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बढ़ाँना

B1 verb 10 min read

बढ़ाँना

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips बढ़ाँना in 30 Seconds

Explanation बढ़ाँना in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'बढ़ाना' (badhānā) is introduced as a simple action word meaning 'to make something more'. Beginners usually learn it in the context of volume (आवाज़ बढ़ाना) or speed (रफ़्तार बढ़ाना). It's a useful word for basic requests, like asking someone to turn up the music or the heat on a stove. At this stage, learners should focus on the present tense: 'बढ़ाता हूँ' (I increase). The concept is simple: you have a small amount of something, and you want to make it a bigger amount. It's often paired with 'थोड़ा' (a little), as in 'थोड़ा बढ़ाओ' (increase it a little). This helps in survival situations, like ordering food or adjusting comfort levels in a room.

At the A2 level, learners start using 'बढ़ाना' in more diverse daily scenarios. You might talk about 'कीमत बढ़ाना' (increasing prices) when shopping or 'समय बढ़ाना' (increasing time/extending time) for an appointment. The past tense 'बढ़ाया' becomes important here, especially the realization that it's a transitive verb. You'll also learn the compound form 'बढ़ा देना', which is very common in spoken Hindi. For example, 'उसने शोर बढ़ा दिया' (He increased the noise). Learners at this stage begin to see the word in news headlines and simple advertisements, often related to 'बचत बढ़ाओ' (increase savings).

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'बढ़ाना' for abstract concepts. This includes 'हौसला बढ़ाना' (to encourage/boost morale) and 'ज्ञान बढ़ाना' (to increase knowledge). You understand that 'बढ़ाना' is the causative form of 'बढ़ना'. You can use it in professional settings to discuss 'उत्पादकता बढ़ाना' (increasing productivity). You are also comfortable with its use in different tenses and moods, including the subjunctive ('अगर वह दाम बढ़ाए...' - If he increases the price...). This level marks the transition from literal physical increases to metaphorical and social ones, such as 'रिश्ता बढ़ाना' (to further a relationship).

At the B2 level, 'बढ़ाना' is used with nuance in complex sentence structures. You can discuss social issues like 'बेरोजगारी बढ़ाना' (increasing unemployment) or 'जागरूकता बढ़ाना' (increasing awareness). You understand the subtle difference between 'बढ़ाना' and its synonyms like 'वृद्धि करना' or 'इज़ाफ़ा करना'. You can use the conjunctive participle 'बढ़ाकर' to explain cause and effect: 'मेहनत बढ़ाकर उसने सफलता पाई' (By increasing hard work, he found success). Your use of the word is more fluid, incorporating it into idioms and formal writing with ease. You also recognize when 'बढ़ाना' is used to mean 'exaggerate' in the phrase 'बढ़ा-चढ़ाकर कहना'.

At the C1 level, 'बढ़ाना' is part of a sophisticated vocabulary. You use it in academic or literary contexts to describe the 'extension' of philosophical ideas or the 'promotion' of cultural values. You are aware of its etymological roots and can use it to create precise imagery in writing. For example, 'सीमाएं बढ़ाना' (pushing boundaries). You can handle complex passive constructions like 'सुविधाएं बढ़ाई गई हैं' (Facilities have been increased). Your understanding of the word includes its role in historical narratives, such as 'साम्राज्य बढ़ाना' (expanding an empire), and you can use it to debate complex topics with precision.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over 'बढ़ाना'. You can use it in highly specialized fields, from legal jargon to poetic metaphors. You understand the most subtle connotations, such as using 'बात बढ़ाना' to imply a deliberate escalation of a conflict versus just continuing a conversation. You can play with the word in puns, literature, and high-level rhetoric. You are also expert at using the second causative 'बढ़वाना' (to have something increased by someone else) in complex social hierarchies. The word is no longer just a verb to you; it's a tool for fine-tuned expression of growth, extension, and influence in the Hindi language.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

बढ़ाँना in 30 Seconds

बढ़ाना (badhānā) means to increase or extend.
It is a transitive verb requiring an object.
It is the causative form of 'badhnā' (to grow).
Commonly used for volume, speed, prices, and morale.

The Hindi verb बढ़ाना (badhānā) is a versatile and essential term used to describe the act of increasing, extending, or promoting something. At its core, it is the transitive form of the verb 'बढ़ना' (to grow or increase). While 'बढ़ना' describes an intrinsic growth (like a plant growing), 'बढ़ाना' implies that an external agent is performing the action to make something larger, longer, or more intense. This word is ubiquitous in various domains, from financial discussions about increasing profits to mundane daily tasks like turning up the volume on a television.

Numerical Increase: Used when talking about numbers, amounts, or prices. For example, 'कीमत बढ़ाना' means to increase the price.

दुकानदार ने सामान के दाम बढ़ा दिए हैं। (The shopkeeper has increased the prices of the goods.)

