बाहरी in 30 Seconds
- Outer, external, located outside.
- Describes the exterior part of something.
- Opposite of inner or internal.
- Used for physical locations and abstract influences.
- Meaning
- The Hindi word 'बाहरी' (bāharī) translates directly to 'outer' or 'external' in English. It is used to describe something that is located on the outside, not within something else, or pertaining to the exterior of a place, object, or concept. It emphasizes a position or quality that is on the exterior.
- Usage
- 'बाहरी' is a versatile adjective commonly used in everyday Hindi. You might hear it when discussing physical locations, such as the 'बाहरी' parts of a house (e.g., the outer walls, the exterior garden). It can also refer to external factors influencing a situation, like 'बाहरी' pressures or 'बाहरी' influences. In a more abstract sense, it can describe something that is not inherent or internal. For example, one might talk about 'बाहरी' appearance versus inner qualities. It’s a fundamental word for describing spatial relationships and external characteristics, making it essential for basic descriptive language.
घर की बाहरी दीवारें मजबूत हैं। (Ghar kī bāharī dīvāreṅ majbūt haiṅ.) - The outer walls of the house are strong.
- Physical Location
- This is the most common use. It describes things on the outside of a building, a city, a country, or any defined space. For instance, 'बाहरी इलाका' (bāharī ilāqā) refers to an outer area or suburb. 'बाहरी दरवाज़ा' (bāharī darvāzā) means an external door.
- Abstract Concepts
- 'बाहरी' can also refer to factors that are not intrinsic. For example, 'बाहरी दबाव' (bāharī dabāv) means external pressure, and 'बाहरी मदद' (bāharī madad) means outside help. It can also describe something superficial, like 'बाहरी सुंदरता' (bāharī sundartā) – outer beauty.
- Social Context
- It can be used to distinguish between insiders and outsiders. 'बाहरी लोग' (bāharī log) might refer to people who are not part of a specific group or community. This usage can sometimes carry a slight connotation of being an outsider or not belonging.
हमें बाहरी दुनिया से जुड़ना चाहिए। (Hameṅ bāharī duniyā se juṛnā cāhie.) - We should connect with the outside world.
- Describing Locations
- 'बाहरी' is frequently used to specify the exterior parts of structures or areas. For example, you can talk about the 'बाहरी हिस्से' (bāharī hisse - outer parts) of a building, the 'बाहरी आवरण' (bāharī āvaraṇ - outer covering) of an object, or the 'बाहरी सीमा' (bāharī sīmā - outer boundary) of a property. This is a straightforward application of the word, making it easy to learn.
- Indicating External Factors
- Beyond physical spaces, 'बाहरी' can describe influences or forces that originate from outside a system or person. Examples include 'बाहरी हस्तक्षेप' (bāharī hastakṣep - external interference), 'बाहरी प्रभाव' (bāharī prabhāv - external influence), or 'बाहरी खतरा' (bāharī khatrā - external threat). This usage extends the word's applicability to more abstract contexts.
- Distinguishing from Internal
- 'बाहरी' often serves as a direct contrast to 'अंदरूनी' (andrunī - internal). You might use it to differentiate between 'बाहरी' रूप (bāharī rūp - external appearance) and 'आंतरिक' (āntarik - internal) feelings, or 'बाहरी' शोर (bāharī śor - external noise) versus the quiet inside.
- Referring to People or Groups
- In social contexts, 'बाहरी लोग' (bāharī log) can mean outsiders or people from outside a particular group or community. It can also refer to someone who is not a native or a permanent resident. For example, a village might refer to city dwellers as 'बाहरी लोग'.
यह बाहरी मदद के बिना संभव नहीं था। (Yah bāharī madad ke binā sambhav nahīṅ thā.) - This was not possible without external help.
हमें बाहरी ताकतों से सावधान रहना चाहिए। (Hameṅ bāharī tāqatoṅ se sāvdhān rahnā cāhie.) - We should be wary of external forces.
- Everyday Conversations
- You'll hear 'बाहरी' frequently in casual chats. For instance, someone might say, 'मेरा घर शहर के बाहरी इलाके में है।' (Merā ghar śahar ke bāharī ilāqe meṅ hai.) - 'My house is in the outer area of the city.' Or, discussing a renovation: 'हमें बाहरी पेंटिंग करवानी है।' (Hameṅ bāharī peṇṭiṅg karvānī hai.) - 'We need to get the exterior painting done.'
- News and Media
- News reports often use 'बाहरी' when discussing geopolitical matters, economics, or social issues. For example, a headline might read: 'बाहरी निवेश देश की अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए महत्वपूर्ण है।' (Bāharī niveś deś kī arthavyavasthā ke lie mahatvapūrṇ hai.) - 'External investment is important for the country's economy.' Or, 'सरकार बाहरी खतरों से निपटने की तैयारी कर रही है।' (Sarkār bāharī khatroṅ se nipaṭne kī taiyārī kar rahī hai.) - 'The government is preparing to deal with external threats.'
- Discussions about Appearance
- When talking about how things or people look, 'बाहरी' is used to refer to the surface or outward appearance. A common phrase might be, 'सिर्फ बाहरी सुंदरता पर ध्यान मत दो।' (Sirf bāharī sundartā par dhyān mat do.) - 'Don't just focus on outer beauty.' This highlights the distinction between what is seen and what is felt or known internally.
