{"id":66,"date":"2026-05-02T15:29:52","date_gmt":"2026-05-02T19:29:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/chapter\/chapter-1-unit-10-basic-rules-of-pronunciation\/"},"modified":"2026-05-30T15:41:38","modified_gmt":"2026-05-30T19:41:38","slug":"chapter-1-unit-10-basic-rules-of-pronunciation","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/nepali\/chapter\/chapter-1-unit-10-basic-rules-of-pronunciation\/","title":{"raw":"Unit 10 \u2014 Basic Rules of Pronunciation","rendered":"Unit 10 \u2014 Basic Rules of Pronunciation"},"content":{"raw":"

Overview<\/h2>\r\nNepali is written in Devanagari (dewan\u0101gar\u012b<\/em>).\r\n\r\nIn Devanagari, most consonants include a built-in a<\/em> sound.\r\n\r\nFor example:\r\n\r\n\u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0924 \u2014 ta<\/em>\r\n\r\nThis means:\r\n
    \r\n \t
  • \u0915 is not read only as k<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
  • \u0915 is read as ka<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
  • the a<\/em> sound is already included<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThis built-in a<\/em> sound is called:\r\n
      \r\n \t
    • the inherent vowel<\/li>\r\n \t
    • schwa<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nHowever, in everyday Nepali pronunciation, this final a<\/em> sound is not always pronounced.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0918\u0930 \u2014 common pronunciation: ghar<\/em> \u2014 house\r\n\r\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u2014 common pronunciation: kit\u0101b<\/em> \u2014 book\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 common pronunciation: nep\u0101l<\/em> \u2014 Nepal\r\n\r\nThese words are written as if they have a final a<\/em>, but the final a<\/em> is usually dropped in everyday speech.\r\n\r\nBy the end of this unit, you will begin to understand:\r\n
        \r\n \t
      1. how the built-in a<\/em> sound works<\/li>\r\n \t
      2. how the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) removes the built-in vowel<\/li>\r\n \t
      3. what schwa retention means<\/li>\r\n \t
      4. what schwa deletion means<\/li>\r\n \t
      5. which words often keep the final a<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
      6. which words often drop the final a<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
      7. how to read common Nepali words more naturally<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nSimple idea:\r\n
          \r\n \t
        • Nepali spelling and pronunciation are connected.<\/li>\r\n \t
        • But they are not always exactly the same.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

          1. Understanding the Schwa in Nepali<\/h2>\r\nIn Devanagari (dewan\u0101gar\u012b<\/em>), each consonant usually carries a built-in a<\/em> sound.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0928 = na<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u092e = ma<\/em>\r\n\r\nEach consonant includes two parts:\r\n
            \r\n \t
          1. a consonant sound<\/li>\r\n \t
          2. a built-in a<\/em> sound<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0915 = k + a<\/em>\r\n\r\nSo, \u0915 is read as ka<\/em>, not just k<\/em>.\r\n\r\n[table id=560 \/]\r\n

            Simple Rule<\/h3>\r\nRemember:\r\n
              \r\n \t
            1. A Nepali consonant usually includes the vowel sound a<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
            2. You do not need to add a separate letter for this sound.<\/li>\r\n \t
            3. The a<\/em> sound is already built into the consonant.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0924 = ta<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u092e = ma<\/em>\r\n

              Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the letters aloud:\r\n
                \r\n \t
              1. \u092a \u2014 pa<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
              2. \u0926 \u2014 da<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
              3. \u0932 \u2014 la<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
              4. \u092f \u2014 ya<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nNow read them again slowly.\r\n\r\nListen for the final a<\/em> sound in each one.\r\n

                2. Removing the Built-in Vowel: \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924<\/h2>\r\nThe \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) is a small mark.\r\n\r\nIt removes the built-in a<\/em> sound from a consonant.\r\n\r\nThe \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) mark looks like this:\r\n\r\n\u094d\r\n\r\nExample:\r\n\r\n\u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0915\u094d \u2014 k<\/em>\r\n\r\nThis means:\r\n
                  \r\n \t
                1. \u0915 is read as ka<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                2. \u0915\u094d is read as k<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                3. the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) removes the final a<\/em> sound<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n[table id=561 \/]\r\n

                  Simple Rule<\/h3>\r\nWithout \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:\r\n\r\n\u0915 = ka<\/em>\r\n\r\nWith \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:\r\n\r\n\u0915\u094d = k<\/em>\r\n

                  Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the pairs aloud:\r\n
                    \r\n \t
                  1. \u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  2. \u0915\u094d \u2014 k<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  3. \u0924 \u2014 ta<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  4. \u0924\u094d \u2014 t<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  5. \u0928 \u2014 na<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  6. \u0928\u094d \u2014 n<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  7. \u092e \u2014 ma<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                  8. \u092e\u094d \u2014 m<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nNow look carefully at the small mark under the consonant.\r\n\r\nThat mark is the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).\r\n

                    3. Schwa Retention and Schwa Deletion<\/h2>\r\nNepali has two important pronunciation patterns:\r\n
                      \r\n \t
                    1. schwa retention<\/li>\r\n \t
                    2. schwa deletion<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

                      3.1 Schwa Retention<\/h3>\r\nSchwa retention means:\r\n
                        \r\n \t
                      • the built-in a<\/em> sound is pronounced<\/li>\r\n \t
                      • the sound may be light<\/li>\r\n \t
                      • but it is still present<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nExample:\r\n\r\n\u092c\u0938\r\nbasa<\/em>\r\nsit!\r\n\r\nHere, the final a<\/em> is pronounced.\r\n

                        3.2 Schwa Deletion<\/h3>\r\nSchwa deletion means:\r\n
                          \r\n \t
                        • the written a<\/em> sound is not pronounced in everyday speech<\/li>\r\n \t
                        • the spelling usually stays the same<\/li>\r\n \t
                        • the spoken form becomes shorter<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c\r\nwritten as if it were kit\u0101ba<\/em>\r\ncommonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0918\u0930\r\nwritten as if it were ghara<\/em>\r\ncommonly pronounced ghar<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\r\nwritten as if it were nep\u0101la<\/em>\r\ncommonly pronounced nep\u0101l<\/em>\r\n\r\n[table id=562 \/]\r\n

                          Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nRemember:\r\n
                            \r\n \t
                          1. Nepali spelling often keeps the final built-in a<\/em> sound.<\/li>\r\n \t
                          2. Everyday pronunciation may drop it.<\/li>\r\n \t
                          3. Schwa deletion changes pronunciation, not spelling.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c is still written \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c, but commonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0918\u0930 is still written \u0918\u0930, but commonly pronounced ghar<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 is still written \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932, but commonly pronounced nep\u0101l<\/em>\r\n

                            4. Schwa Retention in Nepali Verbs<\/h2>\r\nMany Nepali verb forms keep the final schwa when there is no \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).\r\n\r\nThis is especially clear in familiar commands.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em> \u2014 read!\r\n\r\n\u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em> \u2014 write!\r\n\r\nIn fast speech:\r\n
                              \r\n \t
                            • the final vowel may sound light<\/li>\r\n \t
                            • but it is still part of the word<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nIf the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) is added, the final schwa is removed.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u092a\u0922\u094d \u2014 pa\u1e0dh<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d \u2014 lekh<\/em>\r\n\r\nThese forms can sound:\r\n
                                \r\n \t
                              1. short<\/li>\r\n \t
                              2. clipped<\/li>\r\n \t
                              3. abrupt<\/li>\r\n \t
                              4. forceful<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nFor beginner learners, these forms are usually safer and more natural:\r\n\r\n\u092c\u0938 \u2014 basa<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0917\u0930 \u2014 gara<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em>\r\n\r\n[table id=55 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=56 \/]\r\n

                                Simple Rule<\/h3>\r\nWithout \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:\r\n\r\n\u092c\u0938 = basa<\/em>\r\n\r\nWith \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:\r\n\r\n\u092c\u0938\u094d = bas<\/em>\r\n

