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चिह्न

B1 noun 9 min read

चिह्न

chinh

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips चिह्न in 30 Seconds

Explanation चिह्न in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'चिह्न' (chihn) as a simple word for a 'sign' or a 'mark' that you see around you. For example, a '+' or '-' in your math class is a 'chihn'. A road sign that tells you to stop is also a 'chihn'. At this stage, don't worry about the complex grammar. Just remember that it is a masculine word. If you see a picture and someone asks 'What is this?', and it's a logo or a symbol, you can say 'Yah ek chihn hai'. It's a useful word for basic identification of symbols in your environment. You might also hear it when your teacher talks about punctuation like a full stop or a comma.

At the A2 level, you start using 'चिह्न' in more specific contexts. You can describe different types of signs using adjectives, like 'yatayat chihn' (traffic signs) or 'sahi chihn' (correct mark). You will learn that it is a masculine noun, so you use 'bada chihn' or 'chhota chihn'. You can also use it to talk about brands in a very basic way, like 'Samsung ka chihn'. At this level, you should also be aware that the spelling is 'chih-na', even though it's hard to pronounce the 'h' and 'n' together. You can use it in simple sentences to describe what you see on maps or in books.

At the B1 level, 'चिह्न' becomes a tool for discussing brands, trademarks, and more abstract symbols. You should be able to use the full term 'vyaparik chihn' for trademark. You can discuss the significance of symbols, like 'Yah shanti ka chihn hai' (This is a sign of peace). You will also use the oblique plural form 'chihnon' correctly with postpositions (e.g., 'In chihnon ko dekhiye'). This is the stage where you distinguish 'chihn' from the more common 'nishaan'. You use 'chihn' when the mark has a specific meaning or identity, and 'nishaan' for accidental marks or stains. You can use it in business contexts to talk about company logos.

At the B2 level, you use 'चिह्न' in complex sentences and professional contexts. You can talk about 'pehchan chihn' (identification marks) in formal documents or passports. You understand its usage in various fields like linguistics (punctuation marks as 'viram chihn') and mathematics. You can express abstract ideas, such as 'prakriti ke chihn' (signs of nature). You are also comfortable with the spelling and pronunciation nuances. You can engage in discussions about branding strategies and the importance of a 'chihn' in building a company's image. Your vocabulary includes related words like 'prateek' and 'sanket', and you know when to use 'chihn' instead of them.

At the C1 level, your use of 'चिह्न' is sophisticated and precise. You use it in academic writing or formal debates to refer to traces, evidence, or semiotic symbols. You might use it in literary analysis to discuss 'itihaas ke chihn' (traces of history) in a text. You are aware of the word's Sanskrit roots and how it functions in 'Tatsam' heavy Hindi. You can use compound words like 'pad-chihn' (footprints) metaphorically to mean following in someone's footsteps. You understand the legal nuances of 'vyaparik chihn' versus 'brand registration'. Your speech and writing reflect a deep understanding of the word's formal register and its various technical applications.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over 'चिह्न'. You can use it in highly specialized fields like law, semiotics, or ancient history. You understand its etymological journey from Sanskrit to modern Hindi. You can use it to describe the most subtle 'lakshan' (characteristics) or 'chhaap' (impressions) in philosophical discourse. You can write legal briefs about trademark infringement using the most formal terminology. You can also appreciate and use the word in high literature and poetry, where it might represent the ephemeral traces of existence or the divine attributes of a deity. Your command over the word allows you to switch between its literal, symbolic, and commercial meanings with ease.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

चिह्न in 30 Seconds

A formal word for mark, sign, or symbol.
Used for commercial brands and trademarks (Vyaparik Chihn).
Essential for punctuation (Viram Chihn) and math symbols.
A masculine noun often misspelled as 'chinh'.

The Hindi word चिह्न (pronounced 'chihn') is a versatile noun that primarily translates to 'mark', 'sign', or 'symbol' in English. In a commercial or modern context, it is frequently used to denote a 'brand' or 'trademark', specifically when referred to as व्यापारिक चिह्न (vyāpārik chihn). Understanding this word requires looking at its dual nature: it can represent a physical, tangible mark—like a footprint in the sand or a scar on the skin—and it can also represent abstract symbols, such as mathematical signs or the identity of a global corporation. In Hindi, when you see a logo on a product, you are looking at its चिह्न. This word is deeply rooted in Sanskrit and carries a formal tone, though it is indispensable in daily life, from reading road signs to identifying brands in a supermarket. Unlike the more colloquial word निशान (nishān), which can also mean mark, चिह्न often implies a specific meaning or a purposeful designation.

