यह ताज़ा है?

Using this phrase is incredibly easy. You just point at something and say it. Raise your pitch at the end to make it a question. You don't need complex grammar here. If you are holding an apple, just ask Yeh taaza hai? The vendor will understand immediately. It works for singular and plural items in casual speech. You can also add the item name: Yeh phal taaza hai? (Is this fruit fresh?).

Use it every single morning at the vegetable cart. Use it at the local bakery for bread. It is perfect for street food stalls before you buy. You can also use it in a garden to talk about the air. If you are at a friend's house, it is a polite way to compliment the food once you know it's fresh. It shows you care about what you eat.

Do not use this for people or ideas. In English, we say a "fresh idea," but in Hindi, we use different words for that. Calling a person taaza sounds very strange and confusing. Also, avoid using it in high-end fine dining. In those places, it is assumed the food is fresh. Asking might seem like you are doubting their reputation. Stick to markets and casual spots.

Freshness is a big deal in Indian culture. Most families buy vegetables every single day. The Sabzi Wala (vegetable seller) comes to your door. Checking for taazgi (freshness) is a ritual. It involves touching, smelling, and sometimes even scratching the skin of a vegetable. Asking Yeh taaza hai? is the start of a negotiation. It signals that you are a smart shopper who won't take old stock.

If you want to be more specific, you can change the subject. For feminine items like Sabzi (vegetable), some people say Yeh taazi hai? Notice the 'i' ending. If you are buying many things, you might hear Kya yeh sab taaza hai? (Is all of this fresh?). If you want to be very polite to an elder, add ji at the end: Yeh taaza hai, ji? It adds a touch of respect to your query.