Beyond physical or numerical growth, 'बढ़ाना' is also used metaphorically. You can 'बढ़ाना' someone's courage (हौसला बढ़ाना) or 'बढ़ाना' a conversation (बात बढ़ाना). In a social context, it can mean to promote or advance someone's position. It is also the standard word for 'extending' something in time or space, such as extending a deadline or reaching out one's hand.

Physical Extension: Used for physical gestures. 'हाथ बढ़ाना' means to extend a hand, often implying an offer of help or a greeting.

In professional settings, you will hear it regarding 'productivity' (उत्पादकता बढ़ाना) or 'efficiency' (क्षमता बढ़ाना). It carries a generally positive connotation when related to progress, though it can be negative if referring to 'increasing' trouble or conflict (मुसीबत बढ़ाना). The sheer breadth of its application makes it a B1 level staple, as it allows learners to express complex causal relationships and intentions. Whether you are asking a waiter to increase the spice level or a boss to increase your salary, this is the verb you need. It is also used in the context of 'moving forward' or 'advancing' a process. For instance, 'काम को आगे बढ़ाना' means to move the work forward. This flexibility makes it one of the most hardworking verbs in the Hindi lexicon. It reflects the dynamic nature of action in Indian culture—where growth is often viewed as something nurtured or driven by effort. Understanding the nuances of 'बढ़ाना' allows a speaker to move from simple descriptions to active participation in shaping their environment.

हमें अपनी दोस्ती को और बढ़ाना चाहिए। (We should further increase/strengthen our friendship.)

Grammatically, बढ़ाना (badhānā) functions as a transitive verb, meaning it typically follows the Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) structure of Hindi. Because it is transitive, in the perfective tenses (past tense), the verb agrees with the object rather than the subject, and the subject takes the postposition 'ने'. For example, 'उसने (Subject + ने) किराया (Object) बढ़ाया (Verb agreed with object)'. If the object is feminine, like 'गति' (speed), the verb becomes 'बढ़ाई'.

Tense Variations: Present: बढ़ाता है (masculine), बढ़ाती है (feminine). Past: बढ़ाया (masculine), बढ़ाई (feminine). Future: बढ़ाएगा (masculine), बढ़ाएगी (feminine).

सरकार अगले साल टैक्स बढ़ाएगी। (The government will increase taxes next year.)

One of the most common ways to use 'बढ़ाना' is with abstract nouns. To 'increase knowledge' is 'ज्ञान बढ़ाना'. To 'increase speed' is 'रफ़्तार बढ़ाना'. When using it to mean 'to extend', it often pairs with 'समय' (time) or 'सीमा' (limit). For instance, 'समय सीमा बढ़ाना' means to extend the deadline. In imperatives, you might say 'इसे थोड़ा बढ़ाओ' (Increase/extend this a bit). In more complex sentences, 'बढ़ाना' can be used in its conjunctive participle form 'बढ़ाकर' (by increasing). Example: 'कीमत बढ़ाकर उसने ज़्यादा मुनाफा कमाया' (By increasing the price, he earned more profit). It can also be used with 'देना' as a compound verb 'बढ़ा देना', which often adds a sense of completion or suddenness to the action. 'उसने अचानक शोर बढ़ा दिया' (He suddenly increased the noise).

Causative Structure: बढ़ना (to grow) -> बढ़ाना (to increase something) -> बढ़वाना (to have something increased by someone else).

कृपया अपनी आवाज़ थोड़ी बढ़ाइए। (Please increase your voice/speak up a bit.)

Another nuanced use is 'आगे बढ़ाना' (to advance/forward). If you receive an email and need to forward it, or if you want to advance a project, this is the phrase used. 'इस प्रस्ताव को आगे बढ़ाओ' (Move this proposal forward). In the context of hospitality, 'हाथ बढ़ाना' is a beautiful idiom for offering help. 'मुसीबत में उसने मेरी तरफ मदद का हाथ बढ़ाया' (In trouble, he extended a hand of help towards me). Understanding these patterns allows for precise communication in both formal and informal Hindi. Whether you are adjusting the flame on a stove (आँच बढ़ाना) or discussing economic growth (विकास की दर बढ़ाना), the grammatical consistency of 'बढ़ाना' makes it a reliable tool for learners. It is also used in the context of 'magnifying' or 'exaggerating'—'बात को बढ़ा-चढ़ाकर कहना' (to speak of something in an exaggerated manner). This shows the verb's reach from literal physical actions to complex rhetorical devices.

शिक्षकों को छात्रों का उत्साह बढ़ाना चाहिए। (Teachers should increase/boost the enthusiasm of students.)

You will encounter बढ़ाना (badhānā) in almost every corner of Indian life. In the bustling markets, you'll hear customers and vendors haggling: 'भाई साहब, थोड़ा दाम कम करो, आप तो बहुत बढ़ा रहे हो' (Brother, lower the price a bit, you are increasing it too much). On the news, anchors constantly talk about 'महंगाई बढ़ाना' (increasing inflation) or 'सुरक्षा बढ़ाना' (increasing security) during festivals or political events.