- In Educational Settings
- Teachers and students might use 'बाहरी' when discussing geography, like the 'बाहरी इलाके' (bāharī ilāqe - outer regions) of a country, or in science, referring to the 'बाहरी आवरण' (bāharī āvaraṇ - outer layer) of a cell or planet. It's a fundamental term for describing spatial relationships and physical characteristics.
उसकी बाहरी बनावट बहुत आकर्षक है। (Uskī bāharī banāvaṭ bahut ākarṣak hai.) - Its outer texture is very attractive.
- Confusing with 'बाहर' (bāhar)
- A common mistake is to use 'बाहर' (bāhar), which is an adverb meaning 'outside', in place of the adjective 'बाहरी' (bāharī). For example, saying 'यह एक बाहर चीज़ है' (Yah ek bāhar cīz hai) is incorrect. The correct way to say 'This is an outer thing' or 'This is an external item' is 'यह एक बाहरी चीज़ है।' (Yah ek bāharī cīz hai.) Remember, 'बाहरी' modifies a noun, while 'बाहर' indicates location or direction.
- Overuse in Abstract Contexts
- While 'बाहरी' can be used for abstract concepts like 'बाहरी प्रभाव' (external influence), sometimes a more specific or nuanced word might be better. For instance, instead of saying 'यह एक बाहरी कारण था' (This was an external reason), depending on the context, words like 'अज्ञात' (ajñāt - unknown) or 'अप्रत्याशित' (apratyāśit - unexpected) might be more precise if the reason was unknown or unforeseen.
- Incorrect Agreement (Rare)
- As an adjective, 'बाहरी' generally does not change its form to agree with the gender or number of the noun it modifies. However, in some very specific or older grammatical contexts, you might see variations. For learners, it's safe to assume 'बाहरी' remains constant. A sentence like 'बाहरी इमारतें सुंदर थीं' (Bāharī īmārateṅ sundar thīṅ - The outer buildings were beautiful) is correct, and the adjective 'बाहरी' doesn't change. Avoid trying to make it agree like other adjectives.
- Using it for 'Foreign'
- While 'बाहरी' can sometimes imply something from outside, it's not always the best word for 'foreign'. For 'foreign' in the sense of 'from another country', words like 'विदेशी' (videśī) or 'परदेशी' (paradeśī) are more appropriate. For example, 'यह एक बाहरी उत्पाद है' (This is an external product) might be understood, but 'यह एक विदेशी उत्पाद है' (This is a foreign product) is more precise if it's imported.
गलत: यह बाहर सामान है। (Galat: Yah bāhar sāmān hai.)
सही: यह बाहरी सामान है। (Sahī: Yah bāharī sāmān hai.) - Incorrect: This is outside goods. Correct: This is external goods.
- 'बाहरी' (bāharī) vs. 'बाहर' (bāhar)
- 'बाहरी' is an adjective meaning 'outer', 'external'. It modifies a noun. Example: बाहरी दीवार (bāharī dīvār - outer wall).
'बाहर' is an adverb meaning 'outside', 'out'. It indicates location or direction. Example: मैं बाहर जा रहा हूँ। (Maiṅ bāhar jā rahā hūṅ. - I am going outside.) - 'बाहरी' (bāharī) vs. 'अंदरूनी' (andrunī)
- These are direct antonyms.
'बाहरी': Outer, external. Example: बाहरी आवरण (bāharī āvaraṇ - outer covering).
'अंदरूनी': Inner, internal. Example: अंदरूनी चोट (andrunī coṭ - internal injury). - 'बाहरी' (bāharī) vs. 'विदेशी' (videśī)
- These words overlap but have distinct meanings.
'बाहरी': External, from outside a defined area or group. It can be within the same country. Example: बाहरी इलाके (bāharī ilāqe - outer areas/suburbs).
'विदेशी': Foreign, from another country. Example: विदेशी मुद्रा (videśī mudrā - foreign currency). - 'बाहरी' (bāharī) vs. 'सतही' (satahī)
- These can sometimes be used interchangeably but have different nuances.
'बाहरी': Refers to the exterior position or origin. Example: बाहरी दिखावट (bāharī dikhāvaṭ - outward appearance).
'सतही': Superficial, shallow, not deep. It often implies a lack of substance or seriousness. Example: यह सिर्फ़ सतही बात है। (Yah sirf satahī bāt hai. - This is just a superficial matter.) - 'बाहरी' (bāharī) vs. 'अज्ञात' (ajñāt)
- These terms can be related in certain contexts.
'बाहरी': External. Example: बाहरी प्रभाव (bāharī prabhāv - external influence).
'अज्ञात': Unknown. If an external influence is unknown, it could be described as both. Example: अज्ञात बाहरी ताक़त (ajñāt bāharī tāqat - unknown external force).
Compare: बाहरी (Outer) vs. अंदरूनी (Inner).
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The root 'bahir' is related to similar words in other Indo-European languages that also denote 'outside' or 'beyond'. For example, in Latin, 'foris' means 'outside', and in Greek, 'exō' means 'outside'. This shared root highlights the ancient and fundamental nature of the concept of 'outside'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'h' too strongly or too weakly.
