Family
BeginnerNeutralStandard
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