Over the past few weeks, I’ve been trying to actively immerse myself in the Punjabi language and culture as part of my learning journey. One effective strategy I’ve found is exposing myself to various forms of Punjabi media: music, YouTube videos, prayers, news, TV shows…
By engaging with authentic content, it has helped me become more familiar with the language cadence and rhythm. Another key aspect of my progress related to media has been paying close attention to the vocabulary I come across. Whenever I encounter words or phrases that I recognize or find intriguing, I make it a point to repeat them out loud. This repetition helps reinforce my memory while also aiding in improving my pronunciation. I’ve noticed that by actively engaging with the language in this manner, I’m able to internalize new words more effectively.
In addition to solo practice, I’ve been actively conversing with Jerin’s Punjabi-speaking family members. During dinner conversations, I take the opportunity to practice newly learned words and phrases with them. This provides valuable feedback on my pronunciation and usage, and it also helps clarify any doubts I may have about word meanings or cultural contexts. This interactive approach has made learning Punjabi feel more dynamic and enjoyable.
There are some voice notes below – feel free to let me know how my pronunciation sounds or if there are any words you think I should learn!
My Phonetic Pronunciation Guide
Hello my name is Annette
sus-ri-a-call meh-Rhee naah hagy Annette
I want to eat sushi
Meh khana sushi
I also want to eat sushi
Meh vi sushi khana
How are you?/what’s up? (slang)
the-see kidda
I want to buy a monkey
Meh bun-dhere lana
I want to go to India
Meh India new-johna
I am 24 years old
Main 24 saal da haan
My dog is named Chloe
Mera kutta da naam Chloe hai
