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अनुकंपा

B1 noun 9 min read

अनुकंपा

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips अनुकंपा in 30 Seconds

Explanation अनुकंपा in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'Anukampa' might be a bit advanced, but you can think of it as a very 'big' or 'special' word for 'kindness' (like 'Daya'). Imagine someone being very nice to a person who is sad. That special kindness is called Anukampa. You don't need to use it in daily talk yet, but if you see it in a book, remember it means 'being very kind because someone is in trouble.' It is a feminine word, so we say 'Achi Anukampa' (Good compassion). Just knowing it means 'mercy' is enough for now.

For A2 learners, 'Anukampa' is a word you will see in formal letters or stories about kings and gods. It is more formal than 'Daya'. When you want to say someone showed 'great mercy,' you can use this word. It's often used when a person in power helps someone who is suffering. For example, if a teacher helps a student who has a problem, you can say the teacher showed 'Anukampa.' Practice using it with 'ki' (feminine) like 'Teacher ki anukampa.'

At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish 'Anukampa' from its synonyms. This is the level where you learn about its administrative use in India. 'Anukampa Niyukti' (compassionate appointment) is a key phrase to know. It describes a job given to someone because their parent died while working. You should also be able to use it in formal writing, such as an application to a principal or a boss, to ask for a favor with a high level of respect. It shows you are moving into 'Sanskritized' or 'High Hindi.'

At B2, you should understand the etymological nuances. 'Anukampa' isn't just mercy; it is 'vibrating with' someone's pain. You can use it in essays about social issues or ethics. You should be comfortable with its adjective form 'Anukampamay' (compassionate) and the adverb 'Anukampa-purvak' (compassionately). You can analyze how it's used in news reports regarding government grants or court rulings where a judge shows 'clemency.' Your sentences should reflect the formal and respectful tone the word carries.

For C1 students, 'Anukampa' is a tool for poetic and philosophical expression. You should be able to discuss the role of 'Anukampa' in Indian religions like Buddhism and Jainism, where it is a core virtue. You can use it to describe complex emotional states in literature reviews. You should recognize its subtle difference from 'Karuna' (deep sorrow/pity) and 'Kripa' (divine grace). In professional settings, you should be able to draft formal documents that use the word to argue for 'compassionate grounds' in legal or corporate contexts.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of the word's resonance. You can use 'Anukampa' to evoke specific historical or cultural atmospheres in your writing. You understand the political and social debates surrounding 'Anukampa Niyukti' in India. You can use the word in high-level academic discourse on ethics, comparative religion, or classical literature. You are aware of its rhythmic quality in poetry and can use it to create a specific 'Rasa' (emotional essence) in your creative work. You use it with total grammatical precision across all complex sentence structures.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

अनुकंपा in 30 Seconds

Anukampa is a formal Hindi word for compassion and mercy.
It is a feminine noun used in official, religious, and literary contexts.
Commonly seen in 'Anukampa Niyukti' (compassionate job appointments).
Rooted in Sanskrit, it implies 'vibrating with' another's suffering.

The Hindi word अनुकंपा (Anukampā) is a profound and elegant noun that translates most closely to 'compassion,' 'mercy,' or 'clemency.' Rooted in Sanskrit, it carries a weight that standard words like 'daya' (pity) do not. It describes a state where one's heart 'vibrates' (kampa) in response to (anu) the suffering of another. In modern Hindi, it is used in two primary spheres: the spiritual/philosophical and the administrative/legal.

Etymological Root: Derived from the Sanskrit prefix 'Anu' (following/alongside) and the root 'Kampa' (trembling or vibration). It literally means to tremble in sympathy with another's pain.

In a spiritual context, अनुकंपा is seen as a divine quality. It is the grace shown by a higher power or a saintly figure toward those who are suffering. It suggests a deep, empathetic connection that moves the observer to act. Unlike simple pity, which can sometimes be condescending, this word implies a shared humanity and a noble intention to alleviate distress.

ईश्वर की अनुकंपा से ही हम इस संकट से उबर पाए। (It was only through God's compassion/grace that we were able to overcome this crisis.)

Emotional Register: Formal, poetic, and respectful. It is rarely used in casual slang but is common in literature, formal speeches, and official correspondence.

न्यायाधीश ने अपराधी की कम उम्र पर अनुकंपा दिखाते हुए उसकी सजा कम कर दी। (The judge, showing clemency regarding the criminal's young age, reduced his sentence.)

