अद्भुत
अद्भुत in 30 Seconds
- Adbhut is a versatile Hindi adjective meaning wonderful, marvelous, or extraordinary, used to express high-level admiration.
- It originates from Sanskrit and is linguistically invariant, meaning it does not change based on gender or number.
- The word is deeply linked to the 'Adbhuta Rasa' (Marvelous Sentiment) in Indian classical arts and aesthetics.
- Commonly heard in Bollywood, news, and spiritual discourses, it is the ideal word for the 'wow' factor.
The Hindi word अद्भुत (Adbhut) is a profound and evocative term that translates most directly to 'wonderful', 'marvelous', 'extraordinary', or 'miraculous'. Derived from the ancient Sanskrit word Adbhuta, it carries a weight of awe and astonishment that transcends the mundane. When an Indian speaker uses the word 'Adbhut', they are not merely saying something is 'good' or 'nice'; they are expressing that the subject has triggered a sense of 'Vismaya'—a profound state of wonder that stops the mind for a moment. In the realm of Indian aesthetics and classical arts, specifically within the Natya Shastra, 'Adbhuta' is recognized as one of the nine Rasas (sentiments or flavors), representing the 'Marvelous' or 'Amazing'. This classical root ensures that the word remains deeply embedded in the cultural psyche, used to describe everything from a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise to a masterful sitar performance. In everyday modern Hindi, the word has retained its prestige while becoming accessible. You will hear it used by a grandfather praising a child's unexpected wisdom, by a sports commentator describing an impossible catch in a cricket match, or by a traveler witnessing the intricate carvings of an ancient temple. It is a word that bridges the gap between the spiritual and the material, used to identify something that defies common logic or standard expectations of beauty and excellence.
- Emotional Resonance
- The word evokes a specific cognitive state of being 'struck' by greatness. It implies that the observer is temporarily speechless due to the quality of what they are witnessing.
यह दृश्य वास्तव में अद्भुत है। (This sight is truly wonderful.)
Linguistically, 'Adbhut' is versatile. While it is primarily an adjective, its presence in a sentence immediately elevates the register of the conversation. It suggests a level of sophistication and appreciation for the finer details of life. Unlike the word 'Sundar' (Beautiful), which focuses on aesthetic appearance, 'Adbhut' focuses on the impact the object has on the human spirit. It is the difference between seeing a pretty flower and seeing a flower that blooms only once every twelve years; the latter is 'Adbhut'. People use it when they want to emphasize that something is 'one of a kind' or 'supernatural' in its perfection. In the context of technology or science, a breakthrough might be described as 'Adbhut' because it pushes the boundaries of what was previously thought possible. It is also a favorite in Hindi literature and poetry to describe the divine attributes of deities or the overwhelming power of nature. When you use this word, you are signaling to your listener that you are deeply moved and that the experience you are describing is far beyond the ordinary or the expected.
- Grammatical Note
- As an adjective, 'Adbhut' is generally invariant, meaning it does not change its ending based on the gender or number of the noun it describes, making it very learner-friendly.
उनकी आवाज़ में एक अद्भुत जादू है। (There is a wonderful magic in his/her voice.)
In the modern digital age, 'Adbhut' has found a new home in social media comments and reviews. When someone posts a photo of an incredible landscape or a video of a talented street performer, 'Adbhut!' is a common one-word comment that encapsulates total admiration. It carries a sense of respect that 'Amazing' or 'Cool' might lack. Furthermore, in religious or philosophical discourses, 'Adbhut' is used to describe the 'Leela' (divine play) of the cosmos, suggesting that the universe itself is a marvelous mystery. Understanding this word requires understanding the Indian penchant for celebrating the extraordinary within the ordinary. It is a word of high praise, often used to validate someone's hard work or innate talent. By mastering the use of 'Adbhut', you gain the ability to express high-level appreciation in Hindi that resonates with native speakers on an emotional level. It is a word that doesn't just describe a fact; it describes a feeling of being pleasantly surprised by the world's infinite capacity for beauty and innovation.
- Synonym Nuance
- While 'Anokha' means 'unique' and 'Vichitra' means 'strange', 'Adbhut' combines uniqueness with a positive, awe-inspiring quality.
ताज महल की वास्तुकला अद्भुत है। (The architecture of the Taj Mahal is marvelous.)
Using अद्भुत (Adbhut) correctly in a sentence involves understanding its role as a qualifying adjective. Because it is a Sanskrit-derived word, it fits perfectly in both formal and semi-formal contexts. In a simple subject-verb-adjective structure, 'Adbhut' usually follows the noun it describes or comes before the auxiliary verb 'hai' (is). For example, 'The movie was wonderful' translates to 'Film adbhut thi'. One of the most significant advantages for a learner is that 'Adbhut' is an invariant adjective. Unlike 'Achha' (Good), which changes to 'Achhi' for feminine nouns or 'Achhe' for plural nouns, 'Adbhut' remains 'Adbhut' regardless of the noun's gender or number. This makes it a very safe and powerful tool for beginners to express complex emotions without worrying about grammatical agreement. You can say 'Adbhut ladka' (Wonderful boy), 'Adbhut ladki' (Wonderful girl), and 'Adbhut log' (Wonderful people) without changing the word itself.
- Placement in Sentences
- It can be used attributively (before the noun) or predicatively (after the noun with a linking verb). Both are common and natural.
यह एक अद्भुत अवसर है। (This is a wonderful opportunity.)
