaning: Thank you
The single most important word you’ll need. Say it often.
6. Tu sheidzleba (თუ შეიძლება)
Meaning: Please / If you don’t mind
7. Ara, madloba (არა, მადლობა)
Meaning: No, thank you
Useful when politely refusing more wine, more food, or a third plate of khachapuri.
Everyday Conversation
8. Diakh (დიახ) – Yes
9. Ara (არა) – No
10. Bodishi (ბოდიში) – Sorry / Excuse me
Also useful when squeezing through a crowd or asking for attention.
11. Ar vitsi (არ ვიცი) – I don’t know
12. Me ar vlaparakob kartulad (მე არ ვლაპარაკობ ქართულად)
Meaning: I don’t speak Georgian
Shopping & Money
13. Ra ghirs? (რა ღირს?) – How much is it?
14. Ar maqvs khurda (არ მაქვს ხურდა) – I don’t have change
Eating & Drinking
15. Gemrieliya (გემრიელია) – It’s delicious
Your host will love hearing this.
16. Khinkali / Khachapuri tu sheidzleba – I want khinkali / khachapuri please
Bonus tip: Try it with “ghvino” (wine)!
Getting Around
17. Sad aris…? (სად არის…?) – Where is…?
Add anything: “metro” (subway), “banki” (bank), “tualeti” (toilet).
18. Martskhena / Marjvena – Left / Right
19. Gaacheret! (გააჩერეთ!) – Stop here!
Yell this when you’re in a marshrutka (minibus) and want to get off.
Emergencies & Essentials
20. Dakhmareba mchirdeba (დახმარება მჭირდება) – I need help
21. Politsia (პოლიცია) – Police
22. Roghor khar? (როგორ ხარ?) – How are you?
Use it to greet someone more casually.
23. Lamazi kvekana aris (ლამაზი ქვეყანა არის) – It’s a beautiful country
Georgians LOVE hearing this — it always brings a smile.
Bonus Tips for Learning & Using Georgian
- Use your hands — gestures go a long way, especially outside cities
- Download Google Translate with Georgian offline — useful for menus and signs
- Don’t worry about grammar — even one word can spark a connection
- Smile, speak slowly, and try — Georgians appreciate any effort
Final Word: It’s Not About Perfect Georgian — It’s About Connection
You don’t need to master the Georgian alphabet (though it’s beautiful). You don’t need to conjugate verbs. You just need a few sincere words, a warm smile, and a willingness to connect.
Whether you’re navigating Tbilisi’s old streets, enjoying a mountain guesthouse in Svaneti, or dancing at a village wedding, a little Georgian will take you a long way.
Madloba — and have an unforgettable trip!
