{"id":230,"date":"2025-12-07T03:51:13","date_gmt":"2025-12-07T08:51:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/chapter\/chapter-10-unit-4-grammar-focus\/"},"modified":"2026-05-26T16:06:20","modified_gmt":"2026-05-26T20:06:20","slug":"chapter-10-unit-4-grammar-focus","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/chapter\/chapter-10-unit-4-grammar-focus\/","title":{"raw":"Unit 4 \u2014 Grammar Focus","rendered":"Unit 4 \u2014 Grammar Focus"},"content":{"raw":"

Nationality, Profession, Discourse Particles, and Kinship Terms<\/h2>\r\nIn this section, you will learn how to talk about nationality and profession in Nepali. You will also learn several small but important conversation words, called discourse particles, and common kinship terms used in respectful address.\r\n\r\nThese forms are useful in greetings, introductions, small talk, and everyday conversations.\r\n

Nationality and Profession<\/h2>\r\nNationality words, such as \u201cNepali\u201d or \u201cCanadian,\u201d and profession or role words, such as \u201cstudent\u201d or \u201cteacher,\u201d often appear in Nepali identity sentences.\r\n\r\nIdentity sentences tell us who someone is or what someone is.\r\n\r\nA simple way to think about identity sentences is:\r\n\r\nX = Y\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nI am Nepali.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is a teacher.\r\n\r\nIn these sentences, the first part is the subject. The second part is the identity label.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e\r\nma<\/em>\r\nI\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940\r\nnep\u0101l\u012b<\/em>\r\nNepali\r\n\r\n\u0939\u0941\u0901\r\nhu\u0303<\/em>\r\nam\r\n\r\nNepali uses forms of \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941 (hunu<\/em>) and \u0939\u094b (ho<\/em>) to link the subject with the identity label. The exact form changes depending on the subject, number, and level of respect.\r\n\r\n[table id=308 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=309 \/]\r\n

Simple Rule<\/h3>\r\nUse identity sentences for:\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • nationality<\/li>\r\n \t
  • profession<\/li>\r\n \t
  • role<\/li>\r\n \t
  • category<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma widy\u0101rth\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nI am a student.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0921\u093e\u0915\u094d\u091f\u0930 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 \u1e0d\u0101k\u1e6dar hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is a doctor.\r\n\r\n\u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094c\u0902\u0964\r\nh\u0101m\u012b nep\u0101l\u012b hau\u0303.<\/em>\r\nWe are Nepali.\r\n

    Negative Identity Sentences<\/h3>\r\nTo make identity sentences negative, Nepali uses negative forms such as \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928 (hoina<\/em>), \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d (hoinan<\/em>), and \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928 (hunuhunna<\/em>).\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964\r\nma \u015bik\u1e63ak hoina.<\/em>\r\nI am not a teacher.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 widy\u0101rth\u012b hunuhunna.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is not a student.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0915\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0928\u093e\u0921\u0947\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964\r\nun\u012bhar\u016b ky\u0101n\u0101\u1e0del\u012b hoinan.<\/em>\r\nThey are not Canadian.\r\n

    Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the sentences aloud.\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nI am Nepali.\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964\r\nma nep\u0101l\u012b hoina.<\/em>\r\nI am not Nepali.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is a teacher.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 widy\u0101rth\u012b hunuhunna.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is not a student.\r\n

    Common Mistake<\/h3>\r\nDo not use \u091b (cha<\/em>) for identity sentences.\r\n\r\nIncorrect:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u091b\u0964\r\nma nep\u0101l\u012b cha.<\/em>\r\n\r\nCorrect:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nI am Nepali.\r\n\r\nIncorrect:\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak cha.<\/em>\r\n\r\nCorrect:\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She is a teacher.\r\n

    Discourse Particles<\/h2>\r\nIn everyday Nepali, short words called discourse particles help manage conversation.\r\n\r\nThey usually do not change the basic grammar of a sentence. Instead, they add conversational meaning.\r\n\r\nDiscourse particles can show:\r\n
      \r\n \t
    • inclusion<\/li>\r\n \t
    • contrast<\/li>\r\n \t
    • focus<\/li>\r\n \t
    • turn-taking<\/li>\r\n \t
    • agreement<\/li>\r\n \t
    • movement to the next point<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThese words are very common in greetings, introductions, and small talk.\r\n

      \u0928\u093f<\/h2>\r\n\u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) is a short conversation particle. It often means \u201cand you?\u201d or \u201cwhat about you?\u201d in context.\r\n\r\nSpeakers use \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) to invite the other person to respond without repeating the full question.\r\n\r\nIt is especially common after greetings, check-ins, and short exchanges.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?\r\nmal\u0101\u012b \u1e6dh\u012bk cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em>\r\nI am fine. And you?\r\n\r\n\u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0928\u093e\u092e \u0930\u093e\u092e \u0939\u094b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0928\u093f?\r\nmero n\u0101m r\u0101m ho. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko ni?<\/em>\r\nMy name is Ram. What about yours?\r\n\r\n[table id=310 \/]\r\n

      Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nPractise the short exchange.\r\n\r\nA: \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?\r\nmal\u0101\u012b \u1e6dh\u012bk cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em>\r\nI am fine. And you?\r\n\r\nB: \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u092a\u0928\u093f \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964\r\nmal\u0101\u012b pani \u1e6dh\u012bk cha.<\/em>\r\nI am also fine.\r\n

      \u0932<\/h2>\r\n\u0932 (la<\/em>) is a very common conversation marker. It often means \u201cokay,\u201d \u201calright,\u201d or \u201cthen.\u201d\r\n\r\nSpeakers use \u0932 (la<\/em>) to accept what was said, close one part of a conversation, or move to the next action.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u0932, \u091c\u093e\u0914\u0901\u0964\r\nla, j\u0101au\u0303.<\/em>\r\nOkay, let\u2019s go.\r\n\r\n\u0932, \u0938\u0941\u0930\u0941 \u0917\u0930\u094c\u0902\u0964\r\nla, suru garau\u0303.<\/em>\r\nOkay, let\u2019s begin.\r\n\r\n\u0932, \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964\r\nla, \u1e6dh\u012bk cha.<\/em>\r\nOkay, that\u2019s fine.\r\n\r\n[table id=311 \/]\r\n

      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\n\u0932 (la<\/em>) is very common in spoken Nepali. It helps the conversation move forward naturally.\r\n

      \u0924<\/h2>\r\n\u0924 (ta<\/em>) is a focus or contrast particle. It can mean something like \u201cas for\u2026\u201d or \u201cbut\u2026\u201d depending on the context.\r\n\r\nIt highlights the word or phrase before it.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092e \u0924 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma ta widy\u0101rth\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nAs for me, I am a student.\r\n\r\n\u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964\r\nyo ta r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>\r\nThis one is good.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0924 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 ta \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nAs for him\/her, he\/she is a teacher.\r\n\r\n[table id=312 \/]\r\n

      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\n\u0924 (ta<\/em>) does not usually change the grammar of the sentence. It changes the conversational meaning by adding focus or contrast.\r\n

      \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901<\/h2>\r\n\u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) is also a focus marker. It means something like \u201cspecifically,\u201d \u201cas for,\u201d or \u201cthis one in particular.\u201d\r\n\r\nIt is often used to single out one person or thing from others.\r\n\r\nCompared with \u0924 (ta<\/em>), \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) can feel more explicit and specific.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u092f\u094b \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u0939\u094b\u0964\r\nyo c\u0101hi\u0303 mero kit\u0101b ho.<\/em>\r\nThis one specifically is my book.\r\n\r\n\u092e \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964\r\nma c\u0101hi\u0303 nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>\r\nAs for me, I am Nepali.\r\n\r\n\u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964\r\nuh\u0101\u0303 c\u0101hi\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>\r\nHe\/She specifically is a teacher.\r\n\r\n[table id=313 \/]\r\n

      Simple Difference<\/h3>\r\n\u0924 (ta<\/em>) adds focus or contrast.\r\n\r\n\u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) singles something out more clearly.\r\n\r\nBoth are common in everyday Nepali.\r\n

      Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nCompare the sentences.\r\n\r\n\u092f\u094b \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964\r\nyo r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>\r\nThis is good.\r\n\r\n\u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964\r\nyo ta r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>\r\nThis one is good. \/ At least this is good.\r\n\r\n\u092f\u094b \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964\r\nyo c\u0101hi\u0303 r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>\r\nThis one specifically is good.\r\n

      Using Kinship Terms to Address Others<\/h2>\r\nIn Nepali, people often address others using kinship terms instead of personal names.\r\n\r\nThese terms can be used with family members, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers. They help show respect, warmth, and social relationship.\r\n\r\nFor example, instead of calling someone only by name, speakers may say:\r\n\r\n\u0905\u092e\u0943\u0924\u093e \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940\r\namrit\u0101 did\u012b<\/em>\r\nAmrita elder sister\r\n\r\n\u092e\u0926\u0928 \u092d\u093e\u0907\r\nmadan bh\u0101i<\/em>\r\nMadan younger brother\r\n\r\n\u0930\u093e\u091c\u0941 \u0926\u093e\u0907\r\nr\u0101ju d\u0101i<\/em>\r\nRaju elder brother\r\n\r\nSpeakers choose the term based on the person\u2019s age, relationship, and social context.\r\n\r\n[table id=314 \/]\r\n

