Catalan Phrase Book
Ashok Kumawat
© Ashok Kumawat, 2023
ISBN 978-5-0060-7134-6
Создано в интеллектуальной издательской системе Ridero
Disclaimer:
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided in this Catalan phrase book, it is important to note that languages and cultural practices may evolve over time. The phrases and expressions presented in this book are intended as a guide and may vary in their usage or interpretation depending on the context and individual preferences. The author and publisher do not assume any responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of the information contained within this book. It is always advisable to consult with native speakers or local experts for the most up-to-date and culturally appropriate language usage.
Chapter 1: Greetings and Basic Phrases
Greetings play a vital role in any language and are an essential part of daily communication. Learning how to greet someone in Catalan will help you make a positive impression and establish a friendly connection with the locals. This chapter will teach you common greetings, introductions, and basic phrases that will assist you in various social interactions.
Greetings:
When meeting someone in Catalonia or any Catalan-speaking region, a simple «Hola» (Hello) is a great way to start a conversation. It is a universal greeting suitable for any time of the day. To greet someone in the morning, you can say «Bon dia» (Good morning), while «Bona tarda» (Good afternoon) is used in the afternoon. In the evening or at night, «Bona nit» (Good night) is the appropriate greeting.
Introducing Yourself:
To introduce yourself, you can say «Em dic» (My name is) followed by your name. For example, «Em dic Maria.» If you want to ask someones name, use «Com et dius?» (Whats your name?). Remember to adjust the pronouns based on your gender. For instance, if youre a male, you would say «Em dic Jordi,» and if youre a female, you would say «Em dic Laura.»
Basic Phrases:
Here are some basic phrases that will come in handy during your stay:
«Perdona» (Excuse me): Use this phrase when trying to get someones attention or when apologizing for an inconvenience.
«Si us plau» (Please): Politeness goes a long way, so use this phrase when making requests or asking for assistance.
«Gràcies» (Thank you): Show your appreciation by saying «Gràcies» when someone helps you or provides you with something.
«De res» (Youre welcome): Respond to «Gràcies» with «De res» to convey that it was no trouble at all.
«Sí» (Yes) and «No» (No): These simple words will help you respond to questions or make your preferences clear.
«Entenc» (I understand) and «No entenc» (I dont understand): Use these phrases to indicate whether you comprehend what someone is saying or if you need further clarification.
«Parles anglès?» (Do you speak English?): If you encounter language barriers, politely ask if the person speaks English.
«On és el bany?» (Where is the bathroom?): This phrase will be valuable in situations when you need to find a restroom.
Common Courtesies:
Catalans appreciate polite behavior, and using these phrases will demonstrate your respect:
«Com estàs?» (How are you?): A friendly way to inquire about someones well-being.
«Molt bé, gràcies» (Very well, thank you): Respond positively if youre doing well.
«Si us plau, ajudam» (Please, help me): Seek assistance politely when needed.
«Perdona, no entenc. Pots repetir?» (Sorry, I dont understand. Can you repeat?): Request clarification in a polite manner.
Remember to use a friendly tone and a smile when using these phrases. Catalans appreciate genuine efforts to engage with their language and culture.
By mastering these basic greetings and phrases, you will enhance your experience while interacting with locals, making new friends, and navigating daily situations. Practice these expressions, and dont hesitate to use them as it will undoubtedly open doors to meaningful connections and enriching experiences during your time in Catalonia.
As you continue your language learning journey, feel free to refer back to this chapter for a quick refresher whenever you need it.
Chapter 2: Introducing Yourself
Introducing yourself is an essential skill when interacting with people in Catalonia or any Catalan-speaking region. Being able to express your name, nationality, and a few personal details will help you create connections and engage in conversations. This chapter will guide you through the process of introducing yourself in Catalan, providing you with useful phrases and tips to make a memorable first impression.
Basic Introductions:
When meeting someone for the first time, you can start by saying «Hola, em dic [your name]» (Hello, my name is [your name]). For example, «Hola, em dic Maria.» This straightforward introduction allows others to know your name right away. If you want to know the other persons name, you can ask «Com et dius?» (Whats your name?). Remember to adjust the pronouns based on your gender. For instance, if youre a male, you would say «Hola, em dic Jordi,» and if youre a female, you would say «Hola, em dic Laura.»
Nationality and Origin:
Sharing your nationality or place of origin is a common part of introductions. To express your nationality, you can say «Sóc [nationality]» (I am [nationality]). For example, «Sóc americà» (I am American) or «Sóc alemany» (I am German). If you want to mention your place of origin, you can say «Sóc de [place]» (I am from [place]). For example, «Sóc de Barcelona» (I am from Barcelona) or «Sóc de França» (I am from France).
