चालाकी करना en 30 secondes

  • To act cunningly, artfully, or slyly.
  • Implies clever but often indirect or deceitful methods.
  • Used in situations requiring strategy or outsmarting others.
  • Can have positive or negative connotations depending on context.
Core Meaning
To act cunningly, craftily, or artfully; to employ clever but often deceitful tactics to achieve a goal. It implies a level of shrewdness and a tendency to outsmart others.
Nuance
While it can sometimes be used for positive cleverness, it often carries a negative connotation, suggesting manipulation, slyness, or trickery. The intent behind the action is crucial in determining its ethical standing.
Situational Usage
This phrase is commonly used in contexts involving negotiations, games, business dealings, political maneuvering, or any situation where individuals might try to gain an advantage through subtle or indirect means. It can describe the behavior of a shrewd salesperson, a cunning politician, or even a mischievous child trying to get their way.
Figurative Use
Beyond human interaction, 'चालाकी करना' can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe how nature or inanimate objects exhibit clever or unexpected behaviors, though this is less common.

The merchant was known to चालाकी करना in his deals, always ensuring he got the best price.

Don't try to चालाकी करना with me; I know exactly what you're up to.

The fox is often depicted as someone who चालाकी करना to escape danger in fables.

She had to चालाकी करना to get the information without raising suspicion.

In the game of chess, players constantly चालाकी करना to outmaneuver their opponents.

Basic Structure
The phrase 'चालाकी करना' typically follows a subject and can be modified by adverbs or phrases that indicate the manner or purpose of the action. It functions as a verb phrase.
Subject + चालाकी करना
This is the most straightforward usage. Example: 'वह हमेशा चालाकी करता है।' (He always acts cunningly.)
Subject + Adverb + चालाकी करना
Adding an adverb provides more detail about the cunning action. Example: 'उसने चतुराई से चालाकी की।' (He cunningly acted artfully.) Note: 'चतुराई से' (chaturai se) means skillfully/cleverly.
Subject + Purpose/Object + चालाकी करना
Sentences can specify what the cunning action is aimed at. Example: 'उसने पैसे बचाने के लिए चालाकी की।' (He acted cunningly to save money.)
Past Tense
The verb 'करना' conjugates according to tense and gender. Example: 'उसने चालाकी की।' (He/She acted cunningly.)
Future Tense
Example: 'वह ज़रूर चालाकी करेगा।' (He will surely act cunningly.)
Imperative
Example: 'ऐसी चालाकी मत करो!' (Don't act so cunningly!)

The politician tried to चालाकी करना to win the election.

She was too smart to let him चालाकी करना.

The children were चालाकी करना to get extra dessert.

He realized that his plan to चालाकी करना had failed.

The lawyer advised his client not to चालाकी करना during the cross-examination.

Everyday Conversations
You'll frequently hear 'चालाकी करना' in casual conversations, often when people are discussing someone's shrewd behavior, a clever trick, or a situation where someone gained an advantage through artful means. For example, friends might talk about how one of them managed to get a discount by 'चालाकी करना' or how a sibling 'चालाकी' to avoid chores.
Media and Entertainment
This phrase is common in movies, TV shows, and books, especially in genres like thrillers, comedies, or dramas where characters employ clever schemes or deceptions. Think of a detective outsmarting a suspect, a con artist executing a plan, or a character in a historical drama using their wit to navigate court politics.
Business and Politics
In discussions about business strategies, negotiations, or political campaigns, 'चालाकी करना' might be used to describe sharp tactics, market maneuvering, or political strategies that are perceived as artful or even manipulative. News analysts or commentators might use it to describe a politician's clever move.
Fables and Storytelling
Traditional stories and fables often feature characters, like the fox or a clever merchant, who are known to 'चालाकी करना'. These stories use the phrase to illustrate the character's intelligence and their methods of overcoming obstacles or outwitting others.
Legal Contexts
While less direct, the concept of 'चालाकी करना' can surface in discussions about legal arguments or defense strategies, where lawyers might employ clever tactics to present their case or challenge opposing arguments. However, more formal legal terminology would likely be used in official documents.

The commentator remarked, 'The opposition party is trying to चालाकी करना to sway public opinion.'

In the children's story, the rabbit always managed to चालाकी करना and escape the wolf.

My friend successfully negotiated a great deal by चालाकी करना with the seller.

The movie's villain was known for his elaborate schemes and tendency to चालाकी करना.

He accused his business partner of trying to चालाकी करना behind his back.

Confusing with Simple Cleverness
Mistake: Using 'चालाकी करना' for any instance of being clever or smart. Correct Usage: While 'चालाकी करना' involves cleverness, it often implies a degree of slyness, artfulness, or even deceit. For simple cleverness or intelligence, words like 'बुद्धिमान होना' (buddhiman hona - to be intelligent) or 'होशियार होना' (hoshiyar hona - to be smart/clever) are more appropriate.
Overuse in Positive Contexts
Mistake: Assuming 'चालाकी करना' is always a compliment. Correct Usage: The phrase often carries a negative connotation of trickery or manipulation. While it can sometimes describe admirable ingenuity, it's more commonly used critically or to describe ethically questionable actions. Use with caution when praising someone's actions.
Grammatical Errors with 'करना'
Mistake: Incorrectly conjugating the verb 'करना'. Correct Usage: Remember that 'करना' must agree with the subject in gender, number, and tense. For example, 'वह चालाकी करता है' (masculine, present), 'वे चालाकी करते हैं' (plural, present), 'उसने चालाकी की' (past tense).
Using it for Honest Actions
Mistake: Describing straightforward, honest actions as 'चालाकी करना'. Correct Usage: This phrase implies indirectness, artifice, or a hidden motive. If someone achieves something through honest hard work or direct negotiation, it's not 'चालाकी करना'.
Literal Translation Issues
Mistake: Trying to find a single English word that perfectly translates 'चालाकी करना' in every context. Correct Usage: The best English equivalent depends heavily on the specific situation. It could be 'to act cunningly,' 'to be artful,' 'to pull a fast one,' 'to play a trick,' or 'to be sly,' among others. Understanding the nuance is key.