      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nKinship terms can make Nepali sound more natural and respectful.\r\n\r\nUseful beginner terms include:\r\n
        \r\n \t
      • \u0926\u093e\u0907 (d\u0101i<\/em>) \u2014 elder brother<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940 (did\u012b<\/em>) \u2014 elder sister<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u092d\u093e\u0907 (bh\u0101i<\/em>) \u2014 younger brother<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u092c\u0939\u093f\u0928\u0940 (bahin\u012b<\/em>) \u2014 younger sister<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u0906\u092e\u093e (\u0101m\u0101<\/em>) \u2014 mother \/ respectful address for an older woman<\/li>\r\n \t
      • \u092c\u0941\u092c\u093e (bub\u0101<\/em>) \u2014 father \/ respectful address for an older man<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

        Common Mistake<\/h3>\r\nDo not translate kinship terms too literally. In Nepali, words like \u0926\u093e\u0907 (d\u0101i<\/em>) and \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940 (did\u012b<\/em>) can be used socially, not only for actual siblings.\r\n\r\nFor example, a shopkeeper, neighbour, or older community member may be addressed with a kinship term to sound respectful and warm.\r\n

        Try It Now<\/h2>\r\nRead the examples aloud.\r\n\r\n\u0928\u092e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u0947, \u0926\u093e\u0907\u0964\r\nnamaste, d\u0101i.<\/em>\r\nHello, elder brother.\r\n\r\n\u0928\u092e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u0947, \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940\u0964\r\nnamaste, did\u012b.<\/em>\r\nHello, elder sister.\r\n\r\n\u0905\u092e\u0943\u0924\u093e \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0915\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094b \u091b?\r\namrit\u0101 did\u012b, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b kasto cha?<\/em>\r\nAmrita sister, how are you?\r\n\r\n\u092e\u0926\u0928 \u092d\u093e\u0907, \u092f\u094b \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u0939\u094b?\r\nmadan bh\u0101i, yo tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko kit\u0101b ho?<\/em>\r\nMadan brother, is this your book?\r\n

        Can You Do This Now?<\/h2>\r\nAt the end of this section, you should be able to:\r\n
          \r\n \t
        • use identity sentences for nationality and profession<\/li>\r\n \t
        • say sentences such as \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901 (ma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303<\/em>) and \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b (uh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha<\/em>)<\/li>\r\n \t
        • make negative identity sentences with \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928 (hoina<\/em>), \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d (hoinan<\/em>), and \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928 (hunuhunna<\/em>)<\/li>\r\n \t
        • recognize common discourse particles such as \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>), \u0932 (la<\/em>), \u0924 (ta<\/em>), and \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>)<\/li>\r\n \t
        • use \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) to mean \u201cand you?\u201d or \u201cwhat about you?\u201d in conversation<\/li>\r\n \t
        • use \u0932 (la<\/em>) to move a conversation forward<\/li>\r\n \t
        • recognize \u0924 (ta<\/em>) and \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) as focus markers<\/li>\r\n \t
        • understand how Nepali kinship terms are used for respectful and warm address<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","rendered":"

          Nationality, Profession, Discourse Particles, and Kinship Terms<\/h2>\n

          In this section, you will learn how to talk about nationality and profession in Nepali. You will also learn several small but important conversation words, called discourse particles, and common kinship terms used in respectful address.<\/p>\n

          These forms are useful in greetings, introductions, small talk, and everyday conversations.<\/p>\n

          Nationality and Profession<\/h2>\n

          Nationality words, such as \u201cNepali\u201d or \u201cCanadian,\u201d and profession or role words, such as \u201cstudent\u201d or \u201cteacher,\u201d often appear in Nepali identity sentences.<\/p>\n

          Identity sentences tell us who someone is or what someone is.<\/p>\n

          A simple way to think about identity sentences is:<\/p>\n

          X = Y<\/p>\n

          For example:<\/p>\n

          \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
          \nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
          \nI am Nepali.<\/p>\n

          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
          \nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>
          \nHe\/She is a teacher.<\/p>\n

          In these sentences, the first part is the subject. The second part is the identity label.<\/p>\n

          For example:<\/p>\n

          \u092e
          \nma<\/em>
          \nI<\/p>\n

          \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940
          \nnep\u0101l\u012b<\/em>
          \nNepali<\/p>\n

          \u0939\u0941\u0901
          \nhu\u0303<\/em>
          \nam<\/p>\n

          Nepali uses forms of \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941 (hunu<\/em>) and \u0939\u094b (ho<\/em>) to link the subject with the identity label. The exact form changes depending on the subject, number, and level of respect.<\/p>\n

