このページをあなたの言語で

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 conjunction #700 よく出る 15分で読める

यानी

yaani 上位700

At the A1 level, 'यानी' (yaani) is a very helpful tool for beginners to connect simple ideas. Think of it as a way to say 'that means' or 'is'. For example, if you know the word for 'Sunday' (Ravivaar) and the word for 'Holiday' (Chhutti), you can say 'Ravivaar yaani chhutti' (Sunday means holiday). It helps you explain yourself when you only know a few words. You don't need to worry about complex grammar with this word; it stays the same no matter what you are talking about. It is like a bridge between two words that mean the same thing. Beginners can use it to clarify their family relationships, like 'Mera bhai yaani Rahul' (My brother, that is Rahul). It is a simple way to make your short sentences clearer for the person listening to you.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'यानी' to connect full phrases and simple sentences. This is the level where you move beyond just naming things and start explaining situations. For instance, 'Main bimaar hoon, yaani main aaj nahi aaunga' (I am sick, meaning I won't come today). Here, 'yaani' is used to show a result or a consequence of the first part. You can also use it to specify times and dates, which is a key skill at this level. 'Hum agle hafte milenge, yaani mangalvaar ko' (We will meet next week, specifically on Tuesday). It helps you be more precise in your daily conversations. You will also start to notice 'yaani' being used in simple stories or news snippets to explain difficult words or concepts.

At the B1 level, 'यानी' becomes essential for logical reasoning and expressing opinions. You are now expected to handle more complex topics, and 'यानी' helps you structure your thoughts. You can use it to summarize a point you've just made: 'Vah hamesha sach bolta hai, yaani vah ek imandaar vyakti hai' (He always speaks the truth, in other words, he is an honest person). This shows you can categorize behavior into character traits. You will also encounter 'yaani' in more formal settings, like a workplace or a classroom, where it is used to define professional terms. It is also the stage where you should start distinguishing 'yaani' from its more formal counterpart 'arthaat', choosing the right one based on who you are talking to.

At the B2 level, you should use 'यानी' to handle abstract concepts and nuanced arguments. You can use it to rephrase complex ideas to ensure your audience follows your logic. For example, in a discussion about social issues, you might say, 'Samajik parivartan ka arth hai soch mein badlav, yaani purani paramparaon ko chhodna' (Social change means a change in thinking, that is to say, leaving behind old traditions). At this level, you can also use 'yaani' rhetorically to emphasize a point or to introduce a sarcastic clarification. You should be comfortable hearing 'yaani' in fast-paced debates, news analysis, and contemporary literature, understanding that it often introduces the 'core' of the speaker's argument.

At the C1 level, your use of 'यानी' should be seamless and sophisticated. You can use it to navigate high-level academic, legal, or philosophical discourses. It becomes a tool for precise semantic delimitation. For instance, 'Loktantra ka taatparya keval matdaan nahi hai, yaani yah ek jeevan-shaili hai' (Democracy does not just imply voting; in other words, it is a way of life). You can use 'yaani' to bridge the gap between technical jargon and conceptual essence. You should also be able to recognize when a speaker uses 'yaani' to subtly shift the meaning of a term or to create a specific logical frame. Your mastery of 'yaani' at this level reflects your ability to manipulate the Hindi language to express complex, multi-layered thoughts with clarity.

At the C2 level, 'यानी' is used with the precision of a master stylist. You can use it in literary analysis, high-level diplomacy, or complex scientific explanations to provide definitive clarifications. It helps in defining the 'absolute' meaning in a sea of ambiguity. You might use it to interpret classical poetry or to explain the nuances of Vedic philosophy to a modern audience. At this level, you understand the historical and etymological weight of the word and can use it to create a specific rhythmic or logical flow in your writing. You can also use it to deconstruct arguments, pointing out exactly where an equivalence ('yaani') is being falsely claimed by an opponent. It is no longer just a conjunction; it is a tool for intellectual precision.

練習する例文メモとヒント

यानी 30秒で

Yaani is a conjunction meaning 'that is to say' or 'in other words'. It is used to clarify or specify a previous statement.
It is of Arabic origin and is a staple of Hindustani, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Unlike 'matlab', which is a noun meaning 'meaning', 'yaani' is a connector used between two equivalent ideas or phrases.
It is essential for learners to refine their speech, provide synonyms, and ensure they are being understood correctly in conversation.

The Hindi word यानी (yaani) is a versatile conjunction of Arabic origin that functions as a linguistic bridge, connecting an initial statement with a clarifying explanation. In English, it is most accurately translated as 'that is to say,' 'in other words,' or the Latin abbreviation 'i.e.' (id est). It is one of the most frequently used words in both spoken and written Hindi because it allows the speaker to refine their meaning, provide a simpler synonym, or specify a general term. Whether you are navigating a complex legal document or having a casual conversation about weekend plans, yaani acts as a signal that more precise information is coming. It is essential for learners because it provides a safety net; if you say something that might be misunderstood, you can immediately follow up with yaani to clarify your intent.

Linguistic Function: It serves as an explicative conjunction, linking two synonymous or clarifying phrases where the second phrase explains the first.

In everyday Indian life, you will hear this word used to bridge the gap between formal terminology and colloquial understanding. For instance, a doctor might use a medical term and then say yaani followed by a common name for the condition. Similarly, in news broadcasts, journalists use it to break down complex political maneuvers for the general public. It is not just a filler word; it is a tool for precision. Unlike 'matlab' (which means 'meaning'), yaani specifically points to an equivalence between the two parts of the sentence. It suggests that what follows is another way of looking at what was just said, rather than just defining a single word.

