Writing letters, whether formal or informal, is a skill that holds significant importance in any language. In Nepali, the distinction between formal and informal letters is quite pronounced, and understanding this difference is essential for effective communication. This article aims to guide English speakers in writing both formal and informal letters in Nepali, covering essential elements such as structure, language, tone, and useful phrases.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specifics of writing formal and informal letters in Nepali, it is crucial to understand a few fundamental aspects of the Nepali language and culture that influence letter writing.
Nepali is written in the Devanagari script, which is also used for Hindi and several other South Asian languages. Familiarity with this script is necessary for writing letters in Nepali. Additionally, the cultural context in which the letter is written plays a significant role. Nepali culture places a high value on respect and formality, especially in written communication.
Formal vs. Informal Letters
In Nepali, formal letters are used for official or professional communication, such as applying for a job, making a complaint, or writing to a government office. Informal letters, on the other hand, are used for personal communication, such as writing to friends, family, or acquaintances.
The tone, language, and structure of formal and informal letters differ significantly. Formal letters are more structured and use a respectful and polite tone, while informal letters are more relaxed and personal.
Writing a Formal Letter in Nepali
Formal letters in Nepali follow a specific structure and use a formal tone. Here is a step-by-step guide to writing a formal letter in Nepali:
1. Heading
The heading of a formal letter includes the sender’s address, the date, and the recipient’s address. Each part is written on a separate line.
Example:
Sender’s Address:
काठमाडौं, नेपाल
(Kathmandu, Nepal)
Date:
२०८०-०७-१५
(YYYY-MM-DD format in Nepali)
Recipient’s Address:
प्रधानाध्यापक
त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालय
काठमाण्डौ, नेपाल
(Principal, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal)
2. Salutation
The salutation in a formal letter is respectful and polite. Common salutations include:
आदरणीय सर/म्याडम,
(Respected Sir/Madam,)
If you know the recipient’s name, you can use it:
आदरणीय डा. शर्मा,
(Respected Dr. Sharma,)
3. Body
The body of a formal letter is divided into three main parts: the introduction, the main content, and the conclusion.
Introduction:
In the introduction, briefly state the purpose of the letter.
Example:
म यो पत्र त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालयमा प्राध्यापक पदको लागि आवेदन दिन लेख्दैछु।
(I am writing this letter to apply for the position of professor at Tribhuvan University.)
Main Content:
In the main content, provide detailed information about the purpose of the letter. Use polite and formal language.
Example:
मैले त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालयबाट स्नातकोत्तर तहको शिक्षा पुरा गरेको छु। मसँग पाँच वर्षको शिक्षण अनुभव छ र मैले विभिन्न शैक्षिक संस्थामा काम गरिसकेको छु। कृपया मेरो आवेदनलाई विचार गर्नुहोस्।
(I have completed my postgraduate education from Tribhuvan University. I have five years of teaching experience and have worked in various educational institutions. Please consider my application.)
Conclusion:
In the conclusion, reiterate the main point and express gratitude.
Example:
म तपाईको सकारात्मक जवाफको प्रतिक्षामा छु। धन्यवाद।
(I look forward to your positive response. Thank you.)
4. Closing
The closing of a formal letter is polite and respectful. Common closings include:
सधैँ तपाईको सेवामा,
(Yours sincerely,)
आदरपूर्वक,
(Respectfully,)
5. Signature
Below the closing, include your signature and name.
Example:
सधैँ तपाईको सेवामा,
राम शर्मा
(Yours sincerely, Ram Sharma)
Writing an Informal Letter in Nepali
Informal letters in Nepali are more relaxed and personal. They are used for communicating with friends, family, or acquaintances. Here is a step-by-step guide to writing an informal letter in Nepali:
1. Heading
Unlike formal letters, informal letters do not require detailed addresses. The date is sufficient.
Example:
Date:
२०८०-०७-१५
(YYYY-MM-DD format in Nepali)
2. Salutation
The salutation in an informal letter is more personal. Common salutations include:
प्रिय साथी,
(Dear friend,)
प्रिय आमा,
(Dear Mother,)
प्रिय बाबु,
(Dear Father,)
3. Body
The body of an informal letter is divided into three main parts: the introduction, the main content, and the conclusion.
Introduction:
In the introduction, greet the recipient and ask about their well-being.
Example:
प्रिय साथी,
तिमीलाई यो पत्र लेख्दा निकै खुशी लागेको छ। तिमी कस्तो छौ? म तिमीलाई धेरै सम्झिरहेको छु।
(Dear friend, I am very happy to write this letter to you. How are you? I miss you a lot.)
Main Content:
In the main content, share personal news, experiences, or stories. Use a friendly and casual tone.
Example:
मैले हालै नै एउटा नयाँ जागिर सुरु गरेको छु। यहाँको काम निकै रमाइलो छ र सहकर्मीहरु पनि मिलनसार छन्। तिमीलाई भेट्न मन लागेको छ, कहिले आउँछौ?
(I have recently started a new job. The work here is quite enjoyable and the colleagues are friendly. I want to meet you, when will you come?)
Conclusion:
In the conclusion, express your good wishes and hope to hear back soon.
Example:
तिमीलाई सबैको सम्झना छ। चाँडै जवाफ लेख, पर्खिरहेछु।
(Everyone remembers you. Write back soon, I am waiting.)
4. Closing
The closing of an informal letter is friendly and personal. Common closings include:
तिम्रो साथी,
(Your friend,)
तिम्रो छोरो,
(Your son,)
5. Signature
Below the closing, include your name.
Example:
तिम्रो साथी,
रमेश
(Your friend, Ramesh)
Useful Phrases for Formal and Informal Letters
Here are some useful phrases that can be used in formal and informal letters in Nepali:
Formal Phrases:
– कृपया (Please)
– धन्यवाद (Thank you)
– आदरणीय (Respected)
– तपाईको सहयोगको लागि धन्यवाद (Thank you for your cooperation)
– कृपया मेरो आवेदनलाई विचार गर्नुहोस् (Please consider my application)
– तपाईको जवाफको प्रतिक्षामा (Looking forward to your response)
– आदरपूर्वक (Respectfully)
Informal Phrases:
– प्रिय साथी (Dear friend)
– तिमीलाई धेरै सम्झिरहेको छु (I miss you a lot)
– तिमी कस्तो छौ? (How are you?)
– चाँडै जवाफ लेख (Write back soon)
– तिमीलाई सबैको सम्झना छ (Everyone remembers you)
– तिमीलाई भेट्न मन लागेको छ (I want to meet you)
Practice and Application
To master the art of writing formal and informal letters in Nepali, practice is essential. Start by writing simple letters and gradually move on to more complex ones. Pay attention to the tone, structure, and language used in different types of letters.
Here are a few practice exercises:
1. Write a formal letter applying for a job at a company in Nepal.
2. Write an informal letter to a friend sharing your recent experiences.
3. Write a formal letter to a government office requesting information about a service.
4. Write an informal letter to a family member discussing your plans for the upcoming holidays.
Conclusion
Writing formal and informal letters in Nepali is a valuable skill that can enhance your communication abilities in the language. By understanding the differences in structure, tone, and language, you can effectively convey your message in both personal and professional contexts. Practice regularly, and soon you will be able to write Nepali letters with confidence and ease.
