Basic Welsh phrases

Common Welsh phrases to master for a memorable trip to Wales

Posted on 31-05-24, updated on 13-01-25By: Sarah R. | 6 minute read

Welcome to Wales sign in Welsh and English

Croeso I Gymru... Welcome to Wales!

Are you planning a trip to Wales and want to fully immerse yourself in the local culture? As one of the oldest languages in Europe, Welsh is spoken by around 30% of the country's population, so learning some basic Welsh words and phrases can make your experience even more enjoyable! From greetings to everyday expressions, mastering a Welsh phrase or two can go a long way in connecting with the friendly locals and embracing the rich heritage of this beautiful country. Prepare to impress with these popular Welsh words and phrases that will surely enhance your holiday in Wales!

Ready to practice in person? Book one of our holiday parks and lodges in Wales or cottages in Wales today!

Welsh speech bubble

Embrace the basics of Welsh

Embrace the unique sounds of the Welsh language during your trip to Wales. Let the melodic tones of Cymraeg (Welsh language) transport you to a world of ancient traditions and vibrant culture. Learning how to pronounce some of these Welsh words may seem challenging at first, but don't be discouraged! Practice makes perfect, and the locals will appreciate your efforts to speak their native tongue.

Tip: The "ch" sound is soft, similar to that in the Scottish word "loch" or the German composer's name "Bach". "Dd" is pronounced like the "th" in "the" and "this". The pronunciation of the letter "f" in Welsh is like the letter "v" in English.

Here are some essentials to get you started:

Helô / Hylô = Hello. Pronounced "hell-oh / hill-oh"
Hwyl fawr = Goodbye. Pronounced "hoy-el fow-r"
Os gwelwch yn dda = Please. Pronounced "os gwel-ch un tha" (using the soft "ch" sound)
Diolch = Thank you. Pronounced "dee-ol-ch" (using the soft "ch" sound)
Croeso = Welcome/You're welcome. Pronounced "croy-so"

A bowl of traditional Welsh cawl

A bowl of traditional Welsh cawl

Order food like a pro

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey through Wales! Say "dwi'n hoffi" (I like) to show appreciation for your meal, "diolch" (thank you) to the chef, and "yn wirion" (delicious) to savour every bite. Explore traditional dishes like "bara brith" (speckled bread) and "laverbread" (seaweed delicacy) fearlessly. Remember, trying new foods is not just about nourishing your body but also about expanding your cultural horizons. So, embrace the flavours of Wales and immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights this beautiful country has to offer.

Here are some traditional Welsh dishes to look out for on the menu:

Cawl = Hearty Welsh stew dating back to the 14th century, usually made with lamb and seasonal vegetables, and acommpanied by fresh bread. It's considered the national dish of Wales
Bara brith = Sweet loaf of bread flavoured with tea, dried fruit and spices. Particularly delicious smothered in butter!
Laverbread = Not actually a bread at all, but a Welsh delicacy made from cooked laver seaweed that has been picked from the coastline
Crempog = Tasty Welsh pancake, usually seen on a breakfast or cafe menu. Traditionally made on bakestones or griddles, this is one of the oldest recipes in Wales
Welsh rarebit = Wales's answer to cheese on toast

Welsh road signs

Navigate your way around town

Navigating your way around town in Wales will be a breeze with these essential Welsh phrases in your linguistic arsenal. Politeness goes a long way, so always remember to say "bore da" (good morning) to start your day off on the right foot. Need directions? Politely ask "ble mae..." (where is...) to easily find your way to the must-see sights and hidden gems of Wales. So, get ready to confidently explore the enchanting streets of Wales and unlock unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Here are some helpful Welsh words and phrases to use as you explore:

Ble mae...? = Where is...? Pronounced "bleh my"
Sut mae mynd i…? = How do I get to…? Pronounced "sit my men dee"
Chwith = Left. Pronounced "choo-eeth" (using the soft "ch" sound)
Dde = Right. Pronounced "thee"
Syth ymlaen = Straight ahead. Pronounced "seeth em line"

Men drinking beer together in a bar

Show off your skills at the pub

Once you've struck up conversations with the friendly locals using phrases like "sut dach chi?" (how are you?) and "beth yw dy enw di?" (what is your name?), it's time to put your newfound language skills to the test at the pub. Order drinks using Welsh phrases like "gin a tonic os gwelwch yn dda" (gin and tonic please) and toast by saying "iechyd da" (cheers) to impress your new Welsh friends. Embrace the lively atmosphere, raise a glass to new adventures and soak in the genuine camaraderie that defines Welsh culture. And when it's time to turn in, bid your friends farewell with a "nos da" (good night).

