We Indians are some of the most adaptable, resourceful, and globally successful people you’ll ever meet. We land in new countries with little more than ambition—and somehow, we thrive. From tech to medicine to Wall Street, we’ve made our mark.
And one of our greatest strengths? We pick up languages quickly—especially English.
But the English spoken in India (affectionately called Indian English) has its quirks. It’s charming. It’s unique. But sometimes, it doesn’t quite land in Western conversations—especially in the U.S.
If you’re looking to blend in a little better while keeping your beautiful desi essence intact, here are 7 common Indian-English phrases to retire—and what to say instead.
1. “I am having five years of experience…”
🔁 Say instead: “I have five years of experience in marketing/project management/etc.”
In the U.S., you “have” experience—you don’t “have it” like you’re chewing on it. “Having” is for sandwiches, not résumés.
2. “She-dyule”
🔁 Say instead: “Schedule” (pronounced sked-jool)
We all grew up “she-dyuling” exams, but Americans say “sked-jool.” It may seem minor, but it instantly changes how fluent and natural you sound.
3. “Ping me”
🔁 Say instead: “Text me” or “Let me know.”
Unless you’re deep in tech or IT, most Americans don’t say “ping.” Outside of email or engineering, it sounds robotic. “Shoot me a text” or “Drop me a message” is much more relatable.
4. “What is your good name?”
🔁 Say instead: “What’s your name?”
There’s no “good” or “bad” name in this part of the world. This one always raises eyebrows or gets a polite smile. Keep it simple and sincere—“What’s your name?” does the job perfectly.
5. “I will revert back.”
🔁 Say instead: “I’ll get back to you” or “I’ll reply soon.”
“Revert back” is not only overly formal here—it’s redundant. Americans rarely say “revert” unless they’re talking about software settings. Just say you’ll respond or get back.
6. “I like Saal-mon”
🔁 Say instead: “I like SAA-mon.”
The L is silent in “salmon.” This one’s a super common slip—and an easy fix. Say it once the right way and it’ll stick forever.
7. “Shall”
🔁 Say instead: “Will”
“I shall call you” may sound noble, but to an American ear, it sounds like Shakespeare’s ghost is texting them. Stick with “will.” It’s simple and current: “I’ll call you tomorrow.”
🌍 Final Thoughts
Letting go of a few Indian-English habits doesn’t mean letting go of who you are. It means fine-tuning your communication so it lands well—so your talent, warmth, and brilliance come across loud and clear.
Language is more than grammar—it’s connection. And connection is what helps you not just live in a place, but belong to it.
You don’t have to lose your accent. You don’t have to erase your culture.
Just let go of a few phrases that don’t serve you anymore—and walk into every room sounding like you belong. Because you do.