At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'पितृ' (Pitṛ) yourself. It is too formal and complex for basic daily needs. Instead, you should focus on the word 'पिता' (Pitā), which means 'father.' For example, 'मेरे पिता डॉक्टर हैं' (My father is a doctor). You might occasionally see 'पितृ' in very simple religious signs or titles of stories, but at this stage, just recognize it as a very formal way to say 'relating to a father.' Think of it as the 'hidden root' of the word father that shows up in special books.
At the A2 level, you should begin to recognize 'पितृ' (Pitṛ) when it appears in compound words. You might see it in cultural lessons about India, especially regarding festivals like 'Pitru Paksha' (a time to remember ancestors). You should understand that 'पितृ' is an adjective that points to the father's side of the family. If you see 'पितृ-भूमि' (Pitṛ-bhūmi), you can guess it means 'father-land' or 'homeland.' You are still encouraged to use 'पिता' (Pitā) or 'पापा' (Pāpā) for speaking, but 'पितृ' becomes a useful 'reading word' for understanding signs and simple cultural texts.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand and occasionally use 'पितृ' (Pitṛ) in formal contexts. You should know common compounds like 'पितृसत्ता' (patriarchy) and 'पितृ-ऋण' (ancestral debt) because these appear in news articles and social discussions. You should be able to distinguish between 'पिता' (the person) and 'पितृ' (the paternal concept). For example, in an essay about family, you might write about 'पितृ-परंपरा' (paternal tradition). You should also be aware of its maternal counterpart, 'मातृ' (Mātṛ). This is the stage where you start using 'Tatsam' (Sanskrit-derived) words to make your Hindi sound more sophisticated and academic.
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of 'पितृ' (Pitṛ) and its various legal and religious nuances. You should be comfortable reading newspaper editorials that use terms like 'पितृसत्तात्मक ढांचा' (patriarchal structure) or legal texts discussing 'पितृ-संपत्ति' (paternal property). You should understand the subtle difference between 'पितृ' and 'पैतृक' (paitṛk), knowing that the latter is more common as a standalone adjective for 'ancestral.' Your ability to use these words correctly in a debate or a formal letter will demonstrate a high level of linguistic competence and cultural awareness.
At the C1 level, you should understand the deep philosophical and historical weight of 'पितृ' (Pitṛ). You can explore its usage in classical literature and Vedic texts where it refers to the 'Pitris' (the celestial ancestors). You should be able to discuss complex concepts like 'पितृ-दोष' (an astrological term) or the ethics of 'पितृ-भक्ति' (devotion to the father) in ancient epics like the Ramayana. Your vocabulary should include rare compounds and you should be able to explain the etymological links between 'पितृ' and other Indo-European languages. You use this word to navigate the most formal and intellectual spheres of Hindi.
At the C2 level, you possess a near-native or scholarly understanding of 'पितृ' (Pitṛ). You can analyze how the usage of this word has evolved from ancient Sanskrit to modern socio-political Hindi. You are capable of translating complex legal or philosophical documents where 'पितृ' is used with absolute precision. You understand the nuances of its phonetic realization in different dialects and its role in forming the backbone of Hindi's formal lexicon. For you, 'पितृ' is not just a word for 'paternal,' but a key to understanding the patriarchal and ancestral foundations of Indian civilization as expressed through language.

पितृ in 30 Sekunden

  • Pitṛ is a formal Sanskrit-derived adjective meaning 'paternal' or 'ancestral.'
  • It is mostly used in compound words like Pitṛsattā (patriarchy) or Pitṛ-pakṣa (ancestor fortnight).
  • It is used in religious, legal, and academic contexts rather than daily conversation.
  • It is a cognate of the English word 'father' and Latin 'pater.'

The Hindi word पितृ (Pitṛ) is a profound linguistic artifact rooted in the ancient Sanskrit language. Functioning primarily as an adjective or a prefixal root in modern Hindi, it pertains to anything 'paternal' or 'relating to a father or ancestors.' While a beginner might learn पिता (Pitā) for 'father,' the word पितृ represents a more formal, academic, and ritualistic register. It is a 'Tatsam' word, meaning it has been borrowed directly from Sanskrit without phonetic alteration, carrying with it thousands of years of cultural and spiritual weight. In English, its closest relatives are words like 'paternal' or the prefix 'patri-,' both of which share the same Proto-Indo-European root *ph₂tḗr.

Etymological Connection
The word is a direct cognate with the Latin 'pater' and the Greek 'patēr,' illustrating the shared heritage between Hindi and European languages.

You will encounter पितृ most frequently in compound words (Samas). It is rarely used as a standalone adjective in casual conversation; instead, it anchors terms that describe lineage, biological heritage, and religious duties. For instance, पितृ-ऋण (Pitṛ-ṛṇ) refers to the 'debt to one's ancestors,' a key concept in Hindu philosophy suggesting that one owes a moral debt to those who came before. In a legal context, पितृ-संपत्ति (Pitṛ-sampatti) refers to ancestral or paternal property. Using this word signals a high level of education or a discussion involving tradition, law, or spirituality.

भारतीय संस्कृति में पितृ ऋण को चुकाना अत्यंत आवश्यक माना गया है। (In Indian culture, fulfilling the paternal/ancestral debt is considered extremely essential.)