In the Kitchen: Commonly heard when cooking: 'गैस बढ़ा दो' (Turn up the gas/heat).

रेडियो की आवाज़ मत बढ़ाओ। (Don't increase the volume of the radio.)

In the corporate world of cities like Bengaluru or Gurgaon, 'बढ़ाना' is used for 'scaling' businesses or increasing 'targets'. Meetings often revolve around how to 'मुनाफा बढ़ाना' (increase profit) or 'नेटवर्क बढ़ाना' (expand the network). In sports commentary, especially cricket, you'll hear about a team 'स्कोर बढ़ाना' (increasing the score) or 'लीड बढ़ाना' (increasing the lead). Even in casual social interactions, the word pops up. If you are at a party and someone wants to introduce you to more people, they are 'बातचीत बढ़ा रहे हैं' (increasing the conversation/socializing). If a tailor is making your clothes and you want them longer, you say 'लंबाई बढ़ा दो' (increase the length).

In Public Announcements: At train stations: 'ट्रेन की रफ़्तार बढ़ाई जा रही है' (The speed of the train is being increased).

योग करने से हम अपनी एकाग्रता बढ़ा सकते हैं। (By doing yoga, we can increase our concentration.)

The word is also central to Indian cinema (Bollywood). Heroes often talk about 'दुश्मनी बढ़ाना' (increasing enmity) or 'प्यार बढ़ाना' (increasing love). In emotional dialogues, a character might say 'मेरा दुख मत बढ़ाओ' (Don't increase my sorrow). It is a word that bridges the gap between the technical and the emotional. In educational settings, teachers encourage students to 'शब्दकोश बढ़ाना' (increase vocabulary)—exactly what you are doing now! The word's frequency in daily life makes it an unavoidable and highly rewarding part of the Hindi language. From the classroom to the boardroom, from the kitchen to the cricket ground, 'बढ़ाना' is the engine of growth and extension in Hindi speech.

हमें पेड़ लगाकर हरियाली बढ़ानी चाहिए। (We should increase greenery by planting trees.)

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning Hindi is confusing बढ़ाना (badhānā) with its intransitive counterpart बढ़ना (badhnā). Remember: 'बढ़ना' is 'to increase' (something happens on its own), while 'बढ़ाना' is 'to increase' (you make it happen). For example, saying 'कीमत बढ़ रही है' (Prices are increasing) is correct for a natural market trend, but 'मैं कीमत बढ़ रहा हूँ' is wrong; it should be 'मैं कीमत बढ़ा रहा हूँ' (I am increasing the price).

Mistake 1: Subject-Verb Agreement in Past Tense: Incorrect: 'उसने रफ़्तार बढ़ाई' (if referring to a masculine object). Correct: 'उसने रफ़्तार बढ़ाई' (correct because speed/रफ़्तार is feminine). But 'उसने शोर बढ़ाया' (because noise/शोर is masculine).

Incorrect: मैंने अपना ज्ञान बढ़ी। (I increased my knowledge.) -> Correct: मैंने अपना ज्ञान बढ़ाया।

Another common mistake is the pronunciation of the retroflex flap 'ढ़' (ṛh). Many learners pronounce it as a simple 'd' or 'dh'. The tongue must flap against the roof of the mouth. If you say 'badana' instead of 'badhānā', it sounds like you are saying 'making' or 'building' (from 'banana'), which can lead to confusion. Learners also sometimes use 'बढ़ाना' when they should use 'ज़्यादा करना' (to make more) or 'ऊँचा करना' (to make higher/volume). While 'बढ़ाना' often works, 'आवाज़ बढ़ाना' is specifically for volume, but 'आवाज़ ऊँची करना' can mean shouting. Misusing these can change the tone of your sentence.

Mistake 2: Using it for People: You generally don't 'बढ़ाना' a person unless you mean promoting their rank. You can't 'बढ़ाना' a child to make them grow; nature does that (बढ़ना).

Incorrect: वह अपने बच्चे को बढ़ा रहा है। (He is growing his child.) -> Correct: वह अपने बच्चे को बड़ा कर रहा है। (He is raising/making his child big.)

Lastly, watch out for the 'ने' rule. Since 'बढ़ाना' is transitive, in the past tense, you must use 'ने' with the subject. 'मैंने बढ़ाया', not 'मैं बढ़ाया'. This is a classic B1 hurdle. Failing to use 'ने' marks you as a beginner. Also, ensure you don't use 'बढ़ाना' for 'turning on' an appliance. To 'turn up' the volume is 'आवाज़ बढ़ाना', but to 'turn on' the light is 'लाइट जलाना' or 'ऑन करना'. Mixing these up is a common source of humorous errors in the kitchen or living room.