When you use Anukampa, you are signaling a high level of Hindi proficiency. It shows you understand the difference between basic emotional reactions and the more formalized, deeply felt virtue of compassion. It is often paired with verbs like 'दिखाना' (to show) or 'करना' (to do/show), and 'होना' (to be/happen).

Synonym Comparison: While 'Daya' (दया) is the most common word for pity, 'Anukampa' is more formal and implies a specific act of grace or a official mercy. 'Karuna' (करुणा) is more about the internal feeling of deep sadness for others, while 'Anukampa' often implies the outward manifestation of that feeling.

महात्मा बुद्ध के हृदय में समस्त प्राणियों के लिए अनुकंपा थी। (Lord Buddha had compassion for all living beings in his heart.)

गरीबों के प्रति अनुकंपा रखना एक महान गुण है। (Having compassion toward the poor is a great virtue.)

सरकार ने बाढ़ पीड़ितों के लिए अनुकंपा राशि की घोषणा की। (The government announced a compassionate grant/ex-gratia for the flood victims.)

Using अनुकंपा correctly involves understanding its role as a feminine noun and its typical collocations. It often functions as the object of a verb or as part of a compound phrase in formal Hindi. Let's explore the various grammatical structures and contexts where this word flourishes.

Grammatical Gender: अनुकंपा (Anukampā) is a feminine noun. Therefore, adjectives and possessive markers must agree with it (e.g., 'बड़ी अनुकंपा', 'उनकी अनुकंपा').

One of the most frequent uses is in the phrase 'के आधार पर' (on the basis of). This is almost always seen in official or legal documents regarding welfare or employment. It suggests that a rule is being bent or a special provision is being made out of kindness rather than strict merit or seniority.

उसे अनुकंपा के आधार पर क्लर्क की नौकरी मिल गई। (He got a clerk's job on compassionate grounds.)

In literary or religious contexts, the word is often used to describe the nature of a deity or a noble soul. Here, it takes the form of 'X की अनुकंपा' (X's compassion). It is the source of relief for the suffering. It is often used with verbs like 'बरसना' (to rain/shower) metaphorically.

भक्तों पर गुरु की अनुकंपा हमेशा बनी रहती है। (The Guru's compassion always remains upon the devotees.)

Verb Pairings: Common verbs: दिखाना (to show), करना (to do/show), पाना (to receive/get), जताना (to express).

Another sophisticated use is as an adjective-like prefix in compound terms. For example, 'अनुकंपा-पूर्वक' (Anukampā-pūrvak), which means 'compassionately' or 'with mercy.' This is an adverbial form used to describe how an action was performed.

अधिकारी ने अनुकंपा-पूर्वक मेरी याचिका पर विचार किया। (The officer compassionately considered my petition.)

In debate or philosophy, you might hear 'अनुकंपा भाव' (the feeling of compassion). This shifts the focus from a single act to a general state of being or a philosophical stance. It is a key term in Jain and Buddhist discourses in Hindi, representing the core value of non-violence and empathy for all life forms.

Common Phrasal Usage: 'अनुकंपा की दृष्टि' (a look of compassion) or 'अनुकंपा की भीख' (begging for mercy). The latter is very dramatic and used in historical dramas or intense literature.

उसने राजा से अनुकंपा की भीख माँगी। (He begged the king for mercy.)

आपकी अनुकंपा के लिए मैं सदैव आपका आभारी रहूँगा। (I will always be grateful to you for your compassion.)

While अनुकंपा might not pop up at a vegetable market, it is a staple in specific environments. Understanding these 'habitats' for the word will help you recognize the context even if you don't catch every other word in the sentence.

Government and Bureaucracy: This is perhaps the most common place to hear it in modern India. 'Compassionate grounds' is a legal category for hiring. If a policeman or teacher dies while in service, their child might get a job via Anukampa Niyukti. News reports and official circulars use this constantly.

In a news broadcast, you might hear: 'सरकार ने शहीद के परिवार को अनुकंपा राशि देने का निर्णय लिया है' (The government has decided to give a compassionate grant to the martyr's family). Here, it signifies a formal gesture of support from the state.

हाईकोर्ट ने अनुकंपा नियुक्तियों के नियमों में बदलाव किया है। (The High Court has changed the rules for compassionate appointments.)

Religious Discourses (Satsangs): In spiritual gatherings, speakers use Anukampa to describe the nature of God or a Satguru. It’s portrayed as a boundless, unearned grace. You'll hear it in prayers and devotional songs (Bhajans) as well.

A preacher might say, 'परमात्मा की अनुकंपा के बिना मोक्ष संभव नहीं है' (Without the compassion of the Almighty, liberation is not possible). In this setting, the word carries a mystical, almost magical quality—a force that saves the soul.