                                Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the pairs aloud:\r\n
                                  \r\n \t
                                1. \u092c\u0938 \u2014 basa<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                2. \u092c\u0938\u094d \u2014 bas<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                3. \u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                4. \u092a\u0922\u094d \u2014 pa\u1e0dh<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                5. \u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                6. \u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d \u2014 lekh<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nAsk yourself:\r\n
                                    \r\n \t
                                  • Which forms sound fuller?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                  • Which forms sound shorter?<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                    5. Schwa Retention in Other Verb Forms<\/h2>\r\nThe same pattern appears in many other Nepali verb forms.\r\n\r\nIf there is no final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>), the final schwa is usually understood as present.\r\n\r\nThis includes infinitive forms.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0916\u093e\u0928 \u2014 kh\u0101na<\/em> \u2014 to eat\r\n\r\n\u091c\u093e\u0928 \u2014 j\u0101na \u2014 to go<\/em>\r\n\r\nIt also includes many negative forms ending in -\u0928.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u091b\u0948\u0928 \u2014 chaina<\/em> \u2014 is not \/ there is not\r\n\r\n\u092a\u0922\u0947\u0928 \u2014 pa\u1e0dhena<\/em> \u2014 did not read\r\n\r\nSome verb forms are written with a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).\r\n\r\nIn these forms, the final schwa is removed.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0917\u0930\u093f\u0928\u094d \u2014 garin<\/em> \u2014 she did\r\n\r\n\u0916\u093e\u0907\u0928\u094d \u2014 kh\u0101in<\/em> \u2014 she ate\r\n\r\n[table id=57 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=58 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=59 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=444 \/]\r\n

                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nPractise these verb forms as full forms:\r\n
                                      \r\n \t
                                    • \u0916\u093e\u0928 \u2014 kh\u0101na<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                    • \u091c\u093e\u0928 \u2014 j\u0101na<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                    • \u0932\u093f\u0928 \u2014 lina<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                    • \u091b\u0948\u0928 \u2014 chaina<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                    • \u0917\u0930\u094d\u0926\u0948\u0928 \u2014 gardaina<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                      6. Schwa Retention in Function Words and Postpositions<\/h2>\r\nSchwa retention is not limited to verbs.\r\n\r\nMany common function words, postpositions, and adverbs also keep the final schwa.\r\n\r\nThis is especially common in careful speech.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0924\u0930 \u2014 tara<\/em> \u2014 but\r\n\r\n\u0905\u092c \u2014 aba<\/em> \u2014 now\r\n\r\nThe final vowel may sound light, but it is still part of the citation form.\r\n\r\n[table id=563 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=62 \/]\r\n

                                      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nDo not drop the final a<\/em> in these very common words:\r\n
                                        \r\n \t
                                      • \u092e \u2014 ma<\/em> \u2014 I<\/li>\r\n \t
                                      • \u0930 \u2014 ra<\/em> \u2014 and<\/li>\r\n \t
                                      • \u0924\u0930 \u2014 tara<\/em> \u2014 but<\/li>\r\n \t
                                      • \u0905\u092c \u2014 aba<\/em> \u2014 now<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                        7. Bare Time and Place Nouns Used Adverbially<\/h2>\r\nSome time and place nouns are written with a final built-in schwa.\r\n\r\nBut in everyday speech, the final a<\/em> is often not pronounced.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0918\u0930\r\ncitation form: ghara<\/em>\r\ncommon reading: ghar<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0926\u093f\u0928\r\ncitation form: dina<\/em>\r\ncommon reading: din<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0930\u093e\u0924\r\ncitation form: r\u0101ta<\/em>\r\ncommon reading: r\u0101t<\/em>\r\n\r\nThese words show that spelling, citation form, and common pronunciation can differ.\r\n\r\n[table id=63 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=64 \/]\r\n

                                        Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nLearn these common spoken forms:\r\n
                                          \r\n \t
                                        • \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                        • \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                        • \u0930\u093e\u0924 \u2014 r\u0101t<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                        • \u0938\u093e\u0901\u091d \u2014 s\u0101\u0303jh<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                          Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the words aloud:\r\n
                                            \r\n \t
                                          1. \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                          2. \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                          3. \u0930\u093e\u0924 \u2014 r\u0101t<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                          4. \u0938\u093e\u0901\u091d \u2014 s\u0101\u0303jh<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nNow read them again more naturally.\r\n

                                            8. Expressive and Reduplicated Forms Usually Keep the Schwa<\/h2>\r\nExpressive words, sound effects, and repeated words usually keep the final schwa.\r\n\r\nThese words depend on:\r\n
                                              \r\n \t
                                            1. rhythm<\/li>\r\n \t
                                            2. repetition<\/li>\r\n \t
                                            3. sound effect<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nThe final vowel helps maintain the rhythm.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0917\u0930\u0930 \u2014 garara \u2014 scraping \/ dragging sound<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0920\u0915\u0920\u0915 \u2014 \u1e6dhaka\u1e6dhaka \u2014 knocking \/ thumping sound<\/em>\r\n

                                              8.1 Learning Tip<\/h3>\r\nIn expressive and repeated words:\r\n
                                                \r\n \t
                                              1. follow the spelling<\/li>\r\n \t
                                              2. keep the rhythm<\/li>\r\n \t
                                              3. pronounce the final schwa if the spelling suggests it<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n[table id=65 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=66 \/]\r\n

                                                Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead these aloud with rhythm:\r\n
                                                  \r\n \t
                                                1. \u0917\u0930\u0930 \u2014 garara<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                2. \u0916\u0930\u0930 \u2014 kharara<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                3. \u091b\u092e\u091b\u092e \u2014 chamachama<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                4. \u0920\u0915\u0920\u0915 \u2014 \u1e6dhaka\u1e6dhaka<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nListen for the repeated sound pattern.\r\n

                                                  9. High-Frequency Monosyllabic Function Words<\/h2>\r\nSome very common one-syllable Nepali function words strongly keep the built-in schwa.\r\n\r\nThese include:\r\n
                                                    \r\n \t
                                                  1. pronouns<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                  2. conjunctions<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                  3. discourse particles<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nBecause these words are very frequent, learners should memorize them as schwa-retaining forms.\r\n\r\n[table id=67 \/]\r\n

                                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nDo not drop the a<\/em> in these short words:\r\n
                                                      \r\n \t
                                                    • \u092e = ma<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                    • \u0932 = la<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                    • \u0924 = ta<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                    • \u0930 = ra<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThese are short but very important words.\r\n

                                                      10. Cluster-Final Words Usually Keep the Schwa<\/h2>\r\nMany words that end in a written consonant cluster are still pronounced with a light final schwa in Standard Nepali.\r\n\r\nEven when the vowel is reduced, these words usually keep the final schwa.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mitra<\/em> \u2014 friend\r\n\r\n\u0936\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 \u015b\u0101stra<\/em> \u2014 treatise; scripture\r\n\r\n[table id=68 \/]\r\n

                                                      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nRead these words with a light final a<\/em>:\r\n
                                                        \r\n \t
                                                      • \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mitra<\/em>, not usually mitr<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                      • \u092e\u0928\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mantra<\/em>, not usually mantr<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                      • \u0936\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 \u015b\u0101stra<\/em>, not usually \u015b\u0101str<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                                        11. Words Ending in -ya, -ha, -ra, and -wa<\/h2>\r\nMany two-syllable words ending in \u092f, \u0939, \u0930, or \u0935 are commonly read with a light final a<\/em>.\r\n\r\nThese words often keep the schwa.\r\n\r\n[table id=69 \/]\r\n

                                                        Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nSome endings often keep a light final a<\/em>.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u091c\u092f \u2014 jaya<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0932\u092f \u2014 laya<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0936\u093e\u0939 \u2014 \u015b\u0101ha<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0936\u093f\u0935 \u2014 \u015biwa<\/em>\r\n

                                                        12. Schwa Deletion in Nepali<\/h2>\r\nMany common non-verbal words drop the final a<\/em> in everyday pronunciation.\r\n\r\nThese words are still written without a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).\r\n\r\nBut the final vowel is usually not heard.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 nep\u0101l<\/em>\r\n\r\nThis means:\r\n
                                                          \r\n \t
                                                        1. the spelling preserves the final built-in vowel<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                        2. the spoken form deletes it<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                        3. the pronunciation becomes shorter<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