Incorrect: 'वह बहुत चालाकी करता है क्योंकि वह होशियार है।' (He acts very cunningly because he is smart.) Correct: 'वह बहुत होशियार है।' (He is very smart.)

Incorrect: 'उसने अपनी मेहनत से चालाकी की।' (He acted cunningly with his hard work.) Correct: 'उसने अपनी मेहनत से सफलता पाई।' (He achieved success with his hard work.)

Incorrect: 'मैंने उसे चालाकी करने के लिए धन्यवाद दिया।' (I thanked him for acting cunningly.) Correct: Depending on the context, it might be 'मैंने उसकी चतुराई की प्रशंसा की।' (I praised his cleverness.) if it was a positive cleverness.

धोखा देना (Dhokha Dena)
Meaning: To deceive, to cheat. Difference: 'धोखा देना' is more direct about betrayal and dishonesty. 'चालाकी करना' is about the method used, which might involve deception but is more focused on the artful execution.
चाल चलना (Chaal Chalna)
Meaning: To make a move, to hatch a plan (often a cunning one). Difference: 'चाल चलना' can refer to any plan or strategy, but often implies a shrewd or cunning one, similar to 'चालाकी करना'. However, 'चालाकी करना' specifically emphasizes the act of being artful or sly in execution, while 'चाल चलना' focuses more on the plan itself.
छल करना (Chhal Karna)
Meaning: To trick, to practice deception. Difference: Very close to 'धोखा देना' and 'चालाकी करना'. 'छल करना' emphasizes the trickery and deceit involved. It's often used for more overt acts of trickery than the subtle artfulness implied by 'चालाकी करना'.
होशियारी दिखाना (Hoshiyari Dikhana)
Meaning: To show cleverness or smartness. Difference: This phrase is generally more positive and neutral. It refers to displaying intelligence or smartness, which can be admirable. 'चालाकी करना' often implies that the cleverness is used for personal gain, sometimes at the expense of others, and involves more artifice.
चतुराई से काम लेना (Chaturai Se Kaam Lena)
Meaning: To act wisely/skillfully, to use intelligence. Difference: This is a more positive and neutral term, focusing on intelligent and skillful problem-solving. It lacks the negative or manipulative undertones that 'चालाकी करना' can carry. It's about applying intelligence effectively and smartly.
मक़र करना (Makkar Karna)
Meaning: To be deceitful, to be sly. Difference: 'मक़र करना' specifically refers to being sly, cunning, and deceitful. It's very close in meaning to the negative aspects of 'चालाकी करना', perhaps even stronger in its implication of malice or deep-seated deceit.

He didn't just cheat; he used elaborate चालाकी करना to make it look legitimate.

Instead of directly confronting, she decided to चाल चलना.

The magician performed a trick using छल.

She showed great होशियारी in solving the complex problem.

The manager used चतुराई से to resolve the conflict between employees.

He was known to मक़र करना, always hiding his true intentions.

How Formal Is It?

Neutre

""

Informel

""

Child friendly

""

Le savais-tu ?

The concept of the 'cunning trickster' is prevalent in folklore across many cultures, and the Hindi word 'चालाकी' perfectly encapsulates this character archetype. From the fox in Aesop's fables to the clever protagonists in Indian mythology, the idea of using wit and artifice to overcome challenges is universal.

Guide de prononciation

UK /tʃɑː.lɑː.kʰiː kər.nɑː/
US /tʃɑː.lɑː.kʰiː kər.nɑː/
The primary stress falls on the first syllable 'चा' (chaa) of 'चालाकी' (chalaki) and the first syllable 'क' (kar) of 'करना' (karna).
Rime avec
जाना (jaana) खाना (khaana) आना (aana) बनाना (banaana) सुहाना (suhaana) पहचाना (pehchaana) बताना (bataana) नहाना (nahaana)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'चालाकी' as 'चालकी' (dropping the 'a' sound).
  • Not aspirating the 'kh' sound in 'चालाकी', making it sound like 'चलाकी'.
  • Pronouncing 'करना' with a flat 'r' instead of a rolled 'r'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Understanding 'चालाकी करना' in reading requires grasping the nuance of cunning, which can range from admirable cleverness to deceit. Context is key to interpreting its meaning accurately. Learners should pay attention to surrounding words and the overall tone of the text.

Écriture 3/5

Using 'चालाकी करना' correctly in writing involves choosing the right context and ensuring the grammatical conjugation is accurate. Learners should be aware of the potential negative connotations and use it appropriately, perhaps opting for synonyms in more formal or sensitive writing.

Expression orale 3/5

When speaking, the tone of voice significantly impacts the perception of 'चालाकी करना'. Learners should practice using it in different contexts to understand how to convey admiration for cleverness versus criticism of deceit. Correct pronunciation and conjugation are also important.