Physical Mark: A visible trace or impression left on a surface, such as a fingerprint or a trail.
Symbolic Representation: An emblem or character used to represent an idea, operation, or organization, like the '+' sign in math.
Brand Identity: The specific mark or name used by a manufacturer to distinguish their products from others.

सावधानी! यहाँ आगे खतरा होने का चिह्न लगा है। (Caution! There is a danger sign posted ahead.)

Historically, the word has evolved from its Sanskrit origins where it meant 'characteristic' or 'attribute'. In ancient texts, a person's चिह्न were the physical traits that defined their noble or divine status. Today, that same concept of 'definition' applies to products. When a company places its चिह्न on a box, they are attributing their reputation and quality to that item. For a learner, distinguishing between a generic mark and a symbolic sign is key. If you find a stain on your shirt, you might call it a 'daag' or 'nishaan', but if you see a 'Stop' sign on the road, you are looking at a 'yataayat chihn' (traffic sign). The word carries a certain weight of authority and intention that simpler words for 'mark' do not possess. It is used in mathematics (plus, minus), linguistics (punctuation marks), and law (intellectual property). Mastering this word allows you to navigate both the physical world of signs and the professional world of branding and symbols.

Using चिह्न correctly requires attention to its grammatical gender and its role as a noun. It is a masculine noun. Therefore, any adjectives or verbs associated with it must reflect this. For example, you would say 'achha chihn' (good sign) rather than 'achhi chihn'. When using it in the plural, it remains 'चिह्न' in the direct case, but changes to 'चिह्नों' (chihnon) in the oblique case (when followed by a postposition like 'ko', 'se', or 'mein'). Because it is a formal word, it often appears in compound phrases like 'pehchan chihn' (identification mark) or 'vyaparik chihn' (trademark). If you are describing a brand, you might say, 'Yah chihn duniya bhar mein prasiddh hai' (This brand/mark is famous worldwide). It is also used extensively in instructional Hindi, such as 'Niche diye gaye chihn ko dekhiye' (Look at the sign given below).

With Postpositions: In the oblique form: 'In chihnon ka kya arth hai?' (What is the meaning of these signs?)
As a Subject: 'Yah chihn purana hai.' (This mark/brand is old.)

क्या आपने इस उत्पाद पर असली होने का चिह्न देखा? (Did you see the mark of authenticity on this product?)

When talking about brands specifically, you can use 'chihn' to refer to the logo or the trademarked name. In a sentence like 'Apple ka chihn ek aadha khaya hua seb hai' (Apple's brand/logo is a half-eaten apple), the word acts as a bridge between the visual symbol and the identity of the company. In academic or mathematical contexts, the word is used to identify operations: 'Yog ka chihn' (the sign of addition). It is also used metaphorically to describe traces of the past: 'Itihas ke chihn' (marks/traces of history). When constructing sentences, remember that 'chihn' is often the object of verbs like 'lagana' (to apply/put a mark), 'pahchanna' (to recognize a sign), or 'mitana' (to erase a mark). For instance, 'Usne kagaz par ek vishesh chihn lagaya' (He put a special mark on the paper). This versatility makes it a high-frequency word in both technical and descriptive Hindi writing.

You will encounter चिह्न in several distinct environments. First and foremost is in the world of commerce and law. If you are watching a news report about a corporate merger or a legal battle over intellectual property, you will hear the term 'Trade Mark' translated as 'Vyaparik Chihn'. It is the standard legal term for a brand's visual identity. Secondly, in educational settings, teachers use it constantly when referring to punctuation or mathematical symbols. If a teacher says, 'Prashna-vachak chihn lagaiye', they are telling the student to put a question mark. Thirdly, you will see it on public infrastructure. Road signs are 'yataayat chihn', and exit signs or safety warnings in buildings are often labeled with this word. It provides a sense of formality and clarity that is essential for public safety and navigation.

At the Office: Discussing logos or branding: 'Humein apna naya chihn register karwana chahiye.' (We should register our new brand/mark.)
In Literature: Describing ruins or traces: 'Purane qile mein itihaas के chihn milte hain.' (Traces of history are found in the old fort.)