                                                          12.1 Remember<\/h3>\r\nSchwa deletion changes pronunciation, not spelling.\r\n\r\nExample:\r\n\r\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c is still written \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c\r\n\r\nbut it is commonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em>\r\n\r\nSchwa deletion is especially common in:\r\n
                                                            \r\n \t
                                                          1. multi-syllable postpositions<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                          2. short non-verbal disyllables<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                          3. many trisyllabic nouns and adjectives<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                          4. some longer words with both medial and final schwa deletion<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

                                                            Simple Rule<\/h3>\r\nFor many common nouns and adjectives, the final written a<\/em> is not pronounced in everyday speech.\r\n

                                                            13. Final Schwa Deletion in Multi-Syllable Postpositions<\/h2>\r\nMulti-syllable postpositions written as separate words often drop the final schwa in everyday pronunciation.\r\n\r\nThey are spelled as if they end in a<\/em>, but the final vowel is usually not pronounced.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924\r\ncitation form: sameta<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: samet<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915\r\ncitation form: b\u0101heka<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: b\u0101hek<\/em>\r\n

                                                            13.1 Practical Rule<\/h3>\r\nWhen a two-or-more-syllable postposition follows a noun phrase as a separate word:\r\n
                                                              \r\n \t
                                                            1. it may be written with final a<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                            2. but it is often pronounced without the final vowel<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n[table id=70 \/]\r\n

                                                              Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nLearn the common pronunciation of these high-frequency words:\r\n
                                                                \r\n \t
                                                              • \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924 \u2014 samet<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                              • \u0938\u0939\u093f\u0924 \u2014 sahit<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                              • \u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915 \u2014 b\u0101hek<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                              • \u0926\u093f\u0928\u092d\u0930 \u2014 dinbhar<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                                                14. Final Schwa Deletion in Short Non-Verbal Disyllables<\/h2>\r\nMany short, common two-syllable nouns and adjectives drop the final schwa in everyday speech.\r\n\r\nThese words are written without a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>), but their common spoken form ends in a consonant.\r\n\r\nThis is common in words shaped like:\r\n
                                                                  \r\n \t
                                                                1. CV\u2013Ca<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                2. V\u2013Ca<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nFor beginners, the main idea is simple:\r\n\r\nMany short nouns and adjectives sound shorter in everyday speech.\r\n\r\n[table id=71 \/]\r\n\r\n[table id=72 \/]\r\n

                                                                  Try It Now<\/h3>\r\nRead the common pronunciations aloud:\r\n
                                                                    \r\n \t
                                                                  1. \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                  2. \u0935\u0928 \u2014 wan<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                  3. \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                  4. \u0905\u0938\u0930 \u2014 asar<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                  5. \u0909\u0924\u094d\u0924\u0930 \u2014 uttar<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                  6. \u0905\u0935\u0938\u0930 \u2014 awasar<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

                                                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nFocus on the common pronunciation first.\r\n\r\nYou can still remember that the spelling preserves the full written form.\r\n

                                                                    15. Final Schwa Deletion in Trisyllabic Words<\/h2>\r\nMany common three-syllable nouns and adjectives are written with a final built-in schwa.\r\n\r\nBut the final a<\/em> is usually not pronounced.\r\n\r\nThis pattern is common in everyday Nepali.\r\n\r\nIt appears in:\r\n
                                                                      \r\n \t
                                                                    1. nouns<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                    2. adjectives<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                    3. place names<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c\r\ncitation form: kit\u0101ba<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: kit\u0101b<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932\r\ncitation form: nep\u0101la<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: nep\u0101l<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930\r\ncitation form: baj\u0101ra<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: baj\u0101r<\/em>\r\n\r\n[table id=73 \/]\r\n

                                                                      Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nMany everyday words belong to this group.\r\n\r\nPractise these common pronunciations:\r\n
                                                                        \r\n \t
                                                                      • \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u2014 kit\u0101b<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                      • \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 nep\u0101l<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                      • \u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930 \u2014 baj\u0101r<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                      • \u0915\u0932\u092e \u2014 kalam<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                      • \u092a\u0939\u093e\u0921 \u2014 pah\u0101\u1e0d<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n

                                                                        16. Medial and Final Schwa Deletion in Longer Words<\/h2>\r\nSchwa deletion can also happen inside a word.\r\n\r\nSome longer words are written with schwas in both middle and final positions.\r\n\r\nBut common pronunciation drops both of them.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0917\u0921\u092c\u0921\r\ncitation form: ga\u1e0daba\u1e0da<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: ga\u1e0dba\u1e0d<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0915\u0938\u0930\u0924\r\ncitation form: kasarata<\/em>\r\ncommon pronunciation: kasrat<\/em>\r\n\r\nThese words show that Nepali pronunciation often shortens longer words by reducing unstressed schwas.\r\n\r\n[table id=74 \/]\r\n

                                                                        Learner Tip<\/h3>\r\nDo not try to memorize every reduced form right away.\r\n\r\nLearn the common pronunciation of each word as you meet it.\r\n\r\nExamples:\r\n\r\n\u0917\u0921\u092c\u0921 \u2014 ga\u1e0dba\u1e0d<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0915\u0938\u0930\u0924 \u2014 kasrat<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u0939\u0932\u091a\u0932 \u2014 halcal<\/em>\r\n

                                                                        17. Quick Reference<\/h2>\r\nThe table below summarizes the main patterns of schwa retention and schwa deletion introduced in this unit.\r\n\r\n[table id=75 \/]\r\n

                                                                        How to Use This Table<\/h3>\r\nUse the table as a quick review.\r\n\r\nAsk yourself:\r\n
                                                                          \r\n \t
                                                                        1. Is the final a<\/em> kept?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                        2. Is the final a<\/em> dropped?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                        3. Is the word a verb, function word, noun, adjective, or postposition?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                        4. What is the common pronunciation?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n
                                                                          \r\n

                                                                          Check your understanding<\/span><\/h2>\r\nUse the activity below to practise recognizing schwa retention and schwa deletion.\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"142\"]\r\n
                                                                          \r\n
                                                                          [h5p id=\"574\"]<\/code><\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
                                                                          \r\n
                                                                          \r\n

                                                                          Review Questions<\/h2>\r\nAnswer the questions.\r\n
                                                                            \r\n \t
                                                                          1. What sound is built into most Nepali consonants?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          2. What is another name for the built-in a<\/em> sound?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          3. What does the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) do?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          4. How do you read \u0915?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          5. How do you read \u0915\u094d?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          6. What does schwa retention mean?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          7. What does schwa deletion mean?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          8. How is \u0918\u0930 commonly pronounced?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          9. How is \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c commonly pronounced?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          10. How is \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 commonly pronounced?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          11. Which form keeps the final a<\/em>: \u092c\u0938 or \u092c\u0938\u094d?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          12. Why is \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c still written \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c even though it is commonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em>?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          13. Which word usually keeps the final a<\/em>: \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 or \u0918\u0930?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          14. What is the common pronunciation of \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924?<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                          15. Why is it helpful to learn common pronunciation along with spelling?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
                                                                            \r\n

                                                                            Self-Reflection<\/h2>\r\n

                                                                            [h5p id=\"144\"]<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

                                                                            \r\n

                                                                            Key Takeaways<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n

                                                                            \r\n\r\nIn this unit, you learned that:\r\n
                                                                              \r\n \t
                                                                            • Devanagari (dewan\u0101gar\u012b<\/em>) is the script used to write Nepali.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Most Nepali consonants normally carry a built-in vowel sound.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • The built-in vowel sound is a<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • This built-in a<\/em> sound is also called the inherent vowel or schwa.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • The \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) removes the built-in vowel sound.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • \u0915 is read as ka<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • \u0915\u094d is read as k<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Schwa retention means the built-in a<\/em> is pronounced, even if it is light.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Schwa deletion means the written a<\/em> is not pronounced in everyday speech.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Schwa deletion changes pronunciation, not spelling.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Many verb forms keep the final a<\/em>, such as \u092c\u0938 (basa<\/em>) and \u092a\u0922 (pa\u1e0dha<\/em>).<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Many common nouns drop the final a<\/em>, such as \u0918\u0930 (ghar<\/em>) and \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c (kit\u0101b<\/em>).<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Some function words keep the final a<\/em>, such as \u0924\u0930 (tara<\/em>) and \u0930 (ra<\/em>).<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Expressive and repeated words usually keep the final a<\/em> because rhythm is important.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Cluster-final words such as \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 (mitra<\/em>) and \u092e\u0928\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 (mantra<\/em>) usually keep a light final a<\/em>.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Some longer words may drop both final and internal a<\/em> sounds.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Accurate IAST transliteration depends on common pronunciation.<\/li>\r\n \t
                                                                            • Common words such as \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c (kit\u0101b<\/em>), \u0918\u0930 (ghar<\/em>), \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 (nep\u0101l<\/em>), \u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930 (baj\u0101r<\/em>), \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924 (samet<\/em>), and \u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915 (b\u0101hek<\/em>) should be learned with their everyday pronunciation.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"