Here are some handy terms for your Welsh pub trip:

Iechyd da = Good health, used for "cheers" when toasting with drinks. Pronounced "yeah ch dah" (using the soft "ch" sound)
Cwrw = Beer. Pronounced "koo-ru"
Gwin coch = Red wine. Pronounced "gween coch" (using the soft "ch" sound)
Gwin gwyn = White wine. Pronounced "gween gwin"

Cow's tail in the countryside

"Fel cynffon buwch" = "like a cow's tail"

Learn funny Welsh phrases & sayings

Welsh culture is known for its quirky sense of humour, which is reflected in some of the funny sayings and phrases that have become popular in the language. One popular phrase is "dim gobaith ynddo," which means "no hope in it." This humorous expression perfectly captures the Welsh knack for self-deprecating humour. Another funny Welsh saying is "rhyfelwr mewn hot water bottle," which literally translates to "a warrior in a hot water bottle" and is used to describe someone who talks tough but is actually quite cowardly. These delightful Welsh phrases and idioms add a touch of whimsy to the language and reflect the lively spirit of the Welsh people.

Here are some quirky Welsh sayings to get your head around:

A ddwg ŵy a ddwg fwy = He who steals an egg will steal more. English translation: A leopard never changes his spots
Fel cynffon buwch = Like a cow's tail. English translation: to be late or after everyone else
Ar bigau’r drain = On the point of thorns. English translation: A way of saying you're anxious, like you're on tenterhooks
Bwrw hen wragedd â ffyn = It's raining old ladies and sticks. English translation: It's raining cats and dogs/its raining heavily
Tynnu nyth cacwn am dy ben = To pull a wasp's nest onto your head. English translation: To do something that upsets a lot of people

Couple holding hands in the countryside as the sun sets

Share the love

Even though you may not have seen it written down before, you've probably heard the Welsh word "cwtch", which means a warm hug or cuddle. If you're holidaying in Wales with your partner, why not have a few tricks up your sleeve by learning Welsh phrases to sweep them off their feet? Welsh is a language rich in emotion and sentiment, making it perfect for expressing love and romance. Whether you want to keep it simple with "rwy'n dy garu di" (I love you) or try out something more poetic like "ti'n hardd tu hwnt" (you are beautiful beyond measure), Welsh phrases are sure to melt the heart of your loved one.

Here are some cute Welsh words and phrases to woo your other half:

Cwtch = Hug/Cuddle. Pronounced "cutch"
Rwy'n dy garu di = I love you. Pronounced "roo-in de cari dee"
Cusana fi = Kiss me. Pronounced "ka-sanna vee"
Hardd = Beautiful. Pronounced "ha-rth"
Hyfryd = Lovely. Pronounced "hiv-rid"
Cariad = Love/Darling/Sweetheart. Pronounced "carry add"

Ready to impress your partner with your new love language? Whisk them away on one of our romantic getaways in Wales!

Enjoy an unforgettable trip to Wales

Get ready to unlock the essence of Welsh culture with these handy phrases that will elevate your travel experience when you're next visiting Wales. From greeting locals with a warm "bore da" (good morning) to expressing appreciation with a polite "diolch yn fawr iawn" (thank you very much), you'll quickly find yourself immersed in the genuine warmth and hospitality of Wales. With these phrases in your repertoire, your trip to Wales promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Embrace the language, embrace the culture and let the magic of Wales enchant you - your Welsh adventure awaits!

Fancy a chance to speak Welsh on your next UK break? We have a huge choice of getaways in Wales at unbeatable prices. Discover caravan holidays in Wales for a budget-friendly break with the kids; try glamping in Wales for something a little bit different; or bring your canine companion along with our range of dog-friendly stays in Wales.

Sunset at Three Cliffs Bay in the Gower Peninsula, Wales, UK

Sunset at Three Cliffs Bay in the Gower Peninsula, South Wales

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