घरवाला en 30 segundos
- A common colloquial term for 'husband' in Hindi.
- Literally means 'the man belonging to the house'.
- Can also refer to a male landlord or house owner.
- Used respectfully in plural form as 'gharvale' for a single person.
The Hindi word घरवाला (gharvālā) is a fascinating example of how the Hindi language constructs meaning through suffixation. At its core, it is a compound of घर (ghar), meaning 'house', and the versatile suffix वाला (vālā), which denotes possession, association, or agency. When combined, घरवाला literally translates to 'the man of the house' or 'the one associated with the home'. However, its most common and culturally significant usage is as a colloquial term for 'husband'. It occupies a unique space between the formal, Sanskrit-derived पति (pati) and the Persian-derived शौहर (shauhar). While पति might appear in legal documents or formal introductions, घरवाला is what you will hear in the courtyards of rural homes, in the bustling markets of North India, and in the intimate conversations between women discussing their domestic lives. It carries a sense of belonging and domestic responsibility that is more grounded and less ritualistic than its formal counterparts.
- Primary Meaning
- Husband; the male spouse in a marital relationship.
- Secondary Meaning
- The male head of the household or the landlord/owner of a house.
- Grammatical Gender
- Masculine noun. Its feminine counterpart is 'घरवाली' (gharvālī), meaning wife.
Understanding when to use घरवाला requires an appreciation for the social hierarchy and relational dynamics in Indian culture. In many traditional settings, calling one's husband by his first name is considered disrespectful or taboo. Therefore, women often use descriptive terms like घरवाला or the plural घरवाले (as a mark of respect) to refer to their spouses. It is a word that signifies the husband's role as the provider and the pillar of the domestic structure. However, in modern urban contexts, its usage is becoming slightly more informal or even dated, as younger couples prefer terms like 'husband' or 'partner'. Yet, it remains an essential word for anyone wishing to understand the heartbeat of everyday Hindi conversation. It evokes images of the daily grind, the shared responsibilities of running a home, and the deep-rooted association between a man and his family dwelling.
मेरे घरवाला आज दफ़्तर से जल्दी आ जाएँगे। (My husband will come home early from the office today.)
Beyond the meaning of 'husband', the word also applies to the 'owner of the house'. If you are renting an apartment in Delhi, you might refer to your landlord as the घरवाला or मकान मालिक (makān mālik). In this context, the word emphasizes the relationship of ownership. It is also used in the plural घरवाले to refer to 'family members' in general. For instance, 'Mere gharvale' usually means 'my family' or 'my folks'. This versatility makes it a high-frequency word that shifts its nuance based on the possessive pronoun used and the social setting of the dialogue. Whether discussing family politics, household chores, or marital life, घरवाला provides a window into the communal and domestic-centric nature of Indian society.
Using घरवाला correctly involves understanding its role as a masculine noun and how it interacts with possessive adjectives and verbs. Because it ends in '-ā', it follows the standard rules for masculine nouns ending in '-ā'. When it becomes plural or when a postposition (like ne, ko, se, kā) follows it, the ending changes to '-e' (घरवाले). This grammatical shift is crucial for learners to master to sound natural.
- With Possessive Pronouns
- To say 'my husband', use 'मेरा घरवाला' (merā gharvālā). To say 'her husband', use 'उसका घरवाला' (uskā gharvālā).
- In Respectful Plural
- In many North Indian cultures, speaking of one's husband in the singular is considered blunt. Often, speakers use 'मेरे घरवाले' (mere gharvāle) with plural verb endings like 'हैं' (hain) or 'आए' (āe).
क्या आपके घरवाला घर पर हैं? (Is your husband at home? - Note the use of 'hain' for respect.)
When the word is used to mean 'landlord', the context usually clarifies the intent. For example, if you say, 'Gharvale ne kiraya maanga hai' (The house-owner has asked for rent), the context of kiraya (rent) immediately points to the landlord. If you say, 'Gharvala bimar hai' (The husband/house-man is sick) in a domestic conversation, it clearly refers to the spouse. Learners should also be careful with the plural form घरवाले. While it can be a respectful singular for 'husband', it most commonly means 'the family' or 'the people of the house'. If someone asks, 'Gharvale kaise hain?' they are asking 'How is your family?' not just 'How is your husband?'
