B1 Collocation Formal 2 min read

बलिदान देना

balidan dena

to make sacrifice

Literally: sacrifice (balidān) + to give (denā)

In 15 Seconds

  • Giving up something valuable for a person or a noble cause.
  • Used for significant acts of selflessness like parenting or patriotism.
  • Avoid using it for trivial matters to prevent sounding overly dramatic.

Meaning

This phrase describes the act of giving up something precious—like time, comfort, or even life—for a higher purpose or for someone you love. It’s about being selfless and putting a bigger goal ahead of your own immediate needs.

Key Examples

3 of 6
1

Talking about parents

Mā-bāp apne bachon ke liye bahut balidān dete hain.

Parents make many sacrifices for their children.

2

Formal tribute to soldiers

Desh ke jawānon ne apnī jān kā balidān diyā.

The country's soldiers sacrificed their lives.

3

Texting a friend about a favor

Tujhse milne ke liye maine apne sone kā balidān diyā!

I sacrificed my sleep just to meet you!

🌍

Cultural Background

Sacrifice is often linked to the concept of 'Dharma' (duty).

💡

Context is key

Only use this for serious life events.

In 15 Seconds

  • Giving up something valuable for a person or a noble cause.
  • Used for significant acts of selflessness like parenting or patriotism.
  • Avoid using it for trivial matters to prevent sounding overly dramatic.

What It Means

balidān denā is a heavy, powerful phrase. It means you are choosing to lose something important. You do this for a person, a cause, or a country. It’s not just about a small compromise. It’s about a significant loss that shows your character. Think of it as the ultimate "giving up" for a "greater good."

How To Use It

You usually use it with the thing being sacrificed. For example, apnī khushī kā balidān denā (to sacrifice one's happiness). The verb denā (to give) changes based on the subject and tense. If you are talking about a past event, use diyā. If it's a general truth, use dete hain. It’s a versatile collocation that fits many serious life situations.

When To Use It

Use it when talking about heroes, soldiers, or historical figures. It’s perfect for describing parents who work hard for their kids. You can use it in professional settings too. Maybe you sacrificed your weekend to finish a project. It adds a layer of depth and respect to the effort mentioned. It's great for showing deep appreciation.

When NOT To Use It

Don't use it for tiny, everyday things. If you missed a TV show to talk to a friend, don't say balidān diyā. It sounds way too dramatic! People might think you're being sarcastic or making fun of the concept. Keep it for things that actually cost you something significant. Don't use it for simple chores or minor inconveniences.

Cultural Background

In India, sacrifice is seen as a supreme virtue. From ancient scriptures to the freedom struggle, balidān is a revered word. It’s often linked to the idea of dharma or duty. When you hear this word, it usually commands immediate respect. It’s not just a word; it’s an emotion for many, often associated with the founding of the nation.

Common Variations

You might also hear tyāg karnā. While similar, tyāg is more about renouncing or letting go of worldly desires. balidān feels more like an offering or a painful loss for a cause. In very formal or poetic settings, you might see āhuti denā. However, balidān denā is the most standard way to express this in modern Hindi.

Usage Notes

The phrase is neutral but carries significant emotional weight. It is most commonly used in the context of family, patriotism, and major life decisions. Ensure the verb 'denā' is conjugated to match the subject.

💡

Context is key

Only use this for serious life events.

Examples

6
#1 Talking about parents

Mā-bāp apne bachon ke liye bahut balidān dete hain.

Parents make many sacrifices for their children.

A very common and respectful way to acknowledge parental effort.

#2 Formal tribute to soldiers

Desh ke jawānon ne apnī jān kā balidān diyā.

The country's soldiers sacrificed their lives.

Standard phrase used in news and formal ceremonies.

#3 Texting a friend about a favor

Tujhse milne ke liye maine apne sone kā balidān diyā!

I sacrificed my sleep just to meet you!

Using the phrase slightly hyperbolically for a close friend.

#4 A humorous dinner table moment

Kyā tum mere liye is ākhirī laddū kā balidān de sakte ho?

Can you sacrifice this last laddoo for me?

Intentional over-dramatization for comedic effect.

#5 Discussing career choices

Usne apne sapnon kā balidān de diyā.

He sacrificed his dreams.

Used to describe a heavy, life-altering decision.

#6 Workplace deadline

Project khatam karne ke liye hamne apne weekend kā balidān diyā.

We sacrificed our weekend to finish the project.

Highlights the extra effort put into a professional task.

Test Yourself

Which sentence is appropriate?

Choose the best usage of 'बलिदान देना'.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: सैनिकों ने देश के लिए बलिदान दिया।

Sacrifice is for significant things, not daily habits.

🎉 Score: /1

Visual Learning Aids

Formality of 'Balidān Denā'

Informal

Used sarcastically or for small favors with friends.

Sacrificing a snack.

Neutral

Talking about family or personal choices.

Sacrificing sleep for study.

Formal

National holidays or professional tributes.

Soldiers sacrificing for the nation.

When to use 'Balidān Denā'

balidān denā
🇮🇳

Patriotism

Soldiers at the border.

👪

Parenting

Giving up hobbies for kids.

🍕

Friendship

Giving up the last slice of pizza (funny).

💼

Career

Working through holidays.

❤️

Relationships

Moving cities for a partner.

Practice Bank

1 exercises
Which sentence is appropriate? Choose B1

Choose the best usage of 'बलिदान देना'.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: सैनिकों ने देश के लिए बलिदान दिया।

Sacrifice is for significant things, not daily habits.

🎉 Score: /1

Frequently Asked Questions

1 questions

No, it's too serious.

Related Phrases

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कुर्बानी देना

synonym

To sacrifice

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