- Incorrect vowel sound for 'a' (e.g., like 'cat').
- Not emphasizing the first syllable.
- Adding an extra sound at the end.
- Confusing it with 'bahar' (outside) which has a different intonation and no final 'i'.
Difficulty Rating
The word is common and its meaning is usually clear from context. Its usage in abstract contexts might require a bit more attention but is generally straightforward for A2 learners.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Placement: In Hindi, adjectives generally precede the noun they modify. 'बाहरी' follows this rule.
बाहरी दीवार (bāharī dīvār - outer wall).
Agreement: Unlike some languages, 'बाहरी' typically does not change its form to agree in gender or number with the noun.
बाहरी दीवार (singular, feminine), बाहरी दीवारें (plural, feminine).
Distinguishing Adjectives from Adverbs: 'बाहरी' (adjective) describes a noun, while 'बाहर' (adverb) indicates location or direction.
यह बाहरी दरवाज़ा है। (This is an outer door.) vs. मैं बाहर जा रहा हूँ। (I am going outside.)
Use with Postpositions: 'बाहरी' can be used with postpositions like 'में' (in), 'से' (from/with), 'के लिए' (for) to form prepositional phrases.
बाहरी इलाके में (in the outer area), बाहरी दबाव से (from external pressure).
Formation of Compound Words: 'बाहरी' can be part of compound words, often hyphenated, to create more specific meanings.
बाहरी-आंतरिक (external-internal).
Examples by Level
यह बाहरी दरवाज़ा है।
This is the outer door.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दरवाज़ा'.
हमें बाहरी हवा चाहिए।
We need fresh/outdoor air.
'बाहरी' describes 'हवा'.
यह बाहरी रंग है।
This is the outer color.
'बाहरी' describes 'रंग'.
वह बाहरी चीज़ें देखता है।
He looks at external things.
'बाहरी' describes 'चीज़ें'.
यह बाहरी बगीचा है।
This is the outer garden.
'बाहरी' describes 'बगीचा'.
हमें बाहरी शोर नहीं पसंद।
We don't like external noise.
'बाहरी' describes 'शोर'.
यह बाहरी मौसम है।
This is the outer weather.
'बाहरी' describes 'मौसम'.
गाड़ी का बाहरी हिस्सा।
The outer part of the car.
'बाहरी' describes 'हिस्सा'.
यह बाहरी दीवारें बहुत पुरानी हैं।
These outer walls are very old.
'बाहरी' modifies the plural noun 'दीवारें'.
शहर के बाहरी इलाके में एक नया पार्क बना है।
A new park has been built in the outer area of the city.
'बाहरी' modifies 'इलाके'.
हमें बाहरी खतरों से सावधान रहना चाहिए।
We should be careful of external threats.
'बाहरी' modifies 'खतरों'.
उसकी बाहरी चाल-ढाल में आत्मविश्वास दिखता था।
Confidence was visible in his external demeanor.
'बाहरी' modifies 'चाल-ढाल' (demeanor/bearing).
इस मशीन का बाहरी आवरण धातु का बना है।
The outer covering of this machine is made of metal.
'बाहरी' modifies 'आवरण'.
उन्होंने बाहरी दुनिया से संपर्क तोड़ दिया।
They broke contact with the outside world.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दुनिया'.
यह बाहरी दबाव बहुत ज़्यादा है।
This external pressure is too much.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दबाव'.
बच्चों को बाहरी खेल खेलने के लिए प्रोत्साहित करना चाहिए।
Children should be encouraged to play outdoor games.
'बाहरी' modifies 'खेल'.
इमारत की बाहरी सज्जा काफ़ी आकर्षक है।
The external decoration of the building is quite attractive.
'बाहरी' modifies 'सज्जा' (decoration).
बाहरी हस्तक्षेप के बिना, यह समस्या हल हो जाती।
Without external interference, this problem would have been solved.
'बाहरी' modifies 'हस्तक्षेप' (interference).
हमें अपनी बाहरी छवि पर भी ध्यान देना चाहिए।
We should also pay attention to our external image.
'बाहरी' modifies 'छवि' (image).
यह बाहरी प्रभाव हमारे निर्णय को बदल सकता है।
This external influence can change our decision.
'बाहरी' modifies 'प्रभाव' (influence).
शहर के बाहरी हिस्सों में प्रदूषण ज़्यादा है।
Pollution is higher in the outer parts of the city.
'बाहरी' modifies 'हिस्सों'.
उसकी बाहरी बातों से उसका असली इरादा पता नहीं चलता।
His true intentions are not revealed by his external talk.
'बाहरी' modifies 'बातों' (talk/words).
यह बाहरी वातावरण हमारे लिए अनुकूल नहीं है।
This external environment is not favorable for us.
'बाहरी' modifies 'वातावरण'.
कंपनी ने बाहरी विशेषज्ञों की मदद ली।
The company took help from external experts.
'बाहरी' modifies 'विशेषज्ञों'.
राजनीतिक बाहरी शक्तियों का देश की अर्थव्यवस्था पर गहरा प्रभाव पड़ता है।
Political external forces have a deep impact on the country's economy.
'बाहरी' modifies 'शक्तियों' (forces/powers).