जब मेरा घरवाला शहर में नहीं होता, मैं अपनी माँ के घर चली जाती हूँ। (When my husband is not in town, I go to my mother's house.)
Furthermore, घरवाला is frequently used in comparisons. In rural settings, a woman might compare her घरवाला to others in terms of providing for the family or their temperament. In literature and cinema, this word is often used to ground a character in a specific socio-economic class—usually middle or lower-middle class—where formal terms like 'pati' feel too stiff. Mastering this word allows a learner to navigate various levels of formality and express domestic relationships with the nuance of a native speaker.
If you are walking through a residential colony in North India, घरवाला is a word you will encounter daily. It is the language of the 'gali' (street) and the 'mohalla' (neighborhood). You will hear it in the following contexts:
- Daily Gossip and Socializing: Neighbors chatting over a fence or on a balcony often use this word. 'Behan, tumhare gharvale kab tak lautenge?' (Sister, by when will your husband return?).
- Marketplaces: A woman shopping for vegetables might say to the vendor, 'Mere gharvale ko ye sabzi pasand nahi hai' (My husband doesn't like this vegetable).
- Bollywood Movies: In films depicting rural life or traditional families (like 'Lagaan' or 'Panchayat'), characters almost exclusively use घरवाला or घरवाली instead of formal titles.
- Legal and Administrative Contexts (Informal): Even in police stations or local government offices, a woman might refer to her spouse as घरवाला when explaining a situation, though the official might write 'Pati' on the form.
अरे सुनती हो, घरवाला आ गया क्या? (Hey, are you listening, has the man of the house/husband arrived?)
The word also carries a certain warmth and 'belonging'. To call someone a घरवाला is to acknowledge their central role in the domestic sphere. In contrast, the word बाहरवाला (bāharvālā) means 'outsider' or 'stranger'. This binary—inside the house vs. outside the house—is a fundamental concept in Indian sociology. The घरवाला is the insider, the protector, and the one whose identity is tied to the physical and emotional space of the home. You will rarely hear this word in a high-powered corporate boardroom in Mumbai, where English is dominant, but you will hear it in the staff quarters, in the kitchens, and in the small-town shops that form the backbone of the country.
Interestingly, in the plural घरवाले, the word is used by everyone, regardless of gender or marital status, to refer to their family members. If a student says, 'Mujhe gharvalon ki yaad aa rahi hai' (I am missing my family/people from home), they are using the same root to express a longing for their entire household. This broad application makes the word one of the most versatile in the Hindi vocabulary for describing human connections within the context of 'Home'.
For English speakers, the word घरवाला can be tricky because it doesn't have a direct 1:1 equivalent that covers all its nuances. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid:
- Mistake 1: Gender Confusion
- Using 'घरवाला' to refer to a wife. Remember, '-ā' is masculine. For a wife, you must use 'घरवाली' (gharvālī).
- Mistake 2: Over-Formality
- Using 'घरवाला' in a very formal speech or a professional presentation. In these cases, 'पति' (pati) or 'जीवनसाथी' (jeevansāthī - life partner) is more appropriate.
- Mistake 3: Plural vs. Singular
- Confusing 'घरवाला' (husband/owner) with 'घरवाले' (family). If you say 'मेरे घरवाले अच्छे हैं', people will think you are talking about your whole family, not just your husband.
Wrong: वह मेरी घरवाला है। (She is my husband - incorrect gender).
Right: वह मेरा घरवाला है। (He is my husband).
Another mistake is using the word to refer to just any man who happens to be inside a house. घरवाला implies a specific relationship of belonging or ownership. You wouldn't call a plumber working in your house a घरवाला. He is a काम करने वाला (worker). Similarly, don't confuse घरवाला with घरेलू (gharelū), which means 'domestic' or 'household-related' (e.g., domestic violence is घरेलू हिंसा).
Finally, be aware of regional variations. In some parts of India, घरवाला might sound slightly rural or uneducated to elitist ears. If you are in a high-society setting in South Delhi or South Mumbai, using this word might make you sound like you are mimicking a TV soap opera character. However, for 90% of Hindi speakers, it is a perfectly normal, warm, and acceptable word. Just gauge the environment before choosing between घरवाला, पति, or हसबैंड (the English loanword is very common now).
Hindi has a rich vocabulary for 'husband', each carrying a different register and emotional weight. Comparing घरवाला with these alternatives helps in choosing the right word for the right moment.
