One of the essential phrases to master when learning a new language is how to ask for the time. In Hindi, there are both formal and informal ways to inquire about the current time, depending on the situation and the people you are conversing with. In this guide, we will explore various ways to ask, “What time is it?” in Hindi, including regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Ask About Time:
When conversing in a formal setting or with someone you need to show respect to, such as elders, authorities, or strangers, it is crucial to use the appropriate formal language. Here are a few formal phrases you can use to ask for the time:
a) कृपया समय बताएं (Kripaya samay bataayein):
This phrase literally translates to “Please tell the time.” It is a polite and respectful way to request someone to inform you about the current time.
Example conversation:
Person A: कृपया समय बताएं। (Kripaya samay bataayein.)
Person B: अभी समय है १० बजे (Abhi samay hai 10 baje.)
b) कृपया समय बता सकते हैं? (Kripaya samay bata sakte hain?):
This phrase means, “Could you tell the time, please?” It is another polite way to inquire about the current time when having formal conversations.
Example conversation:
Person A: कृपया समय बता सकते हैं? (Kripaya samay bata sakte hain?)
Person B: हाँ, अभी समय १० बजे हैं। (Haan, abhi samay 10 baje hain.)
2. Informal Ways to Ask About Time:
For casual conversations with friends, family, or peers, you can use more relaxed language to ask, “What time is it?” Here are a couple of common informal phrases:
a) समय क्या हो रहा है? (Samay kya ho raha hai?):
This phrase means, “What time is it?” and is suitable for informal settings where you can drop the formal tone.
Example conversation:
Person A: समय क्या हो रहा है? (Samay kya ho raha hai?)
Person B: अभी समय १० बज रहा है। (Abhi samay 10 baj raha hai.)
b) अभी कितने बज रहे हैं? (Abhi kitne baj rahe hain?):
This phrase translates to, “What time is it right now?” and is a common way to ask for the time informally.
Example conversation:
Person A: अभी कितने बज रहे हैं? (Abhi kitne baj rahe hain?)
Person B: १० बज रहे हैं। (10 baj rahe hain.)
3. Regional Variations:
Hindi is a diverse language and has some regional variations in how people ask for the time. Although the formal and informal phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood and accepted, there might be slight variations based on different regions in India. Here, we will explore a couple of regional variations:
a) In Northern India:
In Northern India, including states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, you might come across the phrase “समय क्या हो गई है?” (Samay kya ho gayi hai?), which means “What time has it become?” This phrase is used informally to ask about the current time or moment.
b) In Western India:
In Western India, including states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, it is common to use the phrase “काय वेळ झालेले आहे?” (Kay vel zalele ahe?), which means “What time has passed?” This phrase can be used both formally and informally to inquire about the time.
Conclusion:
Asking for the time is a basic necessity while communicating and understanding time-related activities throughout the day. By familiarizing yourself with both formal and informal ways to ask, “What time is it?” in Hindi, you will be better equipped to navigate conversations in various settings. Remember to adjust your language based on the formality of the situation and the people you are conversing with. Happy time-telling in Hindi!
