At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'Shishuvat' yourself, but it's good to know it relates to 'Shishu' (baby). Think of it as 'baby-like'. In very simple Hindi, we usually say 'bacche jaisa' (like a child). 'Shishuvat' is just a fancy, formal way of saying the same thing. You might see it in a very basic storybook or a title. Focus on the root 'Shishu' first, which means infant. This word is an adjective, so it describes a person's behavior or a thing's quality. For example, a 'Shishuvat' smile is a very pure, sweet smile. Even at this early stage, knowing that Hindi has formal and informal words for the same thing is a great step forward in your learning journey. Just remember: Shishu = Baby, Vat = Like. So, Baby-like!
As an A2 learner, you are starting to see more formal words. 'Shishuvat' is one of those words you might encounter in a formal greeting card or a short poem. It is an adjective that doesn't change its ending. This is great for you because you don't have to worry about whether the noun is masculine or feminine! You can use it to describe someone's 'saralta' (simplicity) or 'hansi' (laughter). While you would still mostly use 'baccho jaisa' in your daily speaking, knowing 'Shishuvat' helps you understand when someone is being very respectful or poetic. It's often used to describe elderly people who have a very kind and innocent nature. Try to recognize the '-vat' suffix, as it appears in other words like 'pitrivat' (like a father).
At the B1 level, you should begin incorporating 'Shishuvat' into your written Hindi, especially in essays or formal letters. This word helps you distinguish between 'childish' (negative) and 'childlike' (positive). In English, we have these two words, and in Hindi, 'Shishuvat' is the positive 'childlike'. It describes purity and innocence. You can use it to talk about a character in a book or a famous person's personality. It's a great word for describing the 'inner child'. For example, if you are writing about meditation or peace, 'Shishuvat shanti' (childlike peace) is a perfect phrase. You should also be aware that this word is derived from Sanskrit, which gives it a more 'elevated' or 'academic' feel. Using it correctly will show that you have a good grasp of Hindi vocabulary beyond the basics.
For B2 learners, 'Shishuvat' is an essential part of your literary and formal vocabulary. You should be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'Shishuvat Avastha' (a childlike state of mind) in philosophy or psychology. At this level, you should understand the nuance: 'Shishuvat' isn't just about looking like a baby; it's about having the *qualities* of an infant—being unbiased, being fully present, and having no ego. You might encounter this word in editorials or high-level literature. You should also be able to compare it with synonyms like 'Abodh' or 'Masoom' and explain why 'Shishuvat' might be more appropriate in a spiritual context. Practice using it in complex sentences that describe emotional states or personality traits in a nuanced way.
At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the philosophical and cultural weight of 'Shishuvat'. In Indian traditions, the 'Shishuvat' state is often associated with the 'Paramahansa' or the enlightened soul who has returned to a state of primal innocence. You should be able to use this word in discussions about aesthetics, spirituality, and advanced character analysis. You'll notice its use in classical poetry (Kavita) where it might be used to describe nature or divine figures. At this stage, you should also be comfortable with the grammatical roots and be able to recognize other '-vat' suffix words instantly. Your usage of 'Shishuvat' should feel natural and appropriately placed within a high-register discourse. You can use it to critique the loss of innocence in modern society or the beauty of an artist's 'untainted' vision.
As a C2 learner, you possess a near-native grasp of the word's deepest connotations. You understand that 'Shishuvat' is more than an adjective; it's an ontological category in certain Indian philosophical systems. You can discuss the 'Shishuvat' behavior of a 'Jivanmukta' (one who is liberated while alive) with precision. You recognize the subtle difference between 'Shishuvat' (infant-like) and 'Balakvat' (child-like) based on the specific Sanskrit roots and how they have been used by historical commentators. Your ability to deploy this word in creative writing or scholarly analysis should be flawless, capturing the exact shade of innocence or vulnerability intended. You can analyze how 'Shishuvat' imagery is used in the Bhakti movement to describe the relationship between the soul and the divine, and you can use it to translate complex Western concepts like 'the prelapsarian state' with cultural accuracy.

शिशुवत en 30 secondes

  • Shishuvat means 'childlike' and is used to describe innocence and purity in adults.
  • It is a formal, Sanskrit-origin word that stays the same for all genders.
  • Unlike 'Bachkana' (immature), Shishuvat is a positive and respectful term.
  • It is frequently found in Hindi literature, poetry, and spiritual teachings.

The word शिशुवत (Shishuvat) is a sophisticated Hindi adjective that translates directly to 'childlike' or 'infantile' in English. It is a compound of two Sanskrit-derived elements: 'Shishu' (शिशु), meaning an infant or a very young child, and the suffix '-vat' (वत), which means 'like,' 'resembling,' or 'in the manner of.' When you describe someone or something as Shishuvat, you are highlighting qualities typically associated with early childhood—purity, innocence, lack of guile, and a certain raw, unpolished beauty. Unlike the more common word 'Bachkana' (बचकाना), which often carries a negative connotation of being 'childish' or 'immature,' Shishuvat is generally honorific or descriptive of a pure state of being.

Literal Meaning
Resembling an infant; having the qualities of a newborn or a small child.
Emotional Resonance
It evokes a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the untainted soul. It is the 'inner child' in its most divine form.

महात्मा गांधी की मुस्कान हमेशा शिशुवत और पवित्र लगती थी। (Mahatma Gandhi's smile always seemed childlike and holy.)

