beli
The English word "brother" is translated into Balinese as beli.
In Balinese culture, the term beli is specifically used to refer to an older brother or a male who is older than the speaker.
Meaning: male sibling (noun)
Which one should you use?
While beli refers to an older brother, adik is the term used for a younger sibling. Additionally, Adi is an informal term used to address or refer to a younger brother or close friend.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term beli is used in common or informal speech to refer to a brother.
Did you know?
- The term beli may have been borrowed from the Old Javanese word wali, which referred to a person in charge of a ritual or ceremony.
- Balinese has a complex system of social registers, and while beli is common, there are different words for 'brother' used when speaking to people of higher castes.
- The word beli can be used as a polite way to address a male stranger, such as a shopkeeper or a taxi driver, to show respect.
Examples in context
- Beli tiange sampun rauh.My brother has arrived.
- Tiang sareng beli meli nasi.I am buying rice with my brother.
Example conversation
Two girls are talking about their family members.
- NyomanKadek, beli tiange mrika jani.Kadek, my brother is going there now.
- KadekLakar kije beli Nyomane?Where is Nyoman's brother going?
- NyomanBeli tiange lakar ke peken.My brother is going to the market.
- KadekOh, nika bagus pisan.Oh, that is very good.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries beli, CC BY-SA 4.0.
