Honoring Tradition: Using Nepali Honorifics Even in English Communication

In the Nepali culture, there are at least three distinct types of honorifics, categorized into three major levels: low, medium, and high. Each level is used to denote different degrees of respect and social hierarchy.

The low honorific is used in situations where no particular respect is required. This level is typically reserved for those who are younger or very familiar, such as close friends. For these individuals, it is common and acceptable to address them by their first name only.

The medium honorific signifies neutrality or equal status. This is appropriate when addressing peers or colleagues. In such cases, you might use ‘Jee’ or ‘Sir’ after the first name to maintain a respectful tone while acknowledging an equal social standing. For instance, calling a colleague “Ramesh Jee” shows politeness without implying any hierarchical difference.

The high honorific is reserved for those to whom you owe respect, such as elders, teachers, or anyone of higher social standing. In these situations, it is considered disrespectful to address someone by their first name or surname alone, even if conversing in English. Instead, you should use their full name followed by ‘Jiyu’ or ‘Sir’. Alternatively, simply using ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam’ can suffice. For example, addressing an elder as “Ram Prasad Jiyu” or “Sir” is appropriate and respectful.

In family and community settings, addressing older individuals or those with a higher social rank also requires the use of specific titles. For instance, instead of calling someone by their name, you would use terms like uncle, aunty, sister, or brother. If someone is a friend of your parents, you should call them ‘Uncle’ or ‘Aunty’ rather than by their name, as using their name alone is considered disrespectful. However, it is acceptable to add ‘Uncle’ or ‘Aunty’ after their first name, such as “Ramesh Uncle”.

For younger relatives like nephews, nieces, younger siblings, or cousins, using their first names is generally acceptable. In contrast, for elder family members such as parents, uncles, aunts, elder siblings, or cousins, addressing them by their relationship title, like “Hey Brother” or “Hey Uncle,” is a sign of respect. Calling them by their name alone would be deemed disrespectful.

These conventions apply not only when speaking Nepali but also when speaking English within the Nepali community. Sometimes, foreign-born Nepali children may inadvertently call elder relatives, family friends, or community members by their names, such as “Mr. [Name],” which is usually considered disrespectful in Nepali culture. Maintaining these honorific practices is crucial in showing proper respect and maintaining social harmony within the community.

Last but not least, when you meet someone older or of similar age and hierarchy, don’t forget to say ‘Namaste’. However, elder family members such as parents, uncles, aunts, elder siblings, or cousins usually do not say ‘Namaste’ first. When someone says ‘Namaste’ to you, you should reply with ‘Namaste’.