In contemporary Hindi, you will find this word in literary critiques, spiritual discourses, and formal character descriptions. It is used to describe a person who has reached a high level of spiritual maturity where they have shed the complexities and deceits of adulthood. It is also used in psychological contexts to describe an adult's regression into a state of total dependency or innocence. The word suggests a lack of ego and a presence of total transparency in one's actions and emotions. It is a word of high register, meaning it is more likely to be found in a book than in a casual conversation at a vegetable market.

Furthermore, the term is frequently employed in the context of 'Bhakti' (devotion). A devotee might describe their relationship with the divine as Shishuvat—completely dependent, trusting, and without any hidden agendas. This usage elevates the word beyond a simple physical description to a profound metaphysical state. It implies a return to the origin, where the complexities of the world have not yet stained the human spirit. In artistic descriptions, a poet might describe the morning dew or a soft breeze as Shishuvat to emphasize its freshness and purity.

उनकी शिशुवत सरलता ही उनकी सबसे बड़ी शक्ति थी। (Her childlike simplicity was her greatest strength.)

Contextual Nuance
While it can describe physical vulnerability, it almost always points toward a mental or spiritual state of 'tabula rasa' or clean slate.

Using शिशुवत correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function as an adjective. It does not change its form based on the gender or number of the noun it modifies, which is a common trait for Sanskrit-origin adjectives ending in '-vat'. Whether you are describing a man, a woman, a group of people, or an abstract concept, 'Shishuvat' remains unchanged. This makes it quite versatile for learners who are still mastering Hindi's complex gender agreements.

उस वृद्ध व्यक्ति की आँखें शिशुवत जिज्ञासा से भरी थीं। (The old man's eyes were filled with childlike curiosity.)

In a sentence, Shishuvat typically precedes the noun it modifies, but it can also follow a linking verb like 'hona' (to be) or 'lagna' (to seem). When placed before a noun, it functions as an attributive adjective (e.g., 'shishuvat saralta'). When it follows a verb, it functions as a predicative adjective (e.g., 'vah shishuvat hai'). It is often paired with nouns that represent abstract qualities like 'saralta' (simplicity), 'nirdoshta' (innocence), 'jigyasa' (curiosity), or 'vishwaas' (trust).

Common Sentence Structures
[Subject] + [Noun] + [Shishuvat] + [Verb] -> 'उसका व्यवहार शिशुवत है।' (His behavior is childlike.)
[Shishuvat] + [Noun] + [Remaining Sentence] -> 'शिशुवत सरलता सबको भाती है।' (Childlike simplicity appeals to everyone.)

It is important to note that because this is a formal word, the surrounding vocabulary should ideally match its register. Using 'Shishuvat' alongside very slangy or informal words might create a jarring linguistic contrast, unless intended for comedic effect. For instance, 'Vah banda shishuvat hai' (That guy is childlike) sounds slightly odd because 'banda' is informal while 'shishuvat' is formal. A better pairing would be 'Vah vyakti shishuvat hai'.

संतों का स्वभाव अक्सर शिशुवत हो जाता है। (The nature of saints often becomes childlike.)

When writing, you can use Shishuvat to add a layer of poetic depth. Instead of saying 'He is innocent like a child' (Vah bacche jaisa nirdosh hai), saying 'Uska vyaktitv shishuvat hai' (His personality is childlike) sounds more elegant and profound. It suggests a deep-seated trait rather than just a superficial resemblance. It is also an excellent word for describing the facial expressions of people in deep sleep or meditation, as these states are often perceived as a return to the pure, infant-like state of the soul.

सोते समय उसका चेहरा शिशुवत शांति से भरा था। (While sleeping, his face was filled with childlike peace.)

You are most likely to encounter शिशुवत in settings that prioritize high-standard Hindi or philosophical exploration. One primary domain is Hindi literature (Sahitya). Authors use this word to describe protagonists who possess a moral clarity or an untainted worldview. In classic novels or short stories by writers like Premchand or Jaishankar Prasad, 'shishuvat' might be used to describe the purity of a rural character's heart compared to the 'corrupt' city dwellers.

Spiritual Discourses (Pravachan)
Gurus often talk about 'Shishuvat Avastha' (the childlike state) as a goal of meditation—where one is present, non-judgmental, and free from the ego's baggage.
News and Documentaries
In serious journalism, especially during a tribute or an obituary of a respected figure, their 'shishuvat' nature might be praised to highlight their integrity.

प्रवचन में स्वामी जी ने शिशुवत मन की महिमा का वर्णन किया। (In the discourse, Swami ji described the glory of a childlike mind.)

Another place you will hear this word is in the world of Indian classical music and arts. A critic might describe a veteran musician's joy while performing as 'shishuvat anand' (childlike joy). This implies that even after decades of practice, the artist has retained the raw, ecstatic wonder of a beginner. It is a high compliment in the Indian aesthetic tradition, where the 'Sahridaya' (the sensitive spectator) is expected to approach art with a 'shishuvat' or open heart.

In Bollywood, while mainstream 'masala' movies might stick to simpler words, parallel cinema or art-house films often use such vocabulary in their scripts to establish a character's depth. If a character is a dreamer or a mystic, the narrator might use 'shishuvat' to describe their gaze. Even in Hindi translations of international classics (like the works of Tolstoy or Dostoevsky), this word is the standard choice for translating 'childlike' when it refers to a saintly or innocent quality.

उसकी बातों में एक शिशुवत सच्चाई थी जिसे झुठलाया नहीं जा सकता था। (There was a childlike truth in his words that could not be denied.)

Psychological Context
Sometimes used in clinical Hindi to describe regression, though 'balak-vat' is more common in that specific niche.