Écoute 3/5

Listening for 'चालाकी करना' requires paying attention to the speaker's tone and the situation. It might be used admiringly for a clever solution or critically for a deceptive act. Understanding these subtleties is crucial for comprehension.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

करना (karna - to do) चाल (chaal - move, strategy) चतुर (chatur - clever) होशियार (hoshiyar - smart) धोखा (dhokha - deceit)

Apprends ensuite

धूर्त (dhoort - cunning, sly) छल (chhal - trick, deceit) दाँव पेंच (daanv pech - tactics, stratagems) मक़र (makkar - deceitful, sly) रणनीति (ranneeti - strategy)

Avancé

कुटिल (kutil - crooked, cunning) वक्र (vakra - curved, indirect) मायावी (mayavi - illusory, deceptive) छल-कपट (chhal-kapat - deceit and fraud) षड्यंत्र (shadyantra - conspiracy)

Grammaire à connaître

Verb Conjugation of 'करना'

Remember that 'करना' changes based on gender, number, and tense. For 'चालाकी करना', it would be 'करता है' (masculine present), 'करती है' (feminine present), 'किया' (past), 'करेगा' (future), etc.

Use of 'से' with Nouns

The adverbial phrase 'चालाकी से' (cunningly) is formed by adding 'से' (se) to the noun 'चालाकी' (chalaki).

Object Pronouns

When 'चालाकी करना' is directed towards someone, object pronouns are used: 'मुझसे चालाकी मत करो' (Don't act cunningly with me).

Past Tense Ergative Construction

For transitive verbs in the past tense, the ergative case is used: 'उसने चालाकी की' (Usne chalaki ki - He/She acted cunningly).

Adjective formation

The adjective 'चालाक' (chalak) means cunning. It can modify nouns: 'चालाक लोमड़ी' (chalak lomdi - cunning fox).

Exemples par niveau

1

बच्चा चालाकी कर रहा है।

The child is acting cunningly.

'बच्चा' (bachcha) - child (masculine singular). 'कर रहा है' (kar raha hai) - is doing (present continuous, masculine singular).

2

वह चालाकी मत करो।

Don't do that cunningly.

'वह' (vah) - that. 'मत करो' (mat karo) - don't do (imperative, informal).

3

कुत्ता चालाकी से भागा।

The dog ran away cunningly.

'कुत्ता' (kutta) - dog (masculine singular). 'से भागा' (se bhaga) - ran away (past tense, masculine singular).

4

उसने चालाकी की।

He/She acted cunningly.

'उसने' (usne) - he/she (ergative case). 'की' (ki) - did (past tense, feminine singular, agreeing with 'चालाकी').

5

यह चालाकी है।

This is cunningness.

'यह' (yah) - this. 'है' (hai) - is.

6

बिल्ली चालाकी से आई।

The cat came cunningly.

'बिल्ली' (billi) - cat (feminine singular). 'आई' (aayi) - came (past tense, feminine singular).

7

मुझे चालाकी पसंद नहीं।

I don't like cunningness.

'मुझे' (mujhe) - to me. 'पसंद नहीं' (pasand nahin) - don't like.

8

वह चालाकी से काम करता है।

He works cunningly.

'काम करता है' (kaam karta hai) - works (present tense, masculine singular).

1

उसने नौकरी पाने के लिए चालाकी की।

He acted cunningly to get the job.

'नौकरी पाने के लिए' (naukri paane ke liye) - to get the job. 'चालाकी की' (chalaki ki) - acted cunningly (past tense).

2

यह चालाकी का खेल है।

This is a game of cunning.

'का खेल है' (ka khel hai) - is a game of.

3

हमें उसकी चालाकी नहीं करनी चाहिए।

We should not act cunningly.

'हमें' (hamein) - we. 'नहीं करनी चाहिए' (nahin karni chahiye) - should not do.

4

वह हमेशा चालाकी से बच निकलता है।

He always escapes by acting cunningly.

'बच निकलता है' (bach nikalta hai) - escapes (present tense).

5

दुकानदार ने चालाकी से ज़्यादा पैसे लिए।

The shopkeeper cunningly took more money.

'दुकानदार' (dukandar) - shopkeeper. 'ज़्यादा पैसे लिए' (zyada paise liye) - took more money.

6

बच्चों ने चालाकी से मिठाई चुराई।

The children cunningly stole the sweets.

'मिठाई चुराई' (mithai churayi) - stole sweets (past tense, feminine singular).

7

यह चालाकी नहीं, बल्कि समझदारी है।

This is not cunningness, but wisdom.

'बल्कि' (balki) - but rather. 'समझदारी' (samajhdari) - wisdom.

8

उसे चालाकी करना पसंद नहीं है।

He doesn't like to act cunningly.

'पसंद नहीं है' (pasand nahin hai) - does not like.

1

उसने अपने प्रतिद्वंद्वी को मात देने के लिए चालाकी का सहारा लिया।

He resorted to cunning to defeat his rival.

'प्रतिद्वंद्वी' (pratidvandvi) - rival. 'मात देने के लिए' (maat dene ke liye) - to defeat. 'सहारा लिया' (sahara liya) - resorted to.

2

बाजार में सफल होने के लिए थोड़ी चालाकी करना ज़रूरी है।

A little cunning is necessary to succeed in the market.

'बाजार में सफल होने के लिए' (bazaar mein safal hone ke liye) - to succeed in the market. 'थोड़ी' (thodi) - a little. 'ज़रूरी है' (zaruri hai) - is necessary.

3

वह हमेशा दूसरों की भावनाओं से चालाकी करता है।

He always manipulates others' emotions.

'दूसरों की भावनाओं से' (doosron ki bhavnaon se) - with others' emotions. 'करता है' (karta hai) - does/acts.

4

राजनीति में चालाकी करना एक आम बात है।

Acting cunningly is common in politics.

'राजनीति में' (rajneeti mein) - in politics. 'आम बात है' (aam baat hai) - is a common thing.

5

उसने अपनी चतुराई से चालाकी को छुपाया।

He hid his cunning with his cleverness.

