What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pardesi
Example
The pardesi students were excited to learn about the local culture. [pardesi: adjective]
Example
He felt like a pardesi in the new city, not knowing anyone or anything. [pardesi: noun]
foreigner
Example
The foreigner was amazed by the local customs and traditions. [foreigner: noun]
Example
She felt like a foreigner in the new school, not knowing anyone or anything. [foreigner: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foreigner is more commonly used in English than pardesi is in South Asian languages. Foreigner is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while pardesi is more specific to South Asian cultures and may not be as widely recognized outside of those contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pardesi and foreigner?
Foreigner is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while pardesi is more commonly used in informal settings and may not be appropriate for formal situations.