वह मेरा सहोदर है, यानी मेरा सगा भाई। (He is my uterine brother, that is to say, my real brother.)

The word carries a certain logical weight. When a speaker uses yaani, they are often performing a 'repair' on their speech—adjusting their level of formality or detail to suit the listener's needs. It is also used rhetorically to emphasize a point by restating it in a more impactful way. For example, 'The project was a disaster, yaani we lost everything.' Here, the word doesn't just explain; it intensifies the reality of the situation. It is a word of clarification, specification, and sometimes, dramatic realization.

Social Register: While 'arthaat' is the Sanskrit-derived formal equivalent, 'yaani' is the standard, neutral choice used across all social strata in India.

Furthermore, yaani is often paired with the particle 'ki' to form 'yaani ki'. This doesn't significantly change the meaning but adds a slight rhythmic pause, common in North Indian speech patterns. It helps the listener prepare for the explanation. In the context of the CEFR A2 level, learners should focus on using it to connect simple nouns or adjectives. As you progress to higher levels, you will see it used to connect entire conceptual frameworks or abstract theories. It is a word that grows with your vocabulary.

कल छुट्टी है, यानी हमें स्कूल नहीं जाना। (Tomorrow is a holiday, in other words, we don't have to go to school.)

In summary, yaani is the glue of Hindi logic. It allows for the expansion of thought and the narrowing of ambiguity. It is a word that invites the listener into the speaker's mental process, showing exactly how one idea relates to another. Without it, Hindi conversation would feel disjointed and overly reliant on the listener's ability to guess the speaker's intent. By mastering yaani, you master the art of being understood in Hindi.

Common Contexts: Academic lectures, news reporting, casual storytelling, legal clarifications, and teaching environments.

वह शाकाहारी है, यानी वह मांस नहीं खाता। (He is a vegetarian, that is to say, he doesn't eat meat.)

ट्रेन दो घंटे देरी से है, यानी हम शाम को पहुँचेंगे। (The train is two hours late, meaning we will arrive in the evening.)

आज अमावस्या है, यानी चाँद नहीं दिखेगा। (Today is the new moon, in other words, the moon won't be visible.)

Using यानी (yaani) correctly requires an understanding of its position as a coordinator. It almost always sits between two parallel structures—two nouns, two adjectives, two phrases, or two complete clauses. The structure before yaani is the 'source' statement, and the structure after it is the 'clarification.' Because it is a conjunction, it does not change its form based on gender, number, or case. This makes it a very 'stable' word for learners to use without fear of grammatical inflection errors.

Sentence Structure: [Statement A] + यानी + [Clarification of A]. The clarification can be a synonym, a consequence, or a more specific detail.

One of the most common ways to use yaani is to provide a synonym for a difficult word. For example, if you use a high-register word like 'vivaah' (marriage), you might follow it with yaani shaadi to ensure everyone understands. This is particularly useful in educational settings. Another common use is to state a logical consequence. If you say, 'The milk is finished,' you can follow with 'yaani we need to go to the market.' Here, yaani functions similarly to 'which means' in English, linking a fact to its immediate implication.

वह अल्पभाषी है, यानी वह बहुत कम बोलता है। (He is laconic, that is to say, he speaks very little.)

In complex sentences, yaani can introduce a summary of a long explanation. After describing a series of events, a speaker might say, 'Yaani, in short, we are in trouble.' In this usage, it acts as a concluding marker. It is also frequently used in mathematical or scientific explanations to translate formulas into plain language. For instance, 'The temperature is zero degrees, yaani it is freezing.' Notice how the tone remains neutral; yaani is appropriate for both a textbook and a conversation over tea.

Syntactic Flexibility: It can connect words (noun-noun), phrases (adverbial-adverbial), or entire independent clauses.

Learners often ask if yaani can start a sentence. While it usually appears in the middle, it can start a sentence if it is responding to something someone else just said. If a friend says, 'I'm not coming to the party because I have too much work,' you might respond, 'Yaani you are busy?' This use of yaani as a question-starter is a powerful way to confirm understanding in a conversation. It shows active listening and helps prevent miscommunication.

उसने मना कर दिया, यानी अब हमें खुद ही करना होगा। (He refused, meaning now we have to do it ourselves.)

Another nuance is the use of yaani to specify a time or place. 'We will meet on the weekend, yaani Saturday.' This narrowing of scope is a very common practical application. It moves from the general ('weekend') to the specific ('Saturday'). In this way, yaani acts as a filter, focusing the listener's attention on the exact detail that matters. It is a word of refinement.

Logical Connective: It functions as an 'equals sign' in a sentence, asserting that A = B in terms of meaning or consequence.

वह मेरा ममेरा भाई है, यानी मेरे मामा का बेटा। (He is my maternal cousin, that is, my maternal uncle's son.)

दुकानें बंद हैं, यानी आज हड़ताल है। (The shops are closed, meaning there is a strike today.)

परीक्षा सोमवार को है, यानी परसों। (The exam is on Monday, in other words, the day after tomorrow.)

The word यानी (yaani) is ubiquitous in the Hindi-speaking world, transcending regional dialects and social classes. You will hear it in the bustling markets of Old Delhi, the high-tech offices of Bengaluru, and the quiet villages of Uttar Pradesh. Its Arabic roots make it a staple of 'Hindustani'—the common tongue that blends Hindi and Urdu. Because it is so deeply embedded in the language, it feels natural and 'correct' in almost any setting. If you watch Bollywood movies, pay attention to scenes involving arguments or explanations; characters will frequently use yaani to drive their point home or to question another character's motives.