When you want to intensify the meaning, you can pair 'Adbhut' with adverbs like 'bahut' (very) or 'atynt' (extremely). 'Bahut adbhut' emphasizes the degree of wonder. However, because 'Adbhut' is already a strong word, it often stands alone quite effectively. In more complex sentences, 'Adbhut' can be used to describe abstract concepts such as ideas, coincidences, or talents. For instance, 'Unhone ek adbhut vichaar pesh kiya' (He/She presented a wonderful/extraordinary idea). Notice how the word adds a layer of intellectual or creative respect to the 'idea'. It suggests the idea wasn't just helpful, but inspired. In the context of storytelling, you might describe a character's journey as 'adbhut', implying it was full of marvelous twists and turns. It is also frequently used in the passive voice or in existential sentences: 'Duniya mein kai adbhut cheezein hain' (There are many wonderful things in the world).
- Common Pairings
- Commonly paired with 'Shakti' (power), 'Pratibha' (talent), 'Sangam' (confluence), and 'Anubhav' (experience).
उसकी याददाश्त अद्भुत है। (His/Her memory is extraordinary.)
In conversational Hindi, 'Adbhut' can also function as an exclamation. If someone tells you a surprising and positive story, you can simply reply with 'Adbhut!' to mean 'That's amazing!' or 'How wonderful!'. This usage is very common in formal interviews, talk shows, and literary discussions. It is also used in the negative to express a lack of wonder, though this is rarer: 'Isme kuch adbhut nahi hai' (There is nothing extraordinary in this). However, the primary strength of the word lies in its positive affirmation. When describing natural phenomena, 'Adbhut' is the go-to word. 'Adbhut nazaara' (A wonderful sight) is a classic phrase used by tourists and locals alike. By using 'Adbhut', you are participating in a linguistic tradition that values the sublime. Whether you are describing a meal, a person's character, or a work of art, 'Adbhut' provides a level of depth that simpler adjectives cannot reach, making your Hindi sound more authentic and emotionally resonant.
- Register Variation
- In very informal slang, people might use 'gazab' or 'dhansu', but 'Adbhut' remains the gold standard for respectful, high-quality admiration.
यह पेंटिंग अद्भुत रंगों से भरी है। (This painting is filled with wonderful colors.)
The word अद्भुत (Adbhut) is ubiquitous in Hindi-speaking environments, but its frequency varies depending on the setting. One of the most prominent places you will encounter this word is in Hindi Cinema (Bollywood). It is a staple in song lyrics and dramatic dialogues. When a hero sees something breathtaking or a poet describes their beloved, 'Adbhut' is often the word of choice to signify a beauty that is almost beyond this world. For example, in historical epics or fantasy films, 'Adbhut' is used to describe magical occurrences or legendary feats of bravery. If you watch period dramas like 'Jodha Akbar' or 'Baahubali' (Hindi dub), the word appears frequently to denote the grandeur of the setting and the extraordinary nature of the characters' actions. It sets a tone of reverence and high drama that is essential to the genre. Beyond the silver screen, you will hear it in Classical Music and Dance performances. Compères and announcers often use 'Adbhut' to describe a particularly difficult 'taan' (musical phrase) or a 'mudra' (hand gesture) that was executed with perfection.
- Media Usage
- Common in news headlines about scientific discoveries, space exploration (ISRO missions), or record-breaking athletic performances.
वैज्ञानिकों ने एक अद्भुत खोज की है। (Scientists have made a wonderful discovery.)
Another major arena for 'Adbhut' is Television Reality Shows. In talent competitions like 'India's Got Talent' or 'Indian Idol', the judges frequently use 'Adbhut' as a high-tier compliment. When a contestant performs an act that is visually stunning or vocally superior, the judges might say, 'Adbhut! Avishwasniya! Akalpaniya!' (Wonderful! Unbelievable! Unimaginable!). This trio of words is often used together to express total amazement. In this context, 'Adbhut' serves as a signal to the audience that they have just witnessed something world-class. You will also find the word in Travel and Tourism content. Travel vloggers and documentary narrators use it to describe the natural beauty of India—the 'Adbhut' peaks of the Himalayas, the 'Adbhut' architecture of South Indian temples, or the 'Adbhut' biodiversity of the Western Ghats. It helps create a sense of 'Incredible India' (Atulya Bharat), where 'Adbhut' is the standard for the traveler's experience.
- Literary Context
- In Hindi literature (Sahitya), 'Adbhut' is used to describe the 'Adbhuta Rasa', one of the primary emotions explored in poetry and drama.
इस कविता में अद्भुत कल्पना है। (This poem has wonderful imagination.)
Finally, 'Adbhut' is a key word in Spiritual and Religious Discourses (Pravachans). Gurus and spiritual leaders use it to describe the 'Adbhut' nature of the divine or the 'Adbhut' power of meditation. It is used to point toward the mystical aspects of existence that cannot be explained by logic alone. Even in everyday life, if you visit a beautifully decorated house during Diwali or attend a grand wedding, you might hear guests whispering, 'Kitna adbhut sajawat hai!' (What a wonderful decoration!). It is a word that signifies that the host has gone above and beyond to create something special. Whether in the high-energy environment of a stadium or the quiet contemplation of a library, 'Adbhut' is the word Hindi speakers reach for when they want to acknowledge that they are in the presence of greatness. It is a bridge between the speaker's internal feeling of awe and the external object of that awe, making it an essential part of the Hindi emotional vocabulary.
- Social Media
- Often used as a hashtag #अद्भुत or #Adbhut to tag photos of nature, art, or architecture.
प्रकृति का यह रूप अद्भुत है। (This form of nature is wonderful.)
While अद्भुत (Adbhut) is a relatively straightforward word, learners often make a few common mistakes regarding its nuance, intensity, and comparison with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. One of the primary mistakes is overusing it for mundane things. Because 'Adbhut' implies a sense of 'awe' or 'extraordinary nature', using it for something very ordinary—like a standard cup of tea or a routine task—can sound hyperbolic or even sarcastic. While you can say a meal is 'Adbhut' if it is truly the best you've ever had, using it for every meal dilutes its power. For everyday 'good' things, 'Achha' or 'Badhiya' is more appropriate. 'Adbhut' should be reserved for things that truly stand out from the crowd. Think of it as the difference between 'Good' and 'Spectacular'. If you use 'Spectacular' to describe your socks, people will know you are joking; the same applies to 'Adbhut'.