The most frequent mistake learners make with शिशुवत is confusing it with its cousin बचकाना (Bachkana). While both can be translated as 'childlike' or 'childish' in English, their usage in Hindi is diametrically opposed. 'Bachkana' is almost always an insult. If you say someone's idea is 'bachkana,' you are calling it immature, silly, or ill-thought-out. If you say someone's idea is 'shishuvat,' you are suggesting it is pure, fresh, and perhaps brilliantly simple. Using 'bachkana' when you mean 'shishuvat' can lead to significant misunderstandings.

Incorrect: आपकी योजना बहुत शिशुवत है। (Your plan is very childlike - sounds like a compliment but might be meant as an insult). Correct for insult: आपकी योजना बहुत बचकानी है।

Another mistake is overusing the word in informal settings. 'Shishuvat' is a 'heavy' word. Using it while hanging out with friends at a cafe might make you sound like you are reciting a textbook or a poem. For everyday conversation, the phrase 'बच्चों जैसा' (baccho jaisa) is far more natural. 'Shishuvat' should be reserved for writing, formal speeches, or moments of profound observation. It is a tool for precision and elegance, not for casual banter.

Gender Confusion
Learners often try to change it to 'shishuvati' for feminine nouns. This is incorrect. The '-vat' suffix is indeclinable in this context. It remains 'shishuvat' regardless of gender.
Pronunciation Error
Avoid pronouncing the final 't' as a hard 'T' (like in 'cat'). It is a soft dental 't' (त), as in the French 'tu' or the Spanish 'todo'.

Lastly, learners sometimes forget that 'shishuvat' is an adjective, not a noun. You cannot say 'He is a shishuvat.' You must say 'He is shishuvat' or 'He has a shishuvat nature.' It describes a quality. If you want to use a noun to describe a childlike person, you might use 'balak' (child) metaphorically, but 'shishuvat' will always function as a modifier. Misusing the part of speech can make the sentence grammatically incoherent to a native speaker.

वह एक शिशुवत है। (He is a childlike - Incorrect). वह शिशुवत है। (He is childlike - Correct).

Hindi is rich with synonyms that describe various facets of being 'childlike.' Choosing the right one depends entirely on the tone you wish to convey. While शिशुवत emphasizes the 'infant-like' purity, other words focus on different stages of childhood or different social registers. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation software.

बालकवत (Balak-vat)
Very similar to Shishuvat, but derived from 'Balak' (child). It is slightly less formal but still literary. It suggests the qualities of a young boy rather than an infant.
बच्चों जैसा (Baccho jaisa)
The most common, everyday way to say 'childlike.' It is neutral and can be used in any conversation. 'Baccho jaisi muskan' is very common.
अबोध (Abodh)
Literally 'without knowledge/understanding.' It refers to the innocence that comes from not knowing the complexities or evils of the world. It is a beautiful, poetic word.

उसका हृदय अबोध और निष्पाप है। (His heart is innocent and sinless.)

If you are looking for a word that describes the 'playful' aspect of a child, you might use 'Chanchal' (restless/playful). If you want to emphasize 'innocence' specifically, 'Nirdosh' (faultless/innocent) or 'Masoom' (innocent - Urdu origin) are excellent choices. 'Masoom' is particularly popular in songs and romantic poetry. However, 'Shishuvat' remains unique because of its specific focus on the 'state of being an infant,' which implies a total lack of social conditioning.

In a formal comparison, 'Shishuvat' stands at the top of the formality ladder. If you were writing an essay on psychology, you might use 'Shishuvat' to describe a stage of development. If you were writing a love letter, you might use 'Masoom.' If you were telling a story to a kid, you'd just say 'baccho jaisa.' Understanding these layers of the Hindi language allows you to navigate social situations with much greater finesse and accuracy.

हमें अपनी शिशुवत जिज्ञासा को कभी मरने नहीं देना चाहिए। (We should never let our childlike curiosity die.)

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"उनकी शिशुवत निष्कपटता अनुकरणीय है।"

Neutre

"उसका स्वभाव बहुत शिशुवत है।"

Informel

"वह तो बिल्कुल शिशुवत बातें करता है।"

Child friendly

"जैसे छोटा बच्चा प्यारा होता है, वैसे ही यह शिशुवत है।"

Argot

""

Le savais-tu ?

The suffix '-vat' is related to the English suffix '-ward' or '-wise' in very distant Indo-European roots, but functions most like '-like' in modern English.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ʃɪ.ʃu.ʋət̪/
US /ʃɪ.ʃu.vət̪/
The primary stress is on the first syllable 'Shi', with a secondary stress on the third syllable 'vat'.
Rime avec
बलवत (Balvat) भगवत (Bhagvat) हिमवत (Himvat) मूर्खवत (Murkhvat) पशुवत (Pashuvat) अग्निवत (Agnivat) वायुवत (Vayuvat) आत्मवत (Aatmvat)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the final 't' like the 'T' in 'Tom' (retroflex). It should be dental.
  • Stretching the 'u' in 'shishu' to sound like 'shee-shooo'. Keep it short.
  • Pronouncing 'vat' as 'bat'. Ensure the 'v' sound is distinct.
  • Missing the 'h' sound in 'sh'. Don't say 'si-su-vat'.
  • Dropping the final 'a' sound in 'vat' too early in some dialects, though in standard Hindi, the 'a' is inherent.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 6/5

Easy to read if you know 'Shishu', but the '-vat' suffix might be new for B1 learners.

Écriture 7/5

Requires understanding of register to use it in the right context.

Expression orale 7/5

Pronouncing the dental 't' correctly is the main challenge for English speakers.

