Understanding the nuances of expressing inability in Hindi can be tricky. “I am not able to” doesn’t have a single, perfect equivalent. The best translation depends heavily on the context, specifically what you’re unable to do. This article will explore various ways to convey this meaning in Hindi, equipping you with the vocabulary and grammatical structures to communicate effectively.
Expressing Inability with “Nahin” (नहीं)
The most common way to express negation in Hindi is using “nahin” (नहीं). Combined with the correct verb, it can convey the meaning of “I am not able to.” For instance, if you’re unable to walk, you’d say “Mai chal nahin sakta” (मैं चल नहीं सकता – I cannot walk – masculine) or “Mai chal nahin sakti” (मैं चल नहीं सकती – I cannot walk – feminine). Notice the verb “sakna” (सकना) which signifies ability or possibility. Its negative form, paired with “nahin,” indicates inability.
Using “Asamarth” (असमर्थ) for Formal Contexts
For more formal situations, “asamarth” (असमर्थ) is a suitable alternative. This word directly translates to “incapable” or “unable.” You can use it in sentences like “Mai is kaam ko karne mein asamarth hun” (मैं इस काम को करने में असमर्थ हूँ – I am unable to do this work). This construction is generally preferred in written communication or formal speeches.
Conveying Inability Due to Circumstances
Sometimes, inability stems from external circumstances. In such cases, you can use phrases like “mujhe ijazat nahin hai” (मुझे इजाजत नहीं है – I am not permitted) or “mai majboor hun” (मैं मजबूर हूँ – I am compelled/helpless). These expressions convey that your inability is due to restrictions or circumstances beyond your control.
Different Verbs for Different Incapabilities
Hindi has a rich vocabulary with specific verbs for various actions. This means the way you express inability can change depending on the specific action. For example, “dekh nahin sakta” (देख नहीं सकता – can’t see), “sun nahin sakta” (सुन नहीं सकता – can’t hear), or “samajh nahin sakta” (समझ नहीं सकता – can’t understand). Choosing the right verb provides clarity and precision.
Can I say “Mai nahin kar sakta/sakti”?
Yes, “Mai nahin kar sakta/sakti” (मैं नहीं कर सकता/सकती) is a common and versatile phrase meaning “I cannot do it.” While it lacks the specific action, it’s often used when the context is clear, or when referring to a general inability to perform a task.
Expressing Inability in the Past Tense
To express past inability, you’ll need to change the verb “sakna” (सकना) to its past tense form. For instance, “Mai nahin kar saka/saki” (मैं नहीं कर सका/सकी – I was not able to do it) or “Mai chal nahin saka/saki” (मैं चल नहीं सका/सकी – I was not able to walk).
Common Phrases for Expressing Inability
Here are some common phrases you can use:
- “Mere bas ki baat nahin hai” (मेरे बस की बात नहीं है): This translates to “It’s beyond my capabilities” or “It’s not within my power.”
- “Mujhse nahin hoga” (मुझसे नहीं होगा): This implies “I won’t be able to do it.” It’s a more informal way of expressing inability.
- “Mai nipun nahin hun” (मैं निपुण नहीं हूँ): This means “I am not skilled” or “I am not proficient.”
Conclusion
Mastering the various ways to express “I am not able to” in Hindi enhances your communication skills and allows for more nuanced expression. By understanding the different verbs, grammatical structures, and contextual phrases, you can confidently convey your inability in any situation. Remember to consider the formality of the context and the specific action you are unable to perform to choose the most appropriate and accurate expression.
FAQ
- What is the most common way to say “I am not able to” in Hindi? The most common way is to use “nahin” (नहीं) with the verb “sakna” (सकना), like “Mai [verb] nahin sakta/sakti.”
- Is there a formal way to express inability? Yes, “asamarth” (असमर्थ) is a more formal term for “unable” or “incapable.”
- How do I express past inability? Use the past tense form of “sakna” (सका/सकी) along with “nahin.”
- What if my inability is due to external factors? Use phrases like “mujhe ijazat nahin hai” (I am not permitted) or “mai majboor hun” (I am compelled/helpless).
- Can I use “Mai nahin kar sakta/sakti”? Yes, it’s a common and versatile phrase meaning “I cannot do it.”
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