- Intensity Mismatch
- Don't use 'Adbhut' when you just mean 'okay' or 'fine'. It is a high-intensity word.
यह चाय अच्छी है। (Correct for daily tea) vs यह चाय अद्भुत है। (Only if it's the best tea ever).
Another common mistake is confusing 'Adbhut' with 'Ajeeb' (अजीब). While both words can be translated as 'strange' or 'unusual' in certain contexts, their connotations are opposite. 'Adbhut' is almost always positive, implying wonder and admiration. 'Ajeeb', on the other hand, often implies something weird, bizarre, or even slightly negative. For example, if you see a person with a very unique but beautiful fashion sense, you might call it 'Adbhut'. If their fashion sense is just confusing or nonsensical, you would call it 'Ajeeb'. Using 'Ajeeb' when you mean 'Adbhut' can inadvertently offend someone by suggesting their work is 'weird' rather than 'wonderful'. Similarly, 'Vichitra' (विचित्र) is another word that means 'strange' or 'peculiar'. While 'Vichitra' is more neutral than 'Ajeeb', it still lacks the celebratory 'wow' factor that 'Adbhut' carries.
- Pronunciation Pitfall
- Learners sometimes mispronounce the 'dh' (ध) as a simple 'd' (द). Ensure the 'dh' is aspirated (breathy) to sound like a native.
वह एक अद्भुत कलाकार है। (He is a wonderful artist - Positive admiration).
A third mistake involves grammatical over-complication. Because 'Adbhut' is a Sanskrit word (Tatsam), some learners assume it must follow complex Sanskrit grammar rules. However, in modern Hindi, it is treated as a simple invariant adjective. You don't need to change it to 'Adbhuti' for a feminine noun. Saying 'Yeh ek adbhuti kahani hai' is grammatically incorrect in Hindi; it should stay 'Adbhut kahani'. Lastly, avoid using 'Adbhut' in contexts of tragedy or extreme sadness, even if the event was 'extraordinary' in its scale. For example, you wouldn't call a massive earthquake 'Adbhut' because the word carries a sense of pleasant surprise. For a 'terrible' or 'horrific' extraordinary event, words like 'Bhayanak' (Terrible) or 'Vinaashkari' (Devastating) are used. 'Adbhut' is reserved for the 'light' side of wonder—beauty, talent, innovation, and divine grace.
- Semantic Range
- Remember that 'Adbhut' is for things that inspire. If it inspires fear, it's not 'Adbhut'; it's 'Daraavna' or 'Bhayanak'.
उसका साहस अद्भुत था। (His courage was wonderful/marvelous - Positive extraordinary quality).
Hindi is rich with synonyms for 'wonderful', and choosing the right one depends on the specific flavor of 'wonder' you want to convey. अद्भुत (Adbhut) is the most versatile, but here are its closest relatives. अनोखा (Anokha) is a very common alternative. While 'Adbhut' emphasizes the 'marvelous' aspect, 'Anokha' emphasizes 'uniqueness' or 'rarity'. If something is one-of-a-kind, 'Anokha' is perfect. For example, 'Anokha uphaar' (A unique gift). शानदार (Shandaar) is another popular word, often translated as 'magnificent' or 'grand'. It is frequently used for physical things like buildings, parties, or performances that are large-scale and impressive. If 'Adbhut' is about the internal feeling of wonder, 'Shandaar' is about the external display of glory. You might call a wedding 'Shandaar' and the couple's chemistry 'Adbhut'.
- Adbhut vs. Anokha
- 'Adbhut' = Marvelous/Awe-inspiring. 'Anokha' = Unique/One-of-a-kind. Use 'Anokha' when the primary quality is that it's different from everything else.
यह एक अनोखा अनुभव था। (This was a unique experience.)
For things that are 'unbelievable' or 'beyond imagination', two higher-level words are अविश्वसनीय (Avishwasniya) and अकल्पनीय (Akalpaniya). These are often used alongside 'Adbhut' to create a crescendo of praise. 'Avishwasniya' literally means 'unbelievable' (A + Vishwas + Niya), and 'Akalpaniya' means 'unimaginable' (A + Kalpana + Niya). If a cricketer hits a six on a very difficult ball, the commentator might scream 'Avishwasniya!' because the feat seemed impossible. Another beautiful word is विस्मयकारी (Vismaykari), which literally means 'causing wonder' (Vismay + Kari). This is a more formal, literary term often found in books or formal speeches. It is the direct adjective form of the emotion 'Vismaya'. If you want to describe a scientific phenomenon that leaves everyone stunned, 'Vismaykari' is an excellent choice.
- Adbhut vs. Sundar
- 'Sundar' is purely about beauty. 'Adbhut' includes beauty but adds a layer of 'extraordinary' or 'surprising' quality.
भवन की बनावट शानदार है। (The construction of the building is magnificent.)
In informal settings, young people might use गज़ब (Gazab) or बेहतरीन (Behtareen). 'Gazab' is a very expressive word that can mean 'amazing', 'incredible', or even 'crazy good'. It has a rhythmic punch to it and is very common in street Hindi and Bollywood songs (e.g., 'Gazab ka hai din'). 'Behtareen' means 'excellent' or 'best' and is a loanword from Urdu. It is a very polite and high-quality way to praise something, like a 'Behtareen koshish' (An excellent effort). Finally, there is अलौकिक (Alaukik), which means 'supernatural' or 'celestial' (A + Laukik/Worldly). This is reserved for things that seem to come from another world entirely, often used in religious or mystical contexts. By understanding these alternatives, you can tailor your praise to the exact situation, moving beyond 'Adbhut' to even more specific and nuanced descriptions.
