32 Basic Gujarati Words to Know in English

Have you ever landed in a new place and felt like you’re stuck in an episode of “Lost in Translation”? Well, if you’re planning to visit Gujarat or mingle with your Gujarati friends, here’s some good news—learning just a few common Gujarati words and phrases can flip the script. Whether you’re haggling at a bazaar or joining in on a “garba” dance, knowing a bit of the local lingo can make you feel like less of a “pardesi” (foreigner) and more like one of the gang!

Gujarati, the heart and soul of Gujarat, is more than just a language—it’s a vibe! From the warmth of its people to the vibrant “ras-garba” (traditional dance), getting a grip on these Gujarati basics will help you blend in and enjoy the full “maja” (fun) of the local culture. Let’s dive into some key Gujarati words and phrases that’ll have you saying, “Kem cho, Gujarat!”

Kem cho? – How are you?

The quintessential Gujarati greeting! You can use this phrase to ask anyone how they are. It’s a great icebreaker and shows that you’re making an effort to speak the local language.

Maja ma – I am fine

You must have heard your Gujarati friends or roommates use this phrase often. So, when someone asks ‘Kem cho?’, simply say ‘Maja ma’ which translates to, I’m fine in English.

Aabhar – Thank you

Gratitude goes a long way, and saying “Aabhar” when someone helps you out is shure to bring a smile to their face.

Hu/Mane – I/Me

Tu/ Tame – You/ You with respect

These are basic but super important.

 “Hu” is “I,” 

“Mane” is “me” and

 “Tu” or “Tame” is “you.”

 Use “Tame” when you want to be extra polite.

Mane tu game chhe – I like you

Hu tane prem karu chhu – I love you

Taru/Tamaru – Your/ Your with respect

Got something to ask about that belongs to someone else? “Taru” or “Tamaru” will help you out, depending on how formal you want to be.

Taru/Tamaru naam shu che? – What is your name?

Meeting new people? This is a gentle way to ask someone about themselves. Great for small talk, these phrases helps you learn more about the person you’re speaking with.

Tame kon? – Who are you?

Tame kya na cho? – Where are you from?

Haan/No – Yes/No

These are your quick and easy responses. “Haan” and “Na” are straightforward responses that you’ll use often in conversations.

Shu chhe? – What is it?

shu chhe can mean different things based on the situation. Curious about something? Ask “aa shu chhe?” 

Whether you’re asking about a dish on the menu or something in a shop, “shu che?” will come in handy. 

Alternatively, if you want to know what happened, you can say “shu thayu?”

Mane samajhatu nathi – I don’t understand

Let’s face it—there will be times when you just don’t get what’s being said. We all get lost in translation sometimes. This phrase is your friendly way to ask someone to explain again. 

Bhai/Behen – Brother/Sister

These words are great for addressing not just siblings but also close friends. It’s all about that family vibe!

Mota/Nano – Elder/Younger

In Gujarati, things can get a little different from what you might expect in other languages like Hindi. For instance, Mota doesn’t mean “fat” here—it means “elder.” 

So when you hear “Mota bhai,” “Moti behen”, it’s talking about your older brother and sister, not someone’s size!

On the flip side, Nano means “younger.” So “Nano bhai”, “Nani behen”, refers to your younger brother and sister

Thodu/Vadhare – Less/More

These words are your best friends when describing things. Whether it’s the amount of food or your likes, these will come in handy.

Sidhu – Straight

Need directions? Whether you’re asking for directions or navigating through a busy street. “Sidhu” means go straight.

Kya? – Where?

Kya means where. Wondering where something/someone is? Just ask, “Kya?”

Hu aavu chhu – I’m Coming

Whether you’re heading out the door to meet up with friends or just letting someone know you’re on your way, this phrase is your go-to. 

So, next time, just drop a quick “Hu aavu chhu” and keep the vibes rolling!

Mane madad joiye chhe – I need help

Whether you’re lost or just in need of assistance, this phrase is a must-have in your language toolkit.

Ketla rupiya thase? – How much will it cost?

Bargaining in the market? Use this phrase to talk prices like a pro. Whether you’re shopping in a local market or bargaining with a street vendor, this phrase is essential for discussing prices.

Thodu/Vadhare – Less/More

These words are your best friends when describing things. Whether it’s the amount of food or your likes, these will come in handy.

Sidhu – Straight

Need directions? Whether you’re asking for directions or navigating through a busy street. “Sidhu” means go straight.

Aapde Kya jaiye chhe? – Where are we going?

Perfect for when you’re following along but want to double-check the destination.

Khabar nathi – I don’t know

Ever had a moment where you’re totally clueless? That’s when you drop a casual “Khabar nathi,” which is Gujarati for “I don’t know.” It’s like your go-to phrase when you’re just as lost as everyone else!

Barabar – Okay/Alright

This one’s a gem. Whether you’re agreeing with your friend or just letting them know everything’s cool, “Barabar” is your all-purpose “okay” or “alright.” It’s the word that keeps the convo smooth and easy, like a nod that says, “Yep, we’re good.”

Jamvanu kevu hatu? – Barabar

Aapde tya jaye chhe – Barabar

Saaru/Saras – Good

Mithu – Sweet

Jalsa – Enjoyment

Gujaratis are all about living life to the fullest, and “Jalsa” captures that perfectly. Use it when you’re having a great time!  Be it relaxing after a long day or celebrating a festival, this word captures the essence of having a good time.

Pani – Water

Stay hydrated folks! You’ll definitely need this word, especially in the heat of Gujarat.

Khavanu/Jamvanu – Food/Meal

Aaje khavama/jamva ma shu chhe?

Food is love, and in Gujarat, it’s a big deal. Use “Khavanu” when you’re ready to eat! Because who doesn’t love to eat? 

Sambhad/Sambhdo – Listen

Need to get someone’s attention? “Sambhdo” will do the trick.

Khush/Anand – Happy

Express your happiness with this simple word. It’s perfect for sharing positive vibes!

Tamne maline anand thayo – Nice to meet you

Tamne maline – Meeting you

Anand- Happiness

Had a nice conversation and liked meeting someone? “Tamne maline anand thayo is the perfect thing to say at the end.

Aavjo – Come again / goodbye

In Gujarati, we don’t bid goodbye, we say come again. This versatile phrase is great for bidding farewell or inviting someone to return.

Bonus Slangs

1. Dobi – Paagal: Someone who’s acting crazy  in a playful way.
2. Vaidi: Refers to a person who’s smart or crafty, often in a sneaky or clever way. It’s a bit like calling someone a “smarty pants” with a hint of mischief.
3. Gadhedo: Literally means “donkey,” but it’s used to call someone foolish or stubborn.
4. Nakkamo: This word describes someone who’s lazy or unproductive, kind of like calling someone a “slacker.”
5. Chaplo/Dodhyo: Refers to someone who’s trying to be extra smart.

6. Feku: Used for someone who exaggerates or brags.
7. Fatakda: Fireworks.

These slangs are often used in a fun, teasing manner among friends, so they’re great for adding some local flavor to your conversations!

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re chilling at a “dhaba” (roadside eatery) or joining a “dandiya” (traditional dance) night, these Gujarati phrases will help you blend right in. You might even pick up some “lafra” (fun mischief) along the way!

So, the next time you’re in Gujarat or hanging out with your Gujarati friends, sprinkle these phrases into your conversations. Not only will it help you navigate, but it’ll also earn you some “prem” (love) and maybe even a few extra “farsan” (snacks) at the dinner table. Happy talking, and remember—life’s more fun when you do it Gujarati-style!