                                                                              Overview<\/h2>\n

                                                                              Nepali is written in Devanagari (dewan\u0101gar\u012b<\/em>).<\/p>\n

                                                                              In Devanagari, most consonants include a built-in a<\/em> sound.<\/p>\n

                                                                              For example:<\/p>\n

                                                                              \u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                              \u0924 \u2014 ta<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                              This means:<\/p>\n

                                                                                \n
                                                                              • \u0915 is not read only as k<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                              • \u0915 is read as ka<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                              • the a<\/em> sound is already included<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                This built-in a<\/em> sound is called:<\/p>\n

                                                                                  \n
                                                                                • the inherent vowel<\/li>\n
                                                                                • schwa<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                  However, in everyday Nepali pronunciation, this final a<\/em> sound is not always pronounced.<\/p>\n

                                                                                  Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                  \u0918\u0930 \u2014 common pronunciation: ghar<\/em> \u2014 house<\/p>\n

                                                                                  \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u2014 common pronunciation: kit\u0101b<\/em> \u2014 book<\/p>\n

                                                                                  \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 common pronunciation: nep\u0101l<\/em> \u2014 Nepal<\/p>\n

                                                                                  These words are written as if they have a final a<\/em>, but the final a<\/em> is usually dropped in everyday speech.<\/p>\n

                                                                                  By the end of this unit, you will begin to understand:<\/p>\n

                                                                                    \n
                                                                                  1. how the built-in a<\/em> sound works<\/li>\n
                                                                                  2. how the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) removes the built-in vowel<\/li>\n
                                                                                  3. what schwa retention means<\/li>\n
                                                                                  4. what schwa deletion means<\/li>\n
                                                                                  5. which words often keep the final a<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                  6. which words often drop the final a<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                  7. how to read common Nepali words more naturally<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                    Simple idea:<\/p>\n

                                                                                      \n
                                                                                    • Nepali spelling and pronunciation are connected.<\/li>\n
                                                                                    • But they are not always exactly the same.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                      1. Understanding the Schwa in Nepali<\/h2>\n

                                                                                      In Devanagari (dewan\u0101gar\u012b<\/em>), each consonant usually carries a built-in a<\/em> sound.<\/p>\n

                                                                                      Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                      \u0928 = na<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                      \u092e = ma<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                      Each consonant includes two parts:<\/p>\n

                                                                                        \n
                                                                                      1. a consonant sound<\/li>\n
                                                                                      2. a built-in a<\/em> sound<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                        Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                        \u0915 = k + a<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                        So, \u0915 is read as ka<\/em>, not just k<\/em>.<\/p>\n

                                                                                        Table 1.10.1 \u2014 Consonants with the Built-in a Sound<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                        Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nExplanation<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                        \u0915<\/td>\nka<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                        \u0924<\/td>\nta<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                        \u0928<\/td>\nna<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                        \u092e<\/td>\nma<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                        <\/p>\n

                                                                                        Simple Rule<\/h3>\n

                                                                                        Remember:<\/p>\n

                                                                                          \n
                                                                                        1. A Nepali consonant usually includes the vowel sound a<\/em>.<\/li>\n
                                                                                        2. You do not need to add a separate letter for this sound.<\/li>\n
                                                                                        3. The a<\/em> sound is already built into the consonant.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                          Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                          \u0924 = ta<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                          \u092e = ma<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                          Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                          Read the letters aloud:<\/p>\n

                                                                                            \n
                                                                                          1. \u092a \u2014 pa<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                          2. \u0926 \u2014 da<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                          3. \u0932 \u2014 la<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                          4. \u092f \u2014 ya<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                            Now read them again slowly.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            Listen for the final a<\/em> sound in each one.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            2. Removing the Built-in Vowel: \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924<\/h2>\n

                                                                                            The \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) is a small mark.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            It removes the built-in a<\/em> sound from a consonant.<\/p>\n

                                                                                            The \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) mark looks like this:<\/p>\n

                                                                                            \u094d<\/p>\n

                                                                                            Example:<\/p>\n

                                                                                            \u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                            \u0915\u094d \u2014 k<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                            This means:<\/p>\n

                                                                                              \n
                                                                                            1. \u0915 is read as ka<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                            2. \u0915\u094d is read as k<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                            3. the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) removes the final a<\/em> sound<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                              Table 1.10.2 \u2014 Consonants With and Without \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                              Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nExplanation<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                              \u0915<\/td>\nka<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u0915\u094d<\/td>\nk<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant without built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u0924<\/td>\nta<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u0924\u094d<\/td>\nt<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant without built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u0928<\/td>\nna<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u0928\u094d<\/td>\nn<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant without built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u092e<\/td>\nma<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant with built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                              \u092e\u094d<\/td>\nm<\/em><\/td>\nConsonant without built-in a<\/em><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                              <\/p>\n

                                                                                              Simple Rule<\/h3>\n

                                                                                              Without \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:<\/p>\n

                                                                                              \u0915 = ka<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                              With \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:<\/p>\n

                                                                                              \u0915\u094d = k<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                              Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                              Read the pairs aloud:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                \n
                                                                                              1. \u0915 \u2014 ka<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              2. \u0915\u094d \u2014 k<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              3. \u0924 \u2014 ta<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              4. \u0924\u094d \u2014 t<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              5. \u0928 \u2014 na<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              6. \u0928\u094d \u2014 n<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              7. \u092e \u2014 ma<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                              8. \u092e\u094d \u2014 m<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                Now look carefully at the small mark under the consonant.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                That mark is the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).<\/p>\n

                                                                                                3. Schwa Retention and Schwa Deletion<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                Nepali has two important pronunciation patterns:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                1. schwa retention<\/li>\n
                                                                                                2. schwa deletion<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                  3.1 Schwa Retention<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                  Schwa retention means:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    \n
                                                                                                  • the built-in a<\/em> sound is pronounced<\/li>\n
                                                                                                  • the sound may be light<\/li>\n
                                                                                                  • but it is still present<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                    Example:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    \u092c\u0938
                                                                                                    \nbasa<\/em>
                                                                                                    \nsit!<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    Here, the final a<\/em> is pronounced.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                    3.2 Schwa Deletion<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                    Schwa deletion means:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \n
                                                                                                    • the written a<\/em> sound is not pronounced in everyday speech<\/li>\n
                                                                                                    • the spelling usually stays the same<\/li>\n
                                                                                                    • the spoken form becomes shorter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                      Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c
                                                                                                      \nwritten as if it were kit\u0101ba<\/em>
                                                                                                      \ncommonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \u0918\u0930
                                                                                                      \nwritten as if it were ghara<\/em>
                                                                                                      \ncommonly pronounced ghar<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                      \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932
                                                                                                      \nwritten as if it were nep\u0101la<\/em>
                                                                                                      \ncommonly pronounced nep\u0101l<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                      Table 1.10.3 \u2014 Schwa Retention and Schwa Deletion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                      Pattern<\/th>\nNepali<\/th>\nWritten\/Citation Form<\/th>\nCommon Pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                      Schwa retained<\/td>\n\u092c\u0938<\/td>\nbasa<\/em><\/td>\nbasa<\/em><\/td>\nsit!<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                      Schwa deleted<\/td>\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c<\/td>\nkit\u0101ba<\/em><\/td>\nkit\u0101b<\/em><\/td>\nbook<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                      Schwa deleted<\/td>\n\u0918\u0930<\/td>\nghara<\/em><\/td>\nghar<\/em><\/td>\nhouse<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                      Schwa deleted<\/td>\n\u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932<\/td>\nnep\u0101la<\/em><\/td>\nnep\u0101l<\/em><\/td>\nNepal<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                      <\/p>\n