Media and News: News anchors use it constantly to explain government policies or economic data, making the information accessible to the average viewer.

In the classroom, yaani is a teacher's best friend. When explaining a new concept, a teacher will often provide a formal definition and then use yaani to offer a more relatable example. For example, 'The Earth rotates on its axis, yaani it spins like a top.' This usage highlights the word's role as a pedagogical tool. Similarly, in religious or philosophical discourses (Pravachans), speakers use yaani to interpret ancient scriptures for a modern audience, bridging the gap between archaic language and contemporary life.

स्टॉक मार्केट गिर गया है, यानी निवेशकों का नुकसान हुआ है। (The stock market has fallen, meaning investors have suffered losses.)

On the streets, you might hear it in negotiations. A shopkeeper might say, 'This is pure silk, yaani it will last for years.' Here, the word is used to sell a benefit. In casual gossip, it’s used to clarify relationships or events: 'She didn't invite him, yaani they are still fighting.' In this context, yaani introduces the 'real story' or the underlying truth behind an observation. It is a word that uncovers subtext.

Legal and Official Use: In legal contexts, it is used to define terms precisely to avoid any ambiguity in contracts or court proceedings.

Interestingly, yaani is also a favorite of poets and lyricists. While it sounds functional, it can be used to create a rhythmic parallel in a verse. By stating an idea and then 'translating' it into a more poetic or emotional image using yaani, the writer can deepen the impact of their words. It is this versatility—from the mundane to the sublime—that makes yaani an essential part of the Hindi soundscape. Whether you are reading a newspaper, listening to a song, or talking to a neighbor, yaani is the constant companion of the Hindi speaker.

वह शहर से बाहर है, यानी वह मीटिंग में नहीं आ पाएगा। (He is out of town, meaning he won't be able to attend the meeting.)

In digital spaces like Twitter (X) or WhatsApp, yaani is often used to summarize a long thread or to clarify a sarcastic comment. Because digital communication can be easily misunderstood, yaani serves as a crucial clarifier. It ensures that the 'intent' of the message is conveyed, even when the 'words' might be ambiguous. For a learner, hearing yaani is a signal to pay close attention, as the speaker is about to provide the key to understanding everything they just said.

Cultural Nuance: Using 'yaani' shows a speaker's desire to be helpful and clear, which is a valued trait in Indian communication styles.

उसने अपनी गलती मान ली, यानी अब झगड़ा खत्म। (He admitted his mistake, in other words, the fight is over now.)

फिल्म फ्लॉप हो गई, यानी जनता को पसंद नहीं आई। (The film flopped, meaning the public didn't like it.)

वह बहुत कंजूस है, यानी वह पैसे खर्च नहीं करता। (He is very stingy, that is to say, he doesn't spend money.)

While यानी (yaani) is a relatively simple word to use, learners often fall into a few common traps. The most frequent mistake is confusing yaani with matlab. While both can be translated as 'means,' they are used differently. Matlab is a noun that literally means 'meaning' or 'intent.' You use matlab when you are asking for the definition of a specific word: 'Is shabd ka kya matlab hai?' (What is the meaning of this word?). Yaani, however, is a conjunction used to link two equivalent ideas. You wouldn't say 'Is shabd ka kya yaani hai?'—that would be grammatically incorrect.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Yaani' with 'Matlab': Incorrect: 'Iska yaani kya hai?' (What is its 'that is to say'?). Correct: 'Iska matlab kya hai?' (What does this mean?). Use 'yaani' only as a bridge between two statements.

Another mistake is overusing yaani as a filler word, similar to how English speakers use 'like' or 'um.' While native speakers do this occasionally, over-reliance on yaani can make your speech sound hesitant or repetitive. It is better to use it only when you genuinely need to clarify or restate something. If you find yourself saying yaani every three words, try to slow down and plan your sentences more carefully. Precision is the goal, not just filling silence.

गलत: मैं घर जा रहा हूँ यानी... यानी... मुझे भूख लगी है। (Incorrect: I am going home... I mean... I mean... I am hungry.)

A third mistake is using yaani when you should be using a contrastive conjunction like 'lekin' (but) or 'par' (however). Yaani implies that the second part of the sentence is the same as or a result of the first part. It does not introduce a contradiction. For example, you shouldn't say, 'I like tea, yaani I don't like coffee.' This is logically confusing because liking tea doesn't automatically mean you dislike coffee. In this case, 'lekin' would be more appropriate to show a preference or contrast.

Mistake 2: Incorrect Logical Connection: Do not use 'yaani' to introduce a completely new or unrelated topic. It must relate back to the previous statement.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the register. In extremely formal Sanskritized Hindi (Shuddh Hindi), the word 'arthaat' is preferred over yaani. If you are writing a formal academic thesis or a high-level government report, using yaani might feel slightly too colloquial. However, for 95% of situations, yaani is perfectly acceptable. The mistake is not in using yaani, but in not knowing that 'arthaat' exists for those rare ultra-formal moments.

गलत: वह बहुत अमीर है, यानी वह दुखी है। (Incorrect: He is very rich, meaning he is sad. - This is a logical leap, not a clarification.)