Écoute 5/5

Easily recognized in formal speeches or spiritual podcasts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

शिशु (Shishu) बच्चा (Baccha) जैसा (Jaisa) सरल (Saral) मासूम (Masoom)

Apprends ensuite

बालकवत (Balakvat) पितृवत (Pitrivat) मातृवत (Matrivat) बचकाना (Bachkana) शैशव (Shaishav)

Avancé

निष्कपट (Nishkapat) अहैतुक (Ahaituk) प्रांजल (Pranjal) निर्मल (Nirmal) अबोध (Abodh)

Grammaire à connaître

The '-vat' suffix (Sanskrit origin)

शिशु + वत = शिशुवत (Like a baby). It does not change with gender.

Attributive vs Predicative Adjectives

शिशुवत मुस्कान (Attributive) vs उसकी मुस्कान शिशुवत है (Predicative).

Sanskritized Vocabulary (Tatsam words)

Shishuvat is a Tatsam word, suitable for formal contexts.

Compound Formation

Used as the first part of a compound: शिशुवत-सरलता.

Adverbial Use of Adjectives

वह शिशुवत सोता है। (He sleeps like a baby/childlikely).

Exemples par niveau

1

उसकी मुस्कान शिशुवत है।

His/Her smile is childlike.

Simple Subject + Adjective + Verb structure.

2

वह शिशुवत सो रहा है।

He is sleeping like an infant.

Shishuvat acts as an adverbial adjective here.

3

यह चित्र शिशुवत लगता है।

This drawing looks childlike.

Lagna (to seem/look) used with the adjective.

4

शिशुवत मन साफ़ होता है।

A childlike mind is clean.

Adjective modifying the noun 'Man' (mind).

5

उनकी बातें शिशुवत थीं।

Their words were childlike.

Plural feminine 'baatein' doesn't change 'shishuvat'.

6

क्या वह शिशुवत है?

Is he/she childlike?

Interrogative sentence.

7

शिशुवत व्यवहार अच्छा है।

Childlike behavior is good.

Subject is the noun phrase 'shishuvat vyavahar'.

8

वह शिशुवत हँसता है।

He laughs like a child.

Verb 'hansna' modified by the quality.

1

दादाजी का स्वभाव शिशुवत है।

Grandfather's nature is childlike.

Possessive 'ka' links Grandpa and nature.

2

उसकी आँखों में शिशुवत चमक है।

There is a childlike sparkle in her eyes.

Chamak (sparkle) is feminine, but shishuvat remains unchanged.

3

हमें शिशुवत सरलता अपनानी चाहिए।

We should adopt childlike simplicity.

Use of 'chahiye' for suggestion.

4

वह अपनी शिशुवत आदतों के लिए जाना जाता है।

He is known for his childlike habits.

Passive construction 'jana jata hai'.

5

शिशुवत हृदय में डर नहीं होता।

There is no fear in a childlike heart.

Locative case 'mein' (in).

6

यह कविता शिशुवत भावों से भरी है।

This poem is full of childlike emotions.

Instrumental case 'se' (with/by).

7

उसका चेहरा शिशुवत मासूम लग रहा था।

His face was looking childlike and innocent.

Past continuous 'lag raha tha'.

8

शिशुवत जिज्ञासा ज्ञान की कुंजी है।

Childlike curiosity is the key to knowledge.

Metaphorical usage.

1

कलाकार ने अपनी कला में शिशुवत मासूमियत दिखाई है।

The artist has shown childlike innocence in his art.

Present perfect tense with 'ne' particle.

2

वह वृद्धावस्था में भी शिशुवत उत्साह रखता है।

He maintains childlike enthusiasm even in old age.

Adverbial phrase 'vriddhavastha mein bhi'.

3

सच्चा प्रेम हमेशा शिशुवत और निस्वार्थ होता है।

True love is always childlike and selfless.

Pairing adjectives with 'aur'.

4

उनकी शिशुवत बातों ने सबका तनाव कम कर दिया।

Their childlike talk reduced everyone's stress.

Plural subject-verb agreement.

5

ईश्वर के प्रति उनका समर्पण शिशुवत था।

His devotion towards God was childlike.

Prepositional phrase 'ke prati'.

6

शिशुवत अवस्था में व्यक्ति अहंकार से मुक्त होता है।

In a childlike state, a person is free from ego.

Avastha (state) modified by Shishuvat.

7

वह अपनी शिशुवत भूलों पर खुद ही हँस पड़ा।

He burst out laughing at his own childlike mistakes.

Compound verb 'hans pada'.

8

शिशुवत विश्वास ही मिठास का आधार है।

Childlike trust is the basis of sweetness.

Noun as the base of the sentence.

1

उनके व्यक्तित्व में एक शिशुवत पवित्रता रची-बसी थी।

A childlike purity was deeply ingrained in his personality.

Compound adjective 'rachi-basi' (ingrained).

2

शिशुवत हठ कभी-कभी बड़ों को भी विचलित कर देता है।

Childlike stubbornness sometimes disturbs even adults.

Shishuvat used for 'hath' (stubbornness).

3

लेखक ने प्रकृति का वर्णन शिशुवत कोमलता से किया है।

The author has described nature with childlike tenderness.

Adverbial use with 'se'.

4

उनकी शिशुवत मुस्कान के पीछे गहरा अनुभव छिपा था।

Behind his childlike smile, deep experience was hidden.

Contrast between 'shishuvat' and 'anubhav'.

5

वह संसार के छल-कपट से दूर शिशुवत जीवन जीना चाहता है।

He wants to live a childlike life, away from the deceits of the world.