सावधान! 'बात बढ़ाना' can mean to escalate a fight. (Be careful! 'Escalating the matter' usually implies conflict.)

While बढ़ाना (badhānā) is the most common word for increasing, Hindi offers several alternatives depending on the register (formal/informal) and the specific context. Understanding these will make your Hindi sound more sophisticated.

वृद्धि करना (Vriddhi Karnā): This is a formal, Sanskrit-derived term used in academic, business, or official contexts. It literally means 'to perform an increase'. You'll see this in economic reports: 'जीडीपी में वृद्धि करना'.
इज़ाफ़ा करना (Izāfā Karnā): Derived from Urdu/Persian, this is a very common and elegant way to say 'increase', often used for salaries or beauty. 'तनख्वाह में इज़ाफ़ा करना' (To increase the salary).

उसने अपने ज्ञान में वृद्धि की। (He increased his knowledge - Formal.)

If you want to say 'to expand' in a physical or spatial sense, फैलाना (phailānā) is often better. For example, 'व्यापार फैलाना' (to expand a business) or 'हाथ फैलाना' (to spread/extend hands, sometimes meaning to beg). If you mean 'to promote' a person, पदोन्नति देना (padonnati denā) is the specific term for a job promotion. For 'adding' something to increase a total, जोड़ना (joṛnā) is used. If you are 'advancing' something, प्रगति करना (pragati karnā) means to make progress. In terms of intensity, तेज़ करना (tez karnā) is used for speed or sharpness. 'रफ़्तार तेज़ करना' is a common alternative to 'रफ़्तार बढ़ाना'.

विस्तार करना (Vistār Karnā): To expand or elaborate. Used when you want to 'increase' the detail of a story or the area of a kingdom.

लेखक ने कहानी का विस्तार किया। (The author expanded the story.)

In the context of 'encouraging', प्रोत्साहन देना (protsāhan denā) is more precise than 'उत्साह बढ़ाना', though both are used. Finally, if you are 'lengthening' something like a rope or a cloth, लंबा करना (lambā karnā) is a direct descriptive alternative. Knowing these synonyms allows you to tailor your Hindi to the situation, whether you're writing a formal business letter or chatting with a friend at a dhaba.

क्या आप इस मेज़ की लंबाई बढ़ा सकते हैं? (Can you increase the length of this table?)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"कंपनी ने अपने निवेश को बढ़ाने का निर्णय लिया है।"

Neutral

"क्या आप कृपया टीवी की आवाज़ बढ़ा सकते हैं?"

Informal

"अरे भाई, थोड़ा हौसला बढ़ाओ!"

Child friendly

"चलो, अपनी ड्राइंग को और थोड़ा बढ़ाओ।"

Slang

"उसने तो बात को फालतू में बढ़ा दिया।"

Fun Fact

The word 'बढ़िया' (badhiyā), meaning 'excellent', comes from the same root, implying something that has 'grown' to a superior level.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /bʌˈɖʱɑː.nɑː/

US /bəˈdɑː.nɑː/

The stress is on the second syllable 'dhā'.

Rhymes With

चढ़ाना (chaṛhānā) पढ़ाना (paṛhānā) कढ़ाना (kaṛhānā) गढ़ाना (gaṛhānā) सढ़ाना (saṛhānā) मढ़ाना (maṛhānā) लढ़ाना (laṛhānā) धढ़ाना (dhaṛhānā)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'dh' as a simple 'd'.
Missing the retroflex flap (tongue should hit the roof of the mouth).
Confusing it with 'banana' (to make).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text as it follows standard patterns.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of the 'ne' rule in past tense.

Speaking 4/5

The retroflex 'dh' is tricky for non-native speakers.

Listening 3/5

Commonly used, but must be distinguished from 'badhna'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

बड़ा (Big) करना (To do) कम (Less) ज़्यादा (More) होना (To be)

Learn Next

घटाना (To decrease) फैलाना (To spread) प्रगति (Progress) विकास (Development) उन्नति (Advancement)

Advanced

पदोन्नति (Promotion) संवर्धन (Augmentation) विस्तार (Expansion) अभिवृद्धि (Accretion) इज़ाफ़ा (Increase)

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verb Agreement

मैंने (Subject) आवाज़ (Fem. Object) बढ़ाई (Fem. Verb).

Causative Formation

बढ़ना (Intransitive) -> बढ़ाना (Causative 1) -> बढ़वाना (Causative 2).

Perfective 'Ne' Rule

उसने दाम बढ़ाया। (He increased the price).

Compound Verbs with 'Dena'

उसने रफ़्तार बढ़ा दी। (He increased the speed - adds emphasis).

Infinitive as Noun

ज्ञान बढ़ाना अच्छी बात है। (Increasing knowledge is a good thing).

Examples by Level

आवाज़ बढ़ाओ।

Increase the volume.