उनकी अनुकंपा से अंधे को आँखें मिल गईं। (By his grace/compassion, the blind man received eyes.)

Literature and Historical Dramas: In movies or TV shows set in ancient India (like Ramayan or Mahabharat), characters use high-flown Hindi. A prisoner might plead for Anukampa before a king. It sounds more dramatic and period-appropriate than the Urdu-derived 'Reham'.

In a novel, an author might describe a protagonist's 'अनुकंपामय हृदय' (compassionate heart). This adjective form adds a soft, virtuous layer to the character's personality, suggesting they are motivated by the pain of others.

महाराज, इस दासी पर अपनी अनुकंपा बनाए रखें। (O King, keep your compassion upon this servant.)

कविता में प्रकृति की अनुकंपा का वर्णन किया गया है। (The poem describes the compassion/grace of nature.)

Even for intermediate learners, अनुकंपा can be tricky because of its formal nature and its proximity to other words for 'pity' or 'kindness.' Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid when incorporating this word into your vocabulary.

Mistake 1: Confusing it with 'Daya' (दया): While they are synonyms, 'Daya' is much more common and can be used for small things (like feeding a stray dog). 'Anukampa' is heavier. You wouldn't usually say 'I have anukampa for this dog' unless you were speaking in a very high-register, philosophical way. Use 'Daya' for everyday kindness and 'Anukampa' for formal or profound compassion.

Using 'Anukampa' in a casual conversation with friends might make you sound like a textbook or a 19th-century poet. If a friend helps you with homework, don't say 'आपकी अनुकंपा है' (It is your compassion); instead, say 'आपकी दया है' or simply 'आपकी कृपा है' (It is your kindness/grace).

Incorrect: दोस्त, मुझ पर अनुकंपा करो और मुझे पेन दे दो। (Friend, show me compassion and give me a pen.)

Correct: दोस्त, जरा दया करो और मुझे पेन दे दो। (Friend, have some pity and give me a pen.)

Mistake 2: Gender Agreement: Learners often forget that 'Anukampa' is feminine. They might say 'आपका अनुकंपा' (masculine possessive) instead of 'आपकी अनुकंपा' (feminine possessive). This is a common error with abstract Sanskrit nouns ending in 'ā'.

Always pair it with feminine markers. For example: 'बड़ी अनुकंपा' (Great compassion) not 'बड़ा अनुकंपा'.

Incorrect: भगवान का अनुकंपा सब पर है।

Correct: भगवान की अनुकंपा सब पर है। (God's compassion is on everyone.)

Mistake 3: Over-using 'Anukampa Niyukti': Sometimes learners think 'Anukampa' *only* means a compassionate job because they see that phrase so often in news. Remember that the word itself is the emotion/quality, and 'Niyukti' is the job. Don't use 'Anukampa' to mean 'job' in other contexts.

उसकी बातों में अनुकंपा झलकती है। (Compassion is reflected in his words.)

To truly master अनुकंपा, you must see where it sits in the landscape of Hindi words for kindness and empathy. Hindi is rich in emotional vocabulary, and choosing the right word depends on the 'flavor' of the compassion you want to express.

1. करुणा (Karuna): Difference: Karuna is more about the deep, soul-stirring sorrow one feels for another. It is very common in Buddhist philosophy. Anukampa is slightly more formal and often implies a resulting action or a official state of mercy.
Example: बुद्ध का हृदय करुणा से भरा था। (Buddha's heart was filled with Karuna.)
2. दया (Daya): Difference: Daya is the most common, everyday word for pity or mercy. It is less 'heavy' than Anukampa. You use Daya when asking for a small favor or feeling bad for someone.
Example: गरीबों पर दया करो। (Show pity/kindness to the poor.)
3. सहानुभूति (Sahanubhuti): Difference: This literally means 'sympathy' (Saha = with, Anubhuti = feeling). It is an intellectual and emotional alignment with someone's pain. Anukampa is more about the *quality* of mercy itself rather than just the shared feeling.
Example: मुझे आपके नुकसान के प्रति सहानुभूति है। (I have sympathy for your loss.)
4. कृपा (Kripa): Difference: Kripa is 'grace' or 'favor.' It doesn't necessarily require the other person to be in pain; it's just a benevolent act. Anukampa specifically requires a context of suffering or need.
Example: आपकी बड़ी कृपा होगी। (It would be very kind/graceful of you.)
5. रहम (Raham): Difference: This is the Urdu-origin equivalent of Daya/Anukampa. It is very common in Bollywood songs and everyday spoken Hindi in North India.
Example: खुदा रहम करे। (May God have mercy.)