Understanding पितृ is essential for B1 learners because it unlocks a vast array of compound vocabulary. It moves the learner from basic communication ('My father is a doctor') to complex cultural expression ('The patriarchal structure of society'). It is also the root for the word पितर (Pitar), which specifically refers to deceased ancestors or 'manes' who are worshipped during specific fortnights in the Hindu calendar.

Ritual Context
During the period of 'Pitru Paksha,' Hindus perform rituals for their ancestors, emphasizing the word's connection to the spiritual lineage.

वह अपनी पितृ भूमि की रक्षा के लिए प्रतिबद्ध है। (He is committed to protecting his paternal/ancestral land.)

In modern sociological discourse, the word appears in पितृसत्ता (Pitṛsattā), meaning 'patriarchy.' This is a common term in news, editorials, and academic writing. Thus, while the word sounds ancient, its application is very much alive in contemporary debates about gender and society. It bridges the gap between the sacred past and the sociological present.

Register Note
Avoid using 'pitṛ' in a sentence like 'My pitṛ is at home.' Use 'pitā' for the person; use 'pitṛ' for the attribute or the lineage.

Using पितृ (Pitṛ) correctly requires an understanding of Hindi compound word formation. Because it is an adjective of Sanskrit origin, it usually precedes a noun to create a specific concept. It does not change its form based on the gender or number of the following noun, which is a relief for many learners, though the resulting compound word will have its own gender.

Grammatical Invariance
Unlike the adjective 'achā' (good) which becomes 'achī' for feminine nouns, 'pitṛ' remains 'pitṛ' regardless of the noun it modifies.

Let's look at the construction of पितृभक्ति (Pitṛ-bhakti). This combines 'pitṛ' (fatherly/ancestral) and 'bhakti' (devotion). Together, it means 'devotion to one's father.' In a sentence: 'श्रवण कुमार अपनी पितृभक्ति के लिए जाने जाते हैं' (Shravan Kumar is known for his devotion to his parents/father). Notice how the word elevates the tone of the sentence, making it sound legendary or classical.

समाज में पितृसत्तात्मक सोच को बदलना एक बड़ी चुनौती है। (Changing the patriarchal mindset in society is a big challenge.)

Another common usage is in the context of inheritance. In legal Hindi, पितृ-धन (Pitṛ-dhan) refers to paternal wealth. If you are discussing rights or history, you might say: 'उसे अपनी पितृ-संपत्ति में हिस्सा नहीं मिला' (He did not get a share in his paternal property). Here, the word provides a specific legal precision that the word 'pitā kā' (father's) might lack in a formal document.

For learners at the B1 level, it is important to distinguish between पितृ (paternal) and मातृ (maternal). They are often used in pair to describe lineage: 'पितृ-पक्ष' (father's side) and 'मातृ-पक्ष' (mother's side). This symmetry is a hallmark of formal Hindi. When writing an essay on family values, using these terms will significantly improve your vocabulary score.

Sentence Structure
Subject + [Pitṛ + Noun] + Verb. Example: 'राम पितृ-आज्ञा का पालन करते थे' (Ram used to follow his father's command).

यह उनकी पितृ परंपरा का हिस्सा है। (This is a part of their paternal tradition.)

Finally, consider the word पितृ-हंता (Pitṛ-hantā), meaning 'patricide' or 'one who kills their father.' This is found in historical texts or crime reports. While rare, it demonstrates how 'pitṛ' serves as a building block for complex human concepts, ranging from the highest devotion to the darkest crimes.

If you are walking through a bustling market in Delhi or Mumbai, you might not hear the word पितृ (Pitṛ) used in casual banter. However, turn on a news channel, step into a temple, or open a high-school textbook, and the word appears everywhere. Its presence is compartmentalized into specific high-register domains of Indian life.

News and Media
Journalists often use 'pitṛ-sattā' (patriarchy) when discussing social reforms, women's rights, or political structures. It is a standard term in sociology-related reporting.

In the realm of religion and spirituality, पितृ is unavoidable. During the lunar month of Ashvin (usually September-October), millions of Hindus observe 'Pitru Paksha.' You will see signs in temples or mentions in newspapers about 'Pitru Tarpan' (offering water to ancestors). In this context, the word transcends the biological father and encompasses the entire paternal lineage of ancestors.

आज टीवी पर पितृ पक्ष के महत्व पर चर्चा हो रही है। (Today, there is a discussion on the importance of Pitru Paksha on TV.)

Legal and bureaucratic settings are another common 'habitat' for this word. When dealing with inheritance laws, especially the Hindu Succession Act, documents will refer to पितृ-संपत्ति. Lawyers and judges use it to distinguish between self-acquired property and property that has come down through the paternal line. If you are reading a Hindi translation of a legal judgment, this word will be a constant companion.

Literature and historical dramas (like the televised versions of the Ramayana or Mahabharata) use पितृ to maintain a sense of gravitas and antiquity. Characters will speak of पितृ-आज्ञा (father's command) or पितृ-कुल (paternal clan). For a learner, hearing this word in a movie often indicates that the scene is formal, emotional, or involves a significant duty or tradition.

Academic Textbooks
History and Civics books in Hindi-medium schools use 'pitṛ' to describe kinship systems and the evolution of family structures.

इतिहासकार पितृ प्रधान समाजों का अध्ययन करते हैं। (Historians study male-dominated/patriarchal societies.)