Infinitive 'jeena chahta hai'.

6

शिशुवत विस्मय के बिना विज्ञान और कला अधूरे हैं।

Without childlike wonder, science and art are incomplete.

Use of 'ke bina' (without).

7

उसकी शिशुवत निष्कपटता ने विरोधियों का हृदय भी जीत लिया।

His childlike guilelessness won over even his opponents' hearts.

Abstract noun 'nishkapatta'.

8

ध्यान के दौरान वह पूर्णतः शिशुवत अवस्था में पहुँच गया।

During meditation, he reached a completely childlike state.

Adverb 'purnatah' (completely).

1

दार्शनिकों के अनुसार, शिशुवत होना ही सर्वोच्च ज्ञान है।

According to philosophers, being childlike is the supreme knowledge.

Gerundial use 'hona' (being).

2

उनकी रचनाओं में शिशुवत सरलता और दार्शनिक गहराई का संगम है।

In his works, there is a confluence of childlike simplicity and philosophical depth.

Sangam (confluence) used metaphorically.

3

शिशुवत दृष्टि से ही हम दुनिया की वास्तविक सुंदरता देख सकते हैं।

Only through a childlike vision can we see the real beauty of the world.

Instrumental 'drishti se' (with vision).

4

उसकी शिशुवत निर्दोषता ने उसे समाज के कठोर नियमों से बचाए रखा।

Her childlike innocence kept her safe from the harsh rules of society.

Causative-like structure 'bachaye rakha'.

5

आध्यात्मिक मार्ग पर शिशुवत विश्वास अत्यंत आवश्यक है।

Childlike faith is extremely necessary on the spiritual path.

Adjective modifying 'vishwas' (faith).

6

वह अपनी शिशुवत प्रवृत्तियों को छिपाने का प्रयास नहीं करता।

He does not try to hide his childlike tendencies.

Negative sentence 'prayas nahi karta'.

7

शिशुवत आनंद की प्राप्ति के लिए अहंकार का त्याग अनिवार्य है।

Sacrificing the ego is mandatory to achieve childlike bliss.

Genitive 'ke liye' (for).

8

उसका शिशुवत विलाप सुनकर सबका हृदय पसीज गया।

Hearing his childlike wailing, everyone's heart melted.

Vilaap (wailing/lamenting) - negative but pure context.

1

शिशुवत चैतन्य ही वह धुरी है जिस पर उनकी संपूर्ण विचारधारा टिकी है।

Childlike consciousness is the pivot on which his entire ideology rests.

Relative clause 'jis par' (on which).

2

उनकी शिशुवत अज्ञानता वास्तव में एक उच्च स्तर की प्रज्ञा थी।

His childlike ignorance was actually a high level of wisdom.

Paradoxical construction.

3

वह शिशुवत भाव से मृत्यु का स्वागत करने के लिए तत्पर था।

He was ready to welcome death with a childlike attitude.

Tatpar (ready/eager).

4

कविता की पंक्तियों में शिशुवत लयात्मकता का अद्भुत प्रवाह है।

There is a wonderful flow of childlike rhythmicity in the lines of the poem.

Layaatmakta (rhythmicity).

5

शिशुवत विस्मय की पुनर्प्राप्ति ही आधुनिक मनुष्य की सबसे बड़ी चुनौती है।

The recovery of childlike wonder is the greatest challenge for modern man.

Punar-prapti (recovery/re-attainment).

6

उन्होंने अपने राजनीतिक जीवन में भी एक शिशुवत शुचिता बनाए रखी।

He maintained a childlike purity even in his political life.

Shuchita (purity/sanctity).

7

शिशुवत अवस्था का अर्थ बौद्धिक अक्षमता नहीं, बल्कि मानसिक निर्मलता है।

The childlike state does not mean intellectual incapacity, but mental clarity.

Contrastive 'nahi, balki' (not, but).

8

उसका शिशुवत मौन किसी भी तर्क से अधिक प्रभावशाली था।

His childlike silence was more influential than any argument.

Comparative 'se adhik'.

Collocations courantes

शिशुवत मुस्कान
शिशुवत सरलता
शिशुवत जिज्ञासा
शिशुवत विश्वास
शिशुवत मासूमियत
शिशुवत अवस्था
शिशुवत हृदय
शिशुवत व्यवहार
शिशुवत कोमलता
शिशुवत विस्मय

Phrases Courantes

शिशुवत बने रहना

— To remain childlike. It means keeping one's innocence throughout life.

बड़े होने पर भी मन से शिशुवत बने रहना एक कला है।

शिशुवत निष्पापता

— Childlike sinlessness. Refers to being completely free of bad intentions.

उनकी शिशुवत निष्पापता ही उनकी सबसे बड़ी ढाल थी।

शिशुवत निश्छलता

— Childlike guilelessness. Having no trickery in one's heart.

उसकी शिशुवत निश्छलता ने सबको प्रभावित किया।

शिशुवत भाव

— Childlike sentiment. Approaching something with a child's perspective.

हमें प्रार्थना शिशुवत भाव से करनी चाहिए।

शिशुवत नींद

— Childlike sleep. A very deep and peaceful sleep.

थकान के बाद उसे शिशुवत नींद आई।

शिशुवत आनंद

— Childlike joy. Pure, unadulterated happiness.

बारिश में भीगते समय उसे शिशुवत आनंद मिला।

शिशुवत अज्ञान

— Childlike ignorance. Not knowing bad things, seen as a virtue.