- Summary of Alternatives
- Use 'Gazab' for informal excitement, 'Shandaar' for grandeur, 'Alaukik' for spiritual wonder, and 'Anokha' for uniqueness.
यह एक अलौकिक शांति है। (This is a supernatural/celestial peace.)
How Formal Is It?
"यह शोध कार्य वैज्ञानिक जगत के लिए अद्भुत योगदान है।"
"पहाड़ों की सैर एक अद्भुत अनुभव था।"
"भाई, तेरी पेंटिंग तो अद्भुत है!"
"देखो, यह जादू कितना अद्भुत है!"
"एकदम अद्भुत!"
Fun Fact
In ancient Indian texts like the Rigveda, 'Adbhuta' was often used to describe the mysterious and powerful acts of gods like Agni and Indra. It wasn't just 'nice'; it was 'divinely mysterious'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'dh' as a hard English 'd'.
- Missing the aspiration (the 'h' sound) in 'bh'.
- Pronouncing the final 't' like an English alveolar 't' (tongue on the ridge) instead of dental.
- Making the 'u' sound too long like 'boot'.
- Pronouncing the 'a' like 'ah' in 'father' instead of 'u' in 'up'.
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read once you know the conjunct 'db' and aspirated 'bh'.
The spelling requires attention to the half 'd' and the specific 'bh' character.
Aspiration of 'bh' is the main hurdle for non-native speakers.
Distinctive sound makes it easy to catch in speech.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Invariant Adjectives
Adbhut doesn't change for 'ladka' or 'ladki'.
Tatsam Words
Adbhut is a direct Sanskrit loanword used in formal Hindi.
Adjective Placement
Can be before the noun (Adbhut din) or after (Din adbhut hai).
Intensifiers
Using 'Bahut' or 'Ati' before Adbhut.
Exclamatory Sentences
Using 'Kitna' to start an exclamation: 'Kitna adbhut!'
Examples by Level
यह फूल अद्भुत है।
This flower is wonderful.
Simple Subject + Noun + Adjective + Verb structure.
आपका घर अद्भुत है।
Your house is wonderful.
'Adbhut' describes the noun 'ghar' (house).
खाना अद्भुत था!
The food was wonderful!
Past tense usage with 'tha'.
अद्भुत नज़ारा!
Wonderful sight!
Used as an exclamation without a verb.
वह अद्भुत है।
That is wonderful.
Pronoun 'vah' used as the subject.
यह एक अद्भुत दिन है।
This is a wonderful day.
'Adbhut' acts as an attributive adjective before 'din'.
तुम्हारी मुस्कान अद्भुत है।
Your smile is wonderful.
'Muskan' (smile) is feminine, but 'Adbhut' stays the same.
अद्भुत काम!
Wonderful work!
Short phrase for praise.
ताज महल एक अद्भुत इमारत है।
The Taj Mahal is a wonderful building.
Using 'Adbhut' to describe a famous landmark.
उसने एक अद्भुत कहानी सुनाई।
He/She told a wonderful story.
Transitive verb 'sunayi' with a feminine object 'kahani'.
यह जादू बहुत अद्भुत है।
This magic is very wonderful.
Using 'bahut' (very) to intensify the adjective.
भारत में कई अद्भुत जगहें हैं।
There are many wonderful places in India.
Plural noun 'jagahein' (places) with invariant 'Adbhut'.
आपकी पेंटिंग अद्भुत लग रही है।
Your painting is looking wonderful.
Using 'lag rahi hai' (is looking/seeming).
वह अद्भुत क्रिकेट खेलता है।
He plays wonderful cricket.
Describing the quality of a sport/action.
आज का मौसम अद्भुत है, चलो बाहर चलें।
Today's weather is wonderful, let's go outside.
Compound sentence with a suggestion.
उसके पास एक अद्भुत आवाज़ है।
He/She has a wonderful voice.
Using 'ke paas' to show possession of a quality.
यह फिल्म अपनी अद्भुत सिनेमैटोग्राफी के लिए जानी जाती है।
This film is known for its wonderful cinematography.
Using 'ke liye jaani jaati hai' (is known for).
संगीत समारोह में कलाकारों ने अद्भुत प्रदर्शन किया।
The artists gave a wonderful performance at the music festival.
Compound noun 'sangeet samaroh' and verb 'pradarshan kiya'.
वैज्ञानिकों ने अंतरिक्ष में एक अद्भुत ग्रह खोजा है।
Scientists have discovered a wonderful planet in space.
Perfect tense 'khoja hai'.
हिमालय की चोटियों पर सूर्योदय देखना अद्भुत था।
Watching the sunrise on the Himalayan peaks was wonderful.
Gerundial subject 'suryoday dekhna' (watching the sunrise).
उनके बीच एक अद्भुत तालमेल है।
There is a wonderful coordination/harmony between them.
Describing an abstract quality 'taalmel'.
यह किताब मानव स्वभाव का अद्भुत चित्रण करती है।
This book gives a wonderful portrayal of human nature.
Formal verb 'chitran karti hai' (portrays).
मेले में हमने कई अद्भुत करतब देखे।
We saw many wonderful feats at the fair.
Plural object 'kartab' (feats/stunts).
उसकी याददाश्त इतनी अद्भुत है कि वह सब कुछ याद रखता है।
His memory is so wonderful that he remembers everything.
Result clause using 'itni... ki' (so... that).
प्राचीन गुफाओं की नक्काशी अद्भुत शिल्प कौशल का प्रमाण है।
The carvings of the ancient caves are evidence of wonderful craftsmanship.
Formal vocabulary like 'nakkashi' and 'shilp kaushal'.
यह अद्भुत संयोग है कि हम यहाँ फिर से मिले।
It is a wonderful coincidence that we met here again.