Because पितृ (Pitṛ) is a highly specialized word, even intermediate learners can trip over its usage. The most common error is using it as a direct substitute for 'father' in everyday speech. Saying 'Mera pitṛ daftar gaya hai' (My paternal is gone to office) is grammatically awkward and semantically incorrect. You must use पिता (Pitā) or पापा (Pāpā) for the person.

Mistake 1: Standalone Usage
Using 'pitṛ' as a noun. Correct: 'वह पितृ-ऋण से मुक्त होना चाहता है' (He wants to be free from paternal debt). Incorrect: 'वह अपने पितृ को प्यार करता है' (He loves his paternal).

Another frequent mistake involves pronunciation. The 'ṛ' (ऋ) in पितृ is a vocalic 'r'. In North India, it is usually pronounced like 'ri' (Pit-ri), while in South India, it might sound more like 'ru' (Pit-ru). English speakers often try to pronounce it as a hard English 'r' or ignore the vowel entirely. This can lead to the word being confused with पुत्र (Putra), which means 'son'. Imagine the confusion if you say 'son' when you mean 'ancestor'!

गलत: वह पितृ है। (Wrong: He is paternal.) सही: वह पिता है। (Right: He is a father.)

Confusion also arises between पितृ (Pitṛ) and पितर (Pitar). While they share a root, पितृ is an adjective/prefix, whereas पितर is a plural noun specifically referring to the 'spirits of the ancestors.' If you are referring to the beings you are worshipping, use पितर. If you are referring to the property they left behind, use पितृ-संपत्ति.

Lastly, learners sometimes over-apply the word to the mother's side. You cannot use पितृ for anything maternal. The corresponding word is मातृ (Mātṛ). Mixing these up in a formal setting can be quite embarrassing, as it fundamentally changes the lineage you are discussing. Always double-check if the context is paternal or maternal before choosing your prefix.

Spelling Error
Writing 'पित्र' instead of 'पितृ'. The 'ṛ' is a vowel mark at the bottom, not a half-consonant 'r'.

To truly master पितृ (Pitṛ), you must see how it sits within the wider family of Hindi words for fatherhood and lineage. Depending on your audience and the level of formality, you might choose a different word. Here is a comparison of the most common alternatives.

पितृ (Pitṛ) vs. पिता (Pitā)
'Pitā' is the standard noun for 'father.' Use it for the person. 'Pitṛ' is the adjective/prefix. Use it for the concept or compound. (e.g., Pitā ji ghar par hain vs. Pitṛ-bhakti).
पितृ (Pitṛ) vs. पैतृक (Paitṛk)
'Paitṛk' is a derived adjective meaning 'ancestral.' While 'Pitṛ' is a root, 'Paitṛk' is often used as a standalone adjective. You say 'Paitṛk sampatti' (Ancestral property) more often than 'Pitṛ-sampatti' in modern law.

In very formal or poetic Hindi, you might encounter जनक (Janak). This literally means 'progenitor' or 'one who gives birth.' It is often used for King Janak (Sita's father) or in biological contexts. Compared to पितृ, जनक focuses more on the act of creation than the lineage or duty.

तुलना:
1. पितृ-सत्ता (Patriarchy - Abstract/Sociological)
2. पिता का घर (Father's house - Personal/Casual)

For ancestors in general, पूर्वज (Pūrvaj) is the most common word. While पितृ specifically emphasizes the father's line, पूर्वज is a gender-neutral term for 'forefathers' or 'ancestors' from both sides. If you are talking about your great-great-grandparents in a general sense, पूर्वज is your best bet.

Finally, in Urdu-influenced Hindi, you will hear वालिद (Vālid) or बाप (Bāp). 'Vālid' is very formal and respectful, while 'Bāp' can range from neutral to derogatory depending on the tone. Neither of these words can form the complex Sanskrit compounds that पितृ can. You would never say 'Vālid-sattā' for patriarchy; you must use पितृसत्ता.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The 'ṛ' in 'Pitṛ' is a rare vocalic consonant that exists in Sanskrit but has largely disappeared or changed into 'ri/ru' in modern Hindi dialects.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈpɪtrɪ/
US /ˈpɪtri/
The stress is slightly on the first syllable 'Pit'.
Reimt sich auf
मातृ (Mātṛ) भ्रातृ (Bhrātṛ) स्मृति (Smṛti) कृति (Kṛti) धृति (Dhṛti) नृप (Nṛp) वृक्ष (Vṛkṣ) हृदय (Hṛdaya)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing it as 'Pit-rah' (confusing it with the plural 'Pitra').
  • Pronouncing the 'ṛ' as a hard English 'r' like in 'car'.
  • Confusing it with 'Putra' (son).
  • Ignoring the vowel at the end and saying 'Pit-er'.
  • Using a long 'ee' sound at the end instead of the short 'i' sound.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 7/5

Requires knowledge of Sanskritized Hindi and compound words.

Schreiben 8/5

Difficult to use correctly without sounding overly formal or awkward.

Sprechen 8/5

Pronunciation of the vocalic 'ṛ' is tricky for English speakers.

Hören 6/5

Easy to confuse with 'Putra' or 'Pitra' in fast speech.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

पिता परिवार संपत्ति पूजा समाज

Als Nächstes lernen

मातृ भ्रातृ वंश विरासत परंपरा

Fortgeschritten

पितृसत्तात्मक पितृविसर्जन अनुष्ठान उत्तराधिकार गोत्र

Wichtige Grammatik

Tatsam Prefixing

Pitṛ + Bhakti = Pitṛbhakti (Sanskrit + Sanskrit).