उसका शिशुवत अज्ञान ही उसे खुश रखता है।

शिशुवत सरलता के साथ

— With childlike simplicity. Doing something without making it complex.

उसने शिशुवत सरलता के साथ अपनी गलती मान ली।

शिशुवत दृष्टि

— Childlike vision/gaze. Looking at the world with wonder.

एक कवि की दृष्टि हमेशा शिशुवत होती है।

शिशुवत प्रेम

— Childlike love. Unconditional and pure love.

उनका प्रेम शिशुवत और निस्वार्थ था।

Souvent confondu avec

शिशुवत vs बचकाना (Bachkana)

Bachkana is negative (immature/childish). Shishuvat is positive (innocent/childlike).

शिशुवत vs शैशव (Shaishav)

Shaishav is a noun meaning 'childhood' or 'infancy'. Shishuvat is an adjective meaning 'childlike'.

शिशुवत vs शिशु (Shishu)

Shishu is the noun (baby). Shishuvat is the adjective (baby-like).

Expressions idiomatiques

"शिशुवत मन होना"

— To have a heart as pure as a child's. Used for very kind people.

इतनी उम्र में भी उनका मन बिल्कुल शिशुवत है।

Literary
"शिशुवत हठ"

— An innocent but firm stubbornness. Usually used for simple requests.

उसकी शिशुवत हठ के आगे सबको झुकना पड़ा।

Neutral
"शिशुवत सरलता का धनी"

— To be 'rich' in childlike simplicity. A way to praise character.

वह व्यक्ति शिशुवत सरलता का धनी है।

Formal
"शिशुवत विस्मय से भर जाना"

— To be filled with childlike wonder. Used when seeing something amazing.

हिमालय को देखकर वह शिशुवत विस्मय से भर गया।

Poetic
"शिशुवत भाव में खोना"

— To be lost in a childlike state. Often used for meditation or play.

गीत गाते समय वह शिशुवत भाव में खो जाता है।

Literary
"शिशुवत सत्य"

— A truth so simple and obvious that only a child (or childlike person) sees it.

उसकी बातों में एक शिशुवत सत्य छिपा था।

Formal
"शिशुवत निश्छल हंसी"

— A pure, guileless laugh that warms the heart.

उसकी शिशुवत निश्छल हंसी सुनकर सारा घर चहक उठा।

Neutral
"शिशुवत विश्वास रखना"

— To have total, unquestioning faith like a child in a parent.

हमें अपने कर्मों पर शिशुवत विश्वास रखना चाहिए।

Formal
"शिशुवत कोमल"

— As soft or tender as an infant. Used for skin, flowers, or feelings.

उसकी भावनाएं शिशुवत कोमल हैं।

Poetic
"शिशुवत निर्दोषता का अवतार"

— The embodiment of childlike innocence.

वह वृद्ध व्यक्ति शिशुवत निर्दोषता का अवतार था।

Formal

Facile à confondre

शिशुवत vs बालकवत (Balakvat)

Both mean childlike.

Shishuvat implies an infant's purity (younger), while Balakvat implies a young boy's qualities.

उनका स्वभाव शिशुवत है (Very pure). उनका खेल बालकवत है (Playful like a boy).

शिशुवत vs मासूम (Masoom)

Both imply innocence.

Masoom is common and emotional; Shishuvat is formal and spiritual.

वह बहुत मासूम है (Common). वह शिशुवत है (Formal/Poetic).

शिशुवत vs अबोध (Abodh)

Both relate to not knowing the world.

Abodh literally means 'without understanding'; Shishuvat means 'resembling an infant'.

अबोध बालक (Unknowing child). शिशुवत सरलता (Infant-like simplicity).

शिशुवत vs सरल (Saral)

Both describe simplicity.

Saral is general (simple); Shishuvat is specific to child-like simplicity.

यह काम सरल है (This task is simple). वह शिशुवत है (He is childlike).

शिशुवत vs निश्छल (Nishchal)

Both mean without deceit.

Nishchal focuses on the absence of 'chal' (trickery); Shishuvat is a broader character trait.

निश्छल प्रेम (Guileless love). शिशुवत व्यक्तित्व (Childlike personality).

Structures de phrases

A1

[Subject] [Shishuvat] [Verb].

वह शिशुवत है।

A2

[Subject] [Noun] [Shishuvat] [Verb].

उसकी हँसी शिशुवत है।

B1

[Shishuvat] [Noun] [Remaining Sentence].

शिशुवत सरलता सबको पसंद आती है।

B1

[Subject] [Shishuvat] [Noun] [Verb].

वह शिशुवत जिज्ञासा रखता है।

B2

[Subject] में [Shishuvat] [Noun] है।

उनमें शिशुवत पवित्रता है।

B2

[Subject] [Shishuvat] [Noun] के साथ [Verb].

वह शिशुवत सरलता के साथ बात करता है।

C1

[Clause], फिर भी [Subject] [Shishuvat] [Verb].

वह बूढ़ा है, फिर भी शिशुवत हँसता है।

C2

[Noun] का [Shishuvat] होना [Noun] है।

मनुष्य का शिशुवत होना ही उसकी मुक्ति है।

Famille de mots

Noms

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in literature and spiritual contexts; rare in casual street slang.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'Shishuvati' for a woman. Use 'Shishuvat' for everyone.

    The suffix '-vat' is indeclinable in this usage. Gender agreement is not required.

  • Using 'Shishuvat' to mean 'immature'. Use 'Bachkana' for immaturity.

    Shishuvat is a positive term for innocence; Bachkana is a negative term for immaturity.

