“Shayari” is a beautiful form of poetic expression widely appreciated in Urdu and Hindi literature. If you’ve ever wondered what shayari is called in English, this article will give you a clear, simple answer and explain the exact meaning of this timeless art.
What Is Shayari?
Shayari refers to a short poem or couplet, often rich in emotion and imagery. It usually follows a specific meter and rhyme scheme. In South Asian culture, shayari is used to express love, longing, wisdom, or even social and political themes.
Read More Article- Hindi Shayari
Exact Meaning in English
In English, the term “shayari” is most commonly translated as “poetry” or “poetic couplet.” Depending on the style and length, you might also see it called:
- Urdu poetry – highlighting its linguistic roots
- Lyric poem – focusing on its expressive, song-like quality
- Couplet – when referring specifically to a two-line verse
All these terms capture the essence of shayari: short, lyrical, and emotionally charged lines.
Common English Terms for Shayari
| English Term | When to Use It |
| Poetry | General term for any verse or poem |
| Poetic Couplet | Two-line verse with rhyme or repeated meter |
| Urdu Poetry | Poetry written in Urdu, including ghazals |
| Lyric Poem | Emphasizes musical or song-like qualities |
Each term helps readers in different contexts:
- Poetry works when you speak broadly about shayari.
- Poetic couplet is precise if you refer to a two-line verse.
- Urdu poetry highlights cultural and linguistic origins.
Why These Translations Matter
Choosing the right English term helps readers:
- Understand cultural context. Calling it “Urdu poetry” shows where it comes from.
- Set expectations. Saying “poetic couplet” tells them to expect two lines.
- Appreciate artistry. Using “lyric poem” underlines its musical quality.
Examples
- Shayari (Original):
“कभी जो बिखरे हैं अश्क मेरी आँखों से,
तू समझ लेगा दिल मेरा कितना दुःखी है।”
English (Poetic Couplet):
“If ever tears fall from my eyes,
You’ll know how deeply my heart sighs.” - Shayari (Original):
“ज़िंदगी सिखाती है सब्र और इम्तहान,
वहाँ मिलती है खुशी जहाँ बारिश की बूँदें।”
English (Lyric Poem):
“Life teaches patience and test alike,
Joy blooms where rain drops strike.”
How to Use This Knowledge
- Translators: Use “poetic couplet” when translating two-line verses.
- Writers & Bloggers: Refer to “Urdu poetry” when introducing cultural pieces.
- Readers & Students: Recognize that shayari is part of world poetry, not just a foreign phrase.
Conclusion
Now you know what shayari is called in English: simply “poetry,” or more specifically “poetic couplet,” “Urdu poetry,” or “lyric poem.” Each term helps convey the beauty and emotion packed into these short verses. Next time you share or read shayari, you can confidently explain its exact meaning in English.
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