Meaning
A direct question asking for the current time of day.
Cultural Background
In North India, asking for the time is a common icebreaker. In South India, English is often used for time inquiries in urban areas. In rural areas, time is often referenced by sun position.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink the grammar; just use 'यह कितने बजे है'.
Avoid literal translation
Don't translate 'What' as 'क्या' in this specific phrase.
Meaning
A direct question asking for the current time of day.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink the grammar; just use 'यह कितने बजे है'.
Avoid literal translation
Don't translate 'What' as 'क्या' in this specific phrase.
Add 'माफ़ कीजिये'
Adding 'Excuse me' makes you sound much more polite.
Test Yourself
Select the correct phrase.
Which is correct?
'कितने' is the correct interrogative for counting hours.
Fill in the blank.
____ कितने बजे है?
'यह' (this) is the standard subject here.
Match the Hindi to English.
Match: यह कितने बजे है?
Direct translation.
Complete the dialogue.
A: '____?' B: 'अभी तीन बजे हैं。'
The answer provides the time, so the question must be about time.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWhich is correct?
'कितने' is the correct interrogative for counting hours.
____ कितने बजे है?
'यह' (this) is the standard subject here.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Direct translation.
A: '____?' B: 'अभी तीन बजे हैं。'
The answer provides the time, so the question must be about time.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsIt is neutral and suitable for most situations.
Yes, it is perfectly fine for friends.
It refers to the striking of a clock.
Yes, just 'कितने बजे हैं?'.
Ask 'क्या आप फिर से बता सकते हैं?'.
Yes, it is understood everywhere.
It's better to use 'समय क्या हुआ है?' in formal interviews.
No, it is gender-neutral.
Related Phrases
समय क्या हुआ है?
synonymWhat is the time?
कितने बजे हैं?
similarWhat time is it?
अभी क्या समय है?
similarWhat is the time now?
