Meaning
To go back on one's word.
Cultural Background
In Nepali culture, 'Bachan' (the word) is tied to 'Ijjat' (honor). Breaking a word can lead to a long-term loss of social standing in a community. The concept of 'Zubaan' (tongue/word) is shared across the region. Having 'one tongue' means you are honest; 'two tongues' means you change your word. The phrase is the most common weapon used by the public against political leaders, often seen in protest banners and satirical cartoons.
Careful with Accusations
Telling someone 'Timi kura pherchau' is a direct attack on their character. Use it only when you are sure and ready for a potential argument.
The '-le' Rule
Always remember to add '-le' to the person who changed their word if you are talking about the past. 'Usle kura pheryo' is correct; 'U kura pheryo' is not.
Meaning
To go back on one's word.
Careful with Accusations
Telling someone 'Timi kura pherchau' is a direct attack on their character. Use it only when you are sure and ready for a potential argument.
The '-le' Rule
Always remember to add '-le' to the person who changed their word if you are talking about the past. 'Usle kura pheryo' is correct; 'U kura pheryo' is not.
Polite Alternative
If you want to be more polite, say 'Hajurle pahile अर्कै भन्नुभएको थियो' (You said something else before) instead of directly using 'Kura Phernu'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'Kura Phernu'.
तिमीले हिजो अर्कै भनेका थियौ, अहिले किन _______?
The sentence asks 'Why did you change your word?', so 'Kura Phereko' is the correct idiomatic form.
Which situation best fits the idiom 'Kura Phernu'?
Select the correct scenario:
'Kura Phernu' refers to verbal inconsistency or breaking promises.
Complete the dialogue.
A: म तिमीलाई भोलि पैसा दिन्छु। B: साच्चै हो नि? पछि _______ नि!
B is asking A not to go back on their word later.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Phernu: Literal vs Figurative
Practice Bank
3 exercisesतिमीले हिजो अर्कै भनेका थियौ, अहिले किन _______?
The sentence asks 'Why did you change your word?', so 'Kura Phereko' is the correct idiomatic form.
Select the correct scenario:
'Kura Phernu' refers to verbal inconsistency or breaking promises.
A: म तिमीलाई भोलि पैसा दिन्छु। B: साच्चै हो नि? पछि _______ नि!
B is asking A not to go back on their word later.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it almost always implies a negative trait like unreliability or dishonesty.
Yes, but usually in a defensive or explanatory way, e.g., 'Maile kura phereko hoina' (I didn't change my word).
'Kura Phernu' is more idiomatic and carries more emotional weight. 'Kura Badalnu' is more literal and neutral.
You can say 'U kura pherne manche ho'.
It's better to avoid it. Use 'Vichar pariwartan' (change of opinion) to sound more professional.
Yes, very frequently in Lok Dohori and Pop songs about unfaithful lovers.
'Kura ma adig rahanu' (To stay firm on one's word).
No, 'Kura' does not usually take 'lai' in this idiom.
Yes, children often use it when playing games or when a parent breaks a promise.
It is extremely common throughout Nepal, including Kathmandu.
Related Phrases
कुरा काट्नु
similarTo backbite or interrupt.
वचन दिनु
contrastTo give a promise.
कुरा मिलाउनु
builds onTo reach an agreement.
कुरा चपाउनु
specialized formTo mumble or be evasive.