Occupation and Studies:
In social settings, people often inquire about each others occupations or studies. To talk about your profession, you can say «Sóc [occupation]» (I am [occupation]). For example, «Sóc enginyer» (I am an engineer) or «Sóc estudiant» (I am a student). If youre currently studying, you can say «Estudio [subject or major]» (I study [subject or major]). For example, «Estudio biologia» (I study biology) or «Estudio història de lart» (I study art history).
Hobbies and Interests:
Sharing your hobbies and interests can help you find common ground with others. To talk about your hobbies, you can say «Magrada [activity]» (I like [activity]). For example, «Magrada córrer» (I like running) or «Magrada llegir» (I like reading). If youre passionate about a specific interest, you can say «Sóc un/a gran aficionat/aficionada de [interest]» (I am a big fan of [interest]). For example, «Sóc un gran aficionat del futbol» (I am a big fan of soccer) or «Sóc una gran aficionada de la música clàssica» (I am a big fan of classical music).
Personal Information:
While introducing yourself, its common to share some personal information. For instance, you can mention your age by saying «Tinc [age] anys» (I am [age] years old). For example, «Tinc vint anys» (I am twenty years old) or «Tinc trenta-cinc anys» (I am thirty-five years old). If you want to talk about your family, you can say «Tinc [number] germans/germanes» (I have [number] brothers/sisters). For example, «Tinc dos germans» (I have two brothers) or «Tinc una germana» (I have one sister).
Additional Phrases:
Here are some additional phrases that can complement your self-introduction:
«És un plaer conèixer-te» (Its a pleasure to meet you): Express your pleasure in meeting the other person.
«Què et sembla aquest lloc?» (What do you think of this place?): Use this phrase to initiate a conversation about the surroundings.
«Com estàs avui?» (How are you today?): Show interest in the other persons well-being.
«On vius?» (Where do you live?): If you want to know where the other person lives, this phrase will come in handy.
«Espero passar una bona estona aquí» (I hope to have a good time here): Express your anticipation for a pleasant experience.
Remember to maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor while introducing yourself. A smile and good eye contact can go a long way in creating a positive impression.
Practicing these phrases will help you confidently introduce yourself and engage in conversations with locals. Embrace the opportunity to connect with people, share experiences, and learn from the vibrant Catalan culture.
Feel free to refer back to this chapter as you continue your language learning journey, and dont hesitate to use these phrases to initiate conversations and make new acquaintances.
Chapter 3: Asking for Help and Directions
When traveling or exploring a new place, its common to find yourself in need of assistance or directions. Being able to ask for help and navigate your way around is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this chapter, we will provide you with essential phrases and strategies for asking for help and directions in Catalan.
Asking for Help:
If you require assistance, dont hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Here are some useful phrases to express your needs:
«Em pots ajudar, si us plau?» (Can you help me, please?): Use this phrase to seek assistance in a polite manner.
«Necessito ajuda» (I need help): Express your need for help straightforwardly.
«No entenc» (I dont understand): If youre struggling to comprehend something, use this phrase to let the person know.
Asking for Directions:
When navigating unfamiliar streets or seeking a specific location, asking for directions is essential. These phrases will assist you in getting the guidance you need:
«On és [place]?» (Where is [place]?): Use this phrase when asking for the location of a specific place. For example, «On és el museu?» (Where is the museum?).
«Com puc arribar a [place]?» (How can I get to [place]?): If youre unsure about the directions to a particular place, this phrase will help you ask for guidance.
«És lluny daquí?» (Is it far from here?): Use this question to inquire about the distance to your destination.
«Pots mostrar-me en un mapa?» (Can you show me on a map?): If you have a map and want the person to mark the location, this phrase will come in handy.
Giving Landmark References:
Sometimes, its easier to navigate by using landmarks as reference points. Here are some phrases to help you understand and give directions based on landmarks:
«Gira a lesquerra/dreta» (Turn left/right): These phrases are used to indicate the direction of a turn.
«Segueix recte» (Go straight): Use this phrase to instruct someone to continue in a straight line.
«Està a prop del [landmark]» (Its near [landmark]): This phrase will help you indicate that the destination is in close proximity to a particular landmark.
«Passa per davant de [landmark]» (Go past [landmark]): Use this phrase when the person needs to pass by a specific landmark.