- Pati (पति)
- The most formal and standard term. Derived from Sanskrit, it literally means 'lord' or 'protector'. Used in legal contexts and formal introductions.
- Shauhar (शौहर)
- The Urdu-origin term for husband. It is very common among Muslim communities and in Hindi cinema/poetry. It sounds poetic and sophisticated.
- Barta (भर्ता)
- An archaic or highly literary Sanskrit term meaning 'one who supports'. Rarely used in daily speech.
- Sartaj (सरताज)
- Literally 'crown of the head'. Used figuratively in songs to mean a husband who is the pride of the wife.
तुलना: मेरा घरवाला (Colloquial) vs मेरे पति (Formal) vs मेरे शौहर (Urdu/Poetic).
When it comes to the meaning of 'house owner', the main alternative is मकान मालिक (makān mālik). While घरवाला is informal and relational, मकान मालिक is the standard term for a landlord. If you are dealing with a contract, always use the latter. Another related term is गृहस्वामी (gṛhasvāmī), which is a very formal Sanskritized way of saying 'master of the house'.
Understanding these synonyms allows you to decode the social standing and the relationship dynamic of the speaker. A woman using घरवाला is often signaling a down-to-earth, traditional, and comfortable domesticity. A woman using the English word 'husband' might be signaling her urban, modern education. Hindi speakers are very sensitive to these linguistic choices, and as a learner, choosing घरवाला in the right context can instantly build rapport with native speakers.
How Formal Is It?
"मेरे पति अभी कार्यालय में हैं।"
"मेरा घरवाला बाज़ार गया है।"
"अरे, मेरा घरवाला तो सुनता ही नहीं!"
"तुम्हारे पापा ही घर के घरवाले हैं।"
"मेरा वाला (merā vālā)"
Dato curioso
The suffix '-vala' is so productive in Hindi that it can be attached to almost any noun to create a profession or association, leading to famous terms like 'Dabbawala' (lunchbox carrier).
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing 'gh' as a plain 'g' (like 'garvala').
- Failing to aspirate the 'gh' sound.
- Using a retroflex 'L' instead of a dental 'L'.
- Pronouncing the 'v' as a hard 'w' as in 'water'.
- Shortening the final 'ā' sound.
Nivel de dificultad
Easy to read as it follows standard phonetic rules.
Requires knowledge of the 'gh' aspiration and the 'vālā' suffix.
The 'gh' sound can be difficult for non-native speakers to master.
Very common word, easily recognizable once learned.
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Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
The '-vālā' suffix turns nouns into adjectives or nouns of agency.
दूध (milk) + वाला = दूधवाला (milkman).
Masculine nouns ending in '-ā' change to '-e' in the oblique case.
घरवाला -> घरवाले को (to the husband).
Plural of respect (Honorific Plural) is common for husbands.
मेरा घरवाला आ रहा है (Normal) -> मेरे घरवाले आ रहे हैं (Respectful).
Possessive adjectives must match the gender of the noun.
मेरा (masc) घरवाला vs मेरी (fem) घरवाली.
Postpositions like 'ne' trigger the oblique form.
घरवाले ने खाना खाया।
Ejemplos por nivel
मेरा घरवाला यहाँ है।
My husband is here.
Simple subject-verb-object structure.
क्या यह आपका घरवाला है?
Is this your husband?
Interrogative sentence with possessive pronoun.
घरवाला काम करता है।
The husband works.
Present indefinite tense.
मेरा घरवाला अच्छा है।
My husband is good.
Adjective 'achhā' agrees with masculine 'gharvālā'.
वह घरवाला है।
He is the man of the house.
Basic identification.
घरवाला खाना खाता है।
The husband eats food.
Simple present tense.
मेरा घरवाला कहाँ है?
Where is my husband?
Question word 'kāhān' (where).
घरवाला सो रहा है।
The husband is sleeping.
Present continuous tense.
मेरे घरवाले बाज़ार गए हैं।
My husband has gone to the market.
Use of plural 'gharvāle' for respect.
घरवाले ने मुझे बुलाया।
The husband/landlord called me.
Oblique case 'gharvāle' before postposition 'ne'.
क्या आपके घरवाले घर पर हैं?
Is your husband at home?
Polite plural usage.