                                                                                                      Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                      Remember:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \n
                                                                                                      1. Nepali spelling often keeps the final built-in a<\/em> sound.<\/li>\n
                                                                                                      2. Everyday pronunciation may drop it.<\/li>\n
                                                                                                      3. Schwa deletion changes pronunciation, not spelling.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                        Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c is still written \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c, but commonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \u0918\u0930 is still written \u0918\u0930, but commonly pronounced ghar<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 is still written \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932, but commonly pronounced nep\u0101l<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                        4. Schwa Retention in Nepali Verbs<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                        Many Nepali verb forms keep the final schwa when there is no \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        This is especially clear in familiar commands.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em> \u2014 read!<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        \u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em> \u2014 write!<\/p>\n

                                                                                                        In fast speech:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          \n
                                                                                                        • the final vowel may sound light<\/li>\n
                                                                                                        • but it is still part of the word<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                          If the \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>) is added, the final schwa is removed.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                          \u092a\u0922\u094d \u2014 pa\u1e0dh<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                          \u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d \u2014 lekh<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                          These forms can sound:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \n
                                                                                                          1. short<\/li>\n
                                                                                                          2. clipped<\/li>\n
                                                                                                          3. abrupt<\/li>\n
                                                                                                          4. forceful<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                            For beginner learners, these forms are usually safer and more natural:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u092c\u0938 \u2014 basa<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u0917\u0930 \u2014 gara<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Table 1.10.4 \u2014 Familiar Commands<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                            Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                            \u092c\u0938<\/td>\nbasa<\/em><\/td>\nsit!<\/td>\nFinal schwa retained.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                            \u092a\u0922<\/td>\npa\u1e0dha<\/em><\/td>\nread!<\/td>\nFinal schwa retained.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                            \u0932\u0947\u0916<\/td>\nlekha<\/em><\/td>\nwrite!<\/td>\nFinal schwa retained.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                            <\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Table 1.10.5 \u2014 Direct Commands with \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                            Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                            \u092c\u0938\u094d<\/td>\nbas<\/em><\/td>\nsit!<\/td>\nFinal schwa removed.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                            \u092a\u0922\u094d<\/td>\npa\u1e0dh<\/em><\/td>\nread!<\/td>\nFinal schwa removed.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                            \u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d<\/td>\nlekh<\/em><\/td>\nwrite!<\/td>\nFinal schwa removed.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                            <\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Simple Rule<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                            Without \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u092c\u0938 = basa<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            With \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                            \u092c\u0938\u094d = bas<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                            Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                            Read the pairs aloud:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                              \n
                                                                                                            1. \u092c\u0938 \u2014 basa<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                            2. \u092c\u0938\u094d \u2014 bas<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                            3. \u092a\u0922 \u2014 pa\u1e0dha<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                            4. \u092a\u0922\u094d \u2014 pa\u1e0dh<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                            5. \u0932\u0947\u0916 \u2014 lekha<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                            6. \u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d \u2014 lekh<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                              Ask yourself:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \n
                                                                                                              • Which forms sound fuller?<\/li>\n
                                                                                                              • Which forms sound shorter?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                5. Schwa Retention in Other Verb Forms<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                The same pattern appears in many other Nepali verb forms.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                If there is no final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>), the final schwa is usually understood as present.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                This includes infinitive forms.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u0916\u093e\u0928 \u2014 kh\u0101na<\/em> \u2014 to eat<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u091c\u093e\u0928 \u2014 j\u0101na \u2014 to go<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                It also includes many negative forms ending in -\u0928.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u091b\u0948\u0928 \u2014 chaina<\/em> \u2014 is not \/ there is not<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u092a\u0922\u0947\u0928 \u2014 pa\u1e0dhena<\/em> \u2014 did not read<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Some verb forms are written with a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                In these forms, the final schwa is removed.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u0917\u0930\u093f\u0928\u094d \u2014 garin<\/em> \u2014 she did<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                \u0916\u093e\u0907\u0928\u094d \u2014 kh\u0101in<\/em> \u2014 she ate<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Table 1.10.6 \u2014 Infinitive Forms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                \u0916\u093e\u0928<\/td>\nkh\u0101na<\/em><\/td>\nto eat<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0932\u0947\u0916\u094d\u0928<\/td>\nlekhna<\/em><\/td>\nto write<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u092a\u0922\u094d\u0928<\/td>\npa\u1e0dhna<\/em><\/td>\nto read<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u092c\u0938\u094d\u0928<\/td>\nbasna<\/em><\/td>\nto sit<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u091c\u093e\u0928<\/td>\nj\u0101na<\/em><\/td>\nto go<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0926\u093f\u0928<\/td>\ndina<\/em><\/td>\nto give<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0932\u093f\u0928<\/td>\nlina<\/em><\/td>\nto take<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Table 1.10.7 \u2014 Negative Forms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                \u091b\u0948\u0928<\/td>\nchaina<\/em><\/td>\nis not \/ there isn\u2019t<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0917\u0930\u094d\u0926\u0948\u0928<\/td>\ngardaina<\/em><\/td>\n(s\/he) doesn\u2019t do<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u092a\u0922\u0947\u0928<\/td>\npa\u1e0dhena<\/em><\/td>\n(s\/he) didn\u2019t read<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Table 1.10.8 \u2014 Verb Forms with Final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                \u0917\u0930\u093f\u0928\u094d<\/td>\ngarin<\/em><\/td>\nshe did<\/td>\nFinal \u0928\u094d \u2192 no final a<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0916\u093e\u0907\u0928\u094d<\/td>\nkh\u0101in<\/em><\/td>\nshe ate<\/td>\nFinal \u0928\u094d \u2192 consonant-final<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0917\u0908\u0928\u094d<\/td>\nga\u012bn<\/em><\/td>\nshe went<\/td>\nNo schwa at the end<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Table 1.10.9 \u2014 Conjunctive Participles Ending in -\u090f\u0930<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                \u0917\u090f\u0930<\/td>\ngaera<\/em><\/td>\nhaving gone<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u0932\u093f\u090f\u0930<\/td>\nliera<\/em><\/td>\nhaving taken<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                \u092c\u0938\u0947\u0930<\/td>\nbasera<\/em><\/td>\nhaving sat<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                Practise these verb forms as full forms:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                                • \u0916\u093e\u0928 \u2014 kh\u0101na<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                • \u091c\u093e\u0928 \u2014 j\u0101na<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                • \u0932\u093f\u0928 \u2014 lina<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                • \u091b\u0948\u0928 \u2014 chaina<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                • \u0917\u0930\u094d\u0926\u0948\u0928 \u2014 gardaina<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                  6. Schwa Retention in Function Words and Postpositions<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                  Schwa retention is not limited to verbs.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Many common function words, postpositions, and adverbs also keep the final schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  This is especially common in careful speech.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  \u0924\u0930 \u2014 tara<\/em> \u2014 but<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  \u0905\u092c \u2014 aba<\/em> \u2014 now<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  The final vowel may sound light, but it is still part of the citation form.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Table 1.10.10 \u2014 Postpositions and Direction Words<\/h2>\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
                                                                                                                  \u092c\u093e\u091f<\/td>\nb\u0101\u1e6da<\/em><\/td>\nfrom; via; by<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0924\u093f\u0930<\/td>\ntira<\/em><\/td>\ntoward<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0928\u093f\u0930<\/td>\nnira<\/em><\/td>\ntoward<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u092c\u093e\u0939\u093f\u0930<\/td>\nb\u0101hira<\/em><\/td>\noutside<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0924\u0932<\/td>\ntala<\/em><\/td>\ndown; below<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u092e\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u093f\u0930<\/td>\nm\u0101stira<\/em><\/td>\nupper side<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u092e\u0941\u0928\u094d\u0924\u093f\u0930<\/td>\nmuntira<\/em><\/td>\nlower\/front side<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0938\u093f\u0924<\/td>\nsita<\/em><\/td>\nwith; literary<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0938\u0901\u0917<\/td>\nsa\u1e45ga<\/em><\/td>\nwith<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0924\u0932\u0924\u093f\u0930<\/td>\ntalatira<\/em><\/td>\ndownward<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u092a\u0930<\/td>\npara<\/em><\/td>\nfar; away<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0935\u0930<\/td>\nwara<\/em><\/td>\nup; above\/over<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                  <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Table 1.10.11 \u2014 Common Function Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                  Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0924\u0930<\/td>\ntara<\/em><\/td>\nbut<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u092d\u090f \u092a\u0928\u093f<\/td>\nbhae pani<\/em><\/td>\nthough; even if<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0924\u092c<\/td>\ntaba<\/em><\/td>\nthen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                  \u0905\u092c<\/td>\naba<\/em><\/td>\nnow<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                  <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                  Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                  Do not drop the final a<\/em> in these very common words:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    \n