'चतुराई से' (chaturai se) - with cleverness. 'छुपाया' (chhupaya) - hid (past tense).

6

धोखेबाज़ अक्सर चालाकी का इस्तेमाल करते हैं।

Deceivers often use cunning.

'धोखेबाज़' (dhokhebaaz) - deceiver. 'इस्तेमाल करते हैं' (istemaal karte hain) - use (present tense).

7

इस स्थिति में चालाकी करना ही एकमात्र रास्ता था।

In this situation, acting cunningly was the only way.

'इस स्थिति में' (is sthiti mein) - in this situation. 'एकमात्र रास्ता था' (ekmatra rasta tha) - was the only way.

8

वह चालाकी से अपनी गलती छिपाने की कोशिश कर रहा था।

He was trying to hide his mistake cunningly.

'गलती छिपाने की कोशिश कर रहा था' (galti chhipane ki koshish kar raha tha) - was trying to hide the mistake (past continuous).

1

उसकी चालाकी भरी बातों से मुझे संदेह हुआ।

His cunning words made me suspicious.

'चालाकी भरी बातों से' (chalaki bhari baaton se) - by cunning-filled words. 'संदेह हुआ' (sandeh hua) - doubt arose/became suspicious.

2

कंपनी ने बाज़ार में अपनी स्थिति मजबूत करने के लिए कई चालाकियाँ कीं।

The company employed many cunning tactics to strengthen its market position.

'कंपनी' (company) - company. 'स्थिति मजबूत करने के लिए' (sthiti majboot karne ke liye) - to strengthen the position. 'कई चालाकियाँ कीं' (kai chalakiyan keen) - did many cunning acts (plural noun form of chalaki).

3

वह अपनी चालाकी से हर मुश्किल को पार कर लेता है।

He overcomes every difficulty with his cunning.

'हर मुश्किल को पार कर लेता है' (har mushkil ko paar kar leta hai) - overcomes every difficulty.

4

सावधान रहें, वह आपको चालाकी से फंसा सकता है।

Be careful, he can trap you cunningly.

'सावधान रहें' (savdhan rahein) - be careful. 'फंसा सकता है' (phansaa sakta hai) - can trap.

5

इस सौदे में उसकी चालाकी स्पष्ट दिख रही थी।

His cunning in this deal was clearly visible.

'इस सौदे में' (is saude mein) - in this deal. 'स्पष्ट दिख रही थी' (spasht dikh rahi thi) - was clearly visible (feminine singular, agreeing with 'चालाकी').

6

बच्चों को चालाकी करना सिखाना उचित नहीं है।

It is not appropriate to teach children to act cunningly.

'बच्चों को' (bachchon ko) - to children. 'सिखाना उचित नहीं है' (sikhana uchit nahin hai) - is not appropriate to teach.

7

उसकी चालाकी ने उसे हमेशा दूसरों से एक कदम आगे रखा।

His cunning always kept him one step ahead of others.

'हमेशा' (hamesha) - always. 'एक कदम आगे रखा' (ek kadam aage rakha) - kept one step ahead.

8

धूर्त व्यक्ति अपनी चालाकी से दूसरों को भ्रमित कर देता है।

A cunning person confuses others with their artfulness.

'धूर्त व्यक्ति' (dhoort vyakti) - cunning person. 'भ्रमित कर देता है' (bhramit kar deta hai) - confuses.

1

उसकी वाक्पटुता और चालाकी का मिश्रण उसे एक खतरनाक प्रतिद्वंद्वी बनाता है।

The mixture of his eloquence and cunning makes him a dangerous adversary.

'वाक्पटुता' (vakpatuta) - eloquence. 'मिश्रण' (mishran) - mixture. 'खतरनाक प्रतिद्वंद्वी' (khatarnak pratidvandvi) - dangerous adversary.

2

कूटनीति में, सीधी लड़ाई के बजाय चालाकी का इस्तेमाल अक्सर अधिक प्रभावी होता है।

In diplomacy, the use of cunning is often more effective than direct confrontation.

'कूटनीति में' (kootneeti mein) - in diplomacy. 'सीधी लड़ाई के बजाय' (seedhi ladai ke bajay) - instead of direct fighting. 'अधिक प्रभावी होता है' (adhik prabhavi hota hai) - is more effective.

3

उसकी चालाकी केवल सतही थी; गहराई में वह खोखला था।

His cunning was merely superficial; deep down he was hollow.

'सतही थी' (satahi thi) - was superficial (feminine singular, agreeing with 'चालाकी'). 'गहराई में' (gehrai mein) - deep down. 'खोखला था' (khokhla tha) - was hollow.

4

उन्होंने अपने विरोधियों को मात देने के लिए एक जटिल चालाकी का ताना-बाना बुना।

They wove a complex web of cunning to outmaneuver their opponents.

'जटिल' (jatil) - complex. 'ताना-बाना बुना' (tana-bana buna) - wove a web.

5

यह केवल संयोग नहीं था; यह एक सोची-समझी चालाकी थी।

This was not just a coincidence; it was a well-thought-out cunning act.

'संयोग नहीं था' (sanyog nahin tha) - was not a coincidence. 'सोची-समझी' (sochi-samjhi) - well-thought-out.

6

उसकी चालाकी का उद्देश्य अक्सर दूसरों को लाभ पहुँचाना होता था, न कि नुकसान।

The purpose of his cunning was often to benefit others, not to harm.

'उद्देश्य' (uddeshya) - purpose. 'दूसरों को लाभ पहुँचाना' (doosron ko laabh pahunchana) - to benefit others. 'नुकसान' (nuksan) - harm.

