भाई
A male sibling who shares one or both parents with another person. In South Asian culture, it is also a respectful way to address male friends, colleagues, or even strangers.
Examples
3 of 5मेरा एक बड़ा भाई है।
I have one elder brother.
हमारे संस्थापकों के बीच भाई-चारे का संबंध है।
There is a relationship of brotherhood among our founders.
अरे भाई, तुम यहाँ क्या कर रहे हो?
Hey brother, what are you doing here?
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the English word 'Brother' - they both start with the 'B' sound and relate to male siblings.
Quick Quiz
राम और श्याम दो ____ हैं।
Correct!
The correct answer is: भाई
Examples
मेरा एक बड़ा भाई है।
everydayI have one elder brother.
हमारे संस्थापकों के बीच भाई-चारे का संबंध है।
formalThere is a relationship of brotherhood among our founders.
अरे भाई, तुम यहाँ क्या कर रहे हो?
informalHey brother, what are you doing here?
इतिहास में भाइयों के बीच के संघर्षों का वर्णन मिलता है।
academicHistory contains descriptions of conflicts between brothers.
भाई साहब, क्या आप इस बिल का भुगतान करेंगे?
businessBrother, will you make the payment for this bill?
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
भाई-भाई
acting like brothers/united
भाई-भतीजावाद
nepotism
अपना भाई
one of our own (slang for a close friend)
Often Confused With
Bhaya means 'fear', while Bhai means 'brother'; they sound similar to beginners but have different vowel sounds.
Usage Notes
The term 'Bhaiya' is often preferred over 'Bhai' when addressing someone older to show extra respect. In slang, 'Bhai' can refer to a gangster or a powerful person.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget that 'Bhai' is a masculine noun and requires masculine verb endings (e.g., 'Bhai aa raha hai' instead of 'aa rahi hai').
Memory Tip
Think of the English word 'Brother' - they both start with the 'B' sound and relate to male siblings.
Word Origin
Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Bhrātṛ' (भ्रातृ).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In India, calling a male stranger 'Bhai' or 'Bhaiya' is a standard way to show politeness and establish a social bond without knowing their name.
Quick Quiz
राम और श्याम दो ____ हैं।
Correct!
The correct answer is: भाई
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More family words
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