Common Haitian Creole Phrases and a Beginner Pronunciation Guide

Learning a few Haitian Creole phrases builds rapport and shows respect, even when a professional interpreter handles the substantive conversation. Below are common expressions and a brief pronunciation guide for beginners.

Greetings and polite phrases

• Bonjour — Good morning / hello (used before evening)
• Bonswa — Good evening
• Koman ou ye? — How are you?
• Mwen byen, mesi — I’m well, thank you
• Mesi anpil — Thank you very much
• Souple — Please
• Eskize mwen — Excuse me
• Orevwa — Goodbye
• Wi / Non — Yes / No

Useful phrases for service settings

• Kisa sa vle di? — What does that mean?
• Repete, souple — Please repeat
• Mwen pa konprann — I don’t understand
• Konsa ou gen yon moun ki ka ede w — You have someone who can help you
• Nou pral mande yon entèprèt — We’re going to request an interpreter

Pronunciation basics

Haitian Creole spelling is largely phonetic — words are generally pronounced as they are written, which makes it more approachable than French for new learners. A few patterns help:

• The letter “r” is typically rolled or lightly trilled, similar to Spanish.
• “Ou” is pronounced like “oo” in “food.”
• “J” and “g” before e/i often sound like the “s” in “measure.”
• Nasal sounds (an, en, on) carry a subtle nasal tone, as in French.
• Stress usually falls on the last syllable of a word.

A respectful note

A few courteous phrases go a long way, but for any substantive communication — medical, legal, or business — always use a qualified interpreter. Good intentions do not substitute for accurate, complete interpretation, and small errors can carry large consequences.