Good manners in the Latvian language
When you learn a new language, polite words are very important. They help create a friendly conversation, show respect, and make you feel closer to local people. In Latvian, polite phrases are not complicated, but you need to know them to make everyday communication pleasant. Latvians are quite quiet and reserved, but with the help of polite words and the “Jūs” form always open doors to a warmer conversation. If you say “paldies” or “lūdzu” with a smile, that will be the best step towards winning a local’s heart. Even if it is your very first paldies to a shop assistant, you will immediately see a smile on their face.
In Latvian, it is very important to choose the correct form of address. “Tu” is used in friendly, informal situations with family, friends, or peers. Meanwhile, “Jūs” is used formally and politely – when speaking to strangers, older people, in official situations, or in the workplace. Which is different in English when in both cases you use the word “You”.
Examples:
Informal: “Vai tu nāksi?” → Will you come?
Polite: “Vai Jūs nāksiet?” → Will you come? (formal)
If you are not sure, always choose “Jūs” – it will be safer and more polite. If your conversation partner tells you “pārejam uz Tu” (“let’s switch to Tu”), then you know that from now on you can address them with “Tu” instead of “Jūs”. This switch usually signals the beginning of a friendlier, more informal relationship. The word “Jūs” is also used informally when addressing a group of people, two or more.
Now let’s look at some of the most used polite words which can be useful in different situations. The very first one to mention is “Paldies!”, which means Thank you.
Paldies! → Thank you
Liels paldies! → Thanks a lot
Paldies tev! → Thank you (informal)
Paldies Jums! → Thank you (formal)
The second most used word you will often hear in Latvian is “Lūdzu”. This word has several meanings – it can express a request, a response to thanks, or be used when handing something to someone, for example, when passing a dropped object, serving food, or letting someone go ahead of you when boarding a bus.
Response to thanks: “Paldies!” – “Lūdzu!” → Thank you! – You’re welcome!
Asking for help: “Vai tu vari, lūdzu, palīdzēt?” → Can you please help?
Invitation (informal): “Lūdzu, nāc iekšā!” → Please, come in!
Invitation (formal): “Lūdzu, nāciet iekšā!” → Please, come in!
These words are not just dictionary entries – they show respect, attentiveness, and care for your conversation partner. When learning Latvian, try to use polite phrases in daily life – at the store, on public transport, at university, or among friends. Also, remember to choose the correct form of address, “tu” or “Jūs”, because this reflects respect and an understanding of the nuances of Latvian culture.
Vita, OLS Community manager - Latvian