गणित की परीक्षा में सही चिह्न का प्रयोग करना बहुत ज़रूरी है। (Using the correct sign in the math exam is very important.)

Beyond the physical, the word appears in spiritual and philosophical discussions. In many Indian traditions, certain physical marks (like a tilak or a specific hand gesture) are considered 'shubh chihn' (auspicious signs). When someone says 'Yah achhe chihn nahi hain', they might be speaking figuratively about an omen or a bad sign of things to come. In the digital age, you might see it in software interfaces—'check marks' are 'sahi ke chihn'. It is a word that spans from the ancient stones of a temple to the digital pixels of a smartphone app. Because it is a Sanskrit-derived word (Tatsam), it carries a level of prestige. Using 'chihn' instead of 'nishaan' in a business presentation will make you sound more professional and educated. It is the language of experts, designers, and officials.

The most common mistake with चिह्न is actually its spelling. Even native speakers frequently misspell it as 'चिन्ह' (putting the 'n' sound before the 'h' sound). However, the correct spelling is चिह्न, where the 'h' (ह) is the half-letter (halant) and the 'n' (न) follows it. Phonetically, it is pronounced almost like 'chihn', but in fast speech, it often sounds like 'chin'. Another mistake is confusing it with निशान (nishaan). While they both mean 'mark', 'nishaan' is more common for accidental marks (like a stain or a scar) or a target. Using 'nishaan' for a mathematical symbol or a formal trademark can sound slightly informal or technically imprecise. For example, 'plus nishaan' is understandable but 'plus chihn' is correct.

Spelling Error: Incorrect: चिन्ह (Chinha). Correct: चिह्न (Chihna).
Gender Confusion: Incorrect: 'Badi chihn' (using feminine). Correct: 'Bada chihn' (using masculine).

लोग अक्सर 'चिह्न' को गलत तरीके से चिन्ह लिखते हैं। (People often incorrectly write 'chihn' as 'chinh'.)

Another nuanced mistake is the over-reliance on the English word 'brand'. While 'brand' is widely understood in urban India, using चिह्न or ब्रांड (the transliterated version) depends on the context. In a legal or highly formal Hindi context, 'brand' might be seen as an anglicism, so व्यापारिक चिह्न is preferred. Furthermore, students often forget to use the oblique plural form 'chihnon' when followed by a postposition. Saying 'chihn ka' is fine for one mark, but for multiple marks, it must be 'chihnon ka'. Finally, don't confuse चिह्न with संकेत (sanket). While a 'chihn' is a static mark or symbol, a 'sanket' is often a dynamic signal or a hint. If someone winks at you, that is a 'sanket', not a 'chihn'. If they wear a badge, that badge is a 'chihn'.

Hindi offers several words that overlap with चिह्न, and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific type of 'mark' you are describing. The most common alternative is निशान (nishaan), which is of Persian origin. It is used for stains, footprints, scars, or targets. It is much more common in everyday spoken Hindi. Another important word is प्रतीक (prateek), which means 'symbol'. While every 'prateek' is a 'chihn', not every 'chihn' is a 'prateek'. A 'prateek' usually carries a deeper, more abstract meaning, like the Lotus being a symbol (prateek) of purity. संकेत (sanket) is another relative, meaning 'signal' or 'hint'. It is used when something points toward something else, like a traffic signal or a hint in a puzzle.

चिह्न vs. निशान: Chihn is formal/symbolic; Nishaan is common/physical (stains, scars).
चिह्न vs. प्रतीक: Chihn is a general mark or brand; Prateek is a deep, representational symbol.
चिह्न vs. लक्षण: Chihn is an external mark; Lakshan is an internal trait or a medical symptom.

सफ़ेद कबूतर शांति का प्रतीक (symbol) है, लेकिन यह शांति का चिह्न (sign) भी हो सकता है।

In technical contexts, you might encounter मुद्रा (mudra) meaning a seal or a stamp, or ठप्पा (thappa) meaning a physical stamp or impression. For example, a government seal is a 'sarkari mudra'. When talking about identity, पहचान (pehchan) is often used alongside चिह्न as in 'pehchan chihn' (identification mark). Choosing the right word elevates your Hindi from basic communication to nuanced expression. If you are writing a poem about the traces of a lost love, 'chihn' or 'nishaan' would work. If you are writing a business proposal for a new clothing line, 'vyaparik chihn' or 'brand' is the way to go. If you are discussing the symptoms of a disease, you should use 'lakshan' instead of 'chihn', though in older Hindi, 'chihn' was sometimes used for symptoms as well.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Indian iconography, 'chihnas' were the specific symbols held by deities (like Vishnu's discus) to help devotees identify them instantly.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /t͡ʃɪɦ.nə/

US /t͡ʃɪn/

The stress is on the first syllable 'Chih'.