Vocalic R (ऋ) pronunciation

Pronounced as 'ri' in most modern Hindi contexts.

Compound Gender

Pitṛsattā is feminine because 'Sattā' is feminine.

Invariance

Pitṛ does not change to Pitrā or Pitrī for gender.

Sandhi (Joining)

Pitṛ + Ājñā = Pitrājñā (rare in modern Hindi, usually kept separate).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

पिता घर पर हैं।

Father is at home.

A1 uses 'Pitā' instead of 'Pitṛ'.

2

मेरे पिता का नाम राम है।

My father's name is Ram.

Possessive 'kā' is used with 'Pitā'.

3

वह एक अच्छे पिता हैं।

He is a good father.

Honorific plural 'hain' is used for father.

4

पितृ दिवस मुबारक हो!

Happy Father's Day!

'Pitṛ' is used here as a formal adjective for the holiday.

5

पिता जी खाना खा रहे हैं।

Father is eating food.

'Ji' is added for respect.

6

क्या आपके पिता यहाँ हैं?

Is your father here?

Question form.

7

मेरे पिता लंबे हैं।

My father is tall.

Simple adjective usage.

8

पिता को प्रणाम करो।

Bow to your father.

Imperative sentence.

1

पितृ-पक्ष में लोग पूजा करते हैं।

People perform puja during Pitru Paksha.

'Pitṛ-pakṣa' is a compound noun.

2

यह पितृ-भूमि बहुत सुंदर है।

This fatherland/homeland is very beautiful.

'Pitṛ-bhūmi' is a formal term for homeland.

3

हमें पितृ-आज्ञा माननी चाहिए।

We should obey the father's command.

'Pitṛ-ājñā' is a common formal compound.

4

पितृ-तर्पण एक पुरानी परंपरा है।

Offering water to ancestors is an old tradition.

Religious terminology.

5

उसके पास पितृ-संपत्ति है।

He has paternal property.

'Pitṛ-sampatti' refers to inherited wealth.

6

पितृ-भक्ति सबसे बड़ा धर्म है।

Devotion to the father is the greatest duty.

Philosophical statement.

7

पितृ-कुल का नाम रोशन करो।

Make the name of the paternal clan proud.

'Pitṛ-kul' means paternal lineage/clan.

8

वह पितृ-ऋण उतारना चाहता है।

He wants to repay the paternal debt.

'Pitṛ-ṛṇ' is a spiritual concept.

1

समाज में पितृसत्ता अभी भी मौजूद है।

Patriarchy still exists in society.

'Pitṛsattā' is a key B1 vocabulary word.

2

यह एक पितृसत्तात्मक परिवार है।

This is a patriarchal family.

Adjective form of 'Pitṛsattā'.

3

पितृ-विसर्जन के दिन नदी पर भीड़ होती है।

There is a crowd at the river on the day of Pitru Visarjan.

Specific ritual term.

4

वह अपनी पितृ-परंपराओं का पालन करता है।

He follows his paternal traditions.

Plural compound.

5

पितृ-हंता समाज में घृणा का पात्र होता है।

A patricide is an object of hatred in society.

'Pitṛ-hantā' means father-killer.

6

कानून पितृ-संपत्ति के अधिकार की रक्षा करता है।

The law protects the right to paternal property.

Legal context.

7

पितृ-भक्त श्रवण कुमार की कहानी प्रसिद्ध है।

The story of the father-devotee Shravan Kumar is famous.

Literary reference.

8

उसने अपने पितृ-धर्म का निर्वाह किया।

He fulfilled his paternal duty.

Abstract noun compound.

1

पितृसत्तात्मक सोच महिलाओं की प्रगति में बाधक है।

Patriarchal thinking is an obstacle to women's progress.

Complex abstract subject.

2

पितृ-ऋण से मुक्ति के लिए गया में पिंडदान किया जाता है।

Pind Daan is performed in Gaya to be free from paternal debt.

Specific cultural/geographical reference.

3

यह संपत्ति उसे पितृ-पक्ष से विरासत में मिली है।

He inherited this property from the paternal side.

'Pitṛ-pakṣa' used in a legal/inheritance sense.

4

महाकाव्यों में पितृ-आज्ञा को सर्वोच्च माना गया है।

In epics, the father's command is considered supreme.

Literary analysis context.

5

पितृ-श्राद्ध की विधि अत्यंत जटिल होती है।

The procedure of Pitru Shraddha is extremely complex.

Technical religious term.

6

आधुनिक युग में पितृ-सत्ताओं का स्वरूप बदल रहा है।

In the modern era, the nature of patriarchies is changing.

Plural usage of an abstract concept.

7

पितृ-तर्पण के माध्यम से हम अपने पूर्वजों को याद करते हैं।

Through Pitru Tarpan, we remember our ancestors.

Formal prepositional phrase.

8

वह अपने पितृ-कुल की मर्यादा का ध्यान रखता है।

He keeps in mind the dignity of his paternal clan.

High-register vocabulary.

1

पितृसत्तात्मक व्यवस्था के सामाजिक-आर्थिक निहितार्थ गहरे हैं।

The socio-economic implications of the patriarchal system are deep.

Academic/Sociological register.

2

ऋग्वेद में पितृ-देवताओं की स्तुति के कई मंत्र मिलते हैं।

Many hymns in the Rigveda praise the paternal deities/ancestors.