Using 'Adbhut' for a surprising event 'sanyog'.
लेखक ने समाज की विसंगतियों को अद्भुत तरीके से उजागर किया है।
The author has highlighted the anomalies of society in a wonderful way.
Adverbial phrase 'adbhut tareeke se' (in a wonderful way).
समुद्र की गहराइयों में एक अद्भुत दुनिया बसी है।
A wonderful world resides in the depths of the sea.
Inverted sentence structure for poetic effect.
उनकी बातों में एक अद्भुत गहराई और स्पष्टता थी।
There was a wonderful depth and clarity in his/her words.
Describing abstract qualities 'gehraai' and 'spashtta'.
नृत्य की वह मुद्रा वाकई अद्भुत और प्रेरणादायक थी।
That dance pose was truly wonderful and inspiring.
Using 'vakai' (truly) for emphasis.
इस तकनीक का उपयोग करके अद्भुत परिणाम प्राप्त किए जा सकते हैं।
Wonderful results can be obtained using this technology.
Passive voice 'prapt kiye ja sakte hain'.
भारतीय संस्कृति विविधताओं का एक अद्भुत संगम है।
Indian culture is a wonderful confluence of diversities.
Metaphorical use of 'sangam' (confluence).
ब्रह्मांड की विशालता हमें एक अद्भुत लघुता का अनुभव कराती है।
The vastness of the universe makes us experience a wonderful smallness.
Philosophical use of 'Adbhut' with 'laghuta' (smallness).
यह पेंटिंग यथार्थवाद और अतियथार्थवाद का अद्भुत मिश्रण है।
This painting is a wonderful blend of realism and surrealism.
Technical art terminology.
शास्त्रीय संगीत की बारीकियों में एक अद्भुत गणितीय शुद्धता होती है।
There is a wonderful mathematical precision in the nuances of classical music.
Describing 'shuddhata' (precision/purity).
इतिहास के पन्नों में ऐसे कई अद्भुत व्यक्तित्व छिपे हुए हैं।
Many such wonderful personalities are hidden in the pages of history.
Metaphorical 'itihas ke panno' (pages of history).
मनुष्य की इच्छाशक्ति की अद्भुत क्षमता को नकारा नहीं जा सकता।
The wonderful capacity of human willpower cannot be denied.
Formal negation 'nakara nahi ja sakta'.
कविता की पंक्तियों में शब्दों का अद्भुत चयन भावों को जीवंत कर देता है।
The wonderful selection of words in the lines of the poem brings the emotions to life.
Complex sentence with causative 'jeevant kar deta hai'.
उनकी वाक्पटुता में एक अद्भुत आकर्षण और प्रभाव था।
There was a wonderful charm and influence in his/her eloquence.
Using high-level word 'vakpatuta' (eloquence).
पारिस्थितिक तंत्र का संतुलन प्रकृति की एक अद्भुत इंजीनियरिंग है।
The balance of the ecosystem is a wonderful engineering of nature.
Scientific metaphor 'engineering'.
अद्वैत दर्शन में आत्मा और परमात्मा की एकता का अद्भुत विवेचन मिलता है।
In Advaita philosophy, a wonderful exposition of the unity of the soul and the supreme soul is found.
Highly formal philosophical discourse.
कालिदास की रचनाओं में उपमाओं का अद्भुत विन्यास पाठकों को मंत्रमुग्ध कर देता है।
The wonderful arrangement of similes in Kalidasa's works mesmerizes the readers.
Literary criticism terminology.
यह रचना करुणा और रौद्र रस का एक अद्भुत और जटिल तादात्म्य है।
This creation is a wonderful and complex identification/fusion of compassion and fury sentiments.
Aesthetics theory terms like 'Rasa' and 'Tadatmy'.
समय की धारा में संस्कृतियों का उत्थान और पतन एक अद्भुत चक्र है।
The rise and fall of civilizations in the stream of time is a wonderful cycle.
Grand historical narrative style.
वैज्ञानिक सिद्धांत की सरलता में ही उसकी अद्भुत सौंदर्यबोध निहित है।
In the very simplicity of a scientific theory lies its wonderful aesthetic sense.
Abstract noun 'saundaryabodh' (aesthetic sense).
उनकी कृतियों में मौन का भी एक अद्भुत और मुखर अर्थ होता है।
In his/her works, even silence has a wonderful and vocal meaning.
Paradoxical expression 'maun ka mukhar arth'.
राजनीतिक कूटनीति के खेल में यह एक अद्भुत और साहसिक चाल थी।
In the game of political diplomacy, this was a wonderful and bold move.
Using 'Adbhut' in a strategic context.
प्रकृति के रहस्यों का अनावरण करना एक अद्भुत बौद्धिक यात्रा है।
Unveiling the mysteries of nature is a wonderful intellectual journey.
High-level noun 'anavaran' (unveiling).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Truly wonderful. Used to validate that something is genuinely amazing.
आपका प्रदर्शन वाकई अद्भुत था।
— Wonderful and unbelievable. A popular pairing in media to describe top-tier events.
यह जीत अद्भुत और अविश्वसनीय है।
— Wonderfully or extraordinarily. Used as an adverbial phrase.
उसने अद्भुत रूप से गाना गाया।
Often Confused With
Ajeeb means strange/weird (often negative), while Adbhut means wonderful (positive).
Vichitra means peculiar or odd, whereas Adbhut implies a sense of awe.
Sundar is just beautiful; Adbhut is extraordinary or marvelous.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be immersed in the sentiment of wonder. Used when someone is totally captivated by something marvelous.
वह संगीत सुनकर अद्भुत रस में डूब गया।
Literary— To scatter wonderful splendor. Used for nature or a person's presence.