हमें केवल बाहरी दिखावे पर नहीं, बल्कि आंतरिक मूल्यों पर भी ध्यान देना चाहिए।
We should focus not only on outward appearance but also on internal values.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दिखावे' (appearance).
उसकी बाहरी शांति उसके मन के तूफान को छिपा रही थी।
His outward calm was hiding the storm in his mind.
'बाहरी' modifies 'शांति' (calm).
प्रशासन ने बाहरी तत्वों को शहर में प्रवेश करने से रोका।
The administration prevented external elements from entering the city.
'बाहरी' modifies 'तत्वों' (elements).
यह बाहरी दबाव हमें हमारे लक्ष्य से नहीं भटका सकता।
This external pressure cannot deter us from our goal.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दबाव'.
कलाकार ने कैनवास के बाहरी किनारों को एक विशेष रंग से रंगा।
The artist painted the outer edges of the canvas with a special color.
'बाहरी' modifies 'किनारों'.
प्रतियोगिता में बाहरी खिलाड़ियों का स्वागत है।
External players are welcome in the competition.
'बाहरी' modifies 'खिलाड़ियों'.
हमें बाहरी दुनिया की चुनौतियों का सामना करने के लिए तैयार रहना चाहिए।
We should be prepared to face the challenges of the outside world.
'बाहरी' modifies 'दुनिया'.
यह बाहरी आघात उसके मनोवैज्ञानिक संतुलन को बिगाड़ने के लिए पर्याप्त था।
This external trauma was sufficient to disrupt his psychological balance.
'बाहरी' modifies 'आघात' (trauma).
उनकी बाहरी सफलता के पीछे कई बाहरी कारक जिम्मेदार थे।
Several external factors were responsible for his external success.
Two instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'सफलता' and 'कारक'.
अंतर्राष्ट्रीय मंच पर देश की बाहरी छवि को सुधारने की आवश्यकता है।
There is a need to improve the country's external image on the international stage.
'बाहरी' modifies 'छवि'.
ज्ञान का बाहरी प्रसार समाज के लिए लाभदायक होता है।
The external dissemination of knowledge is beneficial for society.
'बाहरी' modifies 'प्रसार' (dissemination/spread).
उनका बाहरी व्यवहार अत्यंत विनम्र था, लेकिन उनकी आँखों में कुछ और था।
His external behavior was extremely polite, but there was something else in his eyes.
'बाहरी' modifies 'व्यवहार' (behavior).
नई बाहरी नीतियों ने अर्थव्यवस्था को पुनर्जीवित करने में मदद की।
New external policies helped revive the economy.
'बाहरी' modifies 'नीतियों' (policies).
इस बाहरी हस्तक्षेप के कारण परियोजना में देरी हुई।
This external intervention caused delays in the project.
'बाहरी' modifies 'हस्तक्षेप'.
सभी बाहरी संस्थाओं को सरकारी नियमों का पालन करना होगा।
All external institutions must comply with government regulations.
'बाहरी' modifies 'संस्थाओं' (institutions).
मानव चेतना के बाहरी आवरण के नीचे अनगिनत बाहरी और आंतरिक अनुभव छिपे होते हैं।
Beneath the external shell of human consciousness lie countless external and internal experiences.
Two instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'आवरण' and 'अनुभव'.
वैज्ञानिकों ने ग्रह के बाहरी वातावरण का अध्ययन करने के लिए एक नया उपकरण विकसित किया है।
Scientists have developed a new instrument to study the planet's external atmosphere.
'बाहरी' modifies 'वातावरण'.
अत्यधिक बाहरी उत्तेजना के अभाव में, मन अक्सर बाहरी दुनिया से अपने संबंध को फिर से परिभाषित करता है।
In the absence of excessive external stimulation, the mind often redefines its relationship with the external world.
Two instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'उत्तेजना' and 'दुनिया'.
सांस्कृतिक बाहरी प्रभाव हमेशा बाहरी समाज की आंतरिक संरचना को प्रतिबिंबित नहीं करते।
Cultural external influences do not always reflect the internal structure of the external society.
Two instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'प्रभाव' and 'समाज'.
कला के बाहरी रूप का विश्लेषण करते समय, हमें उसके बाहरी स्रोतों और बाहरी प्रेरणाओं पर भी विचार करना चाहिए।
When analyzing the external form of art, we should also consider its external sources and external motivations.
Three instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'रूप', 'स्रोतों', and 'प्रेरणाओं'.
राष्ट्र के बाहरी सुरक्षा के लिए बाहरी कूटनीति और बाहरी सैन्य क्षमताएं दोनों आवश्यक हैं।
Both external diplomacy and external military capabilities are essential for the nation's external security.
Three instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'सुरक्षा', 'कूटनीति', and 'सैन्य क्षमताएं'.
किसी भी बाहरी बाहरी दबाव के आगे न झुकने की उसकी बाहरी दृढ़ता ने उसे एक बाहरी व्यक्ति के रूप में स्थापित किया।
His external determination not to yield to any external external pressure established him as an external figure.
Four instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'दृढ़ता', 'दबाव', 'बाहरी' (redundant for emphasis), and 'व्यक्ति'.