                                                                                                                  • \u092e \u2014 ma<\/em> \u2014 I<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                  • \u0930 \u2014 ra<\/em> \u2014 and<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                  • \u0924\u0930 \u2014 tara<\/em> \u2014 but<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                  • \u0905\u092c \u2014 aba<\/em> \u2014 now<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                    7. Bare Time and Place Nouns Used Adverbially<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                    Some time and place nouns are written with a final built-in schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    But in everyday speech, the final a<\/em> is often not pronounced.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    \u0918\u0930
                                                                                                                    \ncitation form: ghara<\/em>
                                                                                                                    \ncommon reading: ghar<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    \u0926\u093f\u0928
                                                                                                                    \ncitation form: dina<\/em>
                                                                                                                    \ncommon reading: din<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    \u0930\u093e\u0924
                                                                                                                    \ncitation form: r\u0101ta<\/em>
                                                                                                                    \ncommon reading: r\u0101t<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    These words show that spelling, citation form, and common pronunciation can differ.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    Table 1.10.12 \u2014 Place Nouns Used Adverbially<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                    Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nCommon reading<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0918\u0930<\/td>\nghara<\/em><\/td>\nghar<\/em><\/td>\nhome<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0935\u0928<\/td>\nwana<\/em><\/td>\nwan<\/em><\/td>\nforest<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0918\u093e\u091f<\/td>\ngh\u0101\u1e6da<\/em><\/td>\ngh\u0101\u1e6d<\/em><\/td>\nriver landing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0939\u093e\u091f<\/td>\nh\u0101\u1e6da<\/em><\/td>\nh\u0101\u1e6d<\/em><\/td>\nperiodic market\/fair<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                    <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    Table 1.10.13 \u2014 Time Nouns Used Adverbially<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                    Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nCommon reading<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0926\u093f\u0928<\/td>\ndina<\/em><\/td>\ndin<\/em><\/td>\nby day<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0930\u093e\u0924<\/td>\nr\u0101ta<\/em><\/td>\nr\u0101t<\/em><\/td>\nat night<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0938\u093e\u0901\u091d<\/td>\ns\u0101\u0303jha<\/em><\/td>\ns\u0101\u0303jh<\/em><\/td>\nin the evening<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u092c\u0947\u0930<\/td>\nbera<\/em><\/td>\nber<\/em><\/td>\nfor a while<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                    \u0916\u0947\u0930<\/td>\nkhera<\/em><\/td>\nkher<\/em><\/td>\nat the moment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                    <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                    Learn these common spoken forms:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                      \n
                                                                                                                    • \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                    • \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                    • \u0930\u093e\u0924 \u2014 r\u0101t<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                    • \u0938\u093e\u0901\u091d \u2014 s\u0101\u0303jh<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                      Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                      Read the words aloud:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                        \n
                                                                                                                      1. \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                      2. \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                      3. \u0930\u093e\u0924 \u2014 r\u0101t<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                      4. \u0938\u093e\u0901\u091d \u2014 s\u0101\u0303jh<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                        Now read them again more naturally.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                        8. Expressive and Reduplicated Forms Usually Keep the Schwa<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                        Expressive words, sound effects, and repeated words usually keep the final schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                        These words depend on:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                          \n
                                                                                                                        1. rhythm<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                        2. repetition<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                        3. sound effect<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                          The final vowel helps maintain the rhythm.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                          Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                          \u0917\u0930\u0930 \u2014 garara \u2014 scraping \/ dragging sound<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                          \u0920\u0915\u0920\u0915 \u2014 \u1e6dhaka\u1e6dhaka \u2014 knocking \/ thumping sound<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                          8.1 Learning Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                          In expressive and repeated words:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                            \n
                                                                                                                          1. follow the spelling<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                          2. keep the rhythm<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                          3. pronounce the final schwa if the spelling suggests it<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                            Table 1.10.14 \u2014 Onomatopoeic Forms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                            Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0917\u0930\u0930<\/td>\ngarara<\/em><\/td>\nscraping \/ dragging<\/td>\nRolling \/r\/ rhythm.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0916\u0930\u0930<\/td>\nkharara<\/em><\/td>\nscraping \/ rustling<\/td>\nFrictional sound.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0939\u0930\u0930<\/td>\nharara<\/em><\/td>\ndropping \/ rushing<\/td>\nLiquid\/rapid motion.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0924\u0930\u0930<\/td>\ntarara<\/em><\/td>\ntrickling \/ streaming<\/td>\nLight, continuous flow.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                            <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                            Table 1.10.15 \u2014 Rhythmic Reduplications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                            Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0938\u092e\u0938\u092e<\/td>\nsamasama<\/em><\/td>\nsoftly\/steadily approaching<\/td>\nGentle cadence.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0932\u092e\u0932\u092e<\/td>\nlamalama<\/em><\/td>\nin long strides<\/td>\nElongated motion.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u091b\u092e\u091b\u092e<\/td>\nchamachama<\/em><\/td>\njingling; tinkling<\/td>\nBell-like sound.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                            \u0920\u0915\u0920\u0915<\/td>\n\u1e6dhaka\u1e6dhaka<\/em><\/td>\nknocking; thumping<\/td>\nPercussive rhythm.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                            <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                            Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                            Read these aloud with rhythm:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                              \n
                                                                                                                            1. \u0917\u0930\u0930 \u2014 garara<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                            2. \u0916\u0930\u0930 \u2014 kharara<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                            3. \u091b\u092e\u091b\u092e \u2014 chamachama<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                            4. \u0920\u0915\u0920\u0915 \u2014 \u1e6dhaka\u1e6dhaka<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                              Listen for the repeated sound pattern.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                              9. High-Frequency Monosyllabic Function Words<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                              Some very common one-syllable Nepali function words strongly keep the built-in schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                              These include:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                \n
                                                                                                                              1. pronouns<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                              2. conjunctions<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                              3. discourse particles<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                Because these words are very frequent, learners should memorize them as schwa-retaining forms.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                Table 1.10.16 \u2014 Monosyllabic Function Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                \u092e<\/td>\nma<\/em><\/td>\nI<\/td>\nFirst-person singular pronoun.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                \u0932<\/td>\nla<\/em><\/td>\nokay; so; then; here\/take<\/td>\nDiscourse particle.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                \u0924<\/td>\nta<\/em><\/td>\ncontrastive\/emphatic particle<\/td>\nOften attaches closely to the preceding word.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                \u0930<\/td>\nra<\/em><\/td>\nand<\/td>\nVery common coordinator.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                Do not drop the a<\/em> in these short words:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                                                • \u092e = ma<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                • \u0932 = la<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                • \u0924 = ta<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                • \u0930 = ra<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                                  These are short but very important words.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  10. Cluster-Final Words Usually Keep the Schwa<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                  Many words that end in a written consonant cluster are still pronounced with a light final schwa in Standard Nepali.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  Even when the vowel is reduced, these words usually keep the final schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mitra<\/em> \u2014 friend<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  \u0936\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 \u015b\u0101stra<\/em> \u2014 treatise; scripture<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  Table 1.10.17 \u2014 Cluster-Final Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                  Nepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nFinal cluster<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                  \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930<\/td>\nmitra<\/em><\/td>\nfriend<\/td>\ntr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                  \u092e\u0928\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930<\/td>\nmantra<\/em><\/td>\nmantra; sacred formula<\/td>\nntr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u0947\u0928\u094d\u0926\u094d\u0930<\/td>\nkendra<\/em><\/td>\ncentre<\/td>\nndr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                  \u0938\u0942\u0924\u094d\u0930<\/td>\ns\u016btra<\/em><\/td>\nthread; formula; aphorism<\/td>\ntr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                  \u0936\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930<\/td>\n\u015b\u0101stra<\/em><\/td>\ntreatise; scripture<\/td>\nstr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                  <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                  Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                  Read these words with a light final a<\/em>:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \n
