Learning basic pleasantries in a foreign language can go a long way in building connections and showing respect to the locals. In Nepal, where cultural etiquette holds significant importance, knowing how to say “please” appropriately is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to say “please” in Nepal, along with some regional variations that may be useful to know. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Please”
If you find yourself in a formal setting or talking to someone older or in a position of authority, it is essential to use the appropriate formal terms to show respect. Here are some formal ways to say “please” in Nepal:
1. Kr̥payā
Kr̥payā is the most common and widely understood word for “please” in Nepal. It can be used in various situations, such as when requesting assistance, asking for a favor, or ordering something politely. For example:
Kr̥payā, ma āphūlāī sahāyō pāʼuṁ? – Please, can you help me?
Remember to use a respectful and polite tone when using kr̥payā in formal settings to show your utmost courtesy.
2. Dayā garnuhos
In particularly formal or humble contexts, you may use dayā garnuhos, which translates to “please have compassion.” This phrase is typically used when seeking assistance from someone who may be considered superior. For instance:
Dayā garnuhos, timilai ekchin madad garnu huncha? – Please, can you help me for a moment?
Using dayā garnuhos shows your genuine respect and a humble attitude towards the person you are addressing.
Informal Ways to Say “Please”
When speaking with peers, friends, or family members, a more relaxed and casual tone can be adopted. Here are some informal ways to say “please” in Nepal:
1. Kripaya
Kripaya is the informal version of kr̥payā. It is commonly used among acquaintances and friends. For example:
Kripaya, maile timilai phone garnu āwāśyeʼchha? – Please, can I call you urgently?
Using kripaya strikes a balance between politeness and familiarity.
2. Hidda
When interacting with close friends or family members, hidda can be used to mean “please.” Remember that this form is quite casual and should be used only in informal settings. An example could be:
Hidda, ma mithai khaṇchu? – Please, can I have some sweets?
Be cautious while using hidda as it is considered very informal and may not be appropriate in certain situations.
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal ways mentioned above are widely understood across Nepal, it’s worth knowing that there exist certain regional variations as well. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Chaṭhuskaṛī
In the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley, the word chaṭhuskaṛī can be used to mean “please.” This term reflects the distinct culture and language of the Newari people. For instance:
Chaṭhuskaṛī, mero hājir hudai chha? – Please, can I be excused now?
2. Maāya garaunuhos
In certain regions, particularly in the western parts of Nepal, maāya garaunuhos can be used to say “please.” This phrase translates to “please love me” and is unique to those areas. An example is:
Maāya garaunuhos, āfnō phone pṛṣṭhabhūmi mero phone galā karuṇuhos. – Please, love me and activate my phone’s internet connection.
These regional variations are not commonly used outside of their respective areas, but being aware of them can be valuable for understanding local customs and dialects.
Tips for Using “Please” Appropriately
To ensure your usage of “please” in Nepal is well-received, here are a few additional tips:
- Always maintain a warm and polite tone when saying “please” in Nepal. Politeness is highly valued in the Nepalese culture.
- Accompany “please” with a smile and proper body language to display your sincerity.
- Appropriately assess the formality of the situation and determine whether to use a formal or informal version.
- When in doubt, err on the side of formality, as it is generally appreciated.
- If unsure about a regional variation, it’s best to stick to the more widely known terms like “kr̥payā.”
By following these tips, you can navigate the usage of “please” in Nepal respectfully and effectively.
In Conclusion
Knowing how to say “please” in Nepal is an important aspect of cultural etiquette and can greatly enhance your interactions with locals. From the formal kr̥payā to the informal kripaya and the regional variations of chaṭhuskaṛī and maāya garaunuhos, each term has its place in the Nepalese language and context. Remember to always wield “please” with politeness, warmth, and an understanding of the appropriate level of formality. Enjoy your journey of learning and connecting through language!