7

उसकी चालाकी इतनी सूक्ष्म थी कि उसे पहचानना मुश्किल था।

His cunning was so subtle that it was difficult to recognize.

'सूक्ष्म थी' (sookshm thi) - was subtle (feminine singular, agreeing with 'चालाकी'). 'पहचानना मुश्किल था' (pehchanna mushkil tha) - was difficult to recognize.

8

उसकी चालाकी का असली चेहरा तब सामने आया जब उसका पर्दाफाश हुआ।

The true face of his cunning was revealed when he was exposed.

'असली चेहरा' (asli chehra) - true face. 'पर्दाफाश हुआ' (pardafash hua) - was exposed.

1

उसकी चालाकी की परतें इतनी गहरी थीं कि उन्हें खोलना एक जटिल कार्य था।

The layers of his cunning were so deep that unraveling them was a complex task.

'परतें' (partein) - layers. 'गहरी थीं' (gehri thin) - were deep (plural, agreeing with 'परतें'). 'खोलना' (kholna) - to unravel/open. 'जटिल कार्य' (jatil karya) - complex task.

2

वह केवल चालाकी नहीं कर रहा था, बल्कि वह एक उच्च स्तरीय मनोवैज्ञानिक खेल खेल रहा था।

He wasn't just acting cunningly; he was playing a high-level psychological game.

'केवल' (keval) - only. 'उच्च स्तरीय' (uchch stariya) - high-level. 'मनोवैज्ञानिक खेल' (manovaigyanik khel) - psychological game.

3

उसकी चालाकी का विन्यास इतना परिष्कृत था कि वह अक्सर प्रशंसा का पात्र बन जाता था।

The configuration of his cunning was so sophisticated that it often earned him admiration.

'विन्यास' (vinyas) - configuration/arrangement. 'परिष्कृत था' (parishkrit tha) - was sophisticated. 'प्रशंसा का पात्र' (prashansa ka paatra) - object of admiration.

4

उसने अपनी चालाकी का उपयोग करके ऐसी स्थिति पैदा की जहाँ हर कोई उसके नियंत्रण में था।

He used his cunning to create a situation where everyone was under his control.

'उपयोग करके' (upyog karke) - by using. 'ऐसी स्थिति पैदा की' (aisi sthiti paida ki) - created such a situation. 'नियंत्रण में था' (niyantran mein tha) - was under control.

5

उसकी चालाकी की कला केवल व्यक्तिगत लाभ के लिए नहीं, बल्कि एक बड़े उद्देश्य की पूर्ति के लिए थी।

The art of his cunning was not just for personal gain, but for the fulfillment of a larger purpose.

'कला' (kala) - art. 'व्यक्तिगत लाभ के लिए नहीं' (vyaktigat laabh ke liye nahin) - not for personal gain. 'बड़े उद्देश्य की पूर्ति' (bade uddeshya ki poorti) - fulfillment of a larger purpose.

6

उसकी चालाकी का जाल इतना व्यापक था कि उससे बचना लगभग असंभव था।

The web of his cunning was so extensive that escaping it was almost impossible.

'जाल' (jaal) - web. 'व्यापक था' (vyapak tha) - was extensive. 'बचना लगभग असंभव था' (bachna lagbhag asambhav tha) - escaping was almost impossible.

7

उसकी चालाकी में एक ऐसा आकर्षण था जो लोगों को उसकी ओर खींचता था, भले ही वे जानते थे कि वह धोखेबाज़ है।

There was such an allure in his cunning that it drew people to him, even though they knew he was deceitful.

'आकर्षण' (aakarshan) - allure/attraction. 'खींचता था' (kheenchta tha) - used to draw. 'भले ही' (bhale hi) - even though. 'धोखेबाज़' (dhokhebaaz) - deceitful person.

8

उसकी चालाकी की पराकाष्ठा तब देखी गई जब उसने अपने ही रचे जाल में खुद को फंसा लिया।

The apex of his cunning was seen when he trapped himself in his own created web.

'पराकाष्ठा' (parakashtha) - apex/pinnacle. 'रचे जाल में' (rache jaal mein) - in the created web. 'खुद को फंसा लिया' (khud ko phansa liya) - trapped himself.

Collocations courantes

बहुत चालाकी करना
चालाकी से बचना
चालाकी का इस्तेमाल करना
थोड़ी चालाकी
चालाकी भरी बातें
राजनीति में चालाकी
अपनी चालाकी दिखाना
चालाकी का सहारा लेना
मासूमियत की चालाकी
चालाकी से काम निकालना

Phrases Courantes

चालाकी मत करो।

उसने चालाकी की।

यह चालाकी है।

चालाकी से काम लेना।

उसकी चालाकी पकड़ी गई।

चालाकी का जाल बुनना।

मासूमियत की चालाकी।

चालाकी से आगे निकलना।

चालाकी का कोई अंत नहीं।

चालाकी का दूसरा नाम।

Souvent confondu avec

चालाकी करना vs होशियारी दिखाना (hoshiari dikhana)

'होशियारी दिखाना' means to show intelligence or smartness, which is generally positive. 'चालाकी करना' implies cleverness used in a sly, artful, or potentially deceitful manner, often for personal gain.

चालाकी करना vs चतुराई से काम लेना (chaturai se kaam lena)

'चतुराई से काम लेना' means to act wisely or skillfully. It's a more neutral or positive term for intelligent action, whereas 'चालाकी करना' can carry negative connotations of manipulation.

चालाकी करना vs धोखा देना (dhokha dena)

'धोखा देना' directly means to deceive or cheat. 'चालाकी करना' is about the method used, which might include deception but focuses more on the artful execution and strategy involved.

