Punjabi · Question Words

ਕੀ

ki

What

Beginnerpronoun

Definition

Question word for things; also turns statements into yes-no questions.

Example

ਇਹ ਕੀ ਹੈ?

What is this?

Etymology

'ਕੀ' (ki) is derived from the Sanskrit word 'किम्' (kim), which is used as a pronoun for questioning. Its use in Punjabi preserves its original interrogative function.

How & Where It’s Used

'ਕੀ' is ubiquitous in conversational Punjabi across all contexts, used informally for inquiries. It is spoken commonly in everyday language and understood by all speakers.

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