bihari: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2neutral, formal
Quick answer
What does “bihari” mean?
A native or inhabitant of the Indian state of Bihar.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A native or inhabitant of the Indian state of Bihar.
Of, relating to, or characteristic of the state of Bihar, its people, or the languages spoken there (such as Bhojpuri, Magahi, or Maithili).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant linguistic difference. Usage is dictated by context (Indian politics, diaspora communities, linguistic studies).
Connotations
In both varieties, the term is neutral. Within South Asian communities, it can carry sociopolitical connotations related to migration, regional identity, and sometimes stereotyping.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general English. Slightly higher frequency in UK English due to the larger South Asian diaspora, particularly in discussions of immigration or culture.
Grammar
How to Use “bihari” in a Sentence
the [adjective] Bihari communitya Bihari from [place]of Bihari descentVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bihari” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She prepared a traditional Bihari dish called litti chokha.
- The study focused on Bihari migration patterns to the UK.
American English
- He enjoys authentic Bihari cuisine at the local restaurant.
- Several Bihari students attended the conference.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially in reports on Indian markets or diaspora remittances. (e.g., 'The Bihari diaspora is a significant source of investment.')
Academic
Used in anthropology, linguistics, South Asian studies, and migration studies. (e.g., 'The phonological features of Bihari languages were analysed.')
Everyday
Extremely rare outside communities with Indian connections. Used to specify regional origin. (e.g., 'My neighbour is Bihari.')
Technical
In linguistics, refers to the group of Eastern Indo-Aryan languages.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bihari”
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bihari”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bihari”
- Using 'Bihari' to refer to the Hindi language (it refers to related but distinct languages).
- Capitalising incorrectly in the middle of a sentence (it is a proper adjective).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a term for a group of related languages (like Bhojpuri, Maithili) spoken in Bihar and surrounding regions, not a single standardized language.
Hindi is the official language of India. Bihari languages are distinct but related languages/dialects spoken primarily in Bihar. They have their own grammar and vocabulary.
It is a standard demonym and is not inherently offensive. However, like any regional label, its connotations depend on context and intent, and it has been used in some historical contexts of discrimination.
It is used attributively before a noun (e.g., Bihari culture, Bihari artist). It is always capitalised.
A native or inhabitant of the Indian state of Bihar.
Bihari is usually neutral, formal in register.
Bihari: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈhɑːri/, and in American English it is pronounced /biˈhɑri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Be in Hari' (a common Indian name) to recall Bihar, then add '-i' for the people. BI + HAR + I.
Conceptual Metaphor
ORIGIN AS IDENTITY (A person/thing is defined by its geographical/cultural source).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'Bihari' used technically?