When learning a new language, one of the fundamental words you should familiarize yourself with is “person.” In Punjabi, a language spoken primarily in the region of Punjab, India, and parts of Pakistan, you will come across a few different ways to express this term. This guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to say “person” in Punjabi, along with some regional variations if necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Person” in Punjabi
If you’re in a formal setting or communicating with someone you respect, the following terms can be used to refer to a “person” in Punjabi:
1. ਲੋਕ (Lōka)
One of the most common and widely used words for “person” in Punjabi is “ਲੋਕ” (pronounced as “Lōka”). This term is applicable in various contexts, and it can refer to both males and females.
Example: “ਆਪ ਇਸ ਲੋਕ ਨੂੰ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਉੱਚੀ-ਉੱਚੀ ਆਵਾਜ਼ ‘ਚ ਬੋਲਣਾ ਸਿੱਖ ਸਕਦੇ ਹੋ?” (Can you teach this person to speak Punjabi in a high-pitched voice?)
2. ਵਿਅਕਤੀ (Viyakti)
Another formal word that can be used to mean “person” in Punjabi is “ਵਿਅਕਤੀ” (pronounced as “Viyakti”). This term is more commonly used in professional or official settings.
Example: “ਵਧੀਆ ਵਿਅਕਤੀ ਨੇ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕੀਤੀ!” (You’ve been a great person, thank you!)
Informal Ways to Say “Person” in Punjabi
When you are in a casual or familiar environment, or talking with friends and peers, you may use the following informal terms to refer to a “person” in Punjabi:
1. ਮੁੰਡਾ (Mundā) / ਕੁੜੀ (Kudi)
Punjabi has specific terms that refer to males and females when addressing them informally. Sikh speakers commonly use “ਮੁੰਡਾ” (Mundā) for males and “ਕੁੜੀ” (Kudi) for females. It is important to note that these terms also mean “boy” and “girl,” respectively.
Example: “ਇਹ ਮੁੰਡਾ/ਕੁੜੀ ਬੜਿਆਂ ਮਸਤੀ ਕਰਦਾ ਹੈ!” (This guy/girl knows how to have great fun!)
2. ਇਨਸਾਨ (Insān) / ਆਦਮੀ (Ādmī)
While the borrowed terms “ਇਨਸਾਨ” (Insān) and “ਆਦਮੀ” (Ādmī) from Urdu and Hindi, respectively, are not explicitly Punjabi words, they are commonly used in informal conversations to refer to a person in general.
Example: “ਇਸ ਅਧਾਰ ਉੱਤੇ, ਸਾਨੂੰ ਹਰ ਇਨਸਾਨ ਦੀ ਮਦਦ ਚਾਹੀਦੀ ਹੈ।” (On this basis, we need assistance from every person.)
Regional Variations
Punjabi, like many languages, often exhibits regional variations in terms of vocabulary. While the differences in meaning may be minimal, it’s worth mentioning some variations of “person” based on regional dialects:
1. ਪਣਿਆਂ (Paniān)
In some parts of Punjab, particularly in the Majha region, the word “ਪਣਿਆਂ” (pronounced as “Paniān”) is used interchangeably with “ਲੋਕ” to mean “person.” This variation is more prevalent among certain dialects.
2. ਰਾਖਾ (Rākhā)
In the Malwa region of Punjab, you may occasionally hear the term “ਰਾਖਾ” (pronounced as “Rākhā”) being used to refer to a person. Although this variation is not as widespread, it’s good to be aware of it.
Remember, regional variations are not essential to everyday conversations, and using the more common terms mentioned earlier will suffice in most situations.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “person” in Punjabi opens doors to clearer communication and a deeper understanding of the language. Whether you’re opting for more formal or informal expressions, using terms like “ਲੋਕ” (Lōka) or “ਮੁੰਡਾ” (Mundā) and “ਕੁੜੀ” (Kudi) will effectively convey the intended meaning. Be sure to consider the context and level of formality when selecting the appropriate term, while also keeping in mind any regional variations that may exist.
Punjabi is a rich and vibrant language, and by expanding your vocabulary with basic words like “person,” you’re taking significant steps towards becoming more proficient. Keep practicing, engaging with native speakers, and exploring further to enhance your Punjabi language skills!
