Standing at the heart of the Mediterranean for so many centuries, Malta has been influenced by a large number of nationalities and cultures that have all left an indelible mark on the island’s most primitive form of communication – language. Semantic by root and Latin by alphabet, Maltese enjoys a 30-letter alphabet and a vocabulary that predominantly recalls Arabic, Italian and the neighbouring Sicilian dialect.
Whether you’re visiting Malta for a few days or planning a longer stay, learning a few Maltese language basics is a fantastic way to connect with locals and show respect for the culture.
Why Learn Maltese Phrases?
While English is widely spoken in Malta, using simple Maltese phrases—even just a warm “hello” or “thank you” in Maltese—can instantly break the ice. Maltese people are famously passionate, expressive, and social, and they truly appreciate the effort.
Common Maltese Greetings and Polite Expressions
Here are some essential phrases to get started. We’ve included phonetic guides to help with pronunciation:
Basic Maltese Greetings
Hello – Ħelow [heh-low]
How are you? – Kif int? [kiff int]
Good morning – Bongu [Bon-giu]
Good evening – Il-lejla t-tajba [ill-lay-la t-tie-ba]
Goodbye – Saħħa [sah-ha]
Essential Polite Phrases
Please – Jekk jogħġbok [yeck yogh-jbok]
Thank you – Grazzi [grat-see]
Yes – Iva [ee-va]
No – Le [leh]
Excuse me / Sorry – Skużani [skoo-zah-nee]
Useful Everyday Maltese Phrases
If you’re ready to go beyond the basics, try these handy expressions:
Where are you from? – Min fejn int? [Min / feyn / int]
What’s your name? – X’jismek? [Shh-yismeck]
My name is… – Jien jisimni… [yien / yee-sim-ni…]
And if you’ve just aced those and feel like you’d be up for some more, here are some more complex phrases and their relative pronunciations:
Malta is wonderful! – Malta hija sabiha hafna [Malta / ee-ya / sa-bee-ha / hhaf-fna]
I’ll be right back – Ha nerga nigi [Hha / ner-gia / nee-gee]
I don’t know – Ma nafx [Ma / nafsh]
I love you – Inħobbok [in-hhob-bock]
I’m staying at the Verdi Hotels Gzira Promenade – Qed noqod il Verdi Hotels Gżira Promenade [ed / noh-odd / il / Verdi / Hotels / GZEE-ra / Promenade]
As you might have noticed, at times a double H (hh) has been used in the phonetic details. This particular letter is sounded rather strongly in Maltese and should be pronounced like the H in Harry or Hotel.
Fun Local Words You’ll Hear a Lot
Apart from the phrases above, you’ll also hear Maltese people using the words ‘Mela’ and ‘ta’ very often. These words don’t hold any specific meaning to them whenever isolated, but are generally used to bridge sentences during colloquial conversation. Feel free to throw them around at the end of sentences to make your language instantly sound ‘more Maltese’!
Our Final Maltese Language Tips for Travellers
- Speak confidently. Maltese people appreciate the effort, even if pronunciation isn’t perfect.
- Body language is key. Expect expressive hand gestures and lively conversations.
- Mix and match. Don’t be afraid to switch between English and Maltese. Most locals are bilingual and happy to help.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Malta or returning to explore more of the islands, a few friendly Maltese phrases can truly enrich your experience. Want to put your new language skills to the test? Book your Malta stay with Verdi Hotels and enjoy authentic hospitality, stunning sea views, and a front-row seat to Malta’s vibrant culture. From local tips to luxury comfort, we’ll help make your Maltese getaway unforgettable.
