Family relationships hold great significance in Nepali culture, and each relation has its unique name and respect. When it comes to the term “brother-in-law,” understanding its meaning and usage in Nepali can help you navigate family dynamics better, whether you’re learning the language or interacting with Nepali speakers. In this post, we will explore the meaning of “brother-in-law” in Nepali, the various terms used depending on the specific relationship, and provide examples to help.
What is the Meaning of “Brother-in-Law” in Nepali?
The term “brother-in-law” can refer to different relationships in Nepali, depending on whether it’s your wife’s brother, your sister’s husband, or your husband’s brother. Here’s how each relationship is addressed in Nepali:
- “भिनाजु/भेना” (Bhinaju/Bhena): This is used to refer to your elder sister’s husband.
- “जेठाजु” (Jethaju): This term is used for your husband’s elder brother.
- “ज्वाईं” (Jwai): younger sister’s husband
- “देवर” (Dewar): husband’s younger brother
- “जेठान” (Jethan): wife’s elder brother
- “सालो/साला” (Salo/sala): This term is used for your wife’s younger brother.
Different Contexts for Using “Brother-in-Law” in Nepali
The term “brother-in-law” in Nepali can vary depending on the relationship, and it is important to use the correct term to show respect and understanding of the family hierarchy. Here’s how these terms are applied in various contexts:
- Addressing Your Husband’s Younger Brother:
Term: “देवर” (Dewar)
Example Sentence: “मेरो देवर पोखरामा बस्नुहुन्छ।”
Translation: “My brother-in-law lives in Pokhara.”
- Referring to Your Elder Sister’s Husband:
Term: भेना (Bhena)
Example Sentence: “मेरो भेना आज हाम्रो घरमा आउनुहुन्छ।”
Translation: “My brother-in-law is coming to our house today.”
- Addressing Your Wife’s Younger Brother:
Term: सालो (Salo)
Example Sentence: “मेरो सालोसँग म बारम्बार भेट्न जान्छु।”
Translation: “I often go to visit my brother-in-law.”
- Addressing Your Husband’s Elder Brother:
Term: जेठाजु (Jethaju)
Example Sentence: “मेरो जेठाजु धेरै दयालु व्यक्ति हुनुहुन्छ।”
Translation: “My brother-in-law is a very kind person.”
Examples of “Brother-in-Law” in Common Nepali Phrases
To help you understand how these terms are used in everyday conversation, here are some common phrases:
“भेना तपाईंसँग भेट्न चाहन्छन्।”
Translation: “Your brother-in-law wants to meet you.”
“मेरो सालोको परिवारसँग राम्रो सम्बन्ध छ।”
Translation: “My brother-in-law has a good relationship with the family.”
“मेरो जेठान सधैं मेरो साथमा हुनुहुन्छ।”
Translation: “My brother-in-law is always with me.”
Conclusion
Understanding the meaning of “brother-in-law” in Nepali, whether it’s “भेना” (Bhena), “सालो” (Salo), or “जेठाजु” (Jethaju), is key to navigating family relationships within Nepali culture. By using the correct term, you show respect and understanding of the family structure.