Basic Words

1. Heẽ

   Yes

   Usage

   Simple affirmative. Nodding while you say it removes any doubt

2. Nahániri

   No

   Usage

   Simple negative. Also used to turn down offers and street vendors

3. Por favor

   Please

   Usage

   Add it to any request. Combined with pointing it works almost anywhere

   Grammar Note

   Guaraní has no standalone word for "please"; politeness is carried by the verb suffixes -mi and -na (eha'arõmi = please wait). In everyday Jopara the Spanish loan "por favor" is used as is.

4. Aguyje

   Thank you

   Usage

   The single most useful word. Use it after paying or being given directions

5. Eñyrõmi chéve

   Excuse me

   Usage

   To get a stranger’s attention, or when passing in front of someone

   Grammar Note

   "Eñyrõmi chéve" is "forgive me" softened by the -mi suffix.

6. Eñyrõ chéve

   Sorry

   Usage

   A real apology: after bumping into someone or making a mistake

   Grammar Note

   Dropping -mi gives "eñyrõ chéve," a more serious apology.

7. Iporã

   It’s OK / I’m fine

   Usage

   Reassures someone who is worried, and softly declines an offer

8. Ndaikũmbýi

   I don’t understand

   Usage

   Say it when you miss what was said; it prompts them to rephrase

9. Aikũmby

   I understand

   Usage

   Confirms you followed the explanation and the conversation can move on

10. Opáma

    I’m finished / Done

    Usage

    Signals you have finished a meal, a form, or a payment

11. Eha'arõmi

    Please wait

    Usage

    Use it while you dig out your wallet or wait for a travel companion

12. Peteĩ sapy'aitépe

    Just a moment

    Usage

    For a few seconds only — at a counter or on the phone

13. Peteĩ kakuaa

    One adult, please

    Usage

    At a ticket window or entrance gate when stating your party size

14. Ndarekói reserva

    I don’t have a reservation

    Usage

    The first thing to say when walking into a hotel or restaurant unannounced

15. Areko peteĩ reserva

    I have a reservation

    Usage

    Say it at reception before giving your name; show the booking if you have it

16. Chepytyvõmi

    Please help me

    Usage

    Shout it in an emergency — it is meant to draw attention fast

17. Ere jeymína

    Once more, please

    Usage

    For asking someone to repeat; pairs naturally with “I don’t understand”

18. Eñe'ẽ mbeguemi

    Please speak slowly

    Usage

    When the speed is the problem rather than the words; most people oblige

19. Añe'ẽ michĩmi

    I speak a little

    Usage

    Say it early; people then choose simpler words and slow down

20. Reñe'ẽpa inglés?

    Do you speak English?

    Usage

    For complicated business — check whether you share a language first

21. kuimba'e

    Man / male

    Usage

    For indicating male, e.g. at a toilet or counter

22. kuña

    Woman / female

    Usage

    For indicating female, e.g. at a toilet or counter

23. jupiha

    Stairs

    Usage

    To ask where the stairs are

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