Pronunciation: [bˈawi] (IPA) 
The word "bawi" is spelled with the letters b, a, w, and i. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /bɑwi/. This indicates that the first sound is a voiced bilabial plosive "b", followed by an open back unrounded vowel "a". The next sound is a labial-velar approximant "w", and the final sound is a close front unrounded vowel "i". The spelling and pronunciation of "bawi" may vary depending on regional accents and dialects.
The word "bawi" is a noun derived from the Indian language Marathi and colloquially used in Indian English. It refers to an arrangement or agreement made with the aim of keeping things fair and balanced. The term "bawi" is often used to describe a gesture or action of compensation, typically in response to a previous discrepancy or favor.
In a broader sense, "bawi" embodies the concept of reciprocity, where parties involved mutually adjust or exchange something to restore equilibrium. It suggests a system of give and take, ensuring fairness and justice in interpersonal relationships or transactions. The term can be seen as a social contract that ensures all individuals involved are treated justly and that no one takes undue advantage.
The term "bawi" can be found in various contexts, from personal relationships to professional situations. For example, it might be used in business negotiations, when parties try to reach a mutually beneficial compromise or settlement. Additionally, "bawi" can occur within friendships or partnerships, signifying the act of making amends or restoring harmony between two individuals.
Overall, "bawi" represents a cultural and linguistic concept rooted in the Indian vernacular, emphasizing the importance of fairness, reciprocity, and maintaining balanced relationships through compensation or adjustment.
The word "bawi" originates from the Hokkien dialect, which is commonly spoken among Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Singapore and parts of Malaysia. In Hokkien, "bawi" (pronounced "bah-wee") means "to retrieve", "to take back", or "to recover".
The word has been adopted into various local languages and cultures, including Singlish (Singaporean English), where it is frequently used with a slightly different spelling and pronunciation – "boh liao" or "bojio". In Singlish, it is typically used to express disappointment or to convey a sense of being left out. For example, if someone missed out on an event or opportunity without being informed, they might use the phrase "bojio" to express their disappointment or feeling of exclusion.