When deciding which to use, consider the 'Official vs. Personal' scale. If it's for a government form or a formal speech, Anukampa is best. If you're talking to a friend about a sad movie, Karuna or Daya works better. If you're expressing a shared feeling of loss, Sahanubhuti is the precise choice.

विद्वान लोग अनुकंपा को धर्म का मूल मानते हैं। (Scholars consider compassion to be the root of religion.)

राजा की अनुकंपा से कैदी को रिहा कर दिया गया। (By the king's clemency, the prisoner was released.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word implies a physical resonance. In ancient Indian physiology, emotions were often described as vibrations in the heart-space, and 'Anukampa' is the specific vibration of empathy.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʌnuːˈkʌmpɑː/

US /ənuːˈkʌmpɑː/

The primary stress is on the third syllable 'kam'.

Rhymes With

कंपा (Kampa) परंपरा (Parampara - partial) चंपा (Champa) पंपा (Pampa) लंपा (Lampa) गुंफा (Gumpha - partial) संपा (Sampa) झंपा (Jhampa)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'Anukampa' with a short 'a' at the end (it should be long 'aa').
Confusing the 'n' sound with a nasal 'm' early in the word.
Stressing the first syllable instead of the third.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in formal texts once learned.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of gender agreement and formal collocations.

Speaking 4/5

Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and religious TV.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

दया कृपा आधार नौकरी हृदय

Learn Next

करुणा सहानुभूति कृतज्ञता परोपकार संवेदना

Advanced

मीमांसा परमार्थ कैवल्य निष्ठा सद्भावना

Grammar to Know

Feminine Noun Agreement

बड़ी अनुकंपा (Big compassion) - the adjective ends in 'ee'.

Compound Verb Construction

अनुकंपा + करना = To show compassion.

Tatsama Word Usage

Using 'Anukampa' instead of 'Daya' for high register.

Postposition 'Ke Aadhar Par'

अनुकंपा के आधार पर (On the basis of...).

Adverbial Suffix '-Purvak'

अनukampa-purvak (Compassionately).

Examples by Level

वह बहुत अनुकंपा वाला आदमी है।

He is a very compassionate man.

Simple usage of 'anukampa' as a quality.

हमें पशुओं पर अनुकंपा करनी चाहिए।

We should show compassion to animals.

Using 'anukampa karna' (to show compassion).

उसकी अनुकंपा अच्छी है।

Her compassion is good.

'Anukampa' is feminine, so 'achi' is used.

क्या आपके पास अनुकंपा है?

Do you have compassion?

Direct question structure.

भगवान की अनुकंपा सब पर है।

God's compassion is on everyone.

Possessive 'ki' for feminine noun.

अनुकंपा एक बड़ा गुण है।

Compassion is a big virtue.

Using 'anukampa' as a subject.

वह अनुकampa से बात करता है।

He speaks with compassion.

Prepositional usage.

अनुकंपा दिखाओ।

Show compassion.

Imperative form.

राजा ने गरीब किसान पर अनुकंपा दिखाई।

The king showed compassion to the poor farmer.

Past tense 'dikhaai' agrees with feminine 'anukampa'.

हमें दूसरों के दुख पर अनुकंपा होनी चाहिए।

We should have compassion for others' sorrow.

Using 'honi chahiye' for necessity.

उसकी आँखों में अनुकंपा थी।

There was compassion in her eyes.

Descriptive past tense.

अनुकंपा के बिना इंसान अधूरा है।

Without compassion, a human is incomplete.

Using 'ke bina' (without).

शिक्षक ने छात्र पर अनुकंपा की।

The teacher showed compassion to the student.

Compound verb 'anukampa karna'.

यह आपकी अनुकंपा है कि आपने मेरी मदद की।

It is your compassion that you helped me.

Formal expression of thanks.

अनुकंपा का भाव हृदय को शुद्ध करता है।

The feeling of compassion purifies the heart.

'Anukampa ka bhav' means 'feeling of compassion'.

उसने अनुकंपा के लिए प्रार्थना की।

He prayed for compassion.

Praying for something ('ke liye').

उसे अनुकंपा के आधार पर सरकारी नौकरी मिली।

He got a government job on compassionate grounds.

Key phrase: 'anukampa ke aadhar par'.

न्यायाधीश ने अपराधी की स्थिति देखकर अनुकंपा दिखाई।

The judge showed mercy after seeing the criminal's situation.

