The Bodo language, also known as Boro, holds significant linguistic and cultural importance in Northeast India, representing a vital strand in the region’s diverse cultural tapestry. A member of the Sino-Tibetan language family, Bodo shares linguistic characteristics with Dimasa, Kokborok, and Garo languages, underscoring the rich linguistic symbiosis present in Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya. Notably, Bodo enjoys the distinction of being one of the 22 languages listed in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, affirming its role in the nation’s pluricultural identity.
Embarking on the Linguistic Journey: Essential Bodo Phrases and Words
For anyone keen to assimilate into the vibrant culture of the Bodo-speaking community or to understand the linguistic nuances, learning basic phrases and words is an excellent starting point. Whether you’re a traveler exploring the Northeast or a linguist, these expressions are the first step towards building rapport and fostering mutual respect with native Bodo speakers.
1. Basic Greetings in Bodo:
Hello: “Khulumbai!”
Welcome: “Ador khalamnai”
Good morning: “Gwjwn fungbili!”
Good night: “Gwjwn hor”
Bye: “Gwjwngthu!”
These greetings are more than mere words; they are an extension of Bodo hospitality and the community’s warm, welcoming nature.
2. Essential Bodo Vocabulary and Phrases:
In addition to the common greetings, having a repertoire of useful everyday phrases and words is beneficial. Here’s a sneak peek into some of these phrases which can be found in resources like the “Bodo 45: Basic Bodo Phrases” and the “Bodoland Movement Book” available on Amazon for deeper insights:
Thank you: “Dwbwnang”
Please: “Dwimalu”
How are you?: “Nwng gwsw jwng?”
I’m fine: “Ang gwswgw”
What’s your name?: “Nwngni nang baidi gwna?”
Learning Bodo: A Gateway to Cultural Immersion
The process of learning Bodo phrases and words is more than an academic endeavor; it’s a plunge into a rich cultural realm. The language is a gateway to understanding the history, traditions, and the collective psyche of the Bodo people. Resources like the “Bodoland Movement Book” not only offer linguistic knowledge but also provide historical and socio-political context, enriching your learning journey.
Language is the vessel of culture, and by embracing Bodo, one gets closer to the heart of a community renowned for its rich folklore, vibrant dance forms, and illustrious traditional attire. So, beginning with a “Khulumbai!” (Hello), let’s set forth on this fascinating journey of linguistic and cultural discovery!
| No. | English | Bodo |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hi/Hello | Khulumbai |
| 2 | What is your name? | Ma mung nwngna? |
| 3 | My name is Baoringdao | Angni mung a Baoringdao |
| 4 | How are you? | Ma khobor? |
| 5 | I am fine | Ang mwjangwi nwng dong |
| 6 | Where are you from? | Nwng bode jaiga ni? |
| 7 | I’m from Assam | Ang Assam ni |
| 8 | What do you do? | Ma khalamw nwng? |
| 9 | I do a job? | Ang sakhri maoyw |
| 10 | Where do you live? | Nwng boha thayw? |
| 11 | Nice talking to you | Nwngjwng railaina mwjang mwndwng |
| 12 | What are you doing? | Ma Khalamdwng nwng day? |
| 13 | I’m doing nothing | Ang awrwinw dong |
| 14 | I’m sleeping | Ang undun dwng |
| 15 | What about you? | Nwngnalai maewi? |
| 16 | She is a beautiful girl | Beyw sase somaina sikhwla mwn |
| 17 | I’m happy | Ang gwjwnbai |
| 18 | He has just left | Biyw dasw thangbai |
| 19 | Daingli has to come here | Daingli ya beyau fwinangou |
| 20 | What happened? | Ma jakhw? |
| 21 | Don’t make me angry! | Angkow raga fwjwng nanga! |
| 22 | I’m feeling sleepy | Ang undun awngkharbai |
| 23 | It is very hot today | Dinwi jwbwd |
| 24 | Do you know to cook? | Nwng songnw rwngou nama? |
| 25 | Can you speak English? | Nwng English railainw rwngou na? |
| 26 | I want to learn Bodo language | Ang Bodo swlwngnw lugwidng |
| 27 | I like you | Ang nwngkow posaiyw |
| 28 | Do you love me? | Nwng angkow mwjang mwnbai na? |
| 29 | I love you | Ang nwngkow mwjang mwnw |
| 30 | I love you too | Angbw nwngkow mwjang mwnw |
| 31 | I miss you | Ang nwngkow gwsw khangw |
| 32 | I hate you | Ang nwngkow swiya |
| 33 | How old are you? | Nwngni besiwa beseba? |
| 34 | I am 10 years old | Ang 10 bwsowr jabai |
| 35 | Did you eat food? | Nwng jwmwng jabai nama? |
| 36 | Are you fever? | Nwng lwmjadw nama? |
| 37 | Can you come here on Monday! | Nwng sombar ao beohai fwinw hagwn nama! |
| 38 | Yes, I’ll go on Monday | Au, Ang sombar thangwn |
| 39 | I’m busy | Ang besto |
| 40 | Goodbye | Mwjwng thangnwse |
| 41 | I’m sorry | Khema bibai |
| 42 | Please forgive me! | Onanwi nimaha hwdw angkow! |
| 43 | Yes | Aw |
| 44 | No | Nonga |
| 45 | Thank you | Sabaikhor |
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