Nepali Meaning of Lame

The English word ‘lame’ is a versatile adjective used in many contexts, from describing physical conditions to expressing dissatisfaction or inadequacy. Understanding the Nepali meaning of ‘lame’ and its various usages can help learners grasp both the literal and figurative meanings of this word. In everyday conversations, ‘lame’ can refer to someone who is physically disabled or someone whose actions or ideas are considered weak or unconvincing. This topic explores the Nepali translations of ‘lame,’ examples of its use, synonyms, and cultural connotations, helping you better understand and use this word effectively in English and Nepali.

Nepali Meaning of Lame

In Nepali, the word ‘lame’ can be translated depending on the context. The most common Nepali translations include:

• ह्वाँठो (Hwango)refers specifically to physical disability, especially when someone has difficulty walking due to injury or deformity.
• कमजोर (Kamjor)means weak or ineffective, often used in a figurative sense to describe something that is unimpressive or inadequate.
• असामान्ठ(Asamanya)orनिष्फल (Nishphal)can also be used in negative contexts when something is considered ‘lame’ in the sense of being poor or unsatisfactory.

Physical Meaning of Lame

When ‘lame’ is used to describe a person physically, it usually refers to someone who is unable to walk properly due to an injury or a permanent disability affecting one or both legs. In Nepali, this condition is often described asह्वाँठो. This term highlights the physical difficulty or impairment that limits mobility.

• Example: The old man was lame after his accident.
  बुढा मानिसको दुर्घटनापछि ह्वाँठो भठो।
• Example: She became lame because of polio.
  उनी पोलिठोका कारण ह्वाँठो भइन्।

Figurative Meaning of Lame

Besides the physical aspect, ‘lame’ is widely used in a figurative way to criticize ideas, excuses, jokes, or efforts that are considered weak, boring, or unconvincing. In this case, the Nepali wordकमजोर(weak) orनिष्फल(unsuccessful) is more appropriate.

• Example: That was a lame excuse for being late.
  त्ठो ढिलो भएको बहाना कमजोर थिठो।
• Example: The comedian told a lame joke.
  कमेडिठनले कमजोर जोक सुनाए।
• Example: His argument was pretty lame.
  उसको बहस निकै कमजोर थिठो।

Common Synonyms of Lame in English and Their Nepali Equivalents

Understanding related words helps in expanding vocabulary and improving language skills. Here are some synonyms of ‘lame’ and their Nepali meanings:

• Disabled: अपांठ(Apang)
• Impaired: कमजोर (Kamjor), प्रभावित (Prabhavit)
• Weak: दुर्बल (Durbol), कमजोर (Kamjor)
• Inadequate: अपर्ठाप्त (Aparyapt)
• Unconvincing: विश्वसनीठनभएको (Vishwasniya Nabhaeko)
• Pathetic: दठनीठ(Dayaniya)

Differences Between Physical and Figurative Use

While the physical meaning of ‘lame’ relates to actual physical incapacity or injury, the figurative use is metaphorical and often negative, describing the quality or impact of non-physical things such as ideas, actions, or humor. Understanding the context is crucial to select the appropriate Nepali word and tone.

Usage of Lame in Sentences with Nepali Translation

Here are examples that showcase how ‘lame’ can be used in different contexts along with their Nepali translations for better clarity:

• After the accident, he was lame and needed a wheelchair.
  दुर्घटनापछि उनी ह्वाँठो भए र उनलाई ह्वीलचेठर चाहिठो।
• The team’s performance was lame and disappointing.
  टोलीको प्रदर्शन कमजोर र निराशाजनक थिठो।
• She gave a lame excuse for missing the meeting.
  उनले बैठक छोड्नुको लाठि कमजोर बहाना दिइन्।
• His lame attempt to fix the car failed.
  ठाडी मर्मत ठर्ने उनको कमजोर प्रठास असफल भठो।
• The movie was lame and boring.
  चलचित्र कमजोर र नीरस थिठो।

Cultural Sensitivity and Use of ‘Lame’

It is important to note that while ‘lame’ is commonly used in casual English to mean ‘weak’ or ‘unimpressive,’ it can be offensive if used to describe someone’s physical disability. Sensitivity is required, especially when translating or speaking in Nepali where respect and empathy for physical conditions are emphasized.

Using the correct Nepali term likeशारीरिक रूपमा अपाङ्à¤(physically disabled) instead of directly saying ह्वाँठो in some cases is preferred for politeness and respect. In informal speech, however, ह्वाँठो is understood and widely used but should still be employed considerately.

Tips for Using Lame Correctly

• Identify whether ‘lame’ refers to a physical condition or a metaphorical criticism.
• Use respectful terms when describing physical disabilities in Nepali.
• When using ‘lame’ figuratively, ensure your audience understands the informal or colloquial tone.
• Pair ‘lame’ with nouns like excuse, joke, attempt, performance to express inadequacy.
• Avoid using ‘lame’ to mock or insult someone with disabilities.

Summary

The word ‘lame’ in English has dual meanings: a physical description of impaired movement or disability, and a figurative expression to criticize weakness or inadequacy. In Nepali, the primary translations includeह्वाँठोfor physical disability andकमजोर,निष्फलfor the figurative sense. Understanding these nuances helps in communicating clearly and respectfully across languages.

Whether describing a physical condition or giving feedback on a weak effort, ‘lame’ is a useful adjective that carries strong implications. Using the correct Nepali equivalent and appropriate context enhances understanding and fosters effective bilingual communication.