Participle 'dekhkar' (having seen).

महात्माओं के हृदय में सबके लिए अनुकंपा होती है।

Great souls have compassion for everyone in their hearts.

Plural subject with 'hoti hai'.

क्या सरकार अनुकंपा राशि बढ़ाएगी?

Will the government increase the compassionate grant amount?

Future tense question.

अनुकंपा दिखाना कमजोरी नहीं, बल्कि शक्ति है।

Showing compassion is not weakness, but strength.

Contrastive structure 'nahi... balki'.

उसने अनुकंपा पूर्वक मेरी बात सुनी।

He listened to me compassionately.

Adverbial form 'anukampa purvak'.

समाज में अनुकंपा की बहुत आवश्यकता है।

There is a great need for compassion in society.

Expressing necessity/need.

आपकी अनुकंपा से मेरा काम बन गया।

By your compassion/grace, my work was completed.

Formal gratitude.

अनुकंपा नियुक्ति के लिए आवेदन पत्र जमा करना होगा।

An application form must be submitted for a compassionate appointment.

Passive-style necessity 'karna hoga'.

उनके भाषण में पीड़ितों के प्रति गहरी अनुकंपा झलक रही थी।

Deep compassion for the victims was reflected in his speech.

Continuous aspect 'jhalak rahi thi'.

जैन धर्म में अनुकंपा को सर्वोच्च स्थान दिया गया है।

Compassion is given the highest place in Jainism.

Passive construction 'diya gaya hai'.

प्रकृति की अनुकंपा के बिना मानव जीवन असंभव है।

Human life is impossible without the grace/compassion of nature.

Philosophical usage.

उसने अपनी शक्ति का प्रयोग अनुकंपा के साथ किया।

He used his power with compassion.

Using 'ke saath' (with).

अनुकंपा के अभाव में समाज क्रूर हो जाता है।

In the absence of compassion, society becomes cruel.

'Abhav mein' (in the absence of).

कवि ने वर्षा को धरती पर ईश्वर की अनुकंपा बताया है।

The poet has described rain as God's compassion on earth.

Literary analysis structure.

अनुकंपा करना केवल बड़ों का नहीं, सबका कर्तव्य है।

Showing compassion is not just the duty of elders, but of everyone.

Gerund usage 'anukampa karna'.

प्रशासनिक सुधारों में अनुकंपा के तत्वों को शामिल करना अनिवार्य है।

It is mandatory to include elements of compassion in administrative reforms.

Complex administrative vocabulary.

उनकी लेखनी में समाज के वंचित वर्गों के लिए असीम अनुकंपा प्रवाहित होती है।

Boundless compassion for the marginalized sections of society flows in his writing.

Metaphorical usage 'pravahit hona'.

अनुकंपा मात्र एक भावना नहीं, बल्कि एक सक्रिय नैतिक जिम्मेदारी है।

Compassion is not just a feeling, but an active moral responsibility.

Logical definition structure.

उच्चतम न्यायालय ने अनुकंपा नियुक्तियों के सिद्धांतों को पुनः परिभाषित किया।

The Supreme Court redefined the principles of compassionate appointments.

Legal/Official Hindi.

दार्शनिकों के अनुसार, अनुकंपा ही वह सूत्र है जो मानवता को जोड़ता है।

According to philosophers, compassion is the thread that binds humanity.

Relative clause 'voh... jo'.

युद्ध के मैदान में भी अनुकंपा का प्रदर्शन महानता का परिचायक है।

Even on the battlefield, the display of compassion is a sign of greatness.

Abstract noun phrase 'mahanata ka parichayak'.

उनकी अनुकंपामय दृष्टि ने हताश लोगों में आशा का संचार किया।

Her compassionate gaze instilled hope in the despondent people.

Adjective 'anukampamay'.

साहित्य में अनुकंपा का स्वर हमेशा से ही मुखर रहा है।

The voice of compassion has always been prominent in literature.

Literary idiom 'mukhar raha hai'.

अनुकंपा की दार्शनिक मीमांसा करते हुए उन्होंने इसे आत्मिक बोध का पर्याय बताया।

While performing a philosophical critique of compassion, he described it as a synonym for spiritual realization.

High-level academic structure 'mimansa karte hue'.

क्या अनुकंपा के आधार पर दी गई रियायतें न्याय के मूल सिद्धांतों का उल्लंघन करती हैं?

Do concessions given on compassionate grounds violate the fundamental principles of justice?

Complex interrogative on ethics.