                                                                                                                                  • \u092e\u093f\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mitra<\/em>, not usually mitr<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                  • \u092e\u0928\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 mantra<\/em>, not usually mantr<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                  • \u0936\u093e\u0938\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930 \u2014 \u015b\u0101stra<\/em>, not usually \u015b\u0101str<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                                    11. Words Ending in -ya, -ha, -ra, and -wa<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                    Many two-syllable words ending in \u092f, \u0939, \u0930, or \u0935 are commonly read with a light final a<\/em>.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    These words often keep the schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    Table 1.10.18 \u2014 Words Ending in -ya, -ha, -ra, and -wa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                    Ending<\/th>\nNepali<\/th>\nTransliteration<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u092f (-ya)<\/td>\n\u091c\u092f<\/td>\njaya<\/em><\/td>\nvictory; exclamation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u092f (-ya)<\/td>\n\u0932\u092f<\/td>\nlaya<\/em><\/td>\nrhythm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u0939 (-ha)<\/td>\n\u0936\u093e\u0939<\/td>\n\u015b\u0101ha<\/em><\/td>\nShah; surname<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u0939 (-ha)<\/td>\n\u0938\u0928\u094d\u0926\u0947\u0939<\/td>\nsandeha<\/em><\/td>\ndoubt<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u0930 (-ra)<\/td>\n\u090f\u0918\u093e\u0930<\/td>\negh\u0101ra<\/em><\/td>\neleven<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                    -\u0935 (-wa)<\/td>\n\u0936\u093f\u0935<\/td>\n\u015biwa<\/em><\/td>\nShiva; name\/deity<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                    <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                    Some endings often keep a light final a<\/em>.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u091c\u092f \u2014 jaya<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u0932\u092f \u2014 laya<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u0936\u093e\u0939 \u2014 \u015b\u0101ha<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u0936\u093f\u0935 \u2014 \u015biwa<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    12. Schwa Deletion in Nepali<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                    Many common non-verbal words drop the final a<\/em> in everyday pronunciation.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    These words are still written without a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>).<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    But the final vowel is usually not heard.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 nep\u0101l<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                    This means:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                      \n
                                                                                                                                    1. the spelling preserves the final built-in vowel<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                    2. the spoken form deletes it<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                    3. the pronunciation becomes shorter<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                      12.1 Remember<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                      Schwa deletion changes pronunciation, not spelling.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                      Example:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                      \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c is still written \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                      but it is commonly pronounced kit\u0101b<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                      Schwa deletion is especially common in:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        \n
                                                                                                                                      1. multi-syllable postpositions<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                      2. short non-verbal disyllables<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                      3. many trisyllabic nouns and adjectives<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                      4. some longer words with both medial and final schwa deletion<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                        Simple Rule<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                        For many common nouns and adjectives, the final written a<\/em> is not pronounced in everyday speech.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        13. Final Schwa Deletion in Multi-Syllable Postpositions<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                        Multi-syllable postpositions written as separate words often drop the final schwa in everyday pronunciation.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        They are spelled as if they end in a<\/em>, but the final vowel is usually not pronounced.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924
                                                                                                                                        \ncitation form: sameta<\/em>
                                                                                                                                        \ncommon pronunciation: samet<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        \u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915
                                                                                                                                        \ncitation form: b\u0101heka<\/em>
                                                                                                                                        \ncommon pronunciation: b\u0101hek<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                        13.1 Practical Rule<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                        When a two-or-more-syllable postposition follows a noun phrase as a separate word:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                          \n
                                                                                                                                        1. it may be written with final a<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                        2. but it is often pronounced without the final vowel<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                          Table 1.10.19 \u2014 Multi-Syllable Postpositions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                          Nepali<\/th>\nCitation<\/th>\nCommon pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924<\/td>\nsameta<\/em><\/td>\nsamet<\/em><\/td>\nas well; also<\/td>\nAdditive.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u0938\u0939\u093f\u0924<\/td>\nsahita<\/em><\/td>\nsahit<\/em><\/td>\nincluding; along with<\/td>\nFollows noun phrase.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u0932\u0917\u093e\u092f\u0924<\/td>\nlag\u0101yata<\/em><\/td>\nlag\u0101yat<\/em><\/td>\nincluding; such as<\/td>\nList introducer.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915<\/td>\nb\u0101heka<\/em><\/td>\nb\u0101hek<\/em><\/td>\nexcept; besides<\/td>\nExclusion.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u0926\u093f\u0928\u092d\u0930<\/td>\ndinabhara<\/em><\/td>\ndinbhar<\/em><\/td>\nall day<\/td>\nLexicalised adverbial.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                          \u0930\u093e\u0924\u092d\u0930<\/td>\nr\u0101tabhara<\/em><\/td>\nr\u0101tbhar<\/em><\/td>\nall night<\/td>\nLexicalised adverbial.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                          <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                          Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                          Learn the common pronunciation of these high-frequency words:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                            \n
                                                                                                                                          • \u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924 \u2014 samet<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                          • \u0938\u0939\u093f\u0924 \u2014 sahit<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                          • \u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915 \u2014 b\u0101hek<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                          • \u0926\u093f\u0928\u092d\u0930 \u2014 dinbhar<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                                            14. Final Schwa Deletion in Short Non-Verbal Disyllables<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                            Many short, common two-syllable nouns and adjectives drop the final schwa in everyday speech.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                            These words are written without a final \u0939\u0932\u0928\u094d\u0924 (halanta<\/em>), but their common spoken form ends in a consonant.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                            This is common in words shaped like:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                              \n
                                                                                                                                            1. CV\u2013Ca<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                            2. V\u2013Ca<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                              For beginners, the main idea is simple:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                              Many short nouns and adjectives sound shorter in everyday speech.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                              Table 1.10.20 \u2014 CV\u2013Ca Words: Citation vs. Common Pronunciation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                              Nepali<\/th>\nCitation<\/th>\nCommon pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nShape<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0926\u093f\u0928<\/td>\ndina<\/em><\/td>\ndin<\/em><\/td>\nday<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0935\u0928<\/td>\nwana<\/em><\/td>\nwan<\/em><\/td>\nforest<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0926\u0932<\/td>\ndala<\/em><\/td>\ndal<\/em><\/td>\nparty; faction<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u091c\u0932<\/td>\njala<\/em><\/td>\njal<\/em><\/td>\nwater; literary<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0927\u0928<\/td>\ndhana<\/em><\/td>\ndhan<\/em><\/td>\nwealth<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0918\u0930<\/td>\nghara<\/em><\/td>\nghar<\/em><\/td>\nhouse; home<\/td>\nCV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                              <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                              Table 1.10.21 \u2014 V\u2013Ca Words: Citation vs. Common Pronunciation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                              Nepali<\/th>\nCitation<\/th>\nCommon pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nShape<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0905\u0938\u0930<\/td>\nasara<\/em><\/td>\nasar<\/em><\/td>\neffect; impact<\/td>\nV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0909\u0924\u094d\u0924\u0930<\/td>\nuttara<\/em><\/td>\nuttar<\/em><\/td>\nnorth; answer<\/td>\nV\u2013Ca with cluster<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0905\u0927\u093f\u0915<\/td>\nadhika<\/em><\/td>\nadhik<\/em><\/td>\nmore; extra<\/td>\nV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                              \u0905\u0935\u0938\u0930<\/td>\nawasara<\/em><\/td>\nawasar<\/em><\/td>\nopportunity<\/td>\nV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                              <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                              Try It Now<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                              Read the common pronunciations aloud:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                \n
