Meaning
Asking about someone's whereabouts in the past.
Cultural Background
In North India, 'तुम कहाँ थे?' is a standard way to start a conversation with a friend who has been away. In offices, using 'तुम' can be seen as aggressive; 'आप' is preferred. Parents often use this to check on children's activities.
Watch your tone
The same phrase can sound like a friendly check-in or an accusation based on your tone of voice.
Use 'आप' for safety
When in doubt, use 'आप'. It is never rude to be too polite.
Meaning
Asking about someone's whereabouts in the past.
Watch your tone
The same phrase can sound like a friendly check-in or an accusation based on your tone of voice.
Use 'आप' for safety
When in doubt, use 'आप'. It is never rude to be too polite.
Test Yourself
Select the correct verb form.
तुम कल कहाँ ______?
'तुम' requires the plural verb 'थे'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesतुम कल कहाँ ______?
'तुम' requires the plural verb 'थे'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, but use 'थीं' (तुम कहाँ थीं?) for feminine singular.
Related Phrases
तुम कहाँ जा रहे हो?
similarWhere are you going?
आप कहाँ हैं?
contrastWhere are you?
