Understanding the meaning and usage of “dono” in Hindi is crucial for anyone learning the language. “Dono” is a common word used to signify “both” or “the two” and plays a significant role in everyday conversations and formal writing. This article delves into the various nuances of “dono,” providing examples and exploring its contextual applications.
Deciphering the Meaning of Dono
“Dono” (दोनों) essentially means “both” or “the two.” It refers to a pair of people, objects, or concepts. While seemingly simple, its usage can vary depending on the context. This word is gender-neutral and applies to both masculine and feminine nouns.
Dono with Nouns
When used with nouns, “dono” precedes the noun and agrees with it in number. For example:
- Dono ladke (दोनों लड़के) – Both boys
- Dono ladkiyan (दोनों लड़कियाँ) – Both girls
- Dono kitabein (दोनों किताबें) – Both books
Dono in Pronoun Form
“Dono” can also function as a pronoun, standing alone to represent “both” or “the two.” For instance:
- Dono aa rahe hain (दोनों आ रहे हैं) – Both are coming.
- Maine dono ko dekha (मैंने दोनों को देखा) – I saw both of them.
Common Usage and Examples of Dono
“Dono” is woven into the fabric of Hindi conversations and literature. Here are some common examples:
- Dono haath se khaana (दोनों हाथ से खाना) – To eat with both hands.
- Dono taraf se samjhauta (दोनों तरफ से समझौता) – Agreement from both sides.
- Dono raste band hain (दोनों रास्ते बंद हैं) – Both roads are closed.
Dono and its Grammatical Significance
Understanding the grammatical function of “dono” enhances fluency and comprehension. It always refers to a duality and clarifies that two entities are involved. Its omission can change the meaning entirely. For example:
- Ladke aa rahe hain (लड़के आ रहे हैं) – Boys are coming (could be more than two)
- Dono ladke aa rahe hain (दोनों लड़के आ रहे हैं) – Both boys are coming (specifically two).
Using Dono in Questions
“Dono” is also used in interrogative sentences:
- Kya dono aa rahe hain? (क्या दोनों आ रहे हैं?) – Are both of them coming?
- Aap dono kahan ja rahe hain? (आप दोनों कहाँ जा रहे हैं?) – Where are both of you going?
Conclusion: Mastering Dono in Hindi
Mastering the usage of “dono” is a small but significant step towards fluency in Hindi. By understanding its meaning, grammatical function, and contextual applications, one can effectively communicate and comprehend nuances within the language. This seemingly simple word adds precision and clarity to conversations and writing.
FAQ: Common Questions about Dono
- Is “dono” gender-specific? No, “dono” is gender-neutral and applies to both masculine and feminine nouns.
- Can “dono” be used with more than two objects? No, “dono” strictly refers to two. For more than two, use “sabhi” (all) or “teenon” (all three) and so on.
- What is the difference between “dono” and “do”? “Do” (दो) means “two” as a numeral, while “dono” (दोनों) means “both” or “the two.”
- Can “dono” be used without a noun? Yes, “dono” can function as a pronoun meaning “both” or “the two.”
- Is there a formal and informal version of “dono”? No, “dono” is used in both formal and informal settings.
- How do you use “dono” with pronouns? “Dono” precedes the pronoun, as in “dono hum” (both of us).
- What are some synonyms for “dono”? While not exact synonyms, words like “yadon” (both of them) can sometimes be used in similar contexts, but with a slightly different emphasis.
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