मेरे घरवाले को चाय पसंद है।
My husband likes tea.
Dative construction with 'ko'.
घरवाले से पूछो।
Ask the husband/house-owner.
Imperative with postposition 'se'.
वह अपने घरवाले के साथ रहती है।
She lives with her husband.
Postposition 'ke sāth' requires oblique 'gharvāle'.
घरवाले की बात सुनो।
Listen to the husband/man of the house.
Possessive 'kī' before feminine 'bāt'.
आज घरवाले का जन्मदिन है।
Today is the husband's birthday.
Possessive 'kā' before masculine 'janmdin'.
मेरे घरवाले बहुत मेहनती इंसान हैं।
My husband is a very hardworking person.
Combining respect plural with adjectives.
जब घरवाला घर पर नहीं होता, तो सन्नाटा रहता है।
When the husband is not at home, there is silence.
Conditional 'jab...to' structure.
घरवाले ने नया घर खरीदने का फैसला किया है।
The husband has decided to buy a new house.
Perfect tense with 'ne'.
मेरे घरवाले को पुरानी फ़िल्में देखना अच्छा लगता है।
My husband likes watching old movies.
Gerund 'dekhnā' as an object.
क्या आपके घरवाले को यह तोहफ़ा पसंद आएगा?
Will your husband like this gift?
Future tense with 'pasand ānā'.
घरवाले के बिना सफ़र करना मुश्किल है।
It is difficult to travel without the husband.
Postposition 'ke binā'.
मेरे घरवाले ने मुझे गाड़ी चलाना सिखाया।
My husband taught me how to drive.
Transitive verb in past tense.
आजकल घरवाले काम के सिलसिले में बाहर हैं।
Nowadays, my husband is away for work.
Adverbial phrase 'kaam ke silsile mein'.
घरवाला और बाहरवाला, दोनों की ज़िम्मेदारियाँ अलग होती हैं।
The responsibilities of the husband and the outsider are different.
Contrastive use of 'vālā' words.
मेरी सहेली अपने घरवाले की आदतों से परेशान है।
My friend is troubled by her husband's habits.
Possessive 'kī' with feminine 'ādaton'.
घरवाले को समझाना इतना आसान नहीं है।
It is not that easy to make the husband understand.
Infinitive 'samjhānā' as a subject.
क्या तुम अपने घरवाले के लिए खाना बना रही हो?
Are you cooking for your husband?
Postposition 'ke liye'.
घरवाले की अनुपस्थिति में उसने सारा काम संभाला।
In the husband's absence, she handled all the work.
Formal word 'anupasthiti' with 'gharvālā'.
मेरे घरवाले ने हमेशा मेरे सपनों का समर्थन किया है।
My husband has always supported my dreams.
Present perfect with 'ne'.
वह अपने घरवाले के साथ एक छोटे से गाँव में रहती है।
She lives in a small village with her husband.
Adjective 'chhote se' agreeing with 'gāon'.
घरवाले के रिटायरमेंट के बाद वे तीर्थयात्रा पर गए।
After the husband's retirement, they went on a pilgrimage.
Compound word 'tīrthayātrā'.
भारतीय समाज में 'घरवाला' शब्द केवल एक रिश्ता नहीं, एक भूमिका है।
In Indian society, the word 'gharvālā' is not just a relationship, but a role.
Analytical sentence structure.
उसने अपने घरवाले के खिलाफ आवाज़ उठाने की हिम्मत जुटाई।
She gathered the courage to raise her voice against her husband.
Complex verb phrase 'himmat jutānā'.
घरवाले की रूढ़िवादी सोच ने उसे आगे बढ़ने से रोका।
The husband's conservative thinking stopped her from moving forward.
Abstract noun 'soch' (thought).
साहित्य में 'घरवाला' अक्सर एक रक्षक और शासक के रूप में चित्रित होता है।
In literature, 'gharvālā' is often portrayed as a protector and a ruler.
Passive-like construction 'chitrit hotā hai'.
उसने अपने घरवाले की याद में एक कविता लिखी।
She wrote a poem in memory of her husband.
Prepositional phrase 'kī yaad mein'.
घरवाले के अचानक निधन ने परिवार को बिखेर दिया।
The husband's sudden demise shattered the family.
Formal vocabulary 'nidhan' (demise).
