Studying abroad in Slovenia? Even if most people in Ljubljana speak English, learning a few Slovenian phrases for beginners can go a long way. Locals appreciate the effort, and it helps you blend in—whether you’re buying coffee, asking for directions, or making new friends.
Here’s your go-to guide to learn Slovenian basics through everyday scenarios. Bookmark it, practice it, and maybe impress your Slovenian classmates at the next party.
👋 Greetings & Introductions
These are perfect for starting conversations and meeting locals.
| English | Slovenian |
| Hello | Zdravo / Živjo |
| Good morning | Dobro jutro |
| Good evening | Dober večer |
| Goodbye | Nasvidenje |
| How are you? | Kako si? |
| I’m fine, thanks. | V redu, hvala. |
| My name is… | Ime mi je… |
| Nice to meet you | Me veseli |
💡 Erasmus tip: Use “Živjo” (Hi) casually with friends—it’s common among young people.
🍕 Ordering Food & Drinks
You’ll hear these a lot in cafés, bars, and student canteens.
| English | Slovenian |
| I would like… | Rad(a) bi… (male/female) |
| One coffee, please. | Ena kava, prosim. |
| Water, please. | Voda, prosim. |
| Cheers! | Na zdravje! |
| The bill, please. | Račun, prosim. |
| Delicious! | Zelo okusno! |
🧭 Getting Around & Asking for Directions
Helpful when exploring Ljubljana or venturing out on day trips.
| English | Slovenian |
| Where is…? | Kje je…? |
| The bus stop | Avtobusna postaja |
| Train station | Železniška postaja |
| Left / Right | Levo / Desno |
| Straight ahead | Naravnost |
| How much is the ticket? | Koliko stane vozovnica? |
Bonus: “Ali je blizu?” = “Is it nearby?” Handy for walking or cycling in the city.
🛒 Shopping & Markets
For weekend market runs or quick grocery trips.
| English | Slovenian |
| How much does it cost? | Koliko stane? |
| This one, please. | Tega, prosim. |
| Do you accept card? | Ali sprejemate kartico? |
| I’m just looking. | Samo gledam. |
| Thank you! | Hvala! |
🗣️ Bonus: Fun & Slang You’ll Hear from Students
Want to sound more local? Try these casual expressions:
- Ful dobro! – Really good!
- Ajde! – Let’s go! / Come on!
- Ej! – Hey!
- Ni problema. – No problem.
- Čao! – Bye! (used like “ciao” in Italian)
Use “Ajde!” to hype your friends before a party—it’s universally loved.
🧠 Erasmus Language Tips for Slovenia
- Practice daily: Even 5–10 minutes a day can help. Use Duolingo or LingQ for bite-sized lessons.
- Talk to locals: Most Slovenians will help or correct you kindly if you try speaking their language.
- Join a language café: Many Erasmus networks organize weekly language exchange nights.
- Use flashcards: Try Quizlet or Anki with custom decks focused on student life.
📌 Wrap-Up: Learn Slovenian Basics & Level Up Your Erasmus Life
Mastering a few key Slovenian phrases for beginners doesn’t just make daily life easier—it helps you connect with your new home. Start small, speak up, and don’t be afraid to laugh at your own accent.
Ljubljana’s waiting to welcome you—zdravo and srečno (good luck)!
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