विकास की बाहरी प्रक्रियाएँ अक्सर बाहरी वातावरण की बाहरी परिस्थितियों से प्रभावित होती हैं।
The external processes of development are often influenced by the external conditions of the external environment.
Three instances of 'बाहरी' modifying 'प्रक्रियाएँ', 'परिस्थितियों', and 'वातावरण'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Externally; on the outside; outwardly.
वह बाहरी तौर पर शांत लग रहा था, लेकिन अंदर से परेशान था। (Vah bāharī taur par śānt lag rahā thā, lekin andar se pareśān thā.) - He seemed calm outwardly, but was troubled from within.
— The outside world; external affairs.
बच्चों को बाहरी दुनिया के बारे में सिखाना ज़रूरी है। (Baccoṅ ko bāharī duniyā ke bāre meṅ sikhānā zarūrī hai.) - It is important to teach children about the outside world.
— Outer covering; shell; exterior layer.
कठोर बाहरी आवरण के नीचे वह बहुत नरम था। (Kaṭhor bāharī āvaraṇ ke nīce vah bahut naram thā.) - Beneath the hard outer shell, he was very soft.
— Outer edge; rim.
मेज़ के बाहरी किनारे पर मत बैठो। (Mez ke bāharī kināre par mat baiṭho.) - Don't sit on the outer edge of the table.
— External pressure; outside pressure.
यह बाहरी दबाव हमें प्रभावित नहीं कर सकता। (Yah bāharī dabāv hameṅ prabhāvit nahīṅ kar saktā.) - This external pressure cannot affect us.
— External interference; outside intervention.
देश की बाहरी हस्तक्षेप से बचने की नीति है। (Deś kī bāharī hastakṣep se bacne kī nīti hai.) - The country has a policy to avoid external interference.
— External elements; outside factors.
हमें बाहरी तत्वों से सावधान रहना चाहिए। (Hameṅ bāharī tatvoṅ se sāvdhān rahnā cāhie.) - We should be careful of external elements.
— Outer area; outskirts; suburbs.
उसका घर बाहरी इलाके में है। (Uska ghar bāharī ilāqe meṅ hai.) - His house is in the outer area.
— External help; outside assistance.
हमें बाहरी मदद की ज़रूरत नहीं है। (Hameṅ bāharī madad kī zarūrat nahīṅ hai.) - We do not need external help.
— Outward appearance; external show.
उसकी बाहरी दिखावट बहुत साधारण थी। (Uskī bāharī dikhāvaṭ bahut sādhāraṇ thī.) - His outward appearance was very simple.
Often Confused With
'बाहर' is an adverb meaning 'outside' or 'out', indicating location or direction, whereas 'बाहरी' is an adjective meaning 'outer' or 'external', describing a noun. Example: मैं बाहर जा रहा हूँ (I am going outside) vs. यह बाहरी दरवाज़ा है (This is an outer door).
'अंदरूनी' is the direct antonym of 'बाहरी', meaning 'inner' or 'internal'. It's important to distinguish these two for clear communication. Example: बाहरी रंग अच्छा है, पर अंदरूनी डिज़ाइन बेहतर है। (The outer color is good, but the inner design is better.)
'विदेशी' means 'foreign' (from another country), while 'बाहरी' means 'external' (from outside a boundary, which could be within the same country). Example: बाहरी इलाके (outer areas) vs. विदेशी मुद्रा (foreign currency).
Idioms & Expressions
— Unaware of the outside world; out of touch.
वह अपनी ही दुनिया में रहता है, बाहरी दुनिया से बेखबर। (Vah apnī hī duniyā meṅ rahtā hai, bāharī duniyā se bekhabar.) - He lives in his own world, unaware of the outside world.
Neutral— Outwardly; superficially; on the surface.
बाहरी तौर पर सब ठीक लग रहा था, पर अंदर कुछ गड़बड़ थी। (Bāharī taur par sab ṭhīk lag rahā thā, par andar kuch gaṛbaṛ thī.) - Outwardly everything seemed fine, but something was wrong inside.
Neutral— To show one's true colors (often negative); to reveal one's superficiality.
जब मुश्किल आई, तो उसने अपने बाहरी रंग दिखाए। (Jab muśkil āī, to usne apne bāharī raṅg dikhāe.) - When the difficulty came, he showed his true colors.
Informal— To experience the outside world; to get some fresh air or new perspective.
लंबे समय से घर में बंद रहने के बाद, उसे बाहरी हवा लगी। (Lambe samay se ghar meṅ band rahne ke bād, use bāharī havā lagī.) - After being confined to the house for a long time, he experienced the outside air.
Neutral— Knowledge of the outside world; worldly wisdom.
उसकी बाहरी दुनिया का ज्ञान बहुत कम था। (Uskī bāharī duniyā kā jñān bahut kam thā.) - His knowledge of the outside world was very little.
Neutral— To penetrate the outer shell; to understand someone or something beyond the surface.
उसकी बाहरी आवरण को भेदना मुश्किल था। (Uskī bāharī āvaraṇ ko bhednā muśkil thā.) - It was difficult to penetrate his outer shell.
Figurative/Neutral— A game of external forces; manipulation by outside powers.
यह सब बाहरी ताक़तों का खेल है। (Yah sab bāharī tāqatoṅ kā khel hai.) - This is all a game of external forces.