Imperative form of 'बढ़ाना'.

वह रफ़्तार बढ़ाता है।

He increases the speed.

Present simple masculine.

थोड़ी चीनी बढ़ाओ।

Increase the sugar a little.

Used for quantity.

मैं अपनी बचत बढ़ाती हूँ।

I (fem) increase my savings.

Present simple feminine.

क्या तुम गर्मी बढ़ा सकते हो?

Can you increase the heat?

Use of 'सकना' (can) with 'बढ़ाना'.

दाम मत बढ़ाओ।

Don't increase the price.

Negative imperative.

वह अपना हाथ बढ़ाता है।

He extends his hand.

Physical extension.

पानी बढ़ाओ।

Increase the water.

Simple object-verb.

उसने किराया बढ़ा दिया।

He increased the rent.

Compound verb 'बढ़ा देना' in past tense.

हम अपनी दूरी बढ़ा रहे हैं।

We are increasing our distance.

Present continuous.

क्या आपने समय बढ़ाया?

Did you increase/extend the time?

Past tense question.

वह अपनी दुकान बढ़ाएगा।

He will expand his shop.

Future tense.

मैंने अपनी गति बढ़ाई।

I increased my pace.

Past tense, verb agrees with feminine object 'गति'.

शिक्षक ने ज्ञान बढ़ाया।

The teacher increased the knowledge.

Transitive past with 'ने'.

चाय में दूध बढ़ाओ।

Increase the milk in the tea.

Locative 'में' used with 'बढ़ाना'.

उसने अपनी उम्र बढ़ा दी।

He exaggerated/increased his age.

Idiomatic use for exaggeration.

हमें अपना हौसला बढ़ाना चाहिए।

We should increase/boost our courage.

Use of 'चाहिए' (should).

कसरत हमारी ताकत बढ़ाती है।

Exercise increases our strength.

General truth in present tense.

उसने मदद का हाथ बढ़ाया।

He extended a hand of help.

Idiomatic expression.

कंपनी उत्पादन बढ़ाना चाहती है।

The company wants to increase production.

Infinitive 'बढ़ाना' with 'चाहना'.

क्या आप समय सीमा बढ़ा सकते हैं?

Can you extend the deadline?

'समय सीमा' means deadline.

उसने अपनी रफ़्तार बढ़ाकर दौड़ जीती।

By increasing his speed, he won the race.

Conjunctive participle 'बढ़ाकर'.

इंटरनेट ने हमारी मुश्किलें बढ़ा दी हैं।

The internet has increased our troubles.

Present perfect with 'ने'.

योग से एकाग्रता बढ़ाना संभव है।

It is possible to increase concentration through yoga.

Infinitive as a subject.

सरकार को शिक्षा पर खर्च बढ़ाना होगा।

The government will have to increase spending on education.

Compulsion 'होगा' with infinitive.

सोशल मीडिया जागरूकता बढ़ाने का अच्छा साधन है।

Social media is a good tool for increasing awareness.

Genitive 'बढ़ाने का'.

उसने अपनी बात को बढ़ा-चढ़ाकर पेश किया।

He presented his story in an exaggerated way.

Idiom 'बढ़ा-चढ़ाकर कहना'.

प्रदूषण बीमारियों को बढ़ा रहा है।

Pollution is increasing diseases.

Abstract causal relationship.

हमें आपसी सहयोग बढ़ाना होगा।

We will have to increase mutual cooperation.

Formal requirement.

उसने व्यापार बढ़ाने के लिए कर्ज लिया।

He took a loan to expand the business.

Purpose 'बढ़ाने के लिए'.

वह अपनी योग्यता बढ़ाने में लगा है।

He is busy increasing/improving his qualifications.

'लगा है' indicates being busy in an action.

उसने अपनी संपत्ति बढ़ाई।

He increased his wealth/assets.

Past tense feminine object.

साहित्य समाज की संवेदनशीलता बढ़ाता है।

Literature increases the sensitivity of society.

Philosophical/Abstract use.

तकनीक ने दूरियों को बढ़ा दिया है।

Technology has increased distances (metaphorically).

Nuanced social commentary.

उसने अपने प्रभाव क्षेत्र को बढ़ाया।

He expanded his sphere of influence.

Formal political/social term.

वैज्ञानिकों ने प्रयोग की अवधि बढ़ा दी।

Scientists extended the duration of the experiment.

Technical/Formal context.

हमें अपनी सांस्कृतिक विरासत को बढ़ाना चाहिए।

We should promote/increase our cultural heritage.

Cultural promotion.

उसने अपनी दलीलों से संदेह बढ़ा दिया।

He increased the doubt with his arguments.

Legal/Argumentative context.

लेखक ने पात्रों के संघर्ष को बढ़ाया है।

The author has intensified the conflict of the characters.

Literary analysis.