Finally, ensure that the grammatical structure following yaani matches the structure preceding it. If you start with a complete sentence, follow with a complete sentence or a phrase that logically completes the thought. Avoid 'dangling' clarifications that don't clearly link back to the subject. For example, 'I am tired, yaani sleep.' It's better to say, 'I am tired, yaani I need to sleep.' This keeps the sentence balanced and easy to follow for the listener.

Mistake 3: Grammatical Imbalance: Ensure the clarification is a full thought or a clear synonym. Don't leave the listener guessing how the two parts connect.

सही: वह एक चित्रकार है, यानी वह पेंटिंग बनाता है। (Correct: He is a painter, meaning he makes paintings.)

सही: यह मुफ़्त है, यानी इसके लिए पैसे नहीं देने। (Correct: This is free, meaning you don't have to pay for it.)

सही: वह मेरा पड़ोसी है, यानी वह मेरे घर के पास रहता है। (Correct: He is my neighbor, that is to say, he lives near my house.)

Hindi offers several ways to express clarification, and choosing the right one depends on the context and the level of formality you wish to convey. While यानी (yaani) is the most versatile and common, understanding its alternatives will make your Hindi sound more sophisticated and natural. The primary alternative is arthaat, followed by matlab, varna, and phrases like kahne ka taatparya.

यानी (Yaani) vs. अर्थात (Arthaat): 'Yaani' is common, neutral, and of Arabic origin. 'Arthaat' is formal, scholarly, and of Sanskrit origin. Use 'arthaat' in academic writing or formal speeches.

Arthaat (अर्थात) is the high-register sibling of yaani. You will find it in literature, textbooks, and legal documents. If yaani is 'in other words,' arthaat is 'viz.' or 'namely.' Using arthaat in a casual conversation might make you sound a bit like a professor, but using it in an essay will earn you high marks for vocabulary. It is precise and carries an air of authority.

सत्यमेव जयते, अर्थात सत्य की ही जीत होती है। (Truth alone triumphs, that is, truth always wins.)

Another close relative is matlab (मतलब). As discussed in the 'Common Mistakes' section, matlab is primarily a noun meaning 'meaning.' However, in very casual speech, people often use it as a conjunction just like yaani. For example, 'He is busy, matlab he won't come.' While common, yaani is generally considered more 'correct' for this purpose. Matlab also carries a connotation of 'intent' or 'selfish motive,' which yaani does not have.

यानी (Yaani) vs. मतलब (Matlab): 'Yaani' is a conjunction (that is). 'Matlab' is a noun (meaning). Casual speech often blurs this, but 'yaani' is better for logical linking.

For more complex clarifications, you might use the phrase kahne ka taatparya yeh hai ki... (कहने का तात्पर्य यह है कि...), which means 'the implication of what I'm saying is that...' This is a very useful phrase for business meetings or debates where you want to ensure your main point isn't lost in the details. It is much longer than yaani but serves a similar clarifying purpose with more emphasis.

मेरे कहने का तात्पर्य यह है कि हमें और मेहनत करनी होगी। (What I mean to say is that we need to work harder.)

Lastly, there is varna (वरना), which means 'otherwise.' While not a direct synonym, it is often used in similar structures to show the consequence of not following the first part of the sentence. 'Study hard, varna you will fail.' Yaani would be used if the second part explained the first, while varna shows an alternative negative outcome. Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate the logical flow of Hindi more effectively.

यानी (Yaani) vs. वरना (Varna): 'Yaani' explains what IS. 'Varna' explains what WILL HAPPEN if the first part isn't true or followed.

वह परोपकारी है, यानी वह दूसरों की मदद करता है। (He is philanthropic, meaning he helps others.)

आज रविवार है, यानी छुट्टी का दिन। (Today is Sunday, in other words, a holiday.)

वह मेरा अनुज है, यानी छोटा भाई। (He is my 'anuj', that is, younger brother.)

How Formal Is It?

フォーマル

"यह प्रस्ताव विचाराधीन है, यानी इस पर अभी अंतिम निर्णय लेना शेष है।"

ニュートラル

"वह शाकाहारी है, यानी वह अंडा भी नहीं खाता।"

カジュアル

"अरे, वह तो डरपोक है, यानी फट्टू है।"

Child friendly

"हाथी बहुत बड़ा है, यानी वह एक पहाड़ जैसा है।"

スラング

"उसका तो कट गया, यानी वह बर्बाद हो गया।"

豆知識

Despite its Arabic roots, 'yaani' is so well-integrated into Hindi that many native speakers don't realize it's a loanword. It is used by people of all religions and backgrounds across India and Pakistan.

発音ガイド

UK /jɑː.ni/

US /jɑ.ni/

The stress is evenly distributed on both syllables, though a slight emphasis on the first syllable is common in North Indian dialects.

韻が合う語

पानी (Paani - Water) रानी (Raani - Queen) कहानी (Kahaani - Story) जवानी (Jawaani - Youth) निशानी (Nishaani - Mark) मेहरबानी (Meherbani - Kindness) परेशानी (Pareshani - Trouble) पुरानी (Puraani - Old)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'ya' as 'ye' (like in 'yes'). It should be a deep 'ah' sound.
Shortening the 'ni' to 'n' (yan). The final 'i' must be clearly heard.
Adding a 'h' sound (yahni). Keep it smooth without aspiration.

難易度

読解 1/5

Very easy to recognize as it doesn't change form.

ライティング 2/5

Easy to use, but requires logical placement between two related ideas.

スピーキング 1/5

Very natural to say and helps in maintaining the flow of speech.