          Table 10.4.1 \u2013 Affirmative identity sentences: nationality and profession (\u0939\u094b\/\u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
          Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
          \u092e \u0915\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0928\u0947\u0921\u093f\u092f\u0928 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964<\/td>\nma ky\u0101ne\u1e0diyan hu\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nI am Canadian.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u092e \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964<\/td>\nma widy\u0101rth\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nI am a student.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nh\u0101m\u012b nep\u0101l\u012b ha\u0169.<\/em><\/td>\nWe are Nepali.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nh\u0101m\u012b \u015bik\u1e63ak ha\u0169.<\/em><\/td>\nWe are teachers.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u093f\u092e\u0940 \u0905\u092e\u0947\u0930\u093f\u0915\u0940 \u0939\u094c\u0964<\/td>\ntim\u012b amer\u012bk\u012b hau.<\/em><\/td>\nYou are American. (familiar)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u093f\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0930\u094d\u0938 \u0939\u094c\u0964<\/td>\ntim\u012b nars hau.<\/em><\/td>\nYou (familiar) are a nurse. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902 \u0907\u0928\u094d\u091c\u093f\u0928\u093f\u092f\u0930 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\ntap\u0101\u012b\u0303 injiniyar hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nYou (polite) are an engineer. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u090a \u092a\u093e\u0915\u093f\u0938\u094d\u0924\u093e\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0964<\/td>\n\u016b p\u0101kist\u0101n\u012b ho.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is Pakistani.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u090a \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0964<\/td>\n\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak ho.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is a teacher.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940 \u091a\u093f\u0928\u093f\u092f\u093e\u0901 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012b ciniy\u0101\u0303 hun.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is Chinese.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012b widy\u0101rth\u012b hun.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is a student.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u092b\u093f\u0932\u093f\u092a\u093f\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012bhar\u016b philipin\u012b hun.<\/em><\/td>\nThey are Filipino.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012bhar\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak hun.<\/em><\/td>\nThey are teachers.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u092d\u093e\u0930\u0924\u0940\u092f \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303 bh\u0101rat\u012bya hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She (hon.) is Indian. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u092a\u094d\u0930\u093e\u0927\u094d\u092f\u093e\u092a\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303 pr\u0101dhy\u0101pak hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She (hon.) is a professor. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u091c\u093e\u092a\u093e\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303har\u016b j\u0101p\u0101n\u012b hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nThey (hon.) are Japanese. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303har\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nThey (hon.) are teachers. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

          <\/span>
          \n<\/p>\n

          Table 10.4.2 \u2013 Negative identity sentences: nationality and profession (\u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\/\u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\/\u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
          Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
          \u092e \u0915\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0928\u0947\u0921\u093f\u092f\u0928 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nma ky\u0101ne\u1e0diyan hoina.<\/em><\/td>\nI am not Canadian.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u092e \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nma \u015bik\u1e63ak hoina.<\/em><\/td>\nI am not a teacher.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nh\u0101m\u012b nep\u0101l\u012b hoina\u0169.<\/em><\/td>\nWe are not Nepali.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nh\u0101m\u012b widy\u0101rth\u012b hoina\u0169.<\/em><\/td>\nWe are not students.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u093f\u092e\u0940 \u0905\u092e\u0947\u0930\u093f\u0915\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u094c\u0964<\/td>\ntim\u012b amer\u012bk\u012b hoinau.<\/em><\/td>\nYou (familiar) are not American. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u093f\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0930\u094d\u0938 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u094c\u0964<\/td>\ntim\u012b nars hoinau.<\/em><\/td>\nYou (familiar) are not a nurse. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902 \u0907\u0928\u094d\u091c\u093f\u0928\u093f\u092f\u0930 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964<\/td>\ntap\u0101\u012b\u0303 injiniyar hunuhunna.<\/em><\/td>\nYou (polite) are not an engineer. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u090a \u092a\u093e\u0915\u093f\u0938\u094d\u0924\u093e\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964<\/td>\n\u016b p\u0101kist\u0101n\u012b hoina.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is not Pakistani.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u090a \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964<\/td>\n\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak hoina.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is not a teacher.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940 \u091a\u093f\u0928\u093f\u092f\u093e\u0901 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012b ciniy\u0101\u0303 hoinan.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is not Chinese.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012b widy\u0101rth\u012b hoinan.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She is not a student.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u092b\u093f\u0932\u093f\u092a\u093f\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012bhar\u016b philipin\u012b hoinan.<\/em><\/td>\nThey are not Filipino.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nun\u012bhar\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak hoinan.<\/em><\/td>\nThey are not teachers.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u092d\u093e\u0930\u0924\u0940\u092f \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303 bh\u0101rat\u012bya hunuhunna.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She (hon.) is not Indian. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u092a\u094d\u0930\u093e\u0927\u094d\u092f\u093e\u092a\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303 pr\u0101dhy\u0101pak hunuhunna.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She (hon.) is not a professor. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u091c\u093e\u092a\u093e\u0928\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303har\u016b j\u0101p\u0101n\u012b hunuhunna.<\/em><\/td>\nThey (hon.) are not Japanese. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
          \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303har\u016b \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhunna.<\/em><\/td>\nThey (hon.) are not teachers. <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