विदेशी निवेश ने अर्थव्यवस्था की गति बढ़ाई।

Foreign investment increased the pace of the economy.

Economic context.

उसने अपनी कूटनीतिक चालों से तनाव बढ़ा दिया।

He increased the tension with his diplomatic moves.

High-level political nuance.

यह नीति असमानता बढ़ाने का कार्य करेगी।

This policy will act to increase inequality.

Policy analysis.

उसने अपनी कला के माध्यम से चेतना बढ़ाई।

He increased consciousness through his art.

Aesthetic/Philosophical use.

भाषा की जटिलता ने भ्रम बढ़ा दिया।

The complexity of the language increased the confusion.

Linguistic nuance.

उसने अपने साम्राज्य की सीमाएं बढ़ाईं।

He expanded the borders of his empire.

Historical narrative.

संवाद की कमी ने दूरियां और बढ़ा दीं।

The lack of dialogue further increased the distances.

Poetic/Metaphorical.

उसने अपनी बौद्धिक क्षमता को निरंतर बढ़ाया।

He continuously increased his intellectual capacity.

Personal development.

इस खोज ने ज्ञान के क्षितिज को बढ़ा दिया है।

This discovery has expanded the horizons of knowledge.

Grand metaphorical use.

Common Collocations

दाम बढ़ाना

आवाज़ बढ़ाना

रफ़्तार बढ़ाना

हौसला बढ़ाना

ज्ञान बढ़ाना

समय बढ़ाना

मुश्किलें बढ़ाना

हाथ बढ़ाना

कदम बढ़ाना

उत्पादन बढ़ाना

Common Phrases

आगे बढ़ाना

— To move something forward or to advance a process.

हमें इस प्रोजेक्ट को आगे बढ़ाना है।

बात बढ़ाना

— To prolong a conversation or to escalate a conflict.

अब बात मत बढ़ाओ, चुप हो जाओ।

मान बढ़ाना

— To increase someone's honor or prestige.

बेटे ने कुल का मान बढ़ाया।

कदम बढ़ाना

— To take a step forward, often towards a goal.

उसने नई दुनिया की ओर कदम बढ़ाया।

हाथ बढ़ाना

— To offer help or to try to reach something.

उसने मेरी मदद के लिए हाथ बढ़ाया।

हिम्मत बढ़ाना

— To encourage someone or boost their courage.

दोस्तों ने उसकी हिम्मत बढ़ाई।

उम्र बढ़ाना

— To exaggerate one's age.

उसने फॉर्म में अपनी उम्र बढ़ा दी।

दूरी बढ़ाना

— To increase the distance between people or things.

गलतफहमी ने हमारे बीच दूरी बढ़ा दी।

स्पीड बढ़ाना

— To increase speed (Hinglish).

गाड़ी की स्पीड बढ़ाओ।

बजट बढ़ाना

— To increase the budget.

फिल्म का बजट बढ़ा दिया गया।

Often Confused With

बढ़ाँना vs बढ़ना

Intransitive verb (to grow/increase on its own). Example: 'पेड़ बढ़ रहा है' (The tree is growing).

बढ़ाँना vs बनाना

To make or build. Often confused due to similar sounds for beginners.

बढ़ाँना vs चढ़ाना

To offer or to make something climb. Sounds similar but has a completely different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"बात बढ़ाना"

— To escalate a simple argument into a big fight.

छोटी सी बात थी, पर उसने बात बढ़ा दी।

Informal

"हाथ बढ़ाना"

— To extend a hand of friendship or help.

मुसीबत में उसने हाथ बढ़ाया।

Neutral

"चढ़ा-बढ़ाकर कहना"

— To exaggerate facts or stories.

वह हर बात को चढ़ा-बढ़ाकर कहता है।

Informal

"मान बढ़ाना"

— To bring glory or respect to someone.

खिलाड़ी ने देश का मान बढ़ाया।

Formal

"कदम बढ़ाना"

— To make progress or start a new journey.

उसने सफलता की ओर कदम बढ़ाया।

Literary

"हौसला बढ़ाना"

— To cheer someone up or give them confidence.

तालियों ने खिलाड़ियों का हौसला बढ़ाया।

Neutral

"दाल में नमक बढ़ाना"

— (Metaphorical) To add unnecessary details or spice to a story.

उसने कहानी में नमक बढ़ा दिया।

Slang

"रास्ता बढ़ाना"

— To take a longer route or to prolong a journey.

बातों-बातों में हमने रास्ता बढ़ा लिया।

Neutral

"पेट बढ़ाना"

— To gain weight or get a potbelly.

ज्यादा खाने से उसने पेट बढ़ा लिया।

Informal

"दुश्मनी बढ़ाना"

— To increase enmity or bitterness.

बदले की भावना दुश्मनी बढ़ाती है।

Neutral

Easily Confused

बढ़ाँना vs बढ़ना

Both translate to 'increase' in English.