Expressions idiomatiques

"आँखों में धूल झोंकना"

To throw dust in someone's eyes; to deceive or fool someone.

उसने अपनी चालाकी से सबके आँखों में धूल झोंक दी। (He threw dust in everyone's eyes with his cunning.)

Informal

"अक्ल का दुश्मन"

Enemy of intelligence; a foolish person. (Can be used ironically for someone who acts foolishly despite being cunning, or someone whose cunning backfires).

उसकी चालाकी उल्टी पड़ गई, वह तो अक्ल का दुश्मन निकला। (His cunning backfired, he turned out to be an enemy of intelligence.)

Informal

"भेड़ की खाल में भेड़िया"

A wolf in sheep's clothing; someone who appears harmless but is actually cunning and dangerous.

वह अपनी चालाकी से भेड़ की खाल में भेड़िया बनकर घूमता है। (He roams around like a wolf in sheep's clothing with his cunning.)

Neutral

"टेढ़ी खीर"

A difficult task or problem. (Cunning is often needed to deal with 'टेढ़ी खीर').

इस समस्या को सुलझाने के लिए चालाकी करनी पड़ेगी, यह टेढ़ी खीर है। (One will have to act cunningly to solve this problem, it's a difficult task.)

Neutral

"बात का बतंगड़ बनाना"

To make a mountain out of a molehill; to exaggerate. (Cunning might be used to twist a situation).

वह छोटी सी बात का बतंगड़ बना देता है, यह उसकी चालाकी है। (He makes a mountain out of a molehill, this is his cunning.)

Informal

"अंगूठा दिखाना"

To show a thumb; to refuse or reject. (Can be done with a cunning or dismissive gesture).

जब मैंने पैसे मांगे, तो उसने चालाकी से अंगूठा दिखा दिया। (When I asked for money, he cunningly showed me his thumb [refused].)

Informal

"कान का कच्चा"

Gullible; easily influenced. (Someone who is 'कान का कच्चा' is easily tricked by cunning individuals).

उसकी चालाकी से कान का कच्चा आसानी से फँस जाता है। (A gullible person easily gets trapped by his cunning.)

Informal

"अंगुलियों पर नचाना"

To make someone dance to one's fingers; to manipulate someone completely.

वह अपनी चालाकी से सबको अपनी अंगुलियों पर नचाता है। (He makes everyone dance to his fingers with his cunning.)

Informal

"रंग बदलना"

To change color; to be fickle or deceitful.

उसकी चालाकी से उसका असली रंग बदलता नहीं, बल्कि सामने आता है। (His true colors don't change with his cunning; rather, they are revealed.)

Neutral

"लोमड़ी की चालाकी"

The cunning of a fox; referring to extreme slyness and trickery.

उसकी चालाकी तो लोमड़ी की चालाकी जैसी है। (His cunning is like the cunning of a fox.)

Figurative

Facile à confondre

चालाकी करना vs चतुर (chatur)

Both 'चतुर' (clever) and 'चालाक' (cunning) describe intelligence.

'चतुर' generally implies positive intelligence, quick-wittedness, and good judgment. 'चालाक' implies intelligence used in a sly, artful, or manipulative way, often with a negative connotation of deception or trickery.

वह एक चतुर छात्र है। (He is a clever student.) vs. वह एक चालाक व्यापारी है। (He is a cunning businessman.)

चालाकी करना vs धूर्त (dhoort)

Both 'धूर्त' and 'चालाक' describe slyness.

'धूर्त' often carries a stronger negative connotation, implying cunning that is intentionally malicious or deceitful. 'चालाक' can sometimes be used for admirable shrewdness, though it often leans negative. 'धूर्त' is almost always negative.

उसकी धूर्तता पकड़ी गई। (His slyness/craftiness was caught.) vs. उसकी चालाकी पकड़ी गई। (His cunning was caught.)

चालाकी करना vs छल (chhal)

Both relate to deception and trickery.

'छल' refers to a trick, deceit, or fraud itself – the act or the noun. 'चालाकी करना' is the verb phrase for performing such cunning actions or employing such methods.

उसने छल किया। (He committed deceit/a trick.) vs. उसने चालाकी की। (He acted cunningly.)

चालाकी करना vs चाल (chaal)

Both relate to strategy and moves.

'चाल' primarily means a 'move' (in chess, etc.) or a 'strategy/plan'. 'चालाकी करना' is the act of employing cunning or artful methods, often as part of a 'चाल'.

यह मेरी चाल है। (This is my move/strategy.) vs. मैं चालाकी कर रहा हूँ। (I am acting cunningly.)

चालाकी करना vs मक़र (makkar)

Both describe slyness and deceit.

'मक़र' specifically refers to slyness, deceit, and craftiness, often with a sense of hidden malice or insincerity. 'चालाकी करना' is a broader term for acting cunningly, which might or might not involve such deep-seated malice.

वह एक मक़र करने वाला इंसान है। (He is a deceitful person.) vs. उसने चालाकी से काम निकाला। (He got his work done cunningly.)

Structures de phrases

A1

Subject + चालाकी कर रहा/रही है।

वह चालाकी कर रहा है। (He is acting cunningly.)

A2

Subject + चालाकी से + Verb.

उसने चालाकी से काम किया। (He worked cunningly.)

B1

Subject + [Purpose] + के लिए + चालाकी करना।

उसने पैसे बचाने के लिए चालाकी की। (He acted cunningly to save money.)

B1

Negative Imperative: (Don't) + चालाकी करना।

मुझसे चालाकी मत करो। (Don't act cunningly with me.)

B2

Noun form: [Possessive] + चालाकी + [Verb].