リスニング 1/5

A clear signal that a clarification is coming, making it helpful for learners.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

मतलब (Matlab) और (Aur) है (Hai) नहीं (Nahi) क्या (Kya)

次に学ぶ

अर्थात (Arthaat) क्योंकि (Kyunki) इसलिए (Isliye) ताकि (Taaki) वरना (Varna)

上級

तात्पर्य (Taatparya) अभिप्राय (Abhipraya) स्पष्टीकरण (Spashtikaran) विवेचन (Vivechan) निरूपण (Nirupan)

知っておくべき文法

Explicative Conjunctions

यानी connects two equivalent grammatical units.

Logical Consistency

The clause after यानी must logically follow or explain the first.

Use अर्थात for formal writing and यानी for speech.

Punctuation

A comma often precedes यानी to indicate a pause.

Hindustani Vocabulary

यानी is a loanword that follows Hindi syntax rules perfectly.

レベル別の例文

आज रविवार है, यानी छुट्टी।

Today is Sunday, i.e., holiday.

Simple noun-to-noun connection.

वह मेरा भाई है, यानी राहुल।

He is my brother, that is, Rahul.

Using 'yaani' to name a person.

यह लाल है, यानी सेब का रंग।

This is red, in other words, the color of an apple.

Connecting a color to an object.

मैं ठीक हूँ, यानी खुश हूँ।

I am fine, meaning I am happy.

Connecting two simple adjectives.

कल यानी सोमवार।

Tomorrow, i.e., Monday.

Specifying a day.

पानी यानी जल।

Paani, in other words, Jal.

Providing a simple synonym.

वह छोटा है, यानी बच्चा है।

He is small, meaning he is a child.

Clarifying a physical trait.

घर यानी मेरा कमरा।

Home, that is my room.

Narrowing the scope of a noun.

वह शाकाहारी है, यानी वह मांस नहीं खाता।

He is a vegetarian, meaning he doesn't eat meat.

Connecting a trait to its definition.

ट्रेन लेट है, यानी हम देर से पहुँचेंगे।

The train is late, meaning we will arrive late.

Showing a logical consequence.

आज धूप है, यानी गर्मी होगी।

It is sunny today, meaning it will be hot.

Connecting weather to its effect.

वह मेरा ममेरा भाई है, यानी मामा का बेटा।

He is my maternal cousin, i.e., uncle's son.

Explaining a specific relationship term.

दुकान बंद है, यानी आज छुट्टी है।

The shop is closed, meaning it's a holiday today.

Drawing a conclusion from an observation.

परीक्षा कल है, यानी हमें पढ़ना होगा।

The exam is tomorrow, meaning we must study.

Linking a fact to a necessity.

वह चुप है, यानी वह नाराज़ है।

He is quiet, meaning he is angry.

Interpreting a behavior.

यह मुफ़्त है, यानी पैसे नहीं देने।

This is free, meaning no money needs to be given.

Explaining a concept in simple terms.

वह अल्पभाषी है, यानी वह बहुत कम बोलता है।

He is laconic, that is to say, he speaks very little.

Using a higher-level adjective and explaining it.

उसने मना कर दिया, यानी अब हमें खुद ही रास्ता ढूँढना होगा।

He refused, meaning now we have to find the way ourselves.

Connecting a refusal to a new plan.

यह दवा कड़वी है, यानी इसका स्वाद अच्छा नहीं है।

This medicine is bitter, in other words, it doesn't taste good.

Clarifying a sensory description.

वह बहुत मेहनती है, यानी वह दिन-रात काम करता है।

He is very hardworking, meaning he works day and night.

Expanding on a character trait.

आज अमावस्या है, यानी चाँद बिल्कुल नहीं दिखेगा।

Today is the new moon, meaning the moon won't be visible at all.

Explaining a natural phenomenon.

वह मेरा हमउम्र है, यानी हम दोनों की उम्र एक ही है।

He is my contemporary, meaning we are both the same age.

Defining a specific term for age.

फिल्म फ्लॉप हो गई, यानी जनता को कहानी पसंद नहीं आई।

The film flopped, meaning the public didn't like the story.

Explaining a result in the entertainment context.

उसने अपनी गलती मान ली, यानी अब झगड़ा खत्म हो जाना चाहिए।

He admitted his mistake, meaning the fight should end now.

Linking an admission to a desired outcome.

वह एक अंतर्मुखी व्यक्ति है, यानी उसे अकेले रहना पसंद है।

He is an introvert, meaning he likes to be alone.

Using psychological terminology.

शेयर बाज़ार में गिरावट आई है, यानी निवेशकों का भरोसा कम हुआ है।

The stock market has declined, meaning investor confidence has decreased.

Linking economic data to social sentiment.

यह एक जटिल प्रक्रिया है, यानी इसमें बहुत समय और मेहनत लगेगी।

This is a complex process, meaning it will take a lot of time and effort.

Explaining the implications of a 'complex' task.

उसकी बातों में विरोधाभास है, यानी वह अपनी ही बात काट रहा है।

There is a contradiction in his words, meaning he is contradicting himself.

Analyzing logical consistency.

यह कानून अभी विचाराधीन है, यानी इस पर अभी फैसला नहीं हुआ है।

This law is still under consideration, meaning no decision has been made yet.

Using formal legal/administrative language.

वह बहुत मितव्ययी है, यानी वह बहुत सोच-समझकर खर्च करता है।

He is very frugal, meaning he spends very carefully.