फूलों ने बगीचे में अद्भुत छटा बिखेर दी है।
Literary/Poetic— To show a wonderful game/trick. Can be literal or metaphorical (divine play).
जादूगर ने अद्भुत खेल दिखाया।
Neutral— Wonderful illusion/magic. Often used for the mysterious nature of the world.
यह सब ईश्वर की अद्भुत माया है।
Religious/Philosophical— To be a wonderful confluence. Used for a perfect mix of two different things.
यहाँ आधुनिकता और परंपरा का अद्भुत संगम है।
Formal— To present a wonderful sight.
बारिश ने एक अद्भुत दृश्य उपस्थित कर दिया।
Formal/Literary— To receive wonderful bliss/joy.
पहाड़ों में मुझे अद्भुत आनंद मिलता है।
NeutralEasily Confused
Both mean 'extraordinary'.
Anokha emphasizes being 'unique' or 'different'. Adbhut emphasizes being 'marvelous' or 'awe-inspiring'. You can be anokha (unique) without being adbhut (marvelous).
यह एक अनोखा सिक्का है। (This is a unique coin.)
Both describe things out of the ordinary.
Ajeeb is for things that are confusing or weird. Adbhut is for things that are surprisingly great. If a cat has two heads, it's ajeeb. If a cat plays the piano, it's adbhut.
वह अजीब बातें करता है। (He talks weird things.)
Both are high praise.
Shandaar is about 'magnificence' and 'grandeur' (physical scale). Adbhut is about the 'wonder' (internal feeling). A palace is shandaar. The silence inside it is adbhut.
महल बहुत शानदार है। (The palace is magnificent.)
Both mean 'good'.
Badhiya is casual 'great/fine/cool'. Adbhut is 'extraordinary/marvelous'. Use badhiya for a good movie; use adbhut for a masterpiece.
खाना बढ़िया था। (The food was great.)
Both describe great experiences.
Avismarniya means 'unforgettable'. Adbhut means 'marvelous'. An experience can be adbhut and therefore avismarniya.
यह एक अविस्मरणीय यात्रा थी। (This was an unforgettable journey.)
Sentence Patterns
[Noun] + Adbhut + Hai
Yeh adbhut hai.
Adbhut + [Noun] + Hai
Adbhut kahani hai.
Yah [Noun] + Adbhut + [Noun] + Hai
Yah film adbhut anubhav hai.
[Noun] + Me + Adbhut + [Noun] + Hai
Isme adbhut shakti hai.
Adbhut + Roop + Se + [Verb]
Adbhut roop se badla hai.
[Abstract Noun] + Ka + Adbhut + [Noun]
Prakriti ka adbhut engineering.
Kitna + Adbhut + [Noun] + Hai!
Kitna adbhut nazaara hai!
Vakai + Adbhut
Yah vakai adbhut hai.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in media and literature; medium-high in daily speech.
-
Using 'Adbhut' for mundane/boring things.
→
Use 'Achha' or 'Theek hai'.
Adbhut is a high-intensity word. Using it for a routine task like 'I cleaned my room, it's adbhut' sounds sarcastic or overly dramatic.
-
Changing it to 'Adbhuti' for feminine nouns.
→
Always use 'Adbhut'.
Learners often try to apply the '-a' to '-i' gender rule, but 'Adbhut' is invariant. 'Adbhut ladki' is correct; 'Adbhuti ladki' is wrong.
-
Confusing 'Adbhut' with 'Ajeeb'.
→
Use 'Adbhut' for positive wonder, 'Ajeeb' for weirdness.
If you call someone's gift 'ajeeb', they might be offended. If you call it 'adbhut', they will be happy. Note the emotional difference.
-
Pronouncing 'dh' as a hard English 'd'.
→
Use the dental 'd' with aspiration.
The 'dh' (ध) sound is produced with the tongue against the teeth and a puff of air. A hard 'd' sounds like a different letter (ड).
-
Using 'Adbhut' for tragic extraordinary events.
→
Use 'Bhayanak' or 'Vinaashkari'.
Even if an earthquake is 'extraordinary' in scale, 'Adbhut' implies a pleasant surprise. It is socially inappropriate for tragedies.
Tips
Save it for the 'Wow' moments
Don't use 'Adbhut' for everything. If you use it for a basic sandwich, it loses its impact. Save it for that once-in-a-lifetime meal or a truly stunning sunset. This keeps your Hindi sounding natural and avoids hyperbole.
The Invariant Advantage
Remember that 'Adbhut' is your best friend when you are confused about gender. Since it doesn't change for masculine or feminine nouns, it's a safe and high-quality word to use in any situation. Use it to sound sophisticated without the risk of gender errors.
Master the 'Bh'
The 'bh' sound is what makes the word sound authentic. Practice saying 'b' while holding a tissue in front of your mouth; the tissue should move when you say the 'h' part. This aspiration is a hallmark of the Hindi language.
Pair with 'Vakai'
To sound like a native, add 'vakai' (truly) before 'adbhut'. 'Yah vakai adbhut hai' sounds much more natural and enthusiastic than just saying 'Yeh adbhut hai'. It adds a layer of genuine conviction to your praise.
Use in Travel
If you are traveling in India, 'Adbhut' is the perfect word to use when locals show you a temple or a viewpoint. It shows deep respect and a high level of appreciation for their culture and heritage, which is always well-received.
Literary Flair
In written Hindi, use 'Adbhut' to describe the atmosphere or a character's internal state. It adds a 'Tatsam' (Sanskritized) flavor to your writing, making it appear more formal and well-crafted compared to using common 'Tadbhava' words.
Reality Show Hack
Watch clips of 'India's Got Talent' on YouTube. You will hear the judges use 'Adbhut' constantly. This is a great way to hear the different intonations and the emotional weight the word carries in modern Indian media.
