chappal: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal; associated with South Asian English contexts.
Quick answer
What does “chappal” mean?
A type of open footwear, typically with a flat sole held to the foot by a strap or thong between the first and second toes.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of open footwear, typically with a flat sole held to the foot by a strap or thong between the first and second toes; a flip-flop or sandal.
Specifically refers to traditional South Asian footwear, often made of leather or synthetic materials. It can also figuratively represent informal attire or domestic comfort, and in some contexts, can be used as a tool for physical punishment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In both British and American English, the word is understood mainly in communities familiar with South Asian culture. For the generic item, British English speakers would more commonly say "flip-flop" or "sandal". American English speakers would say "flip-flop", "sandal", or "thong sandal".
Connotations
In both varieties, when used, it carries connotations of South Asian origin, informality, and domesticity. It may evoke a specific cultural image.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both. More likely to be encountered in British English due to historical and demographic ties to South Asia.
Grammar
How to Use “chappal” in a Sentence
to wear [one's] chappalsto take off [one's] chappalsto buy a pair of chappalsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chappal” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He chappalled his brother playfully.
American English
- The mom threatened to chappal the kids if they didn't behave.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly unlikely to appear.
Academic
May appear in anthropological, cultural, or linguistic studies discussing material culture.
Everyday
Used in informal domestic contexts, especially within South Asian families and communities.
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chappal”
- Using 'chappal' in formal international English writing where 'sandal' or 'flip-flop' is expected.
- Misspelling as 'chapal', 'chappel', or 'chapel'.
- Using it as a countable noun without 'pair of' (e.g., 'I bought a chappal' is less idiomatic than 'I bought a pair of chappals').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not common in general international English. It is a culture-specific term primarily used in and associated with South Asian English contexts.
A 'chappal' often refers specifically to the South Asian style of sandal, which may have a more structured leather upper. A 'flip-flop' is the general international term for a simple rubber or plastic sandal with a thong. All chappals are a type of sandal, but not all flip-flops are called chappals.
Informally, yes, particularly in South Asian English. It can humorously mean 'to hit or threaten with a chappal'. This usage is not standard in formal English.
The first syllable is like 'ch' in 'chat' or 'church'. The second syllable is like 'pal' in 'pal' but with a short 'uh' sound (schwa). Stress is on the first syllable: CHAP-uhl.
A type of open footwear, typically with a flat sole held to the foot by a strap or thong between the first and second toes.
Chappal is usually informal; associated with south asian english contexts. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to be under the chappal (figurative, informal: to be dominated, especially by a spouse)”
- “chappal diplomacy (humorous: resolving a dispute through informal, domestic means)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound "chap-chap" your feet make while walking in CHAPPALs.
Conceptual Metaphor
INFORMALITY/COMFORT IS WEARING CHAPPALS (e.g., 'At home, I switch to chappals and relax.')
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'chappal' most appropriately used?