                                                                                                                                              1. \u0926\u093f\u0928 \u2014 din<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                              2. \u0935\u0928 \u2014 wan<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                              3. \u0918\u0930 \u2014 ghar<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                              4. \u0905\u0938\u0930 \u2014 asar<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                              5. \u0909\u0924\u094d\u0924\u0930 \u2014 uttar<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                              6. \u0905\u0935\u0938\u0930 \u2014 awasar<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                                Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                                Focus on the common pronunciation first.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                You can still remember that the spelling preserves the full written form.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                15. Final Schwa Deletion in Trisyllabic Words<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                                Many common three-syllable nouns and adjectives are written with a final built-in schwa.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                But the final a<\/em> is usually not pronounced.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                This pattern is common in everyday Nepali.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                It appears in:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                                                                1. nouns<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                2. adjectives<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                3. place names<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                                                                                  Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c
                                                                                                                                                  \ncitation form: kit\u0101ba<\/em>
                                                                                                                                                  \ncommon pronunciation: kit\u0101b<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932
                                                                                                                                                  \ncitation form: nep\u0101la<\/em>
                                                                                                                                                  \ncommon pronunciation: nep\u0101l<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  \u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930
                                                                                                                                                  \ncitation form: baj\u0101ra<\/em>
                                                                                                                                                  \ncommon pronunciation: baj\u0101r<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  Table 1.10.22 \u2014 Trisyllabic CV\u2013CV\u2013Ca Words<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                                  Nepali<\/th>\nCitation<\/th>\nCommon pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nShape<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c<\/td>\nkit\u0101ba<\/em><\/td>\nkit\u0101b<\/em><\/td>\nbook<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932<\/td>\nnep\u0101la<\/em><\/td>\nnep\u0101l<\/em><\/td>\nNepal<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930<\/td>\nbaj\u0101ra<\/em><\/td>\nbaj\u0101r<\/em><\/td>\nmarket<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0928\u0917\u0930<\/td>\nnagara<\/em><\/td>\nnagar<\/em><\/td>\ntown; city<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u0932\u092e<\/td>\nkalama<\/em><\/td>\nkalam<\/em><\/td>\npen<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u092e\u0932<\/td>\nkamala<\/em><\/td>\nkamal<\/em><\/td>\nlotus<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u092a\u0939\u093e\u0921<\/td>\npah\u0101\u1e0da<\/em><\/td>\npah\u0101\u1e0d<\/em><\/td>\nhill<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u092b\u0930\u0915<\/td>\npharaka<\/em><\/td>\npharak<\/em><\/td>\ndifferent; difference<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0938\u0921\u0915<\/td>\nsa\u1e0daka<\/em><\/td>\nsa\u1e0dak<\/em><\/td>\nroad; street<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                  \u0915\u093e\u0930\u0923<\/td>\nk\u0101ra\u1e47a<\/em><\/td>\nk\u0101ra\u1e47<\/em><\/td>\nreason<\/td>\nCV\u2013CV\u2013Ca<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                                  <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                                  Many everyday words belong to this group.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                  Practise these common pronunciations:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \n
                                                                                                                                                  • \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c \u2014 kit\u0101b<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                  • \u0928\u0947\u092a\u093e\u0932 \u2014 nep\u0101l<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                  • \u092c\u091c\u093e\u0930 \u2014 baj\u0101r<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                  • \u0915\u0932\u092e \u2014 kalam<\/em><\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                  • \u092a\u0939\u093e\u0921 \u2014 pah\u0101\u1e0d<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                                                                    16. Medial and Final Schwa Deletion in Longer Words<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Schwa deletion can also happen inside a word.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Some longer words are written with schwas in both middle and final positions.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    But common pronunciation drops both of them.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \u0917\u0921\u092c\u0921
                                                                                                                                                    \ncitation form: ga\u1e0daba\u1e0da<\/em>
                                                                                                                                                    \ncommon pronunciation: ga\u1e0dba\u1e0d<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \u0915\u0938\u0930\u0924
                                                                                                                                                    \ncitation form: kasarata<\/em>
                                                                                                                                                    \ncommon pronunciation: kasrat<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    These words show that Nepali pronunciation often shortens longer words by reducing unstressed schwas.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Table 1.10.23 \u2014 Longer Words: Citation vs. Reduced Form<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                                    Nepali<\/th>\nCitation<\/th>\nCommon pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\nNotes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                                    \u0916\u0932\u092c\u0932<\/td>\nkhalabala<\/em><\/td>\nkhalbal<\/em><\/td>\ncommotion; stir<\/td>\nMedial and final schwa deleted.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    \u0939\u0932\u091a\u0932<\/td>\nhalacala<\/em><\/td>\nhalcal<\/em><\/td>\nbustle; activity<\/td>\nCommon in public\/news style.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    \u0917\u0921\u092c\u0921<\/td>\nga\u1e0daba\u1e0da<\/em><\/td>\nga\u1e0dba\u1e0d<\/em><\/td>\nmess; confusion<\/td>\nVery common in speech.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    \u0915\u0938\u0930\u0924<\/td>\nkasarata<\/em><\/td>\nkasrat<\/em><\/td>\nexercise; drill<\/td>\nEveryday health\/fitness word.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    \u0924\u0930\u0935\u093e\u0930<\/td>\ntaraw\u0101ra<\/em><\/td>\ntarw\u0101r<\/em><\/td>\nsword<\/td>\nLong \u0101<\/em> retained; schwas reduced.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                                    <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Learner Tip<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Do not try to memorize every reduced form right away.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Learn the common pronunciation of each word as you meet it.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Examples:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \u0917\u0921\u092c\u0921 \u2014 ga\u1e0dba\u1e0d<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \u0915\u0938\u0930\u0924 \u2014 kasrat<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    \u0939\u0932\u091a\u0932 \u2014 halcal<\/em><\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    17. Quick Reference<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                                    The table below summarizes the main patterns of schwa retention and schwa deletion introduced in this unit.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Table 1.10.24 \u2013 Quick Reference Table<\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                                    This table summaries some high-frequency items that illustrate the main patterns of schwa retention and schwa deletion discussed in this unit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
                                                                                                                                                    Pattern<\/th>\nNepali<\/th>\nCitation Form<\/th>\nCommon Pronunciation<\/th>\nEnglish<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Common final schwa deletion<\/td>\n\u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c<\/td>\nkit\u0101ba<\/em><\/td>\nkit\u0101b<\/em><\/td>\nbook<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Common final schwa deletion<\/td>\n\u0918\u0930<\/td>\nghara<\/em><\/td>\nghar<\/em><\/td>\nhouse<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Schwa retained in cluster-final word<\/td>\n\u092e\u0928\u094d\u0924\u094d\u0930<\/td>\nmantra<\/em><\/td>\nmantra<\/em><\/td>\nmantra; formula<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Schwa retained in postposition<\/td>\n\u092c\u093e\u091f<\/td>\nb\u0101\u1e6da<\/em><\/td>\nb\u0101\u1e6da<\/em><\/td>\nfrom; by; via<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Schwa retained in -ya\/ha ending<\/td>\n\u0932\u092f<\/td>\nlaya<\/em><\/td>\nlaya<\/em><\/td>\nrhythm<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Lexical final schwa deletion<\/td>\n\u0938\u092e\u0947\u0924<\/td>\nsameta<\/em><\/td>\nsamet<\/em><\/td>\nincluding; as well<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
                                                                                                                                                    Lexical final schwa deletion<\/td>\n\u092c\u093e\u0939\u0947\u0915<\/td>\nb\u0101heka<\/em><\/td>\nb\u0101hek<\/em><\/td>\nexcept; besides<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

                                                                                                                                                    <\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    How to Use This Table<\/h3>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Use the table as a quick review.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                    Ask yourself:<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                      \n
                                                                                                                                                    1. Is the final a<\/em> kept?<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                    2. Is the final a<\/em> dropped?<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                    3. Is the word a verb, function word, noun, adjective, or postposition?<\/li>\n
                                                                                                                                                    4. What is the common pronunciation?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                                                                                                      \n

                                                                                                                                                      Check your understanding<\/span><\/h2>\n

                                                                                                                                                      Use the activity below to practise recognizing schwa retention and schwa deletion.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                                                                      \n