उसकी चालाकी सबने देखी। (Everyone saw his cunning.)

B2

Subject + [Manner] + चालाकी करना।

उसने बड़ी चालाकी से झूठ बोला। (He lied with great cunning.)

C1

Passive Construction (implied): [Something] + चालाकी का नतीजा है।

यह सब उसकी चालाकी का नतीजा है। (All this is the result of his cunning.)

C1

Figurative use: चालाकी का सहारा लेना।

जब कोई रास्ता न दिखे, तो चालाकी का सहारा लेना पड़ता है। (When no other way is visible, one has to resort to cunning.)

Famille de mots

Noms

चालाकी Cunning, artfulness, slyness

Verbes

चालाकी करना To act cunningly

Adjectifs

चालाक Cunning, sly, artful

Apparenté

धूर्त Cunning, crafty, sly (often with negative connotations)
छली Deceitful, tricky
मक़र Deceit, guile, trickery
छल Trick, deceit, fraud
चतुर Clever, intelligent, shrewd (can overlap with चालाक but often more positive)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Medium to High, depending on context. Very common in informal speech and media.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'चालाकी करना' for general intelligence. Using words like 'होशियारी दिखाना' or 'चतुराई से काम लेना' for straightforward cleverness.

    'चालाकी करना' implies slyness, artfulness, or manipulation, not just general intelligence. For example, solving a math problem smartly is 'होशियारी दिखाना', but tricking someone to get ahead is 'चालाकी करना'.

  • Incorrect verb conjugation. Ensuring 'करना' agrees with the subject and tense (e.g., 'वह चालाकी करता है', 'उसने चालाकी की').

    The verb 'करना' changes form based on the subject's gender and number, and the tense of the sentence. Incorrect conjugation can lead to grammatical errors.

  • Assuming it's always a compliment. Recognizing that 'चालाकी करना' often has negative connotations of deceit or manipulation.

    While cleverness can be admired, 'चालाकी करना' frequently implies acting in a sly or underhanded way. It's often used critically or to describe questionable tactics.

  • Confusing it directly with 'धोखा देना' (to deceive). Understanding that 'चालाकी करना' is about the method (cunning strategy), while 'धोखा देना' is about the outcome (deception).

    'चालाकी करना' is the artful approach, which may or may not lead to outright deception. 'धोखा देना' is the direct act of betrayal or cheating.

  • Using it in formal writing without caution. Opting for more precise or formal terms like 'रणनीति' (strategy), 'कुटिलता' (cunningness, often negative), or 'छल' (deceit) in formal contexts.

    'चालाकी करना' can sound too informal or critical in formal writing. Its specific nuance might not always fit academic or official documents.

Astuces

Understand the Nuance

The meaning of 'चालाकी करना' heavily depends on the context. It can range from admirable strategic thinking to outright deceit. Pay attention to the speaker's tone, the situation, and the surrounding words to interpret its true meaning.

Conjugate 'करना' Correctly

Remember that the verb 'करना' must agree with the subject in gender, number, and tense. For example, 'वह चालाकी करता है' (he does) vs. 'वह चालाकी करती है' (she does) vs. 'उसने चालाकी की' (he/she did).

Explore Synonyms and Antonyms

Learn words like 'धूर्त', 'छल', 'चतुर', and 'होशियार'. Understanding their subtle differences will help you use 'चालाकी करना' more precisely and expand your vocabulary effectively.

Master the Sounds

Practice the aspirated 'kh' in 'चालाकी' and the rolled 'r' in 'करना'. Correct pronunciation will make your communication clearer and more natural.

Use it in Sentences

Create your own sentences using 'चालाकी करना' in different contexts. Try writing short stories or dialogues where characters employ cunning tactics. This active practice solidifies your understanding.

Recognize Cultural Significance

Understand that in Hindi culture, cleverness (चालाकी) is often valued, but there's also an awareness of its potential for deceit. Recognizing this balance helps in understanding its usage in literature and everyday life.

Compare with English Equivalents

Think about how you would express similar ideas in English: 'to act cunningly,' 'to pull a fast one,' 'to be artful.' This comparison can highlight the unique nuances of the Hindi phrase.

Distinguish from Simple Cleverness

Be careful not to use 'चालाकी करना' for everyday smartness or intelligence. It specifically refers to cleverness used in a sly, indirect, or manipulative way.

Listen to Native Speakers

Pay close attention to how native speakers use 'चालाकी करना' in conversations, movies, and news. Notice the tone and context to grasp its full meaning and connotations.

Use Mnemonics and Associations

Create memorable associations, like a sly fox or a tricky magician, to link the word 'चालाकी करना' with its meaning. Visualizing these scenarios can aid recall.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine someone 'calling' (चालाकी - chalaki) out to distract you while they slyly 'run' (करना - karna) away with your belongings. The 'cha-laa-kee' sounds like a sneaky call, and 'karna' is the action of doing it.

Association visuelle

Picture a fox (known for cunning) wearing a magician's hat, performing a trick. The fox is doing 'चालाकी करना'.

Word Web

Cleverness Strategy Trickery Artfulness Slyness Deception Manipulation Shrewdness

Défi

Try to describe a situation where you or someone you know had to 'चालाकी करना' to solve a problem or get something done. Write it down and then try to retell it without using the word 'चालाकी करना', using synonyms instead.

Origine du mot

The word 'चालाकी' (chalaki) likely derives from the root 'चाल' (chaal), which means 'move', 'gait', or 'strategy'. The suffix '-आकी' (-aaki) often denotes a quality or state. Thus, 'चालाकी' implies a quality of movement or strategy that is indirect, artful, or cunning.