Defining a high-register adjective for spending habits.

यह क्षेत्र संवेदनशील है, यानी यहाँ सुरक्षा के कड़े इंतजाम हैं।

This area is sensitive, meaning there are strict security arrangements here.

Linking a description of a place to its practical reality.

उसने इस्तीफा दे दिया है, यानी अब वह इस कंपनी का हिस्सा नहीं है।

He has resigned, meaning he is no longer part of this company.

Explaining the status of a professional relationship.

साहित्य समाज का दर्पण है, यानी वह समाज की वास्तविकताओं को दर्शाता है।

Literature is the mirror of society, meaning it reflects the realities of society.

Using metaphorical language and explaining it.

उसकी कविताएँ गूढ़ हैं, यानी उनके अर्थ आसानी से समझ नहीं आते।

His poems are profound/esoteric, meaning their meanings are not easily understood.

Discussing literary quality and accessibility.

वैश्वीकरण एक द्विधारी तलवार है, यानी इसके फायदे और नुकसान दोनों हैं।

Globalization is a double-edged sword, meaning it has both benefits and drawbacks.

Using an idiom and clarifying its meaning in context.

न्याय में देरी न्याय का हनन है, यानी अगर समय पर न्याय न मिले तो वह अन्याय के समान है।

Justice delayed is justice denied, meaning if justice is not received on time, it is equivalent to injustice.

Explaining a legal/philosophical maxim.

यह नीति लोकलुभावन है, यानी यह केवल जनता को खुश करने के लिए बनाई गई है।

This policy is populist, meaning it is made only to please the public.

Analyzing political strategy.

उसकी शैली आडंबरपूर्ण है, यानी वह दिखावे पर ज़्यादा ज़ोर देता है।

His style is ostentatious, meaning he emphasizes showiness more.

Critiquing artistic or personal style.

यह एक वैचारिक मतभेद है, यानी हमारे विचारों में बुनियादी अंतर है।

This is an ideological difference, meaning there is a fundamental difference in our thoughts.

Defining the nature of a disagreement.

अहिंसा परम धर्म है, यानी किसी को भी मन, वचन या कर्म से कष्ट न पहुँचाना।

Non-violence is the supreme duty, meaning not causing pain to anyone through mind, speech, or action.

Explaining a core philosophical/religious tenet.

ब्रह्म सत्यं जगन्मिथ्या, यानी केवल ब्रह्म ही सत्य है और यह संसार नश्वर है।

Brahman is truth, the world is illusion; meaning only Brahman is real and this world is transient.

Interpreting a Sanskrit philosophical aphorism.

उसका लेखन अस्तित्ववादी है, यानी वह मनुष्य की स्वतंत्रता और उत्तरदायित्व पर केंद्रित है।

His writing is existentialist, meaning it focuses on human freedom and responsibility.

Discussing complex philosophical movements.

यह संधि संप्रभुता का उल्लंघन है, यानी यह देश की आज़ादी पर प्रहार है।

This treaty is a violation of sovereignty, meaning it is an attack on the country's freedom.

Analyzing international relations and political theory.

उसकी कला में अतियथार्थवाद की झलक है, यानी वह सपनों और अवचेतन मन को चित्रित करता है।

There is a glimpse of surrealism in his art, meaning he depicts dreams and the subconscious mind.

Critiquing art using specialized terminology.

यह एक शून्य-योग खेल है, यानी एक का लाभ दूसरे की हानि है।

This is a zero-sum game, meaning one person's gain is another's loss.

Explaining a concept from game theory.

भाषा संस्कृति की संवाहिका है, यानी भाषा के माध्यम से ही संस्कृति जीवित रहती है।

Language is the carrier of culture, meaning culture lives on only through language.

Discussing sociolinguistic theories.

उसका तर्क कुतर्क है, यानी वह केवल भ्रम पैदा करने के लिए गलत दलीलें दे रहा है।

His argument is a fallacy, meaning he is giving wrong pleas only to create confusion.

Deconstructing logical fallacies.

यह एक विडंबना है, यानी जो हम चाहते थे, उसका बिल्कुल उल्टा हुआ है।

This is an irony, meaning exactly the opposite of what we wanted has happened.

Defining a complex literary and situational concept.

よく使う組み合わせ

यानी कि

यानी साफ है

यानी कुल मिलाकर

यानी सीधे तौर पर

यानी एक तरह से

यानी असल में

यानी कहने का मतलब

यानी निश्चित रूप से

यानी मोटे तौर पर

यानी बुनियादी तौर पर

よく使うフレーズ

यानी सब ठीक है?

यानी अब क्या होगा?

यानी तुम नहीं आओगे?

यानी मेरा मतलब...

यानी यह सच है।

यानी हम हार गए।

यानी बहुत देर हो गई।

यानी कोई उम्मीद नहीं?

यानी सब खत्म।

यानी तुम मान गए।

よく混同される語

यानी vs मतलब (Matlab)

Matlab is a noun (meaning), while Yaani is a conjunction (that is).

यानी vs क्योंकि (Kyunki)

Kyunki explains 'why' (reason), while Yaani explains 'what' (clarification).

यानी vs इसलिए (Isliye)

Isliye shows a result (so/therefore), while Yaani shows an equivalence (meaning).

慣用句と表現

"यानी कि बात साफ है"

Used when a conclusion is very obvious from the facts.

वह नहीं आया, यानी कि बात साफ है कि वह नहीं आना चाहता।

Casual

"यानी कि दाल में कुछ काला है"

Used to clarify that something suspicious is going on.