  • Pronouncing 'vat' as 'vaat'. Pronounce it as 'văt' (short 'a').

    A long 'aa' sound changes the meaning or makes it sound incorrect.

  • Using 'Shishuvat' in very informal slang. Use 'Baccho jaisa' for casual talk.

    Shishuvat is a high-register word and can sound overly dramatic in casual conversation.

  • Thinking 'Shishuvat' is a noun. It is an adjective.

    You cannot say 'He is a shishuvat'. You must say 'He is shishuvat' or 'His nature is shishuvat'.

Astuces

Use for Character

Use Shishuvat to describe a person's soul or personality rather than their physical appearance. It's about the 'vibe' of innocence.

Don't Decline

Remember that Shishuvat doesn't change to Shishuvati or Shishuvate. It's a static adjective.

Pair with 'Saralta'

The most common pairing is 'Shishuvat Saralta' (Childlike simplicity). It's a safe and beautiful phrase to use.

Spiritual Context

If you are in a yoga or meditation class, using this word will show you understand the spiritual goal of returning to innocence.

Avoid 'Bachkana'

Never use 'Bachkana' when you mean to praise someone. It will sound like you are calling them stupid.

Formal Tone

Reserve Shishuvat for formal writing like cards, letters of appreciation, or essays.

Soft Ending

Keep the final 't' very soft. If you make it hard, it might sound like a different word to native ears.

Root Recognition

When you see '-vat' at the end of a Hindi word, think 'like' or 'similar to'. It helps you guess the meaning of many other words.

The Baby Image

Every time you hear the word, visualize a peaceful sleeping baby. That's the essence of the word.

Contrast Practice

Try writing one sentence with 'Bachkana' and one with 'Shishuvat' to feel the difference in energy.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Shishu' (Baby) in a 'Vat' (Large tub) looking happy and pure. Shishu-Vat. Or remember: 'She-Shoo' (The sound you make to a baby) + 'Vat' (Like).

Association visuelle

Imagine a very old, wise man with long white hair, but he is laughing at a butterfly with the pure joy of a 1-year-old. That is 'Shishuvat'.

Word Web

Shishu (Infant) Nirdosh (Innocent) Saral (Simple) Pavitra (Pure) Bachpan (Childhood) Masoom (Innocent) Abodh (Unknowing) Nishkapat (Guileless)

Défi

Try to describe three people you know using the word 'Shishuvat'. One must be an elder, one must be a friend, and one must be a fictional character.

Origine du mot

The word 'Shishuvat' originates from Sanskrit. It is a combination of the noun 'Shishu' (meaning newborn, infant, or young of an animal) and the suffix '-vat' (meaning like, possessing the quality of, or similar to). This suffix is a common way in Sanskrit to form adjectives from nouns.

Sens originel : Originally, it meant literally 'like a newborn' or 'behaving as an infant does'.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit branch).

Contexte culturel

While usually positive, calling a professional 'Shishuvat' in a business meeting might be confusing. Use it for character and spirit, not for professional skills.

English speakers should be careful not to translate 'Shishuvat' as 'Childish'. In English, 'Childish' is almost always bad, but 'Shishuvat' is almost always good. It is closer to the biblical 'unless you become as little children'.

Ramakrishna Paramahansa was famously described as 'Shishuvat' in his devotion. The deity 'Bal Krishna' (Baby Krishna) is the ultimate cultural icon of the 'Shishuvat' spirit. Mahatma Gandhi's 'childlike' laughter was a frequent point of praise in historical accounts.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Describing a Saint/Guru

  • शिशुवत अवस्था (Childlike state)
  • शिशुवत मुस्कान (Childlike smile)
  • शिशुवत मन (Childlike mind)
  • अहंकार रहित (Without ego)

Artistic Critique

  • शिशुवत सरलता (Childlike simplicity)
  • शिशुवत विस्मय (Childlike wonder)
  • रचनात्मक दृष्टि (Creative vision)
  • निर्मल अभिव्यक्ति (Pure expression)

Character Description in Novels

  • शिशुवत जिज्ञासा (Childlike curiosity)
  • शिशुवत निष्कपटता (Childlike guilelessness)
  • मासूम चेहरा (Innocent face)
  • निश्छल व्यवहार (Guileless behavior)

Psychology/Self-Help

  • भीतरी बच्चा (Inner child)
  • शिशुवत विश्वास (Childlike trust)
  • तनाव मुक्त (Stress free)
  • सहज होना (To be natural)

Spiritual Devotion (Bhakti)

  • शिशुवत समर्पण (Childlike surrender)
  • बाल भाव (Child-like emotion)
  • ईश्वर के प्रति (Towards God)
  • निस्वार्थ प्रेम (Selfless love)

Amorces de conversation

"क्या आपको लगता है कि बड़ों को भी शिशुवत होना चाहिए? (Do you think adults should also be childlike?)"

"आपकी नज़र में कौन सा व्यक्ति सबसे ज्यादा शिशुवत है? (In your view, who is the most childlike person?)"

"शिशुवत सरलता और बचकानेपन में क्या अंतर है? (What is the difference between childlike simplicity and childishness?)"

"क्या कला के लिए शिशुवत जिज्ञासा ज़रूरी है? (Is childlike curiosity necessary for art?)"

"हम अपनी शिशुवत मासूमियत को कैसे बचा सकते हैं? (How can we save our childlike innocence?)"

Sujets d'écriture

आज आपने अपनी शिशुवत जिज्ञासा का उपयोग कहाँ किया? विस्तार से लिखें। (Where did you use your childlike curiosity today? Write in detail.)