भक्ति काव्य में अनुकंपा को ईश्वर का प्रमुख लक्षण माना गया है, जो भक्त के आर्त्तनाद पर द्रवित होता है।

In devotional poetry, compassion is considered a primary trait of God, who melts at the devotee's cry of distress.

Highly literary Sanskritized Hindi.

राज्य की अनुकंपा जब अधिकार का रूप ले लेती है, तब सामाजिक न्याय सुदृढ़ होता है।

When the state's compassion takes the form of a right, social justice is strengthened.

Political philosophy context.

उनकी जीवन यात्रा अनुकंपा और त्याग की एक अनवरत गाथा है।

His life journey is a continuous saga of compassion and sacrifice.

Poetic biographical description.

अनुकंपा का वह सात्विक रूप ही है जो मनुष्य को पशुता से ऊपर उठाता है।

It is that pure form of compassion that elevates man above animality.

Sattvic (pure) philosophical term.

न्यायपालिका को अनुकंपा और कठोर कानून के मध्य एक सूक्ष्म संतुलन बनाए रखना होता है।

The judiciary has to maintain a fine balance between compassion and strict law.

Professional legal discourse.

वैश्विक संकटों के इस दौर में अनुकंपा ही एकमात्र वैश्विक भाषा होनी चाहिए।

In this era of global crises, compassion should be the only universal language.

Rhetorical/Diplomatic Hindi.

Common Collocations

अनुकंपा नियुक्ति

अनुकंपा के आधार पर

अनुकंपा राशि

अनुकंपा दिखाना

ईश्वरीय अनुकंपा

अनुकंपा की दृष्टि

अनुकंपा की भीख

असीम अनुकंपा

अनुकंपा भाव

अनुकंपा पूर्वक

Common Phrases

आपकी महती अनुकंपा होगी

— A very formal way to say 'It would be very kind of you'.

यदि आप छुट्टी देंगे तो आपकी महती अनुकंपा होगी।

अनुकंपा का पात्र

— Someone who deserves compassion or mercy.

वह वृद्ध व्यक्ति अनुकंपा का पात्र है।

अनुकंपा की गुहार

— A plea or cry for mercy.

कैदी ने राजा से अनुकंपा की गुहार लगाई।

अनुकंपा की वर्षा

— Metaphorical showering of grace or mercy.

भक्तों पर गुरु की अनुकंपा की वर्षा हुई।

अनुकंपा की लहर

— A wave of compassion (in society or a group).

हादसे के बाद शहर में अनुकंपा की लहर दौड़ गई।

अनुकंपा का हाथ

— A helping hand extended out of compassion.

अमीर आदमी ने गरीबों की ओर अनुकंपा का हाथ बढ़ाया।

अनुकंपा की छाँव

— The shelter or protection of someone's mercy.

वह अनाथ बच्चा अब अनुकंपा की छाँव में है।

अनुकंपा की पुकार

— The call for compassion from those suffering.

पीड़ितों की अनुकंपा की पुकार अनसुनी रह गई।

अनुकंपा के वशीभूत

— Driven or motivated by compassion.

अनुकंपा के वशीभूत होकर उसने अपनी संपत्ति दान कर दी।

अनुकंपा की राह

— The path of compassion/mercy.

हमें अनुकंपा की राह पर चलना चाहिए।

Often Confused With

अनुकंपा vs अनुकंपा vs. कृपा

Anukampa is specifically for suffering; Kripa is general grace.

अनुकंपा vs अनुकंपा vs. सहानुभूति

Anukampa is the act/quality of mercy; Sahanubhuti is the feeling of sympathy.

अनुकंपा vs अनुकंपा vs. दया

Anukampa is high-register/formal; Daya is common/everyday.

Idioms & Expressions

"अनुकंपा की भीख माँगना"

— To beg desperately for mercy or help.

हारने के बाद उसने दुश्मन से अनुकंपा की भीख माँगी।

Dramatic/Literary

"अनुकंपा का दरिया बहना"

— To show immense and continuous compassion.

महात्मा के आने से गाँव में अनुकंपा का दरिया बहने लगा।

Poetic

"अनुकंपा की नज़र डालना"

— To look at someone with mercy or a willingness to help.

साहब, ज़रा इस गरीब पर भी अनुकंपा की नज़र डालिए।

Formal/Request

"अनुकंपा के सागर में डूबना"

— To be overwhelmed by someone's grace or mercy.

भक्त भगवान की अनुकंपा के सागर में डूब गया।

Religious

"अनुकंपा का दीया जलाना"

— To bring hope or kindness to a dark situation.