Historical/Scriptural context.

3

पितृ-दोष के निवारण हेतु विशेष अनुष्ठान किए जाते हैं।

Special rituals are performed for the removal of Pitru Dosha (ancestral curse).

Astrological terminology.

4

पितृ-लोक की संकल्पना भारतीय दर्शन का अभिन्न अंग है।

The concept of Pitru-loka (the realm of ancestors) is an integral part of Indian philosophy.

Philosophical register.

5

पितृ-ऋण केवल कर्मकांड नहीं, बल्कि एक नैतिक उत्तरदायित्व है।

Paternal debt is not just a ritual, but a moral responsibility.

Ethical/Philosophical debate.

6

पितृ-हंता राजाओं का इतिहास अत्यंत रक्तरंजित रहा है।

The history of patricidal kings has been extremely bloody.

Historical narrative.

7

पितृ-सत्ता के विरुद्ध नारीवादी विमर्श अब और प्रखर हो गया है।

The feminist discourse against patriarchy has now become more intense.

Political/Intellectual register.

8

पितृ-तर्पण की शास्त्रीय व्याख्या अत्यंत गूढ़ है।

The scriptural explanation of Pitru Tarpan is extremely profound/esoteric.

Scholarly tone.

1

पितृ-परंपरा का विखंडन आधुनिकता की एक मुख्य विशेषता है।

The deconstruction of paternal tradition is a key feature of modernity.

Post-modernist critical theory register.

2

पितृ-ऋण की मीमांसा करते हुए दार्शनिकों ने विभिन्न मत प्रस्तुत किए हैं।

While analyzing paternal debt, philosophers have presented various opinions.

Scholarly 'mimansa' (critique/analysis).

3

पितृ-सत्तात्मक अधिसंरचना उत्पादन के साधनों से प्रभावित होती है।

The patriarchal superstructure is influenced by the means of production.

Marxist sociological terminology.

4

पितृ-लोक और देव-लोक के मध्य के सूक्ष्म अंतर को समझना आवश्यक है।

It is necessary to understand the subtle difference between the realm of ancestors and the realm of gods.

Esoteric theological distinction.

5

पितृ-हंता की मनोवैज्ञानिक जटिलताओं पर कई शोध हुए हैं।

Many researches have been conducted on the psychological complexities of a patricide.

Scientific/Psychological register.

6

पितृ-तर्पण की प्रतीकात्मकता वैयक्तिक अस्मिता से जुड़ी है।

The symbolism of Pitru Tarpan is linked to individual identity.

Abstract symbolic analysis.

7

पितृ-ऋण का संप्रत्यय सामाजिक निरंतरता को बनाए रखने का एक उपकरण है।

The concept of paternal debt is a tool for maintaining social continuity.

Functionalist sociological register.

8

पितृ-कुल की वंशावली का संरक्षण मौखिक इतिहास का महत्वपूर्ण भाग है।

The preservation of the paternal clan's genealogy is an important part of oral history.

Anthropological context.

Häufige Kollokationen

पितृसत्ता (Pitṛsattā)
पितृ-पक्ष (Pitṛ-pakṣa)
पितृ-ऋण (Pitṛ-ṛṇ)
पितृ-संपत्ति (Pitṛ-sampatti)
पितृ-भक्ति (Pitṛ-bhakti)
पितृ-तर्पण (Pitṛ-tarpaṇ)
पितृ-आज्ञा (Pitṛ-ājñā)
पितृ-कुल (Pitṛ-kul)
पितृ-हंता (Pitṛ-hantā)
पितृ-दोष (Pitṛ-doṣ)

Häufige Phrasen

पितृ देवो भव

— Treat your father as a god. A famous Sanskrit/Hindi maxim.

हमारी संस्कृति कहती है- पितृ देवो भव।

पितृ ऋण से मुक्ति

— Freedom from ancestral debt. Accomplished via rituals or having children.

वह पितृ ऋण से मुक्ति चाहता है।

पितृसत्तात्मक समाज

— A patriarchal society. A society dominated by men.

हम एक पितृसत्तात्मक समाज में रहते हैं।

पितृ पक्ष का श्राद्ध

— The ritual for ancestors during the holy fortnight.

आज पितृ पक्ष का श्राद्ध है।

पितृ विसर्जन

— The final day of the ancestor fortnight.

पितृ विसर्जन पर छुट्टी है।

पितृ संपत्ति का बंटवारा

— Division of ancestral property.

पितृ संपत्ति का बंटवारा शांति से हुआ।

पितृ भक्ति की मिसाल

— An example of devotion to one's father.

श्रवण कुमार पितृ भक्ति की मिसाल हैं।

पितृ वंश

— Paternal lineage.

उनका पितृ वंश बहुत पुराना है।

पितृ लोक

— The world/abode of ancestors.

आत्मा पितृ लोक को चली गई।

पितृ सत्ता का अंत

— The end of patriarchy.

पितृ सत्ता का अंत आवश्यक है।

Wird oft verwechselt mit

पितृ vs पुत्र (Putra)

Means 'son.' English speakers often mix up the vowel sounds 'u' and 'i'.

पितृ vs पितर (Pitar)

Means 'ancestors' (noun). Pitṛ is the adjective/prefix form.

पितृ vs पवित्र (Pavitra)

Means 'pure/holy.' Sounds similar but unrelated.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"पितृ-ऋण उतारना"

— To fulfill one's duties towards parents/ancestors. Often used metaphorically for any deep moral obligation.

