
'Mugging’ might be a serious crime in America, but in India, parents are quite happy if their children are ‘mugging’ diligently! P.S. Do let us know your favourite 'Indianism'!
Ever come across ‘do the needful’ in email communications? Or ‘passed out’ for a person who has just received his graduation degree? Indians have devised their own quirky ways of communicating in English. Though we largely adhere to British English, often interspersed with certain American connotations, certain English words and phrases have been drastically Indianised. Such ‘Indianisms’ often appear weird or even funny to native English speakers.
This linguistic globalisation is a two-way street as even British English has adopted Indian words like Juggernaut (Jagannath), avatar, hullabaloo, bungalow, shampoo, and many more. Our desi Dictionary has many pearls to share.
For instance,
A couple of days ago Twitter user and language-enthusiast Sophie Ross from UK decided to start an intriguing Twitter discussion highlighting the interesting Indianised words & phrases.
Linguists may argue for ages over the origin and evolution of such terms, but, meanwhile, Twitterati joined in this thread to add their opinions about these ‘Indianisms’. Have a look:
As a language lover, I adore jotting down Indian turns of phrase in English, whether translations from Indian languages, archaic English phrases or new inventions. Indian English is a valid & charming language in its own right, so here are my favourite Indianisms in English. 1/11
— Sophie Ross (@sophierossuk) June 9, 2020
(Edited by Saiqua Sultan)
Like this story? Or have something to share?
Write to us: contact@thebetterindia.com
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
We bring stories straight from the heart of India, to inspire millions and create a wave of impact. Our positive movement is growing bigger everyday, and we would love for you to join it.
Please contribute whatever you can, every little penny helps our team in bringing you more stories that support dreams and spread hope.


This story made me
-
97
-
121
-
89
-
167