Figurative/Political— The noise/chaos of the outside world.
वह बाहरी दुनिया के शोर से दूर शांति चाहता था। (Vah bāharī duniyā ke śor se dūr śānti cāhtā thā.) - He wanted peace away from the noise of the outside world.
Figurative/Neutral— External attraction; superficial charm.
उसका बाहरी आकर्षण अक्सर लोगों को धोखा देता था। (Uska bāharī ākarṣaṇ aksar logoṅ ko dhokhā detā thā.) - His external attraction often deceived people.
Neutral— Appearing healthy on the outside.
वह बाहरी तौर पर स्वस्थ दिख रहा था, पर अंदर से बीमार था। (Vah bāharī taur par svasth dikh rahā thā, par andar se bīmār thā.) - He looked healthy outwardly, but was sick inside.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both words relate to the concept of 'outside'.
'बाहर' is primarily an adverb indicating location or direction ('outside', 'out'). 'बाहरी' is an adjective describing something as being on the exterior ('outer', 'external'). You go 'बाहर' (outside), and you see the 'बाहरी' (outer) wall.
मैं <mark>बाहर</mark> खड़ा हूँ। (I am standing outside.) - Adverb. यह <mark>बाहरी</mark> बल्ब जल रहा है। (This outer bulb is lit.) - Adjective.
It's the direct opposite of 'बाहरी'.
'बाहरी' refers to the exterior, while 'अंदरूनी' refers to the interior. They are antonyms. Example: <mark>बाहरी</mark> त्वचा (outer skin) vs. <mark>अंदरूनी</mark> अंग (inner organs).
The house has a strong <mark>बाहरी</mark> structure, but the <mark>अंदरूनी</mark> decorations are simple.
Both can refer to the surface or exterior.
'बाहरी' denotes position or origin from the outside. 'सतही' means superficial or shallow, implying a lack of depth or seriousness, often used metaphorically. While an appearance might be 'बाहरी', it can also be described as 'सतही' if it lacks substance.
<mark>बाहरी</mark> रंग (outer color) vs. <mark>सतही</mark> ज्ञान (superficial knowledge).
Something foreign is typically external to one's own country.
'बाहरी' means external to any boundary or group. 'विदेशी' specifically means from another country. You can have <mark>बाहरी</mark> friends within your city, but 'विदेशी' friends are from other nations.
<mark>बाहरी</mark> हस्तक्षेप (external interference) vs. <mark>विदेशी</mark> आक्रमण (foreign invasion).
Both can describe areas on the edge.
'बाहरी' is a general term for external. 'परिधीय' means peripheral, specifically referring to the edge or boundary of a larger area, often used in geographical or administrative contexts.
<mark>बाहरी</mark> इलाका (outer area) vs. <mark>परिधीय</mark> क्षेत्र (peripheral region).
Sentence Patterns
यह + Noun + बाहरी + है।
यह <mark>बाहरी</mark> दरवाज़ा है।
Noun + का/की/के + बाहरी + Noun + है।
घर का <mark>बाहरी</mark> रंग अच्छा है।
Noun + के + बाहरी + Noun + में + Verb...
शहर के <mark>बाहरी</mark> इलाके में एक पार्क है।
हमें + Noun + से + बाहरी + Noun + से + सावधान रहना चाहिए।
हमें <mark>बाहरी</mark> खतरों से सावधान रहना चाहिए।
Noun + का/की/के + बाहरी + Noun + का/की/के + Noun + Verb...
इमारत की <mark>बाहरी</mark> सज्जा काफ़ी आकर्षक है।
Noun + के + बाहरी + Noun + Verb...
उस पर <mark>बाहरी</mark> प्रभाव ज़्यादा था।
Noun + के + बाहरी + Noun + पर + Noun + का + Verb...
राजनीतिक <mark>बाहरी</mark> शक्तियों का अर्थव्यवस्था पर प्रभाव पड़ता है।
हमें + केवल + बाहरी + Noun + पर + नहीं, बल्कि + Noun + पर + भी + ध्यान देना चाहिए।
हमें केवल <mark>बाहरी</mark> दिखावे पर नहीं, बल्कि आंतरिक मूल्यों पर भी ध्यान देना चाहिए।
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High
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Using 'बाहर' instead of 'बाहरी' to describe a noun.
→
यह <mark>बाहरी</mark> दीवार है। (This is an outer wall.)
'बाहरी' is an adjective modifying 'दीवार', while 'बाहर' is an adverb indicating location. The former describes a characteristic, the latter indicates place.
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Confusing 'बाहरी' with 'विदेशी'.
→
यह <mark>बाहरी</mark> इलाका है, <mark>विदेशी</mark> नहीं। (This is an outer area, not foreign.)
'बाहरी' refers to being outside a boundary (could be local), whereas 'विदेशी' specifically means from another country.
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Trying to change the form of 'बाहरी' for plural or gender.
→
<mark>बाहरी</mark> दरवाज़े खुले हैं। (Outer doors are open.)
Unlike many other Hindi adjectives, 'बाहरी' typically remains invariable regardless of the noun's gender or number.
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Using 'बाहरी' for superficial qualities when 'सतही' might be more appropriate.