          <\/p>\n

          Simple Rule<\/h3>\n

          Use identity sentences for:<\/p>\n

            \n
          • nationality<\/li>\n
          • profession<\/li>\n
          • role<\/li>\n
          • category<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            For example:<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
            \nma widy\u0101rth\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
            \nI am a student.<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0921\u093e\u0915\u094d\u091f\u0930 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 \u1e0d\u0101k\u1e6dar hunuhuncha.<\/em>
            \nHe\/She is a doctor.<\/p>\n

            \u0939\u093e\u092e\u0940 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094c\u0902\u0964
            \nh\u0101m\u012b nep\u0101l\u012b hau\u0303.<\/em>
            \nWe are Nepali.<\/p>\n

            Negative Identity Sentences<\/h3>\n

            To make identity sentences negative, Nepali uses negative forms such as \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928 (hoina<\/em>), \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d (hoinan<\/em>), and \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928 (hunuhunna<\/em>).<\/p>\n

            For example:<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964
            \nma \u015bik\u1e63ak hoina.<\/em>
            \nI am not a teacher.<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 widy\u0101rth\u012b hunuhunna.<\/em>
            \nHe\/She is not a student.<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0928\u0940\u0939\u0930\u0942 \u0915\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0928\u093e\u0921\u0947\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d\u0964
            \nun\u012bhar\u016b ky\u0101n\u0101\u1e0del\u012b hoinan.<\/em>
            \nThey are not Canadian.<\/p>\n

            Try It Now<\/h3>\n

            Read the sentences aloud.<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
            \nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
            \nI am Nepali.<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0964
            \nma nep\u0101l\u012b hoina.<\/em>
            \nI am not Nepali.<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>
            \nHe\/She is a teacher.<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 widy\u0101rth\u012b hunuhunna.<\/em>
            \nHe\/She is not a student.<\/p>\n

            Common Mistake<\/h3>\n

            Do not use \u091b (cha<\/em>) for identity sentences.<\/p>\n

            Incorrect:<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u091b\u0964
            \nma nep\u0101l\u012b cha.<\/em><\/p>\n

            Correct:<\/p>\n

            \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
            \nma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
            \nI am Nepali.<\/p>\n

            Incorrect:<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u091b\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak cha.<\/em><\/p>\n

            Correct:<\/p>\n

            \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
            \nuh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>
            \nHe\/She is a teacher.<\/p>\n

            Discourse Particles<\/h2>\n

            In everyday Nepali, short words called discourse particles help manage conversation.<\/p>\n

            They usually do not change the basic grammar of a sentence. Instead, they add conversational meaning.<\/p>\n

            Discourse particles can show:<\/p>\n

              \n
            • inclusion<\/li>\n
            • contrast<\/li>\n
            • focus<\/li>\n
            • turn-taking<\/li>\n
            • agreement<\/li>\n
            • movement to the next point<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              These words are very common in greetings, introductions, and small talk.<\/p>\n

              \u0928\u093f<\/h2>\n

              \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) is a short conversation particle. It often means \u201cand you?\u201d or \u201cwhat about you?\u201d in context.<\/p>\n

              Speakers use \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) to invite the other person to respond without repeating the full question.<\/p>\n

              It is especially common after greetings, check-ins, and short exchanges.<\/p>\n

              For example:<\/p>\n

              \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?
              \nmal\u0101\u012b \u1e6dh\u012bk cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em>
              \nI am fine. And you?<\/p>\n

              \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0928\u093e\u092e \u0930\u093e\u092e \u0939\u094b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0928\u093f?
              \nmero n\u0101m r\u0101m ho. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko ni?<\/em>
              \nMy name is Ram. What about yours?<\/p>\n

              Table 10.4.3 \u2013 Discourse particle \u0928\u093f (ni): \u201cand you?\u201d \/ turn-taking responses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?<\/td>\ntap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em><\/td>\nAnd you?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0938\u0928\u094d\u091a\u0948 \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?<\/td>\nmal\u0101\u012b sancai cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em><\/td>\nI\u2019m fine. And you?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0918\u0930 \u092d\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0928\u0915\u0941\u092d\u0930\u092e\u093e \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0928\u093f?<\/td>\nmero ghar bhy\u0101nkubharm\u0101 cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko ni?<\/em><\/td>\nMy home is in Vancouver. And yours?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0928\u093e\u092e \u092e\u093e\u092f\u093e \u0939\u094b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0928\u093f?<\/td>\nmero n\u0101m m\u0101y\u0101 ho. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko ni?<\/em><\/td>\nMy name is Maya. And yours?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              <\/span>
              \n<\/p>\n