अपने घरवाले के सहयोग से उसने अपनी पढ़ाई पूरी की।
With her husband's cooperation, she completed her studies.
Instrumental 'ke sahyog se'.
शहर की चकाचौंध में वह अपने घरवाले को नहीं भूली।
In the dazzle of the city, she did not forget her husband.
Metaphorical 'chakāchaudh'.
पितृसत्तात्मक व्यवस्था में 'घरवाला' शब्द सत्ता का प्रतीक बन जाता है।
In a patriarchal system, the word 'gharvālā' becomes a symbol of power.
Sociological terminology.
क्या 'घरवाला' कहना स्त्री की स्वायत्तता को कम करना है?
Is saying 'gharvālā' a reduction of a woman's autonomy?
Rhetorical question.
उसने अपने घरवाले के वर्चस्व को चुनौती देने का साहस किया।
She dared to challenge her husband's dominance.
High-level noun 'varchasva' (dominance).
लोकगीतों में 'घरवाला' का चित्रण अक्सर विरह और मिलन के इर्द-गिर्द घूमता है।
The portrayal of 'gharvālā' in folk songs often revolves around separation and union.
Complex phrase 'ird-gird ghūmnā'.
उसने अपने घरवाले के साथ मिलकर एक नया सामाजिक ढांचा तैयार किया।
Together with her husband, she prepared a new social framework.
Collaborative 'milkar'.
घरवाले की संकीर्ण मानसिकता उसके विकास में बाधक बनी।
The husband's narrow-mindedness became an obstacle in her development.
Abstract 'sankīrn mānasiktā'.
उसने अपने घरवाले के प्रति अपने कर्तव्यों का बखूबी निर्वहन किया।
She performed her duties toward her husband excellently.
Advanced verb 'nirvahan karnā'.
आधुनिक नारीवाद 'घरवाला' जैसे शब्दों की पुनर्व्याख्या करने की मांग करता है।
Modern feminism demands a reinterpretation of words like 'gharvālā'.
Academic 'punarvyākhyā'.
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— The husband is not at home. Used to explain his absence.
अभी घरवाला घर में नहीं है, बाद में आना।
— Ask your husband. Often said when a woman needs permission.
मुझसे क्या पूछती हो, अपने घरवाले से पूछो।
— The husband earns. Refers to the male as the breadwinner.
उसका घरवाला दुबई में कमाता है।
— The husband is sick. A common domestic update.
आज मैं नहीं आ पाऊँगी, घरवाला बीमार है।
— Fear/respect of the husband. Refers to traditional authority.
उसे अपने घरवाले का बहुत डर रहता है।
— The support of the husband. Implies stability.
बुढ़ापे में घरवाले का सहारा ही काफी है।
— Talk about the husband. Usually gossip or domestic news.
वह हमेशा अपने घरवाले की बातें करती रहती है।
— The husband's anger. A common topic in domestic life.
आज घरवाले का गुस्सा सातवें आसमान पर है।
Se confunde a menudo con
This is the feminine version, meaning wife. Don't mix them up!
This is the plural form and usually means 'family members'. Context is key.
This is an adjective meaning 'domestic', not a person.
Modismos y expresiones
— An insider (like a gharvālā) who knows secrets can cause total destruction. Based on the Ramayana.
सावधान रहो, घर का भेदी लंका ढाए।
Classic/Proverb— Familiar things (or people like a gharvālā) are often undervalued. Like 'familiarity breeds contempt'.
वह अपनी पत्नी की कद्र नहीं करता, उसके लिए तो घर की मुर्गी दाल बराबर है।
Common— Belonging nowhere. Can apply to a 'gharvālā' who has lost his standing.
नौकरी जाने के बाद वह कहीं का नहीं रहा, न घर का न घाट का।
Metaphorical— To get married and start a home (literally 'to settle a house').
अब तुम्हें भी अपना घर बसा लेना चाहिए।
Common— To create a huge racket or noise in the house.
जब घरवाला आता है, तो बच्चे घर सिर पर उठा लेते हैं।
Informal— To destroy one's own home/resources for a momentary pleasure.
जुआ खेलकर उसने घर फूँक तमाशा देखा।
Sarcastic— To be the king of one's own home. Every 'gharvālā' feels this.
हर कोई अपने घर का राजा होता है।
Proverbial— A story common to every household (often used for marital issues).
