Survival Phrases — 50

Works any time of day, any situation — the universal opener

Used until around noon

From noon until sunset

Both a greeting and a farewell after dark

Add to any request — mandatory for politeness

"Muchas gracias" for extra emphasis

Literally "of nothing" — standard response to thanks

To get attention or apologize — formal register

Most important safety net — use it freely

Last resort — trying Spanish first earns respect

Sets expectations — locals appreciate the effort

Must-know question — just add a place name

Asks for a route, not just a location

"Izquierda" trips up most learners — practice this one

"Derecho" is the Latin American form; Spain uses "recto"

Point to your phone — works even without verbal directions

Change "dos" to any number

"Menú" is the standard term across Latin America; "carta" is understood but less common

Discover local specialties — locals love this question

"Me gustaría" is more polite and softens any request

Must ask — they will not bring the bill unprompted

Critical safety phrase — memorize with your specific allergen

"Sin gluten" (without gluten), "sin carne" (without meat)

Complimenting the food goes a long way

Point at the item — no need to name it

In markets, this can open a negotiation

Many small shops and markets are cash-only — especially outside city centres

"Cajero automático" is the full term

Local bus terms vary: "camión" (Mexico), "colectivo" (Argentina), "bus" or "buseta" (Colombia). "Autobús" is always understood.

"Boleto" is the standard Latin American term; Spain uses "billete"

Works for buses, trains, ferries, flights

Show the driver your phone — universal. Apps like Uber, Cabify, InDriver widely available in major LatAm cities.

Essential for taxis and buses

Follow with your name: "a nombre de..."

"Check-out" used as-is across the Spanish-speaking world

Swap for "un hospital" or "una farmacia" as needed

Emergency numbers vary by country: Mexico 911, Colombia 123, Argentina 911, Chile 133, Peru 105, Brazil 190.

Point to where it hurts

Learn cold — prices, addresses, quantities

"Mañana" also means "morning" — context determines meaning