Meaning
A polite request for a brief pause or delay.
Cultural Background
The use of 'zara' is a sign of 'Tehzeeb' (culture/etiquette). It shows you are well-spoken. In modern offices, 'zara rukiye' is often replaced by 'one minute' or 'just a second' due to English influence. This phrase is often used in romantic scenes where the hero stops the heroine from leaving. When getting off a crowded bus or train, shouting 'ज़रा रुकिए' is a signal to the driver and the crowd to give you space.
The Softener
Always use 'zara' before 'rukiye'. Just saying 'rukiye' can sound like a command from a police officer.
Body Language
When saying 'zara rukiye', a slight tilt of the head or a hand gesture (palm facing the person) adds to the politeness.
Meaning
A polite request for a brief pause or delay.
The Softener
Always use 'zara' before 'rukiye'. Just saying 'rukiye' can sound like a command from a police officer.
Body Language
When saying 'zara rukiye', a slight tilt of the head or a hand gesture (palm facing the person) adds to the politeness.
Test Yourself
You are talking to your teacher. Which phrase is most appropriate?
Teacher is walking away and you have a question.
'Rukiye' is the honorific form required for a teacher.
Complete the sentence with the correct word.
____ रुकिए, मैं अभी आया।
'Zara' is the standard adverb used to mean 'just' or 'a little' in this context.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Situation: You are on a formal business call and need to find a file.
This is the most professional and polite way to ask for a pause.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to say Zara Rukiye
Work
- • Meetings
- • Phone calls
- • Asking for time
Street
- • Asking directions
- • Stopping someone
- • Public transport
Practice Bank
3 exercisesTeacher is walking away and you have a question.
'Rukiye' is the honorific form required for a teacher.
____ रुकिए, मैं अभी आया।
'Zara' is the standard adverb used to mean 'just' or 'a little' in this context.
Situation: You are on a formal business call and need to find a file.
This is the most professional and polite way to ask for a pause.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, it can be. With friends, use 'zara ruko' or just 'ek minute'.
It's called a 'nukta'. It shows the word comes from Persian or Arabic and should be pronounced with a 'z' sound.
Technically yes, but 'Ruko!' is more effective for safety.
Related Phrases
थोड़ा इंतज़ार कीजिए
similarPlease wait a little.
एक मिनट
synonymOne minute.
ठहरिए
similarStay/Wait.
जाने दीजिए
contrastLet it go / Let me go.
