gurkhali: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowFormal / Historical / Specialised
Quick answer
What does “gurkhali” mean?
The language spoken by the Gurkha people, also known as Nepali.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The language spoken by the Gurkha people, also known as Nepali.
The term can refer to the language, culture, or heritage of the Gurkhas, a Nepalese ethnic group known for their military service in the British and Indian armies.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is slightly more likely to be encountered in British English due to the historical association of Gurkha regiments with the British Army.
Connotations
In both varieties, the term evokes historical military service and Nepalese heritage. It carries a connotation of respect, loyalty, and martial tradition.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both British and American English; "Nepali" is overwhelmingly preferred in all general contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “gurkhali” in a Sentence
[speak/learn/understand] GurkhaliVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gurkhali” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He knew a few Gurkhali phrases from his grandfather.
- The inscription was written in Gurkhali script.
American English
- He learned some Gurkhali commands during training.
- They found a Gurkhali-language manual.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in linguistic, historical, or South Asian studies contexts.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used in specific historical or military writing about the Gurkhas.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gurkhali”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gurkhali”
- Spelling: 'Gurkali' or 'Gurkhali'. Correct is 'Gurkhali'.
- Using 'Gurkhali' in general conversation instead of 'Nepali'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Gurkhali' is essentially a synonym for 'Nepali', but it is a dated and very specialised term.
In almost all situations, use 'Nepali'. 'Gurkhali' is a historical or military term and is rarely used in modern contexts.
The Gurkhas are Nepalese soldiers renowned for their bravery, who have served in the British and Indian armies for centuries.
Primarily, it refers to the language. By extension, it can sometimes be used to describe related cultural elements, but 'Gurkha' is the standard term for the people and their culture.
The language spoken by the Gurkha people, also known as Nepali.
Gurkhali is usually formal / historical / specialised in register.
Gurkhali: in British English it is pronounced /ɡɜːˈkɑːli/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡɜrˈkɑli/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
GURKHALI = GURKHA + LANGUAGE. Think: The language (LI) of the Gurkhas.
Conceptual Metaphor
LANGUAGE AS A CULTURAL BADGE (e.g., 'He wore his Gurkhali like a uniform').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'Gurkhali' most appropriately used?