सास-बहू का झगड़ा तो घर-घर की कहानी है।
Modern/TV— The 'lamp' of the house; usually refers to a son, but sometimes the husband.
वह अपने घर का इकलौता चिराग है।
Emotional— The 'Goddess Lakshmi' of the house; usually the wife (gharvālī).
बहू तो घर की लक्ष्मी होती है।
TraditionalFácil de confundir
Both can mean 'house owner'.
Makan malik is formal and strictly professional; Gharvala is informal and can also mean husband.
मकान मालिक ने नोटिस दिया है।
Both mean 'husband'.
Pati is formal and Sanskrit-based; Gharvala is casual and Hindi-based.
वह मेरे पति हैं।
Both can refer to a man in the house.
Admi just means 'man'; Gharvala implies a specific relationship to the house/family.
वह एक अच्छा आदमी है।
Opposite terms.
Gharvala is an insider; Baharvala is an outsider.
किसी बाहरवाले को अंदर मत आने देना।
Both refer to people in the house.
Sadasya is 'member' (neutral); Gharvala is specifically the male head or husband.
वह घर का सदस्य है।
Patrones de oraciones
[Possessive] घरवाला [Adjective] है।
मेरा घरवाला लंबा है।
[Possessive] घरवाले [Verb-Plural-Respect] हैं।
मेरे घरवाले सो रहे हैं।
जब [Subject] आता है, [Gharvala] [Action] करता है।
जब मेहमान आता है, घरवाला चाय बनाता है।
[Gharvala] के बिना [Activity] करना [Adjective] है।
घरवाले के बिना बाहर जाना मुश्किल है।
यद्यपि [Gharvala] [Condition], फिर भी [Action]।
यद्यपि घरवाला थका हुआ था, फिर भी उसने काम किया।
[Gharvala] की भूमिका का [Noun] करना आवश्यक है।
घरवाले की भूमिका का विश्लेषण करना आवश्यक है।
यह [Possessive] घरवाला है।
यह मेरा घरवाला है।
[Gharvala] को [Noun] पसंद है।
घरवाले को आम पसंद है।
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Extremely high in daily North Indian life.
-
Using 'gharvālā' for a wife.
→
gharvālī
'-ā' is masculine, '-ī' is feminine. This is a basic but frequent error for beginners.
-
Saying 'Mera gharvālā' to a landlord.
→
Gharvālā / Makan Malik
Adding 'mera' (my) makes it sound like you are claiming the landlord as your husband!
-
Pronouncing it 'Gar-vala'.
→
Ghar-vālā
The 'gh' is aspirated. Without the 'h' sound, it sounds like a different, incorrect word.
-
Using 'gharvālā' in a formal letter.
→
pati
'Gharvālā' is too informal for official correspondence or formal writing.
-
Confusing 'gharvālā' with 'gharelū'.
→
gharvālā
'Gharelū' is an adjective (domestic), while 'gharvālā' is a noun (person).
Consejos
Suffix Power
Master the '-vālā' suffix. It’s a magic wand in Hindi that turns nouns into people. 'Ghar' + 'vala' = house person.
Inside vs Outside
Remember that 'ghar' is a sacred space in India. Being the 'gharvala' means you are the protector of that sacred space.
Landlord Etiquette
When talking to your landlord, calling him 'gharvale' can sometimes sound a bit too familiar. Stick to 'Makan Malik' for business.
The 'Gh' Sound
Don't ignore the 'h' in 'ghar'. It's not 'gar'. Imagine you are sighing while saying 'g'.
Gender Pairs
Always learn 'gharvālā' and 'gharvālī' together. They are the Adam and Eve of Hindi domestic vocabulary.
Contextual Clues
If someone asks 'Gharvale kaise hain?', they are asking about the family. If they ask 'Gharvala kahan hai?', they mean the husband.
Respect Plural
In writing, if you want to show a character is traditional, have her use 'mere gharvale' with plural verbs.
Vowel Length
The final 'ā' in 'vālā' is long. Make sure you don't cut it short, or it will sound like a different word.
Possession
Always use a possessive pronoun (mera/apka) with 'gharvala' when referring to a husband.
The 'Home-er'
Think of it as 'The Home-er'. The one who homes. That's your husband or landlord.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of 'Ghar' as 'Garage' (a place at home) and 'Vala' as 'Value'. The man who adds 'Value' to the 'Ghar' is the 'Gharvala' (husband).