              Try It Now<\/h3>\n

              Practise the short exchange.<\/p>\n

              A: \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964 \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0928\u093f?
              \nmal\u0101\u012b \u1e6dh\u012bk cha. tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b ni?<\/em>
              \nI am fine. And you?<\/p>\n

              B: \u092e\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u092a\u0928\u093f \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964
              \nmal\u0101\u012b pani \u1e6dh\u012bk cha.<\/em>
              \nI am also fine.<\/p>\n

              \u0932<\/h2>\n

              \u0932 (la<\/em>) is a very common conversation marker. It often means \u201cokay,\u201d \u201calright,\u201d or \u201cthen.\u201d<\/p>\n

              Speakers use \u0932 (la<\/em>) to accept what was said, close one part of a conversation, or move to the next action.<\/p>\n

              For example:<\/p>\n

              \u0932, \u091c\u093e\u0914\u0901\u0964
              \nla, j\u0101au\u0303.<\/em>
              \nOkay, let\u2019s go.<\/p>\n

              \u0932, \u0938\u0941\u0930\u0941 \u0917\u0930\u094c\u0902\u0964
              \nla, suru garau\u0303.<\/em>
              \nOkay, let\u2019s begin.<\/p>\n

              \u0932, \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964
              \nla, \u1e6dh\u012bk cha.<\/em>
              \nOkay, that\u2019s fine.<\/p>\n

              Table 10.4.4 \u2013 Discourse particle \u0932 (la): \u201cokay\/alright\/then\u201d (closing and moving forward)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              \u0932, \u0905\u092c \u092c\u0938\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nla, aba basau\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nOkay, now let\u2019s sit.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0932, \u0920\u0940\u0915 \u091b\u0964<\/td>\nla, \u1e6dh\u012bk cha.<\/em><\/td>\nOkay, that\u2019s fine.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0932, \u0905\u092c \u0938\u0941\u0930\u0941 \u0917\u0930\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nla, aba suru garau\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nOkay, let\u2019s start now.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0932, \u0924\u094d\u092f\u0938\u094b \u092d\u090f \u092d\u094b\u0932\u093f \u092d\u0947\u091f\u094c\u0902\u0964<\/td>\nla, tyaso bhaye bholi bhe\u1e6dau\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nOkay then, let\u2019s meet tomorrow.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              <\/span>
              \n<\/p>\n

              Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

              \u0932 (la<\/em>) is very common in spoken Nepali. It helps the conversation move forward naturally.<\/p>\n

              \u0924<\/h2>\n

              \u0924 (ta<\/em>) is a focus or contrast particle. It can mean something like \u201cas for\u2026\u201d or \u201cbut\u2026\u201d depending on the context.<\/p>\n

              It highlights the word or phrase before it.<\/p>\n

              For example:<\/p>\n

              \u092e \u0924 \u0935\u093f\u0926\u094d\u092f\u093e\u0930\u094d\u0925\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
              \nma ta widy\u0101rth\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
              \nAs for me, I am a student.<\/p>\n

              \u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964
              \nyo ta r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>
              \nThis one is good.<\/p>\n

              \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0924 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
              \nuh\u0101\u0303 ta \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>
              \nAs for him\/her, he\/she is a teacher.<\/p>\n

              Table 10.4.5 \u2013 Focus\/contrast particle \u0924 (ta): \u201cas for\u2026\u201d \/ contrast \/ emphasis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Nepali|<\/th>\nTransliteation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              \u092e \u0924 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u092c\u093e\u091f \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964<\/td>\nma ta nep\u0101lb\u0101\u1e6da hu\u0303.<\/em><\/td>\nAs for me, I\u2019m from Nepal.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0924\u094d\u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964<\/td>\ntyo ta r\u0101mro cha.<\/em><\/td>\nThat one is nice though.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0906\u091c \u0924 \u0927\u0947\u0930\u0948 \u091a\u093f\u0938\u094b \u091b\u0964<\/td>\n\u0101ja ta dherai ciso cha.<\/em><\/td>\nToday it\u2019s really cold (today in particular).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0938\u091c\u093f\u0932\u094b \u091b\u0964<\/td>\nyo ta sajilo cha.<\/em><\/td>\nThis is easy actually \/ This one is easy.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              <\/span>
              \n<\/p>\n

              Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

              \u0924 (ta<\/em>) does not usually change the grammar of the sentence. It changes the conversational meaning by adding focus or contrast.<\/p>\n

              \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901<\/h2>\n

              \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) is also a focus marker. It means something like \u201cspecifically,\u201d \u201cas for,\u201d or \u201cthis one in particular.\u201d<\/p>\n

              It is often used to single out one person or thing from others.<\/p>\n

              Compared with \u0924 (ta<\/em>), \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) can feel more explicit and specific.<\/p>\n

