What does 'batono' mean in Georgian?
A polite form of address and why people say it on the phone.
Short answer
Batono (ბატონო) is a polite way to address a man, roughly 'sir', and a woman is addressed as kalbatono (ქალბატონო). They are used with elders, strangers and in formal settings, often with a first name: batono Giorgi. People also say batono when answering the phone or asking someone to repeat, meaning 'yes?' or 'I'm listening'.
Why
- Without the vocative ending the word is batoni (ბატონი), 'sir'.
- Kalbatono, 'madam', is also often followed by a first name.
- Using batono with a first name sounds respectful but not cold.
Details
If unsure how to address someone, batono and kalbatono are always appropriate. Don't use them with friends, as it sounds too formal.
Tip
When answering the phone in Georgian, you can say batono or gisment, 'I'm listening'.
People also ask
- What does batono mean?
The transliteration is approximate; the Georgian spelling gives the pronunciation most accurately.
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