समाजसेवियों ने झुग्गियों में अनुकंपा का दीया जलाया।

Metaphorical

"अनुकंपा की ठंडी छाँव"

— The soothing relief provided by mercy.

मुसीबत में दोस्त की मदद अनुकंपा की ठंडी छाँव जैसी थी।

Literary

"अनुकंपा की डोर"

— The bond created by compassion.

हम सब अनुकंपा की डोर से बंधे हैं।

Philosophical

"अनुकंपा का झरना"

— A constant source of kindness.

माँ का हृदय अनुकंपा का झरना है।

Poetic

"अनुकंपा की आग"

— A burning desire to help others (rare but powerful).

उसके अंदर अनुकंपा की आग जल रही थी।

Literary

"अनुकंपा की चादर"

— Covering or protecting someone with kindness.

बुजुर्गों ने अनाथों पर अनुकंपा की चादर डाल दी।

Metaphorical

Easily Confused

अनुकंपा vs अनुकूल

Sounds similar (starts with Anu).

Anukul means 'favorable' or 'suitable', while Anukampa is 'compassion'.

मौसम हमारे अनुकूल है। (The weather is favorable for us.)

अनुकंपा vs अनुकरण

Starts with Anu.

Anukaran means 'imitation' or 'following an example'.

बड़ों का अनुकरण करो। (Follow/Imitate elders.)

अनुकंपा vs अनुपात

Starts with Anu.

Anupat means 'ratio' or 'proportion'.

दूध और पानी का अनुपात। (Ratio of milk and water.)

अनुकंपा vs अनुभव

Starts with Anu.

Anubhav means 'experience'.

मुझे काम का अनुभव है। (I have experience of work.)

अनुकंपा vs अनुरोध

Starts with Anu.

Anurodh means 'request'.

मेरा आपसे अनुरोध है। (It is my request to you.)

Sentence Patterns

X पर अनुकंपा करो।

मुझ पर अनुकंपा करो।

X ने Y पर अनुकंपा दिखाई।

राजा ने कैदी पर अनुकंपा दिखाई।

X की अनुकंपा से Y हुआ।

आपकी अनुकंपा से मेरा काम हुआ।

अनुकंपा के आधार पर X मिला।

अनुकंपा के आधार पर नौकरी मिली।

X अनुकंपा का पात्र है।

वह गरीब अनुकंपा का पात्र है।

X में अनुकंपा का भाव है।

उसमें असीम अनुकंपा का भाव है।

अनुकंपा पूर्वक X करना।

अनुकंपा पूर्वक विचार करना।

अनुकंपा और X का संतुलन।

अनुकंपा और दंड का संतुलन।

Word Family

Nouns

अनुकंपा (Compassion)

कंपन (Vibration/Trembling)

अनुकंपी (Compassionate person - rare)

Verbs

अनुकंपा करना (To show compassion)

काँपना (To tremble - related root)

Adjectives

अनुकंपामय (Compassionate)

अनुकंपित (Moved by compassion)

कंपित (Trembling)

दया

करुणा

कृपा

सहानुभूति

ममता

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal/legal/religious contexts; Low in daily street talk.

Common Mistakes

Using 'आपका अनुकंपा' → आपकी अनुकंपा
Anukampa is a feminine noun, so the possessive pronoun must be 'aapki'.
Using 'Anukampa' for small, casual favors. → Daya or Kripa
Anukampa is too formal and heavy for casual daily favors.
Spelling it as 'Anukampa' (ending in short a) in Devanagari. → अनुकंपा (ending in aa sound)
The final 'aa' is essential for the correct noun form.
Confusing 'Anukampa' with 'Anukul'. → Anukampa
Anukul means favorable; Anukampa means compassion. They are not interchangeable.
Thinking 'Anukampa' only means a government job. → Compassion (the emotion/quality)
While 'Anukampa Niyukti' is common, the word itself is the broader quality of mercy.

Tips

Gender Check

Always remember 'Anukampa' is feminine. Say 'आपकी अनुकंपा' (Your compassion) and never 'आपका अनुकंपा'.

Upgrade from Daya

If you are writing a formal letter or an essay, replace 'Daya' with 'Anukampa' to immediately sound more advanced.

Official Use

If you are dealing with Indian government offices, learn the phrase 'Anukampa Niyukti' as it is a standard administrative term.

Spiritual Nuance

In spiritual talks, 'Anukampa' refers to the unearned grace of a Guru or God. It is a very respectful term.

The Long 'A'

Ensure the final 'a' is long (aa). It's Anukampā, not Anukamp.

Formal Closings

End a formal request with 'आपकी महती अनुकंपा होगी' to show high respect and Hindi mastery.

