बस
basa
The English phrase 'sit down' is translated into Nepali as बस (basa).
This verb describes the action of assuming a sitting position from a standing position.
Meaning: to assume a sitting position from a standing position (verb)
Which one should you use?
The form बस is the informal imperative, while बस्नुहोस् is the polite imperative. To express that someone already 'sat down' in a polite manner, use the past tense form बस्नुभयो.
How does it change in a sentence?
The dictionary or infinitive form of the verb 'to sit' is बस्नु. When giving a command or request, you use the imperative forms: बस for informal situations and बस्नुहोस् for polite situations.
How do you pronounce it?
basa
Did you know?
- The word बस is a homonym in Nepali. Depending on the context, it can mean the command to 'sit down' or refer to a 'bus' for public transportation.
- When inviting guests to बस्नुहोस् (sit down), it is common to gesture with the whole hand palm-up rather than pointing with a single finger, which is considered rude.
- The word बस is a homonym that can also mean 'enough' or 'stop' in certain contexts, making it a useful tool for setting boundaries during a conversation.
Examples in context
- पहिलो बस्ने व्यक्ति टम थियो।Tom was the first person to sit down.This sentence uses बस to describe the first person who sat down.Tatoeba #11938118 by taro, translation #8505563 by CK
- त्यहीँ बस।Sit down over there.This sentence uses बस to tell someone to sit down in a specific location.Tatoeba #11805539 by taro, translation #3819980 by CK
- यहाँ बस।yahā̃ basa.Sit here.
Example conversation
Sumit invites Maya to sit on a chair.
- सुमित Sumitमाया, यहाँ बस।Maya, yaha bas.Maya, sit down here.
- माया Mayaधन्यवाद, सुमित।Dhanyabad, Sumit.Thank you, Sumit.
- सुमित Sumitके तिमीलाई तिर्खा लाग्यो?Ke timilai tirkha lagyo?Are you thirsty?
- माया Mayaअँ, अलिअलि लाग्यो।An, aliali lagyo.Yes, a little bit.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
