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If you are planning a trip to Madagascar, you should learn a couple of phrases in Malagasy! In this guide, I will teach you 10 essential Malagasy phrases for your trip!
Table of Contents
Introducing the Malagasy Language
Malagasy is the official language of Madagascar, spoken by the majority of its population. Interestingly, this is an Austronesian language, and is more closely related to languages in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Despite Madagascar’s proximity to mainland Africa, the first humans to visit this island were from Asia. The Malagasy language is a result of the original languages that were brought to Madagascar from Asia.
Where is Malagasy Spoken?
Malagasy, along with French, is the official language of Madagascar. It is almost exclusively spoken in Madagascar and by people of Malagasy descent, especially in Comoros and France.
Why Should You Learn Malagasy?
Every time that I spoke Malagasy in Madagascar, I received a very surprised reaction. The people in Madagascar won’t expect a traveler to know any Malagasy, so even speaking 1 or 2 words will create a great impression!
Speaking Malagasy is also a great way to make friends and get discounts on souvenirs and services in Madagascar!
When I was visiting the Avenue of the Baobabs, I was offered a baobab fruit for about $5 USD. After speaking in Malagasy and joking with the vendor, she eventually gave it to me for $0.20 USD!
Essential Malagasy Phrases
Hello
Salama
Pronounced sa-la-ma. It ends in “llama“.
How are you?
Maona nifasalamanao
Pronounced ma-oh-na nee-fa-sa-la-ma-now. It ends in “llama now“.
Good
Sa’ar
Pronounced sa-ar. You have to create a slight pause between the two syllables.
Yes, no
Yin, Tsia
Yes is pronounced yeen. No is pronounced like “see ya“, but add a “t” before the “s“.
How much (does it cost)?
Hochina
Pronounced ho-chee-na. In Morondava, I heard it pronounced as ho-tsee-na.
That is expensive!
Laf izany
Pronounced laf ee-za-nee. The first word is pronounced like “loft” without the “t“.
Yesterday, today, tomorrow
Umali, enjoany, amarai
Yesterday is pronounced oo-ma-lee. Today is pronounced en-joe-ah-nee. Tomorrow is pronounced ah-ma-rai.
I'm sorry
Azafadi
Pronounced ah-za-FA-dee.
What is your name?
Izy no anaranao
Pronounced ee-zee no ah-na-ra-now.
I don't know
Tsy hai ko
Pronounced tsee hai ko.