Spiritual Wonder
Understand that 'Adbhut' often has a spiritual undertone. When you describe nature as 'Adbhut', you are subtly acknowledging a higher power or the mystery of the universe. This cultural nuance is very important in Hindi-speaking communities.
Adbhut vs. Shandaar
Use 'Shandaar' for things that are big and grand (like a palace or a big wedding). Use 'Adbhut' for things that are marvelous and surprising (like a clever idea or a rare talent). One is about size/glory, the other is about wonder.
Exclamation Power
Don't be afraid to just say 'Adbhut!' as a standalone reaction. In Hindi, one-word exclamations are very common and effective. It shows you are engaged in the conversation and genuinely moved by what you're seeing or hearing.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Adbhut' as 'Add-Boot'. Imagine someone adding a magical, glowing boot to their outfit that makes them fly. Everyone shouts 'Adbhut!' because it's so wonderful and extraordinary.
Visual Association
Associate the word with the Taj Mahal glowing under a full moon. That specific feeling of 'wow' is 'Adbhut'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find three things today that you would genuinely call 'Adbhut' and say the word out loud as you see them.
Word Origin
Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Adbhuta' (अद्भुत). In Sanskrit, it is formed from 'at' (beyond) + 'bhuta' (what has happened/been), implying something that is beyond what has previously existed or been experienced.
Original meaning: Marvelous, supernatural, or surprising.
Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit)Cultural Context
There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it for tragic events as it is inherently positive.
English speakers might use 'Amazing' for almost anything, but 'Adbhut' is slightly more formal and heavy, similar to 'Marvelous' or 'Extraordinary' in 19th-century literature.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Appreciating Art/Performance
- अद्भुत प्रदर्शन
- अद्भुत कला
- अद्भुत आवाज़
- अद्भुत संगीत
Describing Nature
- अद्भुत दृश्य
- अद्भुत नज़ारा
- प्रकृति का अद्भुत रूप
- अद्भुत शांति
Praising a Person/Talent
- अद्भुत प्रतिभा
- अद्भुत व्यक्तित्व
- अद्भुत कार्य
- अद्भुत साहस
Travel Experiences
- अद्भुत अनुभव
- अद्भुत यात्रा
- अद्भुत जगह
- अद्भुत यादें
Scientific/Intellectual Achievements
- अद्भुत खोज
- अद्भुत आविष्कार
- अद्भुत विचार
- अद्भुत तकनीक
Conversation Starters
"क्या आपने कभी कोई अद्भुत दृश्य देखा है? (Have you ever seen a wonderful sight?)"
"आपके जीवन का सबसे अद्भुत अनुभव क्या था? (What was the most wonderful experience of your life?)"
"क्या आपको लगता है कि यह तकनीक अद्भुत है? (Do you think this technology is wonderful?)"
"भारत की कौन सी जगह आपको सबसे अद्भुत लगी? (Which place in India did you find most wonderful?)"
"क्या आपने कोई अद्भुत फिल्म देखी है हाल ही में? (Have you seen any wonderful movie recently?)"
Journal Prompts
आज के दिन की तीन अद्भुत चीज़ों के बारे में लिखिए। (Write about three wonderful things from today.)
एक ऐसी यात्रा का वर्णन करें जो आपके लिए अद्भुत थी। (Describe a journey that was wonderful for you.)
अगर आपको कोई अद्भुत शक्ति मिले, तो आप क्या करेंगे? (If you got a wonderful power, what would you do?)
किसी ऐसे व्यक्ति के बारे में लिखिए जिसकी प्रतिभा आपको अद्भुत लगती है। (Write about a person whose talent you find wonderful.)
प्रकृति का कौन सा हिस्सा आपको सबसे अद्भुत लगता है और क्यों? (Which part of nature do you find most wonderful and why?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsAdbhut is an invariant adjective. This means it does not change its form based on the gender of the noun it describes. You can use it for both masculine nouns like 'ladka' (boy) and feminine nouns like 'ladki' (girl) without any changes. For example, 'Adbhut ladka' and 'Adbhut ladki' are both correct.
Yes, absolutely! You can use it to describe a person's character, talent, or even their appearance if it is extraordinary. For example, 'Woh ek adbhut insaan hai' (He/She is a wonderful human being) or 'Unki pratibha adbhut hai' (His/Her talent is wonderful). It is a very high compliment.
'Achha' simply means 'good'. It is a basic, everyday word. 'Adbhut' is much stronger and means 'marvelous' or 'extraordinary'. If you say a movie is 'achhi', it was okay/good. If you say it is 'adbhut', it was a masterpiece that left you in awe. Use 'Adbhut' when 'Achha' isn't enough.
The 'bh' in 'Adbhut' is a voiced aspirated stop. To pronounce it, start making a 'b' sound but immediately follow it with a puff of air (like the 'h' in 'hot'). It's like saying 'b-h'. This aspiration is key to sounding like a native speaker. Practice by saying 'buh' with a heavy breath.
Yes, 'Adbhut' is a 'Tatsam' word (derived directly from Sanskrit), which makes it very suitable for formal writing, literature, and news. It is considered more sophisticated than the informal 'Badhiya' or 'Gazab'. You will find it in newspapers, books, and formal speeches.
Generally, no. 'Adbhut' has a very strong positive connotation of wonder and admiration. If an event is 'extraordinary' but negative (like a disaster), you would use words like 'Bhayanak' (Terrible) or 'Vinaashkari' (Devastating). Using 'Adbhut' for a tragedy would sound very strange or sarcastic.
In Indian aesthetics (Natya Shastra), 'Adbhuta Rasa' is one of the nine primary emotions or sentiments expressed in art. It represents the 'Marvelous' or 'Amazing' sentiment. It is triggered by seeing or hearing something supernatural or extraordinary, leading to the state of 'Vismaya' (wonder).
