“Please” in Hindi is usually translated as kripya. It is most natural in formal announcements, notices, and written requests.
In everyday conversation, however, Hindi speakers often use zara, the English word “please,” or respectful verb forms such as dijiye and kijiye.
This guide uses easy Roman Hindi throughout, so you can learn the phrases without reading Hindi script.
The Formal and Standard Choice: Kripya
Kripya, pronounced roughly krip-yaa, is the standard Hindi equivalent of “please.” It is most common in formal situations, public announcements, instructions, and polite written communication.
- Kripya darwaaza band kijiye – Please close the door.
- Kripya dhyaan dijiye – Please pay attention.
Kripya is perfectly correct, but it can sound formal or bookish in a relaxed conversation. You probably would not use it repeatedly while speaking to a close friend or family member.
A Conversational Softener: Zara
In everyday Hindi, zara is often used to make a request sound softer. Zara literally means “a little” or “for a moment.” It is not an exact translation of “please,” but it can perform a similar function in a request.
- Zara paani dena – Please give me some water.
- Zara idhar aaiye – Please come here.
Using the English Word “Please”
Hindi speakers frequently use the English word “please” in everyday conversation. This is especially common in cities, workplaces, schools, and casual Hinglish.
For example –
- Please chai bana do – Please make tea.
- Mujhe pen do please – Give me the pen, please.
“Please” can appear at the beginning or end of the request, just as it can in English.
If you are speaking casually and cannot remember another expression, using “please” is completely natural and will be widely understood.
Why Hindi Often Does Not Need a Separate Word for “Please”
Hindi frequently expresses politeness through the verb itself.
Respectful forms such as dijiye, kijiye, aaiye, baithiye, and bataiye already make a request sound polite. A separate word for “please” may not always be necessary.
You can learn more about these when you get to Hindi Grammar. Don’t worry about mastering these at the moment.
Cultural Note: Politeness Beyond Words
In Hindi culture, politeness isn’t just about using please. It’s also about using respectful pronouns like aap instead of tum or tu, adding softeners like toh, na, or zara, and using a gentle tone.
Quick Comparison
| English | Hindi (Roman Script) | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Please (formal) | Kripya | Signs, announcements, formal requests |
| Please (casual) | Zara | Everyday friendly requests |
| Please (polite verbs) | Kijiye / Dijiye | Polite conversation, respectful tone |
| Please (English) | Please | Casual Hinglish |
Which Form Should You Use?
Here is a simple rule:
- For a sign, announcement, or formal message, use kripya.
- With a stranger or elder, use a respectful verb such as dijiye or kijiye.
- With a friend or family member, zara plus a familiar verb often sounds natural.
- In casual Hinglish, using the English word please is completely normal.
Common Mistakes
Using Kripya in Every Sentence
Kripya is correct, but repeating it in casual conversation can sound stiff. A respectful verb is often enough.
Instead of:
- Kripya mujhe paani dijiye.
You can naturally say:
- Mujhe paani dijiye.
Treating Zara as an Exact Translation
Zara helps soften requests, but it does not mean “please” in every situation. Its literal sense is closer to “a little” or “for a moment.”
Using Familiar Verbs With Everyone
Expressions such as do, karo, and aao can sound too direct when speaking to a stranger or elder. Use dijiye, kijiye, and aaiye when you want to show respect.
Saying Kripya Karke
You may hear people say kripya karke, but it can sound redundant. In careful usage, choose either kripya or meherbani karke.
Frequently asked questions
No — Kripya is formal. In daily life, Zara or polite verb forms like dijiye are more natural and common.
Yes — many people mix English and Hindi, so you’ll often hear the word please in everyday conversations.
Kripya is more formal, while Zara feels friendlier and more natural in conversation.
Absolutely. Saying paani dijiye already means please give water — the polite verb form does the work.
Dijiye is polite and respectful, while dena is casual and used with close friends.
Not at all — politeness in Hindi often comes through tone and respectful pronouns rather than a specific word.
That’s it! Don’t stress too much. When in doubt, just say “Please” and you’ll be good. Subscribe for more conversational Hindi tips.
Next up: learn how to say Thank You in Hindi and more!