Rhymes With

Abhinn (different) Chinn (torn) Bhinn (distinct) Rinn (debt) Vighn (obstacle) Pin Tin Win

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'Chinha' (adding a full 'a' at the end).
Pronouncing it as 'Chinh' (reversing the 'h' and 'n' sounds).
Omitting the 'h' entirely so it sounds exactly like the English 'chin'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The conjunct 'ह्न' can be tricky for beginners to recognize.

Writing 4/5

Spelling it correctly as 'चिह्न' instead of 'चिन्ह' is a common challenge.

Speaking 3/5

The 'h' and 'n' sound combination requires practice.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognized in context, though often sounds like 'chin'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

नाम वस्तु कंपनी सड़क गणित

Learn Next

प्रतीक संकेत पंजीकृत विज्ञापन लोगो

Advanced

अर्धविराम उद्धरण प्रतिलिपि सर्वाधिकार स्वत्वाधिकार

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Agreement

Bada chihn (Big sign) - 'Bada' is masculine.

Oblique Plural Formation

Chihnon ko (To the signs) - 'Chihn' becomes 'chihnon' before 'ko'.

Compound Nouns with 'ka'

Company ka chihn (Company's brand) - 'ka' links the two nouns.

Conjunct Consonants

ह्न (h + n) - The 'h' is written small or with a halant.

Tatsam Word Register

Using 'chihn' in formal writing instead of 'nishaan'.

Examples by Level

यह क्या चिह्न है?

What sign is this?

Simple subject-verb structure with 'yah' (this).

प्लस का चिह्न लगाओ।

Put the plus sign.

Imperative sentence using 'lagao'.

लाल चिह्न का मतलब रुकना है।

The red sign means to stop.

Possessive 'ka' used with the masculine 'chihn'.

किताब में बहुत चिह्न हैं।

There are many marks in the book.

Plural 'chihn' remains the same in the direct case.

यह चिह्न छोटा है।

This sign is small.

Adjective 'chhota' agrees with masculine 'chihn'.

यहाँ एक चिह्न बनाओ।

Make a mark here.

Use of 'banana' (to make) with 'chihn'.

यह चिह्न किसका है?

Whose sign/brand is this?

Interrogative 'kiska' refers to the owner of the mark.

नक्शे पर चिह्न देखो।

Look at the mark on the map.

Postposition 'par' (on) used with 'nakshe' (map).

सड़क पर यातायात के चिह्न हैं।

There are traffic signs on the road.

Compound noun 'yatayat के chihn' (traffic signs).

सही चिह्न पर गोला लगाओ।

Circle the correct sign.

Oblique case 'chihn' (remains same) with postposition 'par'.

यह इस कंपनी का चिह्न है।

This is the brand/logo of this company.

Using 'chihn' to mean logo/brand.

क्या आपने वह चिह्न देखा?

Did you see that sign?

Past tense 'dekha' with the object 'chihn'.

जंगल में पैरों के चिह्न मिले।

Footprints were found in the forest.

Plural 'chihn' used for multiple footprints.

यह चिह्न बहुत पुराना है।

This mark/brand is very old.

Adjective 'purana' (old) modifies 'chihn'.

नीला चिह्न पानी के लिए है।

The blue sign is for water.

Color adjective 'neela' agrees with 'chihn'.

वहाँ एक बड़ा चिह्न लगा है।

A big sign is placed there.

Passive-like structure with 'laga hai'.

हर उत्पाद पर एक व्यापारिक चिह्न होता है।

Every product has a trademark.

Formal term 'vyaparik chihn' for trademark.

इन चिह्नों का क्या मतलब है?

What is the meaning of these signs?

Oblique plural 'chihnon' with postposition 'ka'.

उसकी कमीज़ पर एक अजीब चिह्न था।

There was a strange mark on his shirt.

Adjective 'ajeeb' (strange) modifying 'chihