Learn Punjabi without learning Gurmukhi
how do i learn punjabi without learning gurmukhi?
Use an app that teaches Punjabi in English letters. The Desi Dictionary gives you real everyday phrases with audio, so you can speak with your family before you ever read a Gurmukhi character.
how it works.
Three simple ideas, built for people who grew up hearing Punjabi at home.
five punjabi phrases to start.
Say it first. The script is there when you are ready for it.
| Say it | It means | Gurmukhi |
|---|---|---|
| Tusi kiven ho? | How are you? | ਤੁਸੀਂ ਕਿਵੇਂ ਹੋ? |
| Main theek haan. | I'm fine. | ਮੈਂ ਠੀਕ ਹਾਂ। |
| Tuhada naam ki hai? | What is your name? | ਤੁਹਾਡਾ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਹੈ? |
| Mainu Punjabi sikhni hai. | I want to learn Punjabi. | ਮੈਨੂੰ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਸਿੱਖਣੀ ਹੈ। |
| Tusi roti khaadi? | Have you eaten? | ਤੁਸੀਂ ਰੋਟੀ ਖਾਧੀ? |
questions people ask.
Do I need to learn Gurmukhi?
No. The Desi Dictionary teaches every phrase in English letters with audio. You can add the script later if you want it.
What about Shahmukhi?
Shahmukhi is the Urdu-style script used for Punjabi in Pakistan. The app teaches the spoken language in English letters, so it works whichever script your family uses.
Who is it for?
Anyone from the diaspora who understands the family group chat but freezes when it is time to reply, including complete beginners.
Which languages are in the app?
Punjabi, Hindi, Gujarati and Marathi, all taught the same way.
Is it free?
You can download it free and start learning. Open the app to see what is included.
The Desi Dictionary is made by Tanvee, a founder in London who wanted a gentler way for the diaspora to speak the languages of home. Every lesson starts from a real question: how do I say this to my grandmother? What do I say at the wedding?