Learning how to say things in different languages can be an exciting and enriching experience. If you’re interested in learning how to say various phrases and expressions in Nepali, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey your thoughts and provide tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When it comes to formal situations in Nepali, it’s important to use respectful and polite language. Here are some essential phrases and expressions:
Greetings
In Nepali, a common way to greet someone is by saying “नमस्ते” (namaste), which means “hello.” Another formal greeting is “तपाइलाई सुप्रभात” (tapailai suprabhat), which translates to “good morning.”
Thank You
To express gratitude formally, you can say “धन्यवाद” (dhanyabad), which means “thank you.” If you want to sound even more polite, you can use “तपाईको बहुत धन्यवाद” (tapai ko bahut dhanyabad), which translates to “thank you very much.”
Excuse Me/Sorry
In formal situations, if you want to grab someone’s attention or apologize, say “क्षमा पनि गर्नुहोला” (kshama pani garnuhola), which means “excuse me” or “sorry.”
Informal Expressions
Informal language is used among friends, family, or in casual conversations. Here are some commonly used phrases:
Greetings
An informal way to say “hello” in Nepali is “नमस्कार” (namaskar). You can also greet friends by saying “साथीहरू” (sathiharū), which means “friends.”
Thank You
When expressing gratitude informally, you can say “धन्यवाद” (dhanyavad) or “धन्यवाद तपाईलाई” (dhanyavad tapāīlāī), which means “thank you.”
Excuse Me/Sorry
In informal situations, you can say “माफ गर्नुहोस्” (māph garnuhos), which translates to “excuse me” or “sorry.”
Common Phrases
Now let’s explore some commonly used phrases in Nepali:
- Yes: “हो” (ho)
- No: “होइन” (hoina)
- Goodbye: “बिदाइ” (bida’i)
- How are you?: “तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?” (tapāīnlāī kasto cha?)
- Where is…?: “…कहाँ छ?” (kaha chha?)
- What is your name?: “तपाईंको नाम के हो?” (tapāīnko nām ke ho?)
Regional Variations
Nepali language showcases various regional influences. While the standard Nepali is used throughout the country, there are slight variations in different regions. Here are a few examples:
Kathmandu Valley
In the Kathmandu Valley, the Newari language has influenced Nepali. For example, instead of saying “कस्तो छ?” (kasto cha?), people might say “के छ?” (ke cha?).
Terai Region
In the Terai region, the language is slightly influenced by Bhojpuri. For instance, instead of “बिदाइ” (bida’i), people might say “छिरै जानु होला” (chirai jānu hola).
TIP: When visiting different regions in Nepal, it’s always interesting to learn some region-specific variations to enhance your understanding and connections with the locals.
Now that you have an overview of formal and informal expressions, along with some regional variations, you are ready to practice and explore the beautiful Nepali language. Remember to approach learning with curiosity and respect, and embrace the warmth and hospitality of the people you’ll no doubt encounter on your journey. सुखद यात्रा (Sukhada Yatra) – Happy travels!