→
उसकी <mark>सतही</mark> बातें थीं, <mark>बाहरी</mark> नहीं। (His talk was superficial, not external.)
'बाहरी' refers to externality, while 'सतही' implies a lack of depth. While related, 'सतही' is better for describing shallowness.
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Using 'बाहरी' to mean 'foreign' in all contexts.
→
यह <mark>विदेशी</mark> तकनीक है। (This is foreign technology.)
While foreign things are external, 'बाहरी' doesn't exclusively mean foreign. Use 'विदेशी' when the origin is specifically another country.
Tips
Focus on Context
The meaning of 'बाहरी' can shift slightly depending on what it's describing. Pay close attention to the noun it modifies. Is it a physical object ('बाहरी दीवार'), an abstract concept ('बाहरी दबाव'), or a group of people ('बाहरी लोग')? This will help you understand its precise nuance.
Use Antonyms
Learning the antonyms of 'बाहरी', such as 'अंदरूनी' (andrunī - inner) and 'आंतरिक' (āntarik - internal), can significantly solidify its meaning. Try to form sentences that contrast these terms, like 'The बाहरी shell is hard, but the अंदरूनी part is soft.'
Learn Collocations
Memorizing common phrases like 'बाहरी दुनिया' (bāharī duniyā - outside world), 'बाहरी आवरण' (bāharī āvaraṇ - outer covering), and 'बाहरी इलाके' (bāharī ilāqe - outer areas) will help you use 'बाहरी' naturally and correctly in sentences.
Adjective Role
Remember that 'बाहरी' is an adjective. It modifies nouns. Ensure it's placed correctly before the noun it describes and that you understand it doesn't typically change form for gender or number, unlike some other Hindi adjectives.
Compare with Similar Words
Be aware of words like 'बाहर' (bāhar - adverb), 'विदेशी' (videśī - foreign), and 'सतही' (satahī - superficial). Understanding their distinct meanings and grammatical roles will prevent confusion and lead to more accurate usage.
Active Recall
Regularly try to describe things around you using 'बाहरी'. For example, 'The बाहरी color of my phone is black.' or 'The बाहरी door is locked.' This active practice reinforces the word's meaning and usage.
Master Pronunciation
Focus on stressing the first syllable (BAA-hu-ree) and using the correct vowel sounds. Listen to native speakers and practice saying the word clearly to improve your speaking comprehension and fluency.
Understand Cultural Context
Recognize that the distinction between 'बाहरी' and 'अंदरूनी' is culturally significant in India, affecting concepts of home, community, and social interaction. This broader understanding enriches your grasp of the word.
Explore Abstract Meanings
Don't limit 'बाहरी' to just physical objects. Explore its use in abstract contexts like 'बाहरी प्रभाव' (external influence) or 'बाहरी सोच' (external thinking). This expands your vocabulary and understanding of the word's versatility.
Read Widely
Encountering 'बाहरी' in various texts – news articles, stories, or social media posts – will expose you to its different applications and help you internalize its meaning and usage patterns more effectively.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a large, imposing 'BAR' (sounds like 'bāhar') that stands on the outside of a castle. This 'BAR' is the 'बाहरी' (bāharī) gate. The gate is 'बाहरी' because it's on the outside.
Visual Association
Picture a house. Draw a thick, dark line around the outside of the house. Label this line 'बाहरी'. Then, draw a thin, light line inside the house. Label this 'अंदरूनी'. This visual contrast helps remember 'बाहरी' as the outer boundary.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe five objects in your room using the word 'बाहरी'. For example, 'The बाहरी cover of my book is blue.' or 'The बाहरी wall of my room is painted white.'
Word Origin
The word 'बाहरी' (bāharī) is derived from the Sanskrit word 'बहिर्' (bahir), which means 'outside' or 'external'. Over time, through Prakrit and Apabhramsha, it evolved into the Hindi word 'बाहर' (bāhar). The adjectival form 'बाहरी' (bāharī) was then created by adding the adjectival suffix '-ई' (-ī) to 'बाहर'. This suffix is commonly used in Hindi to form adjectives from nouns or adverbs.
Original meaning: Outside, external.
Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit origin)Cultural Context
While 'बाहरी' itself is neutral, using it to describe people ('बाहरी लोग' - outsiders) can sometimes carry a connotation of exclusion or being an outsider, depending on the context and tone. It's generally best to use it descriptively rather than judgmentally.
In English-speaking cultures, 'outer' and 'external' are used similarly to describe physical locations, influences, and appearances. The concept of 'curb appeal' in real estate relates to the 'बाहरी' appearance of a house. Discussions about 'external factors' in business or economics are also common.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing physical spaces (houses, buildings, cities)
- बाहरी दीवार
- बाहरी इलाका
- बाहरी हिस्सा
Discussing influences and factors
- बाहरी दबाव
- बाहरी प्रभाव
- बाहरी हस्तक्षेप
Talking about appearance
- बाहरी सुंदरता
- बाहरी दिखावट
- बाहरी रंग
Referring to people or groups
- बाहरी लोग
- बाहरी ताक़तें
Abstract concepts and conditions
- बाहरी दुनिया
- बाहरी वातावरण
Conversation Starters
"What is your favorite part of the बाहरी appearance of your home?"