वह चुप है, यानी कि दाल में कुछ काला है।

Colloquial

"यानी कि दूध का दूध और पानी का पानी"

Used to clarify that the truth has been separated from lies.

फैसला आ गया, यानी कि दूध का दूध और पानी का पानी हो गया।

Neutral

"यानी कि अपनी खिचड़ी अलग पकाना"

Used to clarify that someone is doing their own thing independently.

वह किसी से नहीं मिलता, यानी कि अपनी खिचड़ी अलग पका रहा है।

Informal

"यानी कि ऊँट के मुँह में जीरा"

Used to clarify that something is too little for the requirement.

सिर्फ दस रुपये? यानी कि ऊँट के मुँह में जीरा।

Colloquial

"यानी कि कोल्हू का बैल"

Used to clarify that someone is working like a slave or very hard.

वह सुबह से रात तक काम करता है, यानी कि कोल्हू का बैल है।

Informal

"यानी कि गड़े मुर्दे उखाड़ना"

Used to clarify that someone is bringing up old issues.

तुम फिर पुरानी बातें कर रहे हो, यानी कि गड़े मुर्दे उखाड़ रहे हो।

Informal

"यानी कि चिराग तले अंधेरा"

Used to clarify a situation where there is ignorance near the source of knowledge.

टीचर का बेटा फेल हो गया, यानी कि चिराग तले अंधेरा।

Neutral

"यानी कि जले पर नमक छिड़कना"

Used to clarify that someone is making a bad situation worse.

उसकी हार पर तुम हँस रहे हो, यानी कि जले पर नमक छिड़क रहे हो।

Informal

"यानी कि तिल का ताड़ बनाना"

Used to clarify that someone is exaggerating a small issue.

छोटी सी बात थी, तुमने झगड़ा कर लिया, यानी कि तिल का ताड़ बना दिया।

Informal

間違えやすい

यानी vs मतलब (Matlab)

Both can be translated as 'means'.

Matlab is used to ask for a definition ('Iska matlab kya hai?'). Yaani is used to provide a clarification between two phrases.

इस शब्द का मतलब क्या है? vs वह बीमार है, यानी वह नहीं आएगा।

यानी vs अर्थात (Arthaat)

They have the exact same meaning.

Arthaat is Sanskrit-based and very formal. Yaani is Arabic-based and neutral/common.

Arthaat is for books; Yaani is for talking.

यानी vs वरना (Varna)

Both are conjunctions used in middle of sentences.

Varna means 'otherwise' (a threat or alternative). Yaani means 'that is' (an explanation).

पढ़ो वरना फेल हो जाओगे vs पढ़ो यानी मेहनत करो।

यानी vs मानो (Maano)

Both can introduce a comparison.

Maano means 'as if' (hypothetical). Yaani means 'that is' (factual clarification).

वह ऐसे रोया मानो सब खत्म हो गया हो vs वह रोया यानी वह दुखी था।

यानी vs शायद (Shayad)

Learners sometimes use it when they are unsure of a clarification.

Shayad means 'perhaps' (uncertainty). Yaani means 'that is' (certain clarification).

शायद वह आएगा vs वह आएगा यानी वह मान गया।

文型パターン

[Noun] यानी [Noun]

दोस्त यानी मित्र।

[Sentence] यानी [Sentence]

वह नहीं आया यानी वह व्यस्त है।

[Adjective] यानी [Explanation]

वह उदार है यानी वह दान देता है।

[Abstract Noun] यानी [Concrete Example]

स्वतंत्रता यानी अपनी मर्ज़ी से जीना।

[Metaphor] यानी [Reality]

वह आग का गोला है यानी वह बहुत गुस्से में है।

[Philosophical Term] यानी [Interpretation]

मोक्ष यानी जन्म-मरण से मुक्ति।

[Time] यानी [Specific Time]

सुबह यानी सात बजे।

[Action] यानी [Consequence]

बारिश हुई यानी फसल अच्छी होगी।

語族

使い方

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and media.

よくある間違い

Iska yaani kya hai? → Iska matlab kya hai?
You cannot use 'yaani' as a noun. It is a conjunction.
Main thaka hoon yaani mujhe bhook lagi hai. → Main thaka hoon aur mujhe bhook lagi hai.
Being tired is not the same as being hungry. 'Yaani' requires equivalence.
Yaani... yaani... main... yaani... → Main... (just pause)
Avoid using 'yaani' as a meaningless filler word like 'um'.
Mujhe chai pasand hai yaani mujhe coffee nahi pasand. → Mujhe chai pasand hai lekin coffee nahi.
Liking tea doesn't 'mean' you dislike coffee. Use 'lekin' for contrast.
Using 'yaani' in a Sanskrit shloka translation. → Use 'arthaat'.
In very formal religious/Sanskrit contexts, 'arthaat' is the appropriate register.

ヒント

Placement

Always place 'yaani' between the two things you are equating. It acts like a bridge.

The Pause

Add a tiny pause before and after 'yaani' to make your clarification stand out more clearly.

Synonym Power

Use 'yaani' to learn new words. When you learn a hard word, pair it with a simple one using 'yaani'.

The Signal

Train your ear to hear 'yaani' as a signal that the speaker is about to simplify their message.

Comma Usage

In writing, a comma before 'yaani' helps the reader understand the logical break in the sentence.

The Equals Sign

Before using 'yaani', ask yourself: 'Is the second part of my sentence equal to the first?' If yes, use it!