Empathy vs Pity

Use Anukampa when you want to imply deep empathy rather than just feeling sorry for someone.

Spot the 'Anu-'

Many high-level Hindi words start with 'Anu-'. Recognizing this prefix helps in identifying formal Sanskritized vocabulary.

News Keywords

When listening to Indian news, 'Anukampa' is a keyword for welfare, social justice, and government aid.

Poetic Flair

Use the adjective 'Anukampamay' to describe characters in stories to give them a virtuous, noble aura.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Anu' as 'A New' and 'Kampa' as 'Compassion'. 'A New Compassion' = Anukampa. Or link 'Kampa' to 'Compass'—it guides your heart.

Visual Association

Imagine a tuning fork. When one fork (a person in pain) vibrates, the other fork (you) starts to vibrate at the same frequency. That shared vibration is Anukampa.

Word Web

God Job Mercy Heart Sanskrit Formal Empathetic Legal

Challenge

Try to use 'Anukampa' instead of 'Daya' in your next formal Hindi writing task. See how it changes the tone of your request.

Word Origin

Anukampa is a Sanskrit 'Tatsama' word. It is formed by the prefix 'Anu' (meaning after, along, or following) and the noun 'Kampa' (meaning trembling or vibration).

Original meaning: The original meaning is 'to tremble in sympathy with another.' It suggests that when you see someone in pain, your own heart vibrates with that same pain.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit)

Cultural Context

While a positive word, 'Anukampa Niyukti' can be a sensitive topic in India regarding job competition and meritocracy.

The closest English equivalent is 'Compassion' in a spiritual sense and 'Clemency' or 'Compassionate Grounds' in a legal sense.

Buddhist scriptures frequently use 'Anukampā' to describe the Buddha's motivation for teaching. Modern Indian Labor Law specifically codifies 'Anukampa Niyukti'. Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas uses similar terms to describe Lord Rama's nature.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Government Employment

अनुकंपा नियुक्ति
मृतक आश्रित
नियमों के तहत
आवेदन पत्र

Religious Discourse

प्रभु की अनुकंपा
साधु की वाणी
हृदय परिवर्तन
भक्ति मार्ग

Legal Mercy

सजा में छूट
न्यायाधीश का निर्णय
मानवीय आधार
याचिका

Social Service

पीड़ितों की सहायता
दान पुण्य
सेवा भाव
जन कल्याण

Literature

काव्य रस
पात्र का चरित्र
लेखक की दृष्टि
भावनात्मक गहराई

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप अनुकंपा नियुक्ति के नियमों के बारे में जानते हैं?"

"आपके विचार में, क्या अनुकंपा ही सबसे बड़ा धर्म है?"

"क्या आपने कभी किसी पर अनुकंपा दिखाई है?"

"ईश्वर की अनुकंपा के बारे में आपकी क्या राय है?"

"समाज में अनुकंपा बढ़ाने के लिए हमें क्या करना चाहिए?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने किसी के प्रति अनुकंपा कैसे दिखाई? विस्तार से लिखें।

क्या 'अनुकंपा' और 'न्याय' एक दूसरे के विरोधी हैं? अपने विचार लिखें।

मेरे जीवन में ईश्वर (या प्रकृति) की अनुकंपा का क्या महत्व है?

एक ऐसी घटना का वर्णन करें जब आपको किसी की अनुकंपा मिली हो।

क्या आधुनिक युग में अनुकंपा का महत्व कम हो गया है?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is feminine. You should always use feminine verbs and adjectives with it, like 'दिखाई' (showed) or 'बड़ी' (great).

Yes, it is very common in philosophical or ethical contexts to talk about 'Prani-Anukampa' (compassion for living beings).

It is a compassionate appointment where a government job is given to a dependent of an employee who died in harness. It is a very common term in Indian news.

Yes, 'Daya' is more general and common. 'Anukampa' is formal, noble, and often used in official or spiritual contexts.

You use the adverbial form 'अनुकंपापूर्वक' (Anukampā-pūrvak).

Yes, though rare, it is sometimes used as a female name in India, signifying a compassionate person.

Yes, it is a 'Tatsama' word, meaning it is borrowed directly from Sanskrit into Hindi without changes.

Avoid using it in very casual settings with friends for small things (like asking for a snack) as it will sound too dramatic.

The root is 'Kampa' (trembling/vibrating) with the prefix 'Anu' (following/with).

Yes, it is a common adjective meaning 'full of compassion,' often used to describe hearts, eyes, or personalities in literature.