बेटे ने अच्छी नौकरी पाकर पितृ-ऋण उतार दिया।

Formal
"पितृ-कुल का नाम डुबोना"

— To bring shame to the paternal lineage.

उसने चोरी करके पितृ-कुल का नाम डुबो दिया।

Informal/Emotional
"पितृ-आज्ञा शिरोधार्य करना"

— To accept a father's command with the utmost respect.

राम ने वनवास की पितृ-आज्ञा शिरोधार्य की।

Literary
"पितृ-छाया"

— The protection or presence of a father.

उसका सिर पितृ-छाया से वंचित हो गया (He lost his father).

Poetic
"पितृ-तुल्य"

— Like a father; used for a mentor or elder.

मेरे शिक्षक मेरे लिए पितृ-तुल्य हैं।

Respectful
"पितृ-हस्त"

— The hand/blessing of a father.

उस पर सदा पितृ-हस्त रहा।

Formal
"पितृ-भूमि की पुकार"

— The call of the motherland/fatherland.

सैनिक ने पितृ-भूमि की पुकार सुनी।

Patriotic
"पितृ-परंपरा का निर्वाह"

— Carrying out the ancestral traditions.

वह आज भी पितृ-परंपरा का निर्वाह कर रहा है।

Formal
"पितृ-स्नेह"

— Paternal affection.

बच्चे को पितृ-स्नेह की कमी खली।

Neutral
"पितृ-श्राप"

— The curse of an ancestor.

लोग मानते हैं कि इस घर पर पितृ-श्राप है।

Superstitious/Religious

Leicht verwechselbar

पितृ vs पितर (Pitar)

Similar sound and same root.

'Pitṛ' is an adjective (paternal), 'Pitar' is a plural noun (ancestors).

पितर (ancestors) की पूजा पितृ-पक्ष (paternal fortnight) में करें।

पितृ vs पैतृक (Paitṛk)

Both mean 'paternal/ancestral'.

'Paitṛk' is a standalone adjective; 'Pitṛ' is usually a prefix in compounds.

यह पैतृक घर है, पर यह पितृ-संपत्ति है।

पितृ vs पिता (Pitā)

Direct translation of 'father'.

'Pitā' is the person (noun); 'Pitṛ' is the attribute (adjective).

मेरे पिता (father) ने पितृ-आज्ञा (paternal command) दी।

पितृ vs पुत्र (Putra)

Phonetic similarity.

'Pitṛ' = Fatherly; 'Putra' = Son. Opposite ends of the relationship.

पुत्र को पितृ-भक्ति करनी चाहिए।

पितृ vs मातृ (Mātṛ)

Same structure, different gender.

'Pitṛ' is paternal; 'Mātṛ' is maternal.

यह पितृ-पक्ष है, वह मातृ-पक्ष है।

Satzmuster

A2

यह [Pitṛ-Noun] है।

यह पितृ-भूमि है।

B1

[Subject] [Pitṛ-Noun] का पालन करता है।

वह पितृ-आज्ञा का पालन करता है।

B1

समाज में [Pitṛsattā] व्याप्त है।

समाज में पितृसत्ता व्याप्त है।

B2

[Noun] को [Pitṛ-Noun] में हिस्सा मिला।

उसे पितृ-संपत्ति में हिस्सा मिला।

B2

[Ritual] [Pitṛ-pakṣa] में होता है।

श्राद्ध पितृ-पक्ष में होता है।

C1

[Abstract Noun] [Pitṛsattātmak] ढाँचे का हिस्सा है।

भेदभाव पितृसत्तात्मक ढाँचे का हिस्सा है।

C1

[Action] से [Pitṛ-ṛṇ] उतरता है।

सेवा से पितृ-ऋण उतरता है।

C2

[Philosophical Subject] की व्याख्या [Pitṛ] के संदर्भ में करें।

मुक्ति की व्याख्या पितृ-लोक के संदर्भ में करें।

Wortfamilie

Substantive

पिता (Pitā - Father)
पितृत्व (Pitṛtva - Paternity)
पितर (Pitar - Ancestors)
पितृसत्ता (Pitṛsattā - Patriarchy)

Adjektive

पैतृक (Paitṛk - Paternal/Ancestral)
पितृवत (Pitṛvat - Like a father)
पितृसत्तात्मक (Pitṛsattātmak - Patriarchal)

Verwandt

मातृ (Mātṛ)
भ्रातृ (Bhrātṛ)
श्राद्ध (Shrāddha)
तर्पण (Tarpaṇ)
वंश (Vaṃsh)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in specific domains (Law, Religion, Sociology), rare in daily speech.

Häufige Fehler
  • Mera pitṛ dilli mein rehta hai. Mere pitā dilli mein rehte hain.

    You cannot use 'Pitṛ' as a noun for a person.

  • Pitṛ kī sattā. Pitṛsattā.

    In formal Hindi compounds, the postposition 'kī' is dropped.

  • Pronouncing it 'Pi-tra'. Pronouncing it 'Pit-ri'.

    The 'ṛ' is a vowel, not a consonant cluster.

  • Using 'Pitṛ' for mother's side property. Using 'Mātṛ' or 'Nānihāl' for mother's side.

    'Pitṛ' is exclusively for the father's lineage.

  • Writing 'पित्र' (Pitra) instead of 'पितृ' (Pitṛ). पितृ

    The spelling requires the vocalic 'ṛ' symbol.

Tipps

Compound Power

Learn 'Pitṛ' as a prefix. If you know 10 nouns, you can now make 10 formal paternal adjectives.

Ritual Recognition

Recognize 'Pitṛ' in temple signs to understand which rituals are for ancestors vs. gods.

Property Talk

In legal matters, 'Pitṛ-sampatti' means you didn't buy it; you inherited it from your father's side.

Sociology Key

Master 'Pitṛsattā' (patriarchy) to participate in any modern social debate in Hindi.

The 'Ri' Rule

Don't over-pronounce the 'r'. Keep it soft and connected to the 'i' sound.

Mātṛ-Pitṛ Pair

Always learn 'Pitṛ' alongside 'Mātṛ'. They are the yin and yang of formal Hindi lineage.

No Postpositions

In compounds like 'Pitṛ-bhakti', don't add 'kā' between the two words. It's one unit.

The Hook

The 'ṛ' in 'Pitṛ' looks like a little hook under the 't'. Don't confuse it with the 'r' slash used in 'Putra'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'Pitṛ' in September/October, it's almost certainly about the 'Pitru Paksha' festival.

Elevate Tone

Replace 'Pitā kā' with 'Pitṛ-' in your formal essays to immediately jump from B1 to B2 level.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Pitṛ' as 'Paternal.' Both start with 'P' and relate to the father. Also, 'Pit-ri' sounds like 'Father-ly' if you squint your ears!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine an ancient family tree where the roots are labeled 'Pitṛ'. The roots represent the ancestors and the fatherly foundation of the tree.

Word Web

Father Ancestor Patriarchy Inheritance Ritual Lineage Paternal Debt

Herausforderung

Try to use 'Pitṛsattā' and 'Pitā' in the same paragraph to explain the difference between a social system and a person.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Sanskrit root 'पितृ' (pitṛ), which is the base form for 'father.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The protector, nourisher, or head of the family.

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Indo-Aryan.

Kultureller Kontext

When discussing 'Pitṛsattā' (patriarchy), be aware that it is a sensitive socio-political topic in modern India, often used in feminist critiques.

English speakers might find the distinction between 'father' (person) and 'paternal' (abstract) similar, but the religious weight of 'Pitṛ' has no direct English equivalent except perhaps in 'ancestral spirits.'

Pitru Paksha (The 16-day lunar period for ancestors) Shravan Kumar (The epitome of Pitru-bhakti) The Hindu Succession Act (Legal usage of Paitṛk/Pitṛ)

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Legal/Inheritance

  • पितृ-संपत्ति का अधिकार
  • पैतृक संपत्ति का दावा
  • पितृ-पक्ष का उत्तराधिकारी
  • वसीयत और पितृ-धन

Religious Rituals

  • पितृ-पक्ष का श्राद्ध
  • पितृ-तर्पण की विधि
  • पितृ-दोष की शांति
  • गया में पिंडदान

Social/Political

  • पितृसत्ता का विरोध
  • पितृसत्तात्मक सोच
  • पितृ-प्रधान समाज
  • लैंगिक समानता और पितृसत्ता

Literature/Epics

  • पितृ-आज्ञा का पालन
  • पितृ-भक्ति का आदर्श
  • पितृ-कुल की मर्यादा
  • पितृ-ऋण से मुक्ति

Patriotic/Nationalist

  • पितृ-भूमि की रक्षा
  • पितृ-भूमि का प्रेम
  • पितृ-भूमि के प्रति कर्तव्य
  • मातृ-पितृ भूमि

Gesprächseinstiege

"क्या आप पितृ-पक्ष के रीति-रिवाजों के बारे में जानते हैं?"

"भारतीय समाज में पितृसत्ता की क्या भूमिका है?"

"क्या पितृ-संपत्ति के कानून अब बदल गए हैं?"

"श्रवण कुमार की पितृ-भक्ति के बारे में आपकी क्या राय है?"

"क्या आधुनिक युग में पितृ-ऋण की अवधारणा प्रासंगिक है?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

अपने परिवार की किसी पितृ-परंपरा (paternal tradition) के बारे में लिखें जिसे आप आज भी मानते हैं।

क्या आपको लगता है कि पितृसत्ता (patriarchy) को पूरी तरह से समाप्त किया जा सकता है? अपने विचार व्यक्त करें।

पितृ-भूमि (homeland) के प्रति एक व्यक्ति के क्या कर्तव्य होने चाहिए? विस्तार से लिखें।

अपने पिता या किसी पितृ-तुल्य (father-figure) व्यक्ति के प्रति अपनी भावनाओं को औपचारिक हिंदी में लिखें।

पितृ-ऋण (debt to ancestors) की अवधारणा पर एक छोटा निबंध लिखें।

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'Pitṛ' is an adjective or a prefix. To address your father, use 'Pitā ji' or 'Pāpā.' Using 'Pitṛ' would sound like you are calling him 'Paternal' instead of 'Father.'

Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar when people pay homage to their ancestors (Pitṛs) through food and water offerings. It is the most common context where you will hear the word 'Pitṛ.'

No, 'Pitṛ' is a Sanskrit Tatsam word. Urdu speakers use 'Vālid' or 'Pidar' (Persian root). However, Hindi speakers of all backgrounds understand 'Pitṛ' in legal or sociological contexts.

