Family relationships are essential in Nepali culture, and the term “cousin” plays a vital role in connecting extended family members. Whether you’re learning Nepali or engaging with Nepali-speaking communities, understanding how to address a cousin in Nepali can help you navigate familial interactions with ease. In this post, we will explore the meaning of “cousin” in Nepali, the different terms used, and provide examples to enhance your understanding.
What is the Meaning of “Cousin” in Nepali?
In Nepali, the term “cousin” doesn’t have a direct one-word translation like in English. Instead, cousins are referred to based on their specific relationship to you, similar to how you would address a brother or sister. Here’s how you can refer to different types of cousins in Nepali:
- “दाजु/भाई” (Daju/Bhai): These terms refer to a male cousin, with “Daju” used for an older male cousin and “Bhai” for a younger male cousin.
- “दिदी/बहिनी” (Didi/Bahini): These terms are used for a female cousin, with “Didi” referring to an older female cousin and “Bahini” to a younger female cousin.
Different Contexts for Using “Cousin” in Nepali
Nepali culture emphasizes respect for age and relationship dynamics. Therefore, the way you refer to your cousin depends on whether they are older or younger than you, as well as whether they are male or female.
- Referring to an Older Male Cousin:
Term: दाजु (Daju)
Example Sentence: “मेरो दाजु विदेशमा बस्नुहुन्छ।” (Mero daju bideshma basnuhuncha.)
Translation: “My cousin lives abroad.”
- Referring to a Younger Male Cousin:
Term: भाई (Bhai)
Example Sentence: “मेरो भाईको आज जन्मदिन हो।” (Mero bhaiko aaja janmadin ho.)
Translation: “It’s my cousin’s birthday today.”
- Referring to an Older Female Cousin:
Term: दिदी (Didi)
Example Sentence: “मेरी दिदीको बिहे भर्खरै भयो।” (Meri didiko bihe bhakharai bhayo.)
Translation: “My cousin just got married.”
- Referring to a Younger Female Cousin:
Term: बहिनी (Bahini)
Example Sentence: “मेरी बहिनी स्कूल जान्छिन्।” (Meri bahini school janchin.)
Translation: “My cousin goes to school.”
Examples of “Cousin” in Common Nepali Phrases
Here are some phrases to help you understand how these terms are used in daily conversations:
“तिमीले तिम्रो दाजुलाई भेट्यौ?” (Timile timro dajulai bhetyau.)
Translation: “Did you meet your (older male) cousin?”
“मेरो भाईसँग म खेल्न जान्छु।” (Mero bhaisanga ma khelna janchu.)
Translation: “I go to play with my (younger male) cousin.”
“दिदीले मलाई उपहार दिनुभयो।” (Didile malai upahar dinubhayo.)
Translation: “My (older female) cousin gave me a gift.”
“बहिनीले आज चित्र बनाइन्।” (Bahinile aaja chitra banaein)
Translation: “My (younger female) cousin drew a picture today.”
Conclusion
Understanding the meaning of “cousin” in Nepali requires knowing how to refer to them based on their age and gender. Terms like “दाजु” (Daju), “भाई” (Bhai), “दिदी” (Didi), and “बहिनी” (Bahini) are essential for navigating family relationships in Nepali culture. This guide offers a comprehensive understanding of these terms, helping you communicate more effectively with your Nepali-speaking family members.