किसी ऐसे व्यक्ति का वर्णन करें जिसकी शिशुवत मुस्कान आपको शांति देती है। (Describe someone whose childlike smile gives you peace.)

क्या 'शिशुवत' होना कमज़ोरी है या ताकत? अपने विचार लिखें। (Is being 'childlike' a weakness or a strength? Write your thoughts.)

अगर आप एक दिन के लिए पूरी तरह शिशुवत बन जाएँ, तो आप क्या करेंगे? (If you became completely childlike for a day, what would you do?)

अपने जीवन की उस घटना को याद करें जब आपने शिशुवत विश्वास दिखाया था। (Recall an event in your life when you showed childlike trust.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, 'Shishuvat' is an indeclinable adjective in this context. It does not change its form for gender. You can say 'Vah ladki shishuvat hai' and 'Vah ladka shishuvat hai'.

Almost always. In Hindi literature and spirituality, it is used to denote high moral or spiritual purity. However, in a professional setting, if someone says your work is 'shishuvat', they might mean it lacks maturity, but 'bachkana' would be the usual word for that insult.

'Baccho jaisa' is the common, everyday way to say 'like children'. 'Shishuvat' is a formal, more poetic version used in books and speeches.

It is pronounced with a soft dental 't'. Your tongue should touch the back of your upper teeth. It sounds like 'vut' with a very soft 't'.

It would be redundant. 'Shishu' is already a baby. You use 'Shishuvat' to describe an adult who *acts* like a baby in a good way.

Not very common. Songs usually prefer 'Masoom' or 'Anjana' or 'Baccha'. 'Shishuvat' is more likely to be found in the dialogue of a wise character or in a poem.

They share the root 'Shishu' (infant). 'Shishupal' means 'protector of infants'. 'Shishuvat' means 'like an infant'.

Yes, metaphorically. You can say 'shishuvat shanti' (childlike peace) to describe a very calm environment.

The best opposites are 'Praudh' (mature/adult) or 'Dhurt' (cunning/deceitful), depending on whether you are talking about age or character.

It is a 'Tatsam' word, which means it is a Sanskrit word used in Hindi without any change in spelling.

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'Shishuvat' to describe an old man's smile.

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writing

Explain the difference between 'Shishuvat' and 'Bachkana' in one sentence.

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writing

Describe a spiritual person using 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Write a sentence about childlike curiosity.

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writing

Translate: 'His childlike trust is his strength.'

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writing

Write a short poem line using 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Describe a peaceful sleep using 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Describe someone's eyes using 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Write a sentence about childlike simplicity in art.

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writing

Translate: 'The saint has a childlike nature.'

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writing

Write a formal thank you note mention 'Shishuvat saralta'.

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writing

Describe a child's laugh as 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Write about 'Shishuvat Avastha' in meditation.

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writing

Translate: 'Childlike innocence is rare today.'

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writing

Describe a character in a story as 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Write a sentence about 'Shishuvat vismay'.

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writing

Translate: 'Don't lose your childlike heart.'

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writing

Describe someone's behavior as 'Shishuvat'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Shishuvat' and 'Nishkapatta'.

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writing

Translate: 'True love is childlike.'

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speaking

Say 'Shishuvat' five times, focusing on the dental 't'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronounce the phrase: 'Shishuvat Saralta'.

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speaking

Read aloud: 'Unki muskan shishuvat hai.'

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speaking

Say: 'Shishuvat vishwas hi shakti hai.'

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speaking

Describe your best friend using 'Shishuvat' in a sentence.

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speaking

Pronounce: 'Shishuvat Avastha'.

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speaking

Say: 'Hame shishuvat jigyasa rakhni chahiye.'

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speaking

Read: 'Vah shishuvat nind so raha hai.'

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speaking

Pronounce the synonym: 'Balakvat'.

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speaking

Say: 'Shishuvat nishkapatta sabko bhati hai.'

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speaking

Read aloud: 'Sacha prem shishuvat hota hai.'

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speaking

Say: 'Unka hriday shishuvat hai.'

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speaking

Pronounce: 'Shishuvat Vismay'.

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speaking

Say: 'Vah shishuvat hans raha hai.'

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speaking

Read: 'Shishuvat anand ki koi sima nahi.'

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speaking

Say: 'Hame shishuvat bane rehna chahiye.'

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speaking

Pronounce the antonym: 'Praudh'.

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speaking

Say: 'Unki shishuvat baaton ne sabka tanav kam kiya.'

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speaking

Read aloud: 'Shishuvat shuchita hi mahanata hai.'

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speaking

Say: 'Vah shishuvat nirdosh hai.'

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listening

Listen and write the adjective: 'उनकी शिशुवत सरलता सबको पसंद है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and translate: 'वह शिशुवत हँसता है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What is the noun in: 'शिशुवत विश्वास ज़रूरी है।'?

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the tone: 'आपका काम शिशुवत है।' (Complimentary)

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'शिशुवत जिज्ञासा ज्ञान बढ़ाती है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and translate: 'उनका हृदय शिशुवत पवित्र है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What suffix is used in 'Shishuvat'?

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'शिशुवत अवस्था में शांति मिलती है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Translate: 'वह शिशुवत सो रहा है।' from audio.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write the synonym: 'बालकवत व्यवहार'।

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and translate: 'शिशुवत विस्मय अद्भुत है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'सच्चा प्रेम शिशुवत होता है।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What word means 'like an infant' in the audio?

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and translate: 'शिशुवत निश्छलता की महिमा।'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'वह शिशुवत हठ कर रहा है।'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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