In modern Hindi, it is pronounced like a short 'ri.' So, 'Pit-ri.' It is not a full 'ee' sound, and it's not a hard 'r.' Practice by saying 'rig' and stopping after the 'ri.'

'Pitṛ' specifically refers to the paternal line or ancestors. 'Pūrvaj' is a general term for ancestors from both the mother's and father's side. 'Pūrvaj' is a noun, while 'Pitṛ' is usually part of a compound.

In sociology, 'Pitṛsattā' (patriarchy) is used as a neutral term to describe a social system where men hold primary power. However, in modern discourse, it is often used in a critical or negative sense regarding gender inequality.

As an adjective, it has no gender. However, the compound words it forms take the gender of the second word. For example, 'Pitṛ-bhakti' is feminine because 'Bhakti' is feminine. 'Pitṛ-ऋण' is masculine because 'ऋण' is masculine.

In Vedic astrology, 'Pitru Dosha' is a karmic debt or curse believed to be caused by the dissatisfaction of ancestors. People perform special 'Pitṛ' rituals to remedy this.

No. 'Pitṛ' is strictly paternal. The maternal equivalent is 'Mātṛ.' For both parents, the word 'Mātā-Pitā' or the Sanskrit compound 'Pitṛ' (in certain dual forms) is used, but in modern Hindi, 'Pitṛ' is just paternal.

Use 'Paitṛk' when you need a standalone adjective to describe something as 'ancestral' (e.g., Paitṛk ghar). Use 'Pitṛ' when you are forming a specific compound word found in the dictionary (e.g., Pitṛsattā).

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using 'Pitṛsattā' in a social context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He received his paternal property.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain 'Pitṛ-bhakti' in one Hindi sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal greeting for Father's Day using 'Pitṛ'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'Pitṛ-ājñā' in a historical sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'Pitru Paksha'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Patriarchy is an obstacle to progress.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a 'Pitṛ-tuly' person in your life.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'Pitṛ-ṛṇ'.

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writing

Translate: 'The paternal clan is very old.'

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writing

Use 'Pitṛ-bhūmi' in a patriotic sentence.

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writing

Write about 'Pitru Dosha' in Hindi.

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writing

Translate: 'He is a devotee of his father.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'Pitṛ-tarpan' in a sentence about a river.

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writing

Write a sentence about 'Pitṛ-hantā' kings.

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writing

Translate: 'This is a patriarchal structure.'

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writing

Explain the difference between 'Pitā' and 'Pitṛ'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Pitṛ-lok'.

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writing

Translate: 'Repaying the paternal debt.'

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writing

Use 'Pitṛ-vatsal' in a sentence.

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speaking

Pronounce 'पितृसत्ता' (Pitṛsattā) correctly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk for 30 seconds about the importance of 'Pitā' (father) in your life.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain 'Pitru Paksha' to a foreigner in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a patriarchal society (पितृसत्तात्मक समाज) in simple Hindi sentences.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Read this sentence aloud: 'पितृ-ऋण उतारना हर संतान का नैतिक धर्म है।'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Compare 'Pitā' and 'Pitṛ' in a short speech.

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speaking

Tell the story of Shravan Kumar's 'Pitṛ-bhakti' briefly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss your views on 'Pitṛ-sampatti' (ancestral property) laws.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Use the word 'Pitṛ-tuly' for someone you respect.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce 'Pitṛ-pakṣa' and 'Mātṛ-pakṣa' clearly.

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speaking

What would you say to a 'Pitṛ-hantā' in a historical drama?

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speaking

Explain 'Pitṛ-dosha' to a friend who is interested in astrology.

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speaking

Read aloud: 'पितृ-आज्ञा शिरोधार्य करना प्राचीन भारतीय संस्कृति का आधार था।'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe your 'Pitṛ-bhūmi' (homeland) in five sentences.

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speaking

Discuss the pros and cons of a 'Pitṛ-pradhān' (male-dominated) family system.

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speaking

Explain why 'Pitṛ' is a Tatsam word.

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speaking

Use 'Pitṛ-snēh' in a sentence about childhood.

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speaking

Talk about 'Pitru Tarpan' and why water is offered.

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speaking

Pronounce 'Pitṛ-ṛṇ' carefully, focusing on the vocalic 'ṛ'.

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speaking

Give a short concluding speech on 'Pitṛ-dharma'.

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listening

Listen to the word: 'पितृसत्ता'. What is the English meaning?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'पितृ-पक्ष शुरू हो गया है।' What started?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'वह पितृ-भक्त है।' Is the person a devotee of the mother or father?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-संपत्ति का विवाद खत्म हुआ।' What dispute ended?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-आज्ञा का पालन करो।' What should be obeyed?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'यह पितृ-दोष है।' Is this related to ancestors or the future?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-लोक की कथा सुनाओ।' What world is being discussed?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-हंता को दंड मिला।' Who got punished?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-ऋण बड़ा होता है।' What is large/heavy?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'मातृ-पितृ चरणों में स्वर्ग है।' Where is heaven?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-तर्पण के लिए जल लाओ।' What is needed for the ritual?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृसत्तात्मक समाज बदल रहा है।' What is changing?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'यह पितृ-कुल की मर्यादा है।' What is being discussed?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-विसर्जन आज है।' When is the farewell?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: 'पितृ-स्नेह अनमोल है।' What is priceless?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

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