Asociación visual
Imagine a man standing in the doorway of a house, holding a key. He is the 'Ghar-vala' (House-man).
Word Web
Desafío
Try to use 'gharvala' in three different sentences today: one about your husband (or a friend's), one about a landlord, and one using the plural for family.
Origen de la palabra
Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Gṛha' (home) which became 'Ghar' in Prakrit and then Hindi. The suffix '-vālā' comes from the Sanskrit 'pālaka' (protector/keeper) or 'vāla' (possessing).
Significado original: The keeper or protector of the home.
Indo-AryanContexto cultural
Be careful using 'Gharvālā' for a landlord in a formal legal dispute; use 'Makan Malik' instead to sound more serious.
English speakers often struggle with the lack of a direct equivalent. 'Husband' is too formal, and 'my man' is too slangy. 'Gharvālā' sits perfectly in the middle.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
At Home
- घरवाला आ गया
- घरवाला सो रहा है
- घरवाले से पूछूँगी
- मेरा घरवाला कहाँ है?
Neighborhood Gossip
- उनका घरवाला कैसा है?
- उसका घरवाला बहुत मारता है
- घरवाले की नौकरी छूट गई
- नया घरवाला आया है
Renting a House
- घरवाला किराया लेने आया है
- घरवाले से बात करो
- घरवाला मरम्मत नहीं कराता
- क्या घरवाला यहाँ रहता है?
Family Gatherings
- सारे घरवाले आए हैं
- घरवाले मान गए
- मेरे घरवाले नाराज़ हैं
- घरवाले क्या कहेंगे?
Market/Shopping
- घरवाले के लिए कुर्ता
- घरवाले को यह पसंद नहीं
- घरवाले से पैसे लेने हैं
- घरवाले के साथ आई हूँ
Inicios de conversación
"नमस्ते, क्या आपके घरवाला घर पर हैं?"
"आपके घरवाले क्या काम करते हैं?"
"क्या आपके घरवाले को भारतीय खाना पसंद है?"
"मेरे घरवाले आज बहुत खुश हैं, क्या आप जानते हैं क्यों?"
"क्या आपके घरवाले ने आपको कभी हिंदी सिखाई?"
Temas para diario
अपने घरवाले (या भविष्य के घरवाले) के बारे में पाँच वाक्य लिखिए।
क्या आपको लगता है कि 'घरवाला' शब्द 'पति' से बेहतर है? क्यों?
एक कहानी लिखिए जहाँ एक घरवाला अपने परिवार के लिए कुछ खास करता है।
अपने मकान मालिक (घरवाले) के साथ एक काल्पनिक बातचीत लिखिए।
आपके देश में 'घरवाला' शब्द का क्या विकल्प है और उसका क्या अर्थ है?
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasUsually, no. 'Gharvala' implies a husband or a man you are living with in a stable, domestic arrangement. For a boyfriend, use 'dost' or the English word 'boyfriend'.
Not at all. It is a warm, colloquial term. However, avoid it in extremely formal situations like a visa interview or a corporate meeting.
No. It can also mean the male owner of the house (landlord). The context will tell you which one it is.
The plural is 'gharvale'. It can mean multiple husbands (rare), a respectful singular for one husband, or 'family members' in general.
Use 'mere gharvale' (plural) instead of 'mera gharvala' (singular). This is a common way to show respect in Hindi.
Yes, a man can say 'Main is ghar ka gharvala hoon' to mean 'I am the master/owner of this house'.
Neither is 'better'. 'Shauhar' is Urdu-based and sounds more romantic/poetic. 'Gharvala' is Hindi-based and sounds more domestic/practical.
In Hindi, pluralizing a person is a way to show honor (Respectful Plural). It is very common when talking about elders or husbands.
Only by Hindi speakers living there. South Indian languages have their own words for husband (like 'bharta' or 'kanavan').
Rarely. A son is usually 'beta' or 'ladka'. 'Gharvala' specifically implies the 'man' who heads or belongs to the house as a peer or owner.
Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas
Write a sentence using 'घरवाला' to mean husband.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'घरवाले' for your family.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'My husband likes mangoes.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe your 'Gharvala' (husband or landlord) in three sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a dialogue between a tenant and a 'Gharvala' (landlord).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain the difference between 'Pati' and 'Gharvala' in Hindi.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a short story about a woman waiting for her 'Gharvala'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'Gharvala' in a sentence about a house owner.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Is your husband at home?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write an idiom that uses the word 'Ghar'.
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Translate: 'I am going with my husband.'
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Write a sentence using 'Gharvala' in the past tense.
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Translate: 'The landlord is very angry.'
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Write a sentence using 'Gharvala' in the future tense.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Without my husband, I am lonely.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using the respectful plural 'Gharvale'.
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Translate: 'Her husband is a teacher.'
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Write a sentence about a 'Gharvala' and his children.
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Translate: 'Ask your husband first.'
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Write a sentence using 'Gharvala' in a question form.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce 'घरवाला' correctly.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'My husband is at work' in Hindi.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Ask 'Where is your husband?' in a respectful way.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Tell someone that the landlord is coming tomorrow.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Describe your family using 'घरवाले'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'I need to ask my husband' in Hindi.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Pronounce the plural 'घरवाले'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Explain the literal meaning of 'Gharvala'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The landlord asked for money'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Introduce your husband to a friend casually.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'My husband is very hardworking'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Ask 'Is the owner of the house here?'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'I live with my husband'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Pronounce 'Gharvali' for comparison.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The house-man is sleeping'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'My family lives in India'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'Don't tell my husband'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'My husband's name is John'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Ask 'How is your husband now?'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'He is the man of the house'.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Listen to 'Mera gharvala bimar hai'. What is wrong?
Listen to 'Gharvale kab aenge?'. Who is the speaker asking about?
Listen to 'Gharvale ne kiraya liya'. What happened?
In 'Mere gharvale achhe hain', how many people are likely being discussed?
Listen to 'Gharvala dukan par hai'. Where is he?
Listen to 'Gharvale se pucho'. What should you do?
Listen to 'Vah mera gharvala hai'. What is the relationship?
Listen to 'Gharvala gusse mein hai'. How is he feeling?
Listen to 'Gharvale ki suno'. What is the advice?
Listen to 'Mera gharvala kal lautega'. When is he returning?
Listen to 'Gharvala thaka hua hai'. How is he?
Listen to 'Uska gharvala doctor hai'. What is his job?
Listen to 'Gharvale ko namaste kaho'. What should you do?
Listen to 'Gharvale ne khana khaya'. Did he eat?
Listen to 'Gharvale ke sath jao'. Who should you go with?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Gharvālā is the go-to word for 'husband' in everyday Hindi. While 'pati' is the textbook term, 'gharvālā' adds a layer of domestic belonging. Example: 'Mera gharvālā dukan par hai' (My husband is at the shop).
- A common colloquial term for 'husband' in Hindi.
- Literally means 'the man belonging to the house'.
- Can also refer to a male landlord or house owner.
- Used respectfully in plural form as 'gharvale' for a single person.
Suffix Power
Master the '-vālā' suffix. It’s a magic wand in Hindi that turns nouns into people. 'Ghar' + 'vala' = house person.
Inside vs Outside
Remember that 'ghar' is a sacred space in India. Being the 'gharvala' means you are the protector of that sacred space.
Landlord Etiquette
When talking to your landlord, calling him 'gharvale' can sometimes sound a bit too familiar. Stick to 'Makan Malik' for business.
The 'Gh' Sound
Don't ignore the 'h' in 'ghar'. It's not 'gar'. Imagine you are sighing while saying 'g'.
Contenido relacionado
Gramática relacionada
Más palabras de family
आबाद
B1Habitado, próspero; poblado y floreciente.
आँचल
B1El extremo del sari (símbolo de la protección materna).
आचरण
B1The way a person behaves; conduct.
आँगन
A2Un patio interior sin techo rodeado por las paredes de una casa. Es el centro de la vida familiar en la India.
आंगन
A2Un patio interior descubierto.
आग्रह करना
B1Solicitar o pedir encarecidamente a alguien que haga algo.
आज्ञा
B1Una orden o permiso formal.
आज्ञा का पालन करना
B1Obedecer órdenes o mandatos.
आज्ञा मानना
A2Obedecer una orden o regla. (Él obedeció a su padre. / Ella debe obedecer las leyes.)
आज्ञा पालन करना
B1Obedecer