"Do you think बाहरी influences are more important than inner ones?"
"How can we make our city's बाहरी areas more attractive?"
"What are some common बाहरी challenges we face today?"
"Is it better to focus on बाहरी success or inner peace?"
Journal Prompts
Describe the <mark>बाहरी</mark> features of a place you love.
Reflect on a time when <mark>बाहरी</mark> pressure affected your decisions. How did you handle it?
Write about the difference between <mark>बाहरी</mark> beauty and inner beauty.
Imagine you are an explorer discovering a new planet. Describe its <mark>बाहरी</mark> environment.
Discuss the role of <mark>बाहरी</mark> factors in shaping your personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, 'बाहरी' can be used for abstract concepts as well. For example, 'बाहरी दबाव' (bāharī dabāv) means external pressure, and 'बाहरी प्रभाव' (bāharī prabhāv) means external influence. It refers to anything that comes from outside a system, person, or situation, not just physical objects.
This is a common point of confusion. 'बाहरी' is an adjective, meaning 'outer' or 'external', and it describes a noun. For example, 'बाहरी दीवार' (bāharī dīvār - outer wall). 'बाहर' is an adverb, meaning 'outside' or 'out', and it indicates location or direction. For example, 'मैं बाहर जा रहा हूँ' (maiṅ bāhar jā rahā hūṅ - I am going outside).
Yes, 'बाहरी लोग' (bāharī log) can mean 'outsiders' or people who are not part of a particular group or community. It can also refer to people from outside a specific area, like someone from another town visiting. The connotation can sometimes be neutral, but in certain contexts, it might imply not belonging.
Yes, 'अंदरूनी' (andrunī) is the most direct antonym of 'बाहरी'. 'बाहरी' means outer/external, and 'अंदरूनी' means inner/internal. They are frequently used together to highlight contrast, such as in 'बाहरी दीवारें मजबूत हैं, पर अंदरूनी हिस्से में मरम्मत चाहिए' (The outer walls are strong, but the inner part needs repair).
'बाहरी' means external to a boundary or group, which could be within the same country. 'विदेशी' (videśī) specifically means foreign, i.e., from another country. If you're talking about areas outside your city but within your country, you'd use 'बाहरी इलाके' (bāharī ilāqe - outer areas). If you're talking about goods or people from another nation, you'd use 'विदेशी' (videśī - foreign).
Generally, 'बाहरी' as an adjective does not change its form to agree with the gender or number of the noun it modifies. For example, you say 'बाहरी दीवार' (bāharī dīvār - outer wall) and 'बाहरी दीवारें' (bāharī dīvāreṅ - outer walls). The noun changes its form, but the adjective remains the same.
While 'बाहरी' primarily refers to position or origin, it can be used metaphorically for feelings or expressions that are superficial or not deeply felt. For example, 'बाहरी मुस्कान' (bāharī muskaan - an external smile) might imply a smile that doesn't reflect true happiness. However, words like 'सतही' (satahī - superficial) are often more direct for this meaning.
'बाहरी' is a very common word used frequently in everyday Hindi conversation, especially when describing physical locations, appearances, and external influences. It's a fundamental adjective for descriptive language.
A good mnemonic is to think of a 'BAR' on the outside of something. The 'BAR' is 'बाहरी' because it's on the outside. You can also visualize a house with a thick outer line labeled 'बाहरी' and a thinner inner line labeled 'अंदरूनी' to remember the contrast.
Yes, the word 'बाह्य' (bāhya) is a more formal or literary synonym for 'बाहरी'. It's less common in spoken Hindi but is found in academic texts, formal speeches, or older literature.
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Summary
The Hindi word 'बाहरी' (bāharī) is a versatile adjective meaning 'outer' or 'external'. It's used to describe anything located on the outside, whether it's a physical object like a wall or a more abstract concept like an influence or appearance. It's the direct opposite of 'inner' or 'internal'. Example: <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>बाहरी</mark> दीवार (bāharī dīvār) - outer wall.
- Outer, external, located outside.
- Describes the exterior part of something.
- Opposite of inner or internal.
- Used for physical locations and abstract influences.
Focus on Context
The meaning of 'बाहरी' can shift slightly depending on what it's describing. Pay close attention to the noun it modifies. Is it a physical object ('बाहरी दीवार'), an abstract concept ('बाहरी दबाव'), or a group of people ('बाहरी लोग')? This will help you understand its precise nuance.
Use Antonyms
Learning the antonyms of 'बाहरी', such as 'अंदरूनी' (andrunī - inner) and 'आंतरिक' (āntarik - internal), can significantly solidify its meaning. Try to form sentences that contrast these terms, like 'The बाहरी shell is hard, but the अंदरूनी part is soft.'
Learn Collocations
Memorizing common phrases like 'बाहरी दुनिया' (bāharī duniyā - outside world), 'बाहरी आवरण' (bāharī āvaraṇ - outer covering), and 'बाहरी इलाके' (bāharī ilāqe - outer areas) will help you use 'बाहरी' naturally and correctly in sentences.
Adjective Role
Remember that 'बाहरी' is an adjective. It modifies nouns. Ensure it's placed correctly before the noun it describes and that you understand it doesn't typically change form for gender or number, unlike some other Hindi adjectives.
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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.