'बढ़ना' is intransitive (no agent), 'बढ़ाना' is transitive (has an agent).

कीमत बढ़ रही है (Price is rising) vs मैं कीमत बढ़ा रहा हूँ (I am raising the price).

बढ़ाँना vs ज़्यादा करना

Both mean 'to make more'.

'बढ़ाना' is a single verb, 'ज़्यादा करना' is a phrasal verb. 'बढ़ाना' is more versatile.

चीनी बढ़ाओ vs चीनी ज़्यादा करो.

बढ़ाँना vs फैलाना

Both can mean 'to expand'.

'फैलाना' is usually for physical space or spreading, 'बढ़ाना' is for amount or length.

चादर फैलाना (Spread the sheet) vs लंबाई बढ़ाना (Increase length).

बढ़ाँना vs उठाना

Both can imply 'raising' something.

'उठाना' is to physically lift, 'बढ़ाना' is to increase magnitude.

हाथ उठाना (Raise hand) vs हाथ बढ़ाना (Extend hand).

बढ़ाँना vs तेज़ करना

Both used for speed or intensity.

'तेज़ करना' focuses on the quality of being fast, 'बढ़ाना' on the quantity of speed.

चाकू तेज़ करना (Sharpen knife) vs रफ़्तार बढ़ाना (Increase speed).

Sentence Patterns

[Object] + बढ़ाओ।

आवाज़ बढ़ाओ।

[Subject] + [Object] + बढ़ा रहा है।

वह दाम बढ़ा रहा है।

हमें + [Object] + बढ़ाना चाहिए।

हमें हौसला बढ़ाना चाहिए।

[Subject] + ने + [Object] + बढ़ा दिया।

उसने रफ़्तार बढ़ा दी।

[Object] + बढ़ाने के लिए + [Action]।

ज्ञान बढ़ाने के लिए किताबें पढ़ो।

[Object] + बढ़ाने का तरीका।

मुनाफा बढ़ाने का तरीका क्या है?

[Abstract Object] + बढ़ाना + [Abstract Result]।

जागरूकता बढ़ाना समाज के लिए आवश्यक है।

[Complex Subject] + ने + [Nuanced Object] + बढ़ा दिया।

कूटनीति ने क्षेत्रीय तनाव बढ़ा दिया।

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Hindi.

Common Mistakes

मैं आवाज़ बढ़ा रहा हूँ (when the speaker is growing) → मैं आवाज़ बढ़ा रहा हूँ (correct if increasing volume)
If you mean 'I am growing', use 'मैं बढ़ रहा हूँ'. 'बढ़ाना' is for increasing something else.
उसने दाम बढ़ी। → उसने दाम बढ़ाए।
The verb must agree with the object. 'दाम' is plural masculine, so 'बढ़ाए'.
मैंने ज्ञान बढ़ा। → मैंने ज्ञान बढ़ाया।
'बढ़ना' (intransitive) cannot be used with 'ने'. You must use the transitive 'बढ़ाना'.
क्या तुम लाइट बढ़ा सकते हो? (to turn on) → क्या तुम लाइट जला सकते हो?
'बढ़ाना' means increase brightness/intensity, not to 'turn on' a switch.
वह बात बढ़ा रहा है (meaning talking more) → वह बात कर रहा है।
'बात बढ़ाना' usually implies escalating a conflict, not just chatting.

Tips

Master the Flap

The 'ढ़' sound is not a 'd'. It's a retroflex flap. Practice by flicking your tongue from the roof of your mouth.

The 'Ne' Rule

Always use 'ने' with the subject in the past tense because 'बढ़ाना' is transitive. 'मैंने बढ़ाया' is correct.

Compound it

Use 'बढ़ा देना' to sound more natural in conversation. It adds a sense of 'doing it for someone' or 'completing the act'.

Abstract vs Physical

'बढ़ाना' works for both. Don't be afraid to use it for abstract things like 'courage' or 'friendship'.

Don't confuse with 'Banana'

'Banana' (बनाना) means to make. 'Badhana' (बढ़ाना) means to increase. The 'dh' sound is the key difference.

Forwarding Emails

In modern Hindi, 'आगे बढ़ाना' is used for forwarding emails or messages. 'यह ईमेल आगे बढ़ा दो'.

Hand of Help

Use 'मदद का हाथ बढ़ाना' in formal or emotional contexts to mean offering assistance.

Formal Alternative

In a formal essay, try using 'वृद्धि करना' instead of 'बढ़ाना' for a more academic tone.

Listen for the Object

Since it's transitive, there's always an object. Identifying the object helps you understand what is being increased.

Conjunctive Participle

Use 'बढ़ाकर' to show the method: 'उसने मेहनत बढ़ाकर सफलता पाई' (He found success by increasing hard work).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Bad' guy who wants to 'Hana' (increase) the trouble. Or think of 'Bud' (like a flower bud) and 'Ana' (to come) - making the bud come out and grow.

