Understanding the nuances of prepositions like “at” can be tricky when learning a new language. This guide explores the various meanings of “at” in Hindi, providing practical examples and cultural contexts to help you master its usage. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, understanding “at” in Hindi will significantly enhance your communication skills.
Different Ways to Say “At” in Hindi
Hindi doesn’t have a single, direct equivalent for “at.” The best translation depends on the specific context. Here are some common ways to express “at” in Hindi:
- में (mein): This is the most common equivalent and often used to indicate location. For instance, “at the market” would be “bazaar mein” (बाजार में).
- पर (par): This preposition can mean “at,” “on,” or “upon.” It’s often used with locations or times. For example, “at the table” is “mez par” (मेज पर).
- को (ko): While primarily used to mark the indirect object, “ko” can sometimes convey the meaning of “at” when referring to time. “At five o’clock” can be expressed as “paanch baje ko” (पाँच बजे को).
- (No preposition): Sometimes, Hindi omits the preposition altogether. For example, “at home” is simply “ghar” (घर).
Understanding the Context: Location, Time, and More
The correct Hindi translation of “at” depends heavily on the context.
At a Place
When referring to a specific location, “mein” (में) is usually the most appropriate choice.
- At the school: school mein (स्कूल में)
- At the hospital: hospital mein (हॉस्पिटल में)
- At the station: station par (स्टेशन पर) – Notice the use of “par” here, which is more common with “station.”
At a Time
When talking about time, several options exist.
- At noon: dopahar ko (दोपहर को)
- At night: raat ko (रात को)
- At this moment: is samay (इस समय)
Other Usages of “At”
“At” can also express other meanings, requiring different Hindi translations.
- At a price: ke daam par (के दाम पर) – For example, “at a reasonable price” would be “uchit daam par” (उचित दाम पर).
- At speed/rate: ki gati se (की गति से) – “At a high speed” translates to “tej gati se” (तेज गति से).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learners often make mistakes with “at.” Here are some common pitfalls:
- Overusing “mein”: While versatile, “mein” isn’t always correct. Pay attention to context.
- Confusing “par” and “mein”: Both indicate location, but their usage can be nuanced. Observing native speakers can help you distinguish between them.
- Forgetting context: The most crucial aspect is understanding the intended meaning.
Mastering “At” with Examples
Here are some more examples to consolidate your understanding:
- He is at work: woh kaam par hai (वह काम पर है)
- The book is at the library: kitab library mein hai (किताब लाइब्रेरी में है)
- She is good at singing: woh gaane mein achchhi hai (वह गाने में अच्छी है)
Conclusion: Embrace the Nuances of “At” in Hindi
Mastering “at” in Hindi involves understanding its various equivalents and the contexts in which they are used. By studying the examples provided and practicing regularly, you can confidently incorporate this essential preposition into your Hindi conversations. Remember, context is key, and paying attention to the nuances will help you accurately express yourself. at the meaning in hindi can be complex, but with dedication and practice, you can achieve fluency.
FAQ
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What is the most common Hindi word for “at”? The most common Hindi word for “at” is “mein” (में).
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Can “ko” (को) be used for “at”? Yes, “ko” can sometimes be used for “at,” particularly when referring to time.
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How do I know when to omit a preposition for “at”? In some cases, like “at home” (ghar – घर), the preposition is omitted. Observing native speakers and practicing will help you learn these instances.
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Is “par” (पर) interchangeable with “mein” (में)? While both can indicate location, they are not always interchangeable. Context is crucial.
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What if I make a mistake with “at”? Mistakes are part of the learning process. Don’t be discouraged! Continue practicing and observing native speakers.
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