Please, thank you, and the basics of being polite.

• ZikomoThank you (also used as 'excuse me' to get attention)
• Zikomo kwambiriThank you very much
• ChondePlease
• PepaniSorry / Excuse me (apology or sympathy)
• Palibe kanthuYou're welcome / No problem (lit. 'there is nothing')
• IndeYes
• AyiNo
• EyaYes (informal/casual 'yeah')
• ChabwinoOK / Alright / Good
• Kodi ndingathe?May I? / Can I? (asking permission)
• NdikupemphaniI beg you / Please (polite plural request)
• Mukhale bwinoTake care / Be well (polite farewell wish)