Sens originel : The original sense relates to a clever or artful way of moving or strategizing, often to gain an advantage.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit origin)

Contexte culturel

While 'चालाकी करना' can sometimes describe admirable ingenuity, it often implies a degree of manipulation or deceit. Be mindful of the context and audience when using this phrase, as it can be perceived negatively, suggesting dishonesty or underhanded tactics.

In English, equivalents like 'to act cunningly,' 'to be artful,' 'to pull a fast one,' or 'to play a trick' capture aspects of 'चालाकी करना'. However, the Hindi phrase often carries a specific cultural nuance related to the balance between admired cleverness and distrusted deceit.

The character of Krishna in Hindu mythology is often depicted as using divine 'चालाकी' to uphold dharma. Birbal, the witty minister in Emperor Akbar's court, is famous for his clever solutions and 'चालाकी' in resolving disputes. The Panchatantra and Hitopadesha tales frequently feature animals like the fox using 'चालाकी' to survive and outsmart others.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Negotiations and Bargaining

  • उसने चालाकी से मोलभाव किया।
  • थोड़ी चालाकी से बेहतर सौदा मिल सकता है।
  • धैर्य रखें और चालाकी से काम लें।

Games and Competitions

  • शतरंज में चालाकी ज़रूरी है।
  • उसने खेल में चालाकी करके जीत हासिल की।
  • यह चालाकी का खेल है।

Everyday Problem Solving

  • इस समस्या को चालाकी से हल करना होगा।
  • उसने अपनी चालाकी से रास्ता निकाल लिया।
  • कभी-कभी चालाकी से काम लेना पड़ता है।

Describing People's Behavior

  • वह बहुत चालाकी करता है।
  • उसकी चालाकी भरी बातें।
  • बच्चों की मासूमियत की चालाकी।

Politics and Business

  • राजनीति में चालाकी आम है।
  • कंपनी ने चालाकी से बाज़ार में अपनी जगह बनाई।
  • यह एक चालाकी भरी चाल थी।

Amorces de conversation

"Have you ever had to 'चालाकी करना' to get out of a difficult situation? What happened?"

"In your opinion, when does 'चालाकी करना' become unethical?"

"Can you think of a movie character who is a master of 'चालाकी करना'?"

"How is 'चालाकी करना' different from being simply 'smart' or 'clever'?"

"Do you think 'चालाकी करना' is a necessary skill in today's world? Why or why not?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you witnessed someone 'चालाकी करना'. What was the situation and what was the outcome?

Reflect on a situation where you felt someone was trying to 'चालाकी करना' against you. How did you handle it?

Write a short story where the protagonist uses 'चालाकी करना' to achieve a noble goal. What was the goal and how did they achieve it?

Compare and contrast 'चालाकी करना' with 'ईमानदारी से काम करना' (acting honestly). When is one preferred over the other?

Imagine you are teaching a child about 'चालाकी करना'. How would you explain it, and what examples would you use?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Literally, 'चालाकी करना' translates to 'to do cunningness' or 'to do artfulness'. The word 'चालाकी' (chalaki) means cunningness, artfulness, or slyness, and 'करना' (karna) means 'to do'. So, it describes the act of employing these qualities.

Not always, but it often carries a negative connotation. It can describe admirable ingenuity or cleverness in overcoming a challenge, but more frequently it implies manipulation, deceit, or acting in a sly manner to gain an advantage, sometimes unfairly. The context and tone are crucial.

'धोखा देना' directly means to deceive or cheat someone. 'चालाकी करना' refers to the method or the act of being cunning or artful, which might involve deception but focuses more on the clever strategy or indirect approach used. You can 'चालाकी करना' without directly 'धोखा देना', but often 'धोखा देना' involves 'चालाकी करना'.

Yes, sometimes. If someone uses cleverness and strategy to solve a complex problem, or to outsmart an opponent in a fair competition, it might be described as 'चालाकी करना'. However, even in positive contexts, there's an implication of artfulness or indirectness that distinguishes it from simple intelligence or straightforwardness.

'होशियारी दिखाना' (to show smartness) is generally positive and refers to displaying intelligence or cleverness straightforwardly. 'चालाकी करना' implies that the cleverness is used in a sly, artful, or manipulative way, often to gain an advantage or deceive. If the action is straightforwardly intelligent, use 'होशियारी दिखाना'. If it involves indirectness, slyness, or potential deception, 'चालाकी करना' might be more appropriate.

The noun form is 'चालाकी' (chalaki), which means cunningness, artfulness, or slyness. You can say someone possesses 'चालाकी' or that their actions show 'चालाकी'.

Yes, it's common in contexts like negotiations, games, politics, business dealings, and storytelling (especially fables featuring trickster characters). It's also used in everyday conversations to describe someone's shrewd or sly behavior.

The pronunciation is roughly 'chaa-laa-khee kar-naa'. The 'kh' in 'चालाकी' is aspirated, and the 'r' in 'करना' is rolled. Stress falls on the first syllable of each word: 'चा' and 'क'.

Common mistakes include using it for simple intelligence ('होशियारी'), not conjugating the verb 'करना' correctly, and assuming it's always a compliment. Learners also sometimes struggle with the nuance between admirable cleverness and negative deceit.

Certainly. 'उसने अपने प्रतिद्वंद्वी को मात देने के लिए चालाकी का सहारा लिया।' (Usne apne pratidvandvi ko maat dene ke liye chalaki ka sahara liya.) This means 'He resorted to cunning to defeat his rival.'

Teste-toi 4 questions

/ 4 correct

Perfect score!

C'tait utile ?
Pas encore de commentaires. Soyez le premier à partager vos idées !