Visual Association

Imagine a person's hand turning a large volume knob clockwise to 'increase' the sound.

Word Web

Volume Salary Speed Morale Prices Knowledge Deadline Help

Challenge

Try to use 'बढ़ाना' in three different contexts today: once for a physical object, once for an abstract concept like time, and once for an emotion.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit root 'vardh' (वृध्), which means to grow, increase, or prosper.

Original meaning: To cause to grow or to augment.

Indo-Aryan.

Cultural Context

Be careful with 'वजन बढ़ाना' (increasing weight); like in English, it can be a sensitive topic.

In English, we often use different verbs like 'boost', 'extend', 'augment', or 'increase'. In Hindi, 'बढ़ाना' covers all these.

A common Bollywood trope: 'रिश्ता आगे बढ़ाना' (taking a relationship to the next level/marriage). Hindi news headlines often use 'दाम बढ़ाए' (prices increased) during budget season.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Restaurant

मिर्च बढ़ा दो (Increase the spice)
पानी बढ़ा दो (Add more water)
सर्विस बढ़ाओ (Improve/increase service)
दाम मत बढ़ाओ (Don't increase prices)

At the Office

सैलरी बढ़ाना (Increase salary)
डेडलाइन बढ़ाना (Extend deadline)
प्रोडक्शन बढ़ाना (Increase production)
नेटवर्क बढ़ाना (Expand network)

Driving

स्पीड बढ़ाओ (Increase speed)
दूरी बढ़ाओ (Increase distance)
लाइट बढ़ाओ (Increase light/brightness)
सावधानी बढ़ाओ (Increase caution)

Studying

ज्ञान बढ़ाना (Increase knowledge)
समय बढ़ाना (Increase study time)
एकाग्रता बढ़ाना (Increase concentration)
शब्दकोश बढ़ाना (Increase vocabulary)

Socializing

दोस्ती बढ़ाना (Increase friendship)
बातचीत बढ़ाना (Increase conversation)
हौसला बढ़ाना (Boost morale)
मान बढ़ाना (Increase respect)

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप अपनी कंपनी में उत्पादन बढ़ाने की योजना बना रहे हैं? (Are you planning to increase production in your company?)"

"हमें अपनी भाषा का ज्ञान कैसे बढ़ाना चाहिए? (How should we increase our knowledge of the language?)"

"क्या सरकार को पेट्रोल के दाम और बढ़ाने चाहिए? (Should the government increase petrol prices further?)"

"आप अपनी एकाग्रता बढ़ाने के लिए क्या करते हैं? (What do you do to increase your concentration?)"

"क्या आप इस प्रोजेक्ट की समय सीमा बढ़ा सकते हैं? (Can you extend the deadline of this project?)"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने अपना ज्ञान बढ़ाने के लिए क्या किया? (What did I do today to increase my knowledge?)

मैं अपने जीवन में खुशियाँ कैसे बढ़ा सकता हूँ? (How can I increase happiness in my life?)

क्या मुझे अपनी मेहनत बढ़ाने की ज़रूरत है? (Do I need to increase my hard work?)

एक ऐसी घटना लिखें जब किसी ने आपका हौसला बढ़ाया हो। (Write about an incident when someone boosted your morale.)

अगर आप देश की साक्षरता बढ़ाना चाहें, तो क्या करेंगे? (If you wanted to increase the country's literacy, what would you do?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not necessarily. While it often implies growth and progress, it can be negative if you are 'increasing' trouble (मुसीबत बढ़ाना) or prices (दाम बढ़ाना). Context is key.

'Badhānā' is the simple verb. 'Badha denā' is a compound verb where 'denā' acts as an auxiliary, often implying that the action is completed or directed outward.

No. For people growing up, use the intransitive verb 'बढ़ना' or the phrase 'बड़ा होना'. You only 'बढ़ाना' a person in terms of their rank or status.

The most common phrase is 'समय सीमा बढ़ाना' (Samay sīmā badhānā) or simply 'समय बढ़ाना'.

In many transliteration schemes, it is written 'baṛhānā' to represent the retroflex 'ṛh' sound. In simple English script, it is often 'badhana'.

The direct opposite is 'ghatānā' (to decrease) or 'kam karnā' (to make less).

Yes, in the fixed expression 'बढ़ा-चढ़ाकर कहना' (badhā-chaṛhākar kahnā), it means to speak in an exaggerated manner.

You say 'आवाज़ बढ़ाओ' (Āvāz badhāo) for 'turn up the volume'.

Yes, very frequently. Phrases like 'मुनाफा बढ़ाना' (increase profit) and 'मार्केट शेयर बढ़ाना' (increase market share) are standard.

The past tense is 'बढ़ाया' (masculine) or 'बढ़ाई' (feminine), used with the 'ne' postposition for the subject.