Help and emergencies in Albanian
The words you hope to never need. Play the ten Albanian words against the clock, with a note on how locals really use each one after every answer. All ten are written out below.
All 10 Albanian phrases in this lesson
- Ndihmë!NDEEM-e
- Help!
- Thirrni mjekun!THEER-ni MYE-koon
- Call a doctor
- Policiapo-li-TSEE-a
- Police
- Farmacifar-ma-TSEE
- Pharmacy
- Spitalspi-TAL
- Hospital
- Jam i humburyam ee HOOM-boor
- I'm lost
- Nuk ndihem mirënook NDEE-hem MEE-re
- I don't feel well
- Më është vjedhurme ESH-te VYE-dhoor
- It was stolen
- Është urgjencëESH-te oor-JEN-tse
- It's an emergency
- Më lër të qetëme ler te CHE-te
- Leave me alone
Shout this clearly and loudly in an emergency. The "nd" cluster at the start is unusual in English but is a normal Albanian sound. Practice it once so it comes out quickly if needed.
The emergency medical number is 127. In Albanian cities, first aid response is improving. Private clinics are faster than public hospitals in non-critical situations.
The police number is 129, or 112 from a mobile.
Albanian pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists are helpful. Many common medications are available over the counter without a prescription. Look for the green cross sign.
Very close to the English word, making it easy to remember. Public hospitals are available but private clinics (klinikë private) are recommended for non-emergency situations if you have travel insurance.
Say this with a look around and most Albanians will immediately try to help. Hospitality is a core value and leaving a stranger confused is not in the culture.
Say this to a pharmacist, hotel staff, or anyone nearby if you need medical attention. They will understand and help you find the right next step, whether that is rest or a clinic.
The "dh" is like the "th" in "the." Report theft to the police (polici) and get a written report for insurance claims. Pickpocketing is rare but does occur in crowded areas.
Urgjenca is also what the emergency room is called.
Literally "leave me calm". Firm, clear, and understood everywhere.