When it comes to navigating directions, knowing how to say “left” and “right” in different languages can be incredibly useful. In this guide, we will explore how to express these terms in Indian languages. India is a diverse country with numerous languages, so we will focus on a few common languages spoken across various parts of the country.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Left” and “Right”
Let’s start with the formal ways to say “left” and “right” in Indian:
Hindi:
In Hindi, the official language of India, “left” is called बायां (bayā̃) and “right” is called दायां (dāyā̃).
Example: घूँघट के निचले बायां मोड़ से हमें आगे जाना है।
(Ghūnghaṭ ke nichale bayā̃ mōḍ se hamē̃ āgē jānā hai.)
We have to go ahead from the left turn under the canopy.
Tamil:
In Tamil, one of the Dravidian languages spoken in South India, “left” is called இடது (iṭatu) and “right” is called வலது (valatu).
Example: மணமக்கள் கிரிக்கெட் மைதானத்தின் வலது பக்கம் பார்த்து சுற்றி வருகின்றனர்.
(Maṇamakkaḷ krikkeṭ maitāṉattiṉ valatu pakṉ pārtu cuṟṟi varukinṟaṉar.)
The groom’s family is coming by taking a turn at the right side of the cricket ground.
Informal Ways to Say “Left” and “Right”
Informal usage often varies among regions, and people might prefer unique colloquial terms. However, we can provide some commonly used informal ways:
Bengali:
In Bengali, spoken in West Bengal and Bangladesh, “left” can be expressed informally as বাম (bam), and “right” can be said as ডান (dan).
Example: আপনি বাম হাতে প্রধান রাস্তায় চলে যান।
(Āpani bāma hatē pradhan rāstāẏa cōlē yān.)
You go straight on the main road with your left hand.
Telugu:
In Telugu, a language spoken in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, “left” can be expressed informally as ఎడమ (eḍama), and “right” as కుడి (kuḍi).
Example: ఈ మార్గంలో ఎడమంగా చెరికీలో రాయించు.
(Ī mārgaṁlō eḍamaṅgā cērikīlō rāyiñcu.)
Take a turn towards the left in this street.
Tips for Remembering Directions
Remembering directions can be challenging, especially when you’re not familiar with the area. Here are some tips to help you navigate confidently:
- Make use of landmarks: Use prominent landmarks as reference points to remember directions. It could be a building, a statue, or a distinctive natural feature.
- Use a mental map: Create a mental map of your surroundings to develop a better sense of direction. Take note of major roads and intersections.
- Practice visualization: Visualize the route in your mind before setting out on a journey. This mental exercise can help you recall the correct directions easily.
- Pay attention to street signs: Street signs can provide crucial information about directions. Stay observant and read the signs carefully.
- Ask for assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions. Most people are happy to help, and it can be an opportunity to practice the local language as well.
Remember, practice is key when it comes to learning and recalling directions. The more you explore different areas, the better you’ll become at finding your way around.
Conclusion
Knowing how to say “left” and “right” in Indian languages can greatly aid in navigating directions while exploring the diverse regions of India. In this guide, we covered formal and informal ways of expressing these terms in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, and Telugu. Additionally, we provided tips for remembering directions efficiently. So go ahead, embrace the warmth of the Indian culture, and confidently navigate the enchanting streets of this beautiful nation!
