Estonian, a Uralic language, is primarily spoken in Estonia. Unlike Indo-European languages, Estonian has a unique structure, making it an interesting language to learn. Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential conversational phrases and questions in Estonian for various social interactions.

Greetings

• Hello – “Tere”
• Good morning – “Tere hommikust”
• Good day – “Tere päevast”
• Good evening – “Tere õhtust”
• Goodbye – “Head aega”

Introducing Yourself or Others

• My name is [name]. – “Minu nimi on [nimi].”
• This is [name]. – “See on [nimi].”
• I am from [country]. – “Ma olen pärit [riigist].”
• I live in [city/place]. – “Ma elan [linnas/kohas].”

Asking for Directions or People

• Where is the [place]? – “Kus on [koht]?”
• How do I get to [place]? – “Kuidas ma saan [kohta] minna?”
• Is this the way to [place]? – “Kas see on tee [kohta]?”
• Can you show me on the map? – “Kas saate mulle kaardil näidata?”

Solving a Misunderstanding

• Sorry, I don’t understand. – “Vabandust, ma ei saa aru.”
• Can you please repeat that? – “Kas saaksite seda korrata?”
• I mean… – “Ma mõtlen…”
• What does [word] mean? – “Mida tähendab [sõna]?”

Farewell Expressions

• See you later – “Näeme hiljem”
• Take care – “Hoolitse enda eest”
• Have a good day – “Olgu sul hea päev”

Travel and Dining

• I would like to book a room. – “Ma sooviksin tuba broneerida.”
• Can I see the menu, please? – “Kas ma võiksin menüüd näha, palun?”
• I am vegetarian. – “Ma olen taimetoitlane.”
• The bill, please. – “Arve, palun.”

Shopping

• How much does this cost? – “Kui palju see maksab?”
• Do you have this in another size? – “Kas teil on seda teises suuruses?”
• I’m just looking, thanks. – “Ma lihtsalt vaatan, aitäh.”
• Can I pay by card? – “Kas ma saan kaardiga maksta?”

Dating and Love

• You look beautiful. (to a woman) / You look handsome. (to a man) – “Sa näed väga ilus välja.” / “Sa näed väga kena välja.”
• I miss you. – “Ma igatsen sind.”
• I love you. – “Ma armastan sind.”
• Would you like to go out with me? – “Kas sa tahaksid minuga välja minna?”

Emergencies

• Help! – “Appi!”
• Call the police! – “Kutsu politsei!”
• I need a doctor. – “Mul on vaja arsti.”
• Where is the nearest hospital? – “Kus on lähim haigla?”

These phrases form a solid foundation for basic communication in Estonian. Practice them regularly, and don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the language through media, conversation, and travel. Remember, Estonian pronunciation can be challenging due to its vowel length and consonant gradation, so focus on listening and repeating to improve your skills.