Confirming

Use 'yaani' to confirm what someone else said. 'Yaani aap kal aa rahe hain?' (So, you are coming tomorrow?).

Arthaat Alternative

If you are writing a formal letter, replace 'yaani' with 'arthaat' to sound more educated.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use 'yaani' more than once or twice in a short conversation, or it starts to sound like a filler word.

Relationship Terms

Use 'yaani' to master complex Indian relationship terms (like 'mami', 'bua', etc.) by explaining them in English.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'Yaani' as 'Yawn-ee'. If someone gives a long, boring explanation, you might yawn. Then they say 'Yaani' to get to the point!

視覚的連想

Imagine an equals sign (=) floating between two words. The word 'Yaani' is written right on top of that equals sign.

Word Web

Clarification Synonym In other words Explanation Logic Bridge Meaning That is

チャレンジ

Try to use 'yaani' three times today: once to explain a family member's role, once to explain a weather condition, and once to explain why you are doing something.

語源

The word 'यानी' comes directly from the Arabic word 'يعني' (ya'ni), which is the third-person masculine singular present tense of the verb 'عنى' ('ana), meaning 'to mean' or 'to intend'. It entered Hindi through Persian during the period of Islamic influence in North India. It has been a part of the language for centuries and is a core component of Hindustani vocabulary.

元の意味： It means; he means; it intends.

Afroasiatic (Arabic) -> Indo-Aryan (Hindi/Urdu)

文化的な背景

There are no sensitivities associated with this word; it is neutral and polite.

In English, we often use 'I mean' or 'like' in the same way, but 'yaani' is slightly more formal and logical than 'like'. It is closer to 'i.e.' in written English.

Used frequently in Bollywood dialogues to clarify plot points. Commonly heard in the speeches of famous Indian politicians like Atal Bihari Vajpayee. A staple word in the lyrics of Gulzar, who often uses it to bridge poetic metaphors.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At Home

आज छुट्टी है, यानी आराम का दिन।
खाना खत्म, यानी बाज़ार जाना होगा।
वह सो रहा है, यानी शोर मत करो।
मेहमान आ रहे हैं, यानी सफ़ाई करो।

At Work

मीटिंग रद्द है, यानी हम कल मिलेंगे।
डेडलाइन आज है, यानी जल्दी काम करो।
बॉस खुश हैं, यानी बोनस मिलेगा।
यह ज़रूरी है, यानी इसे अभी करो।

At School

कल परीक्षा है, यानी पढ़ाई करो।
वह एब्सेंट है, यानी वह बीमार है।
यह चैप्टर कठिन है, यानी ध्यान दो।
होमवर्क नहीं किया, यानी सज़ा मिलेगी।

In the Market

दाम ज़्यादा है, यानी कम करो।
यह ताज़ा है, यानी आज ही आया है।
सेल लगी है, यानी भीड़ होगी।
पैसे नहीं हैं, यानी कल आऊँगा।

Traveling

बस छूट गई, यानी ऑटो लेना होगा।
रास्ता बंद है, यानी घूम कर जाना होगा।
टिकट नहीं है, यानी हम नहीं जा सकते।
मंज़िल दूर है, यानी समय लगेगा।

会話のきっかけ

"आज बहुत गर्मी है, यानी बारिश होगी क्या?"

"तुम चुप हो, यानी तुम मुझसे नाराज़ हो?"

"कल छुट्टी है, यानी तुम्हारा क्या प्लान है?"

"उसने मना कर दिया, यानी अब हम क्या करेंगे?"

"तुम हँस रहे हो, यानी तुम्हें मज़ा आ रहा है?"

日記のテーマ

आज का दिन बहुत अच्छा था, यानी मैंने बहुत कुछ सीखा। (Describe what you learned).

मुझे शांति पसंद है, यानी मुझे शोर से नफरत है। (Write about why you like peace).

सफलता का मतलब मेहनत है, यानी बिना काम के कुछ नहीं मिलता। (Write about your goals).

दोस्ती यानी भरोसा। (Write about a friend you trust).

मेरा सपना बड़ा है, यानी मुझे बहुत मेहनत करनी होगी। (Describe your dream).

よくある質問

10 問

It is both! It is a Hindustani word with Arabic roots, used equally by Hindi and Urdu speakers. In modern Hindi, it is considered a standard part of the vocabulary.

Yes, but usually only when you are responding to someone else or summarizing a previous thought. For example: 'Yaani tum nahi aaoge?' (Meaning you won't come?).

There is no significant difference in meaning. 'Yaani ki' is just a more rhythmic way of saying it, often used in spoken Hindi to provide a small pause.

Yes, 'yaani' is perfectly acceptable in a job interview. It sounds professional and clear. 'Arthaat' would sound too formal/stiff.

Not exactly. For 'for example', use 'jaise ki' (जैसे कि). 'Yaani' is for restating the same thing in a different way, not for listing examples.

It's a long 'a' sound, like in the English word 'yard' or 'father'. Avoid saying 'y-eh-ni'.

Hindi speakers in South India use it, but it is not a native word in Dravidian languages like Tamil or Telugu. However, due to Bollywood, most people understand it.

Yes, 'yaani' is the perfect translation for 'i.e.' (id est) in Hindi.

No, it is an 'avyay' (indeclinable), so it never changes regardless of the subject's gender or number.

The most common mistake is using it as a noun. Remember, you can't say 'What is the yaani of this?' You must say 'What is the matlab of this?'