Emergency Situations:
In case of emergencies or urgent situations, its essential to know how to seek help. Here are some phrases to use during such circumstances:
«Truca a una ambulància/policia» (Call an ambulance/police): Use these phrases when immediate assistance is required.
«Necessito ajuda urgent» (I need urgent help): If you find yourself in a critical situation, use this phrase to emphasize the urgency.
Polite Expressions:
When asking for help or directions, its important to be polite and respectful. These phrases will help you maintain a courteous tone:
«Perdona, em pots ajudar?» (Excuse me, can you help me?): Begin your request with this polite phrase.
«Si us plau, podries indicar-me el camí?» (Please, could you show me the way?): Use this phrase to politely ask for directions.
Remember to listen attentively and show appreciation for the assistance you receive. Phrases such as «Gràcies per la teva ajuda» (Thank you for your help) and «Moltes gràcies» (Many thanks) will demonstrate your gratitude.
By mastering these phrases, you will be equipped to seek help, ask for directions, and handle emergency situations confidently during your time in Catalonia. Dont hesitate to approach locals, as they are often eager to assist and share their knowledge.
Feel free to refer back to this chapter as you navigate your way through unfamiliar places, and dont forget to explore the rich cultural experiences that await you.
Chapter 4: Numbers and Counting
Numbers are fundamental to everyday life, whether youre shopping, telling time, or exchanging contact information. Understanding numbers and being able to count in Catalan will greatly enhance your ability to navigate various situations. In this chapter, we will explore the numerical system in Catalan and provide you with essential phrases and vocabulary to master numbers and counting.
Cardinal Numbers (010):
Lets begin with the cardinal numbers from zero to ten in Catalan:
0: zero
1: u
2: dos
3: tres
4: quatre
5: cinc
6: sis
7: set
8: vuit
9: nou
10: deu
Numbers from 11 to 20:
To form numbers from eleven to twenty, you simply add the corresponding units to the word «deu» (ten):
11: onze
12: dotze
13: tretze
14: catorze
15: quinze
16: setze
17: disset
18: divuit
19: dinou
20: vint
Tens and Beyond:
To form numbers beyond twenty, you combine the corresponding tens with the units:
30: trenta
40: quaranta
50: cinquanta
60: seixanta
70: setanta
80: vuitanta
90: noranta
For numbers between 21 and 99, you use a combination of the tens and units. For example, 24 is «vint-i-quatre» (twenty-four), and 56 is «cinquanta-sis» (fifty-six).
Hundreds:
To express numbers in the hundreds, you use the following pattern:
100: cent
200: dos-cents
300: tres-cents
400: quatre-cents
500: cinc-cents
600: sis-cents
700: set-cents
800: vuit-cents
900: nou-cents
For example, 150 is «cent cinquanta» (one hundred fifty), and 750 is «set-cents cinquanta» (seven hundred fifty).
Thousands and Beyond:
To express numbers in the thousands and beyond, the pattern continues:
1,000: mil
2,000: dos mil
10,000: deu mil
100,000: cent mil
1,000,000: un milió
For example, 5,000 is «cinc mil» (five thousand), and 250,000 is «dos-cents cinquanta mil» (two hundred fifty thousand).
Fractions and Decimals:
When dealing with fractions and decimals, the following vocabulary is useful:
Half: mitja
Quarter: quart
Third: terç
Decimal: decimal
Point: punt
For example, 0.5 is «zero coma cinc» (zero point five), and 3/4 is «tres quarts» (three quarters).
Additional Phrases:
Here are some phrases that incorporate numbers:
«Quin és el teu número de telèfon?» (What is your phone number?): Use this phrase when asking for someones phone number.
«Quants anys tens?» (How old are you?): Use this question to inquire about someones age.
«Quin dia és avui?» (What day is it today?): Use this phrase to ask about the current day.
Counting Objects:
When counting objects in Catalan, you can use the cardinal numbers. For example, «Tinc tres llibres» (I have three books) or «Hi ha cinc gats al jardí» (There are five cats in the garden).
Practice counting various objects and numbers in different contexts to reinforce your understanding and fluency.
By mastering numbers and counting in Catalan, you will be able to handle everyday tasks such as shopping, telling time, and giving numerical information confidently. Remember to practice regularly and use the language in practical situations to enhance your proficiency.
Chapter 5: Days of the Week and Months
Understanding the days of the week and months in Catalan is essential for scheduling appointments, making plans, and discussing dates. In this chapter, we will explore the vocabulary and phrases related to the days of the week and months, allowing you to confidently navigate through time-related conversations.