No, 'Adbhut' remains the same even when describing plural nouns. For example, 'Adbhut log' (Wonderful people) and 'Adbhut cheezein' (Wonderful things). The word itself is invariant and does not change for number or case.
Yes, 'Gazab' is a common informal synonym. While 'Adbhut' is more formal and respectful, 'Gazab' is high-energy and conversational. You'll hear 'Gazab' more in Bollywood songs and street talk, whereas 'Adbhut' is common in literature and formal praise.
Some very common pairings (collocations) include 'Adbhut दृश्य' (drishya - sight), 'Adbhut अनुभव' (anubhav - experience), 'Adbhut कहानी' (kahani - story), and 'Adbhut प्रतिभा' (pratibha - talent). These are standard phrases that Hindi speakers use frequently.
Test Yourself 180 questions
Write a simple sentence using 'अद्भुत' to describe a flower.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a movie you liked using the word 'अद्भुत'.
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Write a sentence about the Taj Mahal using 'अद्भुत'.
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Translate: 'It was a wonderful experience.'
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Use 'अद्भुत' to describe someone's voice.
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Write a sentence using 'अद्भुत' and 'प्रकृति' (nature).
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Translate: 'He has a wonderful talent.'
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Write a short paragraph (2-3 sentences) about a trip using 'अद्भुत'.
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Use 'अद्भुत' in a formal sentence about a scientific discovery.
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Explain the difference between 'अद्भुत' and 'अजीब' in one Hindi sentence.
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Translate: 'This is a wonderful confluence of art and technology.'
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Write a sentence using 'अद्भुत रूप से'.
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Describe a sunset using 'अद्भुत'.
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Use 'अद्भुत' to praise a friend's cooking.
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Translate: 'The architecture of this temple is wonderful.'
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Write a sentence about a 'wonderful mystery'.
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Use 'अद्भुत' in a sentence about a coincidence.
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Translate: 'Wonderful work! Keep it up.'
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Write a sentence using 'अद्भुत' to describe someone's courage.
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Describe an 'extraordinary day' in Hindi.
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Pronounce the word 'अद्भुत' correctly.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'This is wonderful' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful sight!' as an exclamation.
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Pronounce 'Adbhut Anubhav' (Wonderful experience).
Read this aloud:
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Say 'His voice is wonderful' in Hindi.
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Say 'Truly wonderful' in Hindi.
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Say 'It is a wonderful discovery' in Hindi.
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Use 'Adbhut' in a sentence about cricket.
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Say 'Wonderful talent' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful coincidence' in Hindi.
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Describe a sunset using 'Adbhut' out loud.
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Praise someone's work using 'Adbhut' out loud.
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Say 'Wonderful coordination' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful mystery' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful world' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful peace' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful change' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful gift' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful idea' in Hindi.
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Say 'Wonderful magic' in Hindi.
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Listen to the word: 'Adbhut'. What does it mean?
Identify the adjective in this sentence: 'Yah adbhut kitab hai.'
In the phrase 'Adbhut Nazaara', what is the second word?
Does the speaker sound happy or sad when saying 'Adbhut!'?
Listen: 'Prakriti ka adbhut roop'. What is being described?
Is 'Adbhut' the first or second word in 'Vakai adbhut'?
Listen: 'Adbhut Pratibha'. What quality is mentioned?
Listen: 'Adbhut Chamatkar'. What happened?
Listen: 'Adbhut Sangam'. What is it?
Listen: 'Adbhut Kahani'. What is being told?
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The key takeaway is that <strong>अद्भुत (Adbhut)</strong> is your 'gold standard' word for expressing profound wonder. It is grammatically simple for learners but culturally rich, allowing you to praise anything from a sunset to a scientific discovery with authentic Hindi flair. Example: 'Yah ek adbhut anubhav hai' (This is a wonderful experience).
- Adbhut is a versatile Hindi adjective meaning wonderful, marvelous, or extraordinary, used to express high-level admiration.
- It originates from Sanskrit and is linguistically invariant, meaning it does not change based on gender or number.
- The word is deeply linked to the 'Adbhuta Rasa' (Marvelous Sentiment) in Indian classical arts and aesthetics.
- Commonly heard in Bollywood, news, and spiritual discourses, it is the ideal word for the 'wow' factor.
Save it for the 'Wow' moments
Don't use 'Adbhut' for everything. If you use it for a basic sandwich, it loses its impact. Save it for that once-in-a-lifetime meal or a truly stunning sunset. This keeps your Hindi sounding natural and avoids hyperbole.
The Invariant Advantage
Remember that 'Adbhut' is your best friend when you are confused about gender. Since it doesn't change for masculine or feminine nouns, it's a safe and high-quality word to use in any situation. Use it to sound sophisticated without the risk of gender errors.
Master the 'Bh'
The 'bh' sound is what makes the word sound authentic. Practice saying 'b' while holding a tissue in front of your mouth; the tissue should move when you say the 'h' part. This aspiration is a hallmark of the Hindi language.
Pair with 'Vakai'
To sound like a native, add 'vakai' (truly) before 'adbhut'. 'Yah vakai adbhut hai' sounds much more natural and enthusiastic than just saying 'Yeh adbhut hai'. It adds a layer of genuine conviction to your praise.
Example
अद्भुत दृश्य है।
Related Content
Related Phrases
More general words
आभार व्यक्त करना
B1To express gratitude or thankfulness.
आचरण करना
C1To conduct oneself; behave in a particular way.
आगे
A1Forward; ahead.
आगे बढ़ना
A2To move forward or progress.
आगामी
B1Happening in the near future; upcoming or next.
आह्वान करना
B1To call, to summon, to request someone's presence.
आज रात
A2The night of the present day; tonight.
आजमाना
A2To make an attempt or effort to do something; to test.
आक्रमण करना
B2To begin military operations against a country or group.
आखिरी
A2Last, final.