Family

Family

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Brother / Older sister, also used to address strangers

Bhai / Apu

BHAH-ee / AH-poo

About this phrase

Literally

Brother / Older sister

When to use it

Bhai (brother) and apu (older sister, informal form of apa) are used constantly to politely address people close to your own age who aren't relatives, shopkeepers, waiters, classmates, strangers on the street.

How it feels

Friendly and respectful without being overly formal; the default way to get someone's attention politely.

Formality

Neutral, safe for strangers and family alike

Grammar

Word by word

Examples

In a conversation

Customer

Bhai, dokan koytay bondho hoy?

Brother, what time does the shop close?

Shopkeeper

Rat noytay

At nine at night

Common replies

Ji, bolun

Yes, go ahead

Dhonnobad bhai

Thanks, brother