              For example:<\/p>\n

              \u092f\u094b \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u0939\u094b\u0964
              \nyo c\u0101hi\u0303 mero kit\u0101b ho.<\/em>
              \nThis one specifically is my book.<\/p>\n

              \u092e \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901\u0964
              \nma c\u0101hi\u0303 nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303.<\/em>
              \nAs for me, I am Nepali.<\/p>\n

              \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964
              \nuh\u0101\u0303 c\u0101hi\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em>
              \nHe\/She specifically is a teacher.<\/p>\n

              Table 10.4.6 \u2013 Focus marker \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303): \u201cspecifically \/ this one\u201d<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0918\u0930 \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0915\u093e\u0920\u092e\u093e\u0921\u094c\u0902\u092e\u093e \u091b\u0964<\/td>\nmero ghar c\u0101hi\u0303 k\u0101\u1e6dham\u0101\u1e0dau\u0303m\u0101 cha.<\/em><\/td>\nMy home is in Kathmandu (specifically).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b\u0964<\/td>\nuh\u0101\u0303 c\u0101hi\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha.<\/em><\/td>\nHe\/She (specifically) is a teacher.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092f\u094b \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u0939\u094b\u0964<\/td>\nyo c\u0101hi\u0303 mero kit\u0101b ho.<\/em><\/td>\nThis one is my book.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092e\u0947\u0930\u094b \u0928\u093e\u092e \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0905\u0928\u093f\u0924\u093e \u0939\u094b\u0964<\/td>\nmero n\u0101m c\u0101hi\u0303 anit\u0101 ho.<\/em><\/td>\nMy name, specifically, is Anita.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              <\/span>
              \n<\/p>\n

              Simple Difference<\/h3>\n

              \u0924 (ta<\/em>) adds focus or contrast.<\/p>\n

              \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) singles something out more clearly.<\/p>\n

              Both are common in everyday Nepali.<\/p>\n

              Try It Now<\/h3>\n

              Compare the sentences.<\/p>\n

              \u092f\u094b \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964
              \nyo r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>
              \nThis is good.<\/p>\n

              \u092f\u094b \u0924 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964
              \nyo ta r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>
              \nThis one is good. \/ At least this is good.<\/p>\n

              \u092f\u094b \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 \u0930\u093e\u092e\u094d\u0930\u094b \u091b\u0964
              \nyo c\u0101hi\u0303 r\u0101mro cha.<\/em>
              \nThis one specifically is good.<\/p>\n

              Using Kinship Terms to Address Others<\/h2>\n

              In Nepali, people often address others using kinship terms instead of personal names.<\/p>\n

              These terms can be used with family members, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers. They help show respect, warmth, and social relationship.<\/p>\n

              For example, instead of calling someone only by name, speakers may say:<\/p>\n

              \u0905\u092e\u0943\u0924\u093e \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940
              \namrit\u0101 did\u012b<\/em>
              \nAmrita elder sister<\/p>\n

              \u092e\u0926\u0928 \u092d\u093e\u0907
              \nmadan bh\u0101i<\/em>
              \nMadan younger brother<\/p>\n

              \u0930\u093e\u091c\u0941 \u0926\u093e\u0907
              \nr\u0101ju d\u0101i<\/em>
              \nRaju elder brother<\/p>\n

              Speakers choose the term based on the person\u2019s age, relationship, and social context.<\/p>\n

              Table 10.4.7 \u2013 Kinship terms as forms of address<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              \u0926\u093e\u0907, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0915\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094b \u091b?<\/td>\nd\u0101i, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b kasto cha?<\/em><\/td>\nBrother (sir), how are you?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902 \u0915\u0939\u093e\u0901\u092c\u093e\u091f \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b?<\/td>\ndid\u012b, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303 kah\u0101\u0303b\u0101\u1e6da hunuhuncha?<\/em><\/td>\nSister (ma\u2019am), where are you from?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092d\u093e\u0907, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0928\u093e\u092e \u0915\u0947 \u0939\u094b?<\/td>\nbh\u0101i, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko n\u0101m ke ho?<\/em><\/td>\nBrother (young man), what is your name?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092c\u0939\u093f\u0928\u0940, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902 \u0938\u0928\u094d\u091a\u0948 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b?<\/td>\nbahin\u012b, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303 sancai hunuhuncha?<\/em><\/td>\nSister (young woman), are you well?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092c\u093e\u091c\u0947, \u092e\u093e\u092b \u0917\u0930\u094d\u0928\u0941\u0939\u094b\u0938\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nb\u0101je, m\u0101ph garnuhos.<\/em><\/td>\nGrandfather (sir), excuse me.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u092c\u091c\u0948, \u092f\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u092c\u0938\u094d\u0928\u0941\u0938\u094d\u0964<\/td>\nbajai, yah\u0101\u0303 basnus.<\/em><\/td>\nGrandmother (ma\u2019am), please sit here.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0905\u092e\u0943\u0924\u093e \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940, \u0928\u092e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u0947\u0964<\/td>\nam\u1e5bt\u0101 did\u012b, namaste.<\/em><\/td>\nAmrita didi, hello.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              \u0938\u0932\u093f\u0932 \u092d\u093e\u0907, \u0927\u0928\u094d\u092f\u0935\u093e\u0926\u0964<\/td>\nsalil bh\u0101i, dhanyaw\u0101d.<\/em><\/td>\nSalil bh\u0101i, thank you.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              <\/span>
              \n<\/p>\n

              Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

              Kinship terms can make Nepali sound more natural and respectful.<\/p>\n

              Useful beginner terms include:<\/p>\n

                \n
              • \u0926\u093e\u0907 (d\u0101i<\/em>) \u2014 elder brother<\/li>\n
              • \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940 (did\u012b<\/em>) \u2014 elder sister<\/li>\n
              • \u092d\u093e\u0907 (bh\u0101i<\/em>) \u2014 younger brother<\/li>\n
              • \u092c\u0939\u093f\u0928\u0940 (bahin\u012b<\/em>) \u2014 younger sister<\/li>\n
              • \u0906\u092e\u093e (\u0101m\u0101<\/em>) \u2014 mother \/ respectful address for an older woman<\/li>\n
              • \u092c\u0941\u092c\u093e (bub\u0101<\/em>) \u2014 father \/ respectful address for an older man<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Common Mistake<\/h3>\n

                Do not translate kinship terms too literally. In Nepali, words like \u0926\u093e\u0907 (d\u0101i<\/em>) and \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940 (did\u012b<\/em>) can be used socially, not only for actual siblings.<\/p>\n

                For example, a shopkeeper, neighbour, or older community member may be addressed with a kinship term to sound respectful and warm.<\/p>\n

                Try It Now<\/h2>\n

                Read the examples aloud.<\/p>\n

                \u0928\u092e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u0947, \u0926\u093e\u0907\u0964
                \nnamaste, d\u0101i.<\/em>
                \nHello, elder brother.<\/p>\n

                \u0928\u092e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u0947, \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940\u0964
                \nnamaste, did\u012b.<\/em>
                \nHello, elder sister.<\/p>\n

                \u0905\u092e\u0943\u0924\u093e \u0926\u093f\u0926\u0940, \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0932\u093e\u0908 \u0915\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094b \u091b?
                \namrit\u0101 did\u012b, tap\u0101\u012b\u0303l\u0101\u012b kasto cha?<\/em>
                \nAmrita sister, how are you?<\/p>\n

                \u092e\u0926\u0928 \u092d\u093e\u0907, \u092f\u094b \u0924\u092a\u093e\u0908\u0902\u0915\u094b \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u0939\u094b?
                \nmadan bh\u0101i, yo tap\u0101\u012b\u0303ko kit\u0101b ho?<\/em>
                \nMadan brother, is this your book?<\/p>\n

                Can You Do This Now?<\/h2>\n

                At the end of this section, you should be able to:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                • use identity sentences for nationality and profession<\/li>\n
                • say sentences such as \u092e \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\u0940 \u0939\u0941\u0901 (ma nep\u0101l\u012b hu\u0303<\/em>) and \u0909\u0939\u093e\u0901 \u0936\u093f\u0915\u094d\u0937\u0915 \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u091b (uh\u0101\u0303 \u015bik\u1e63ak hunuhuncha<\/em>)<\/li>\n
                • make negative identity sentences with \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928 (hoina<\/em>), \u0939\u094b\u0907\u0928\u0928\u094d (hoinan<\/em>), and \u0939\u0941\u0928\u0941\u0939\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0928 (hunuhunna<\/em>)<\/li>\n
                • recognize common discourse particles such as \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>), \u0932 (la<\/em>), \u0924 (ta<\/em>), and \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>)<\/li>\n
                • use \u0928\u093f (ni<\/em>) to mean \u201cand you?\u201d or \u201cwhat about you?\u201d in conversation<\/li>\n
                • use \u0932 (la<\/em>) to move a conversation forward<\/li>\n
                • recognize \u0924 (ta<\/em>) and \u091a\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0901 (c\u0101hi\u0303<\/em>) as focus markers<\/li>\n
                • understand how Nepali kinship terms are used for respectful and warm address<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"author":1076,"menu_order":4,"template":"","meta":{"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":"cc-by-nc-sa"},"chapter-type":[49],"contributor":[],"license":[57],"class_list":["post-230","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry","chapter-type-numberless","license-cc-by-nc-sa"],"part":221,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/230","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1076"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/230\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2643,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/230\/revisions\/2643"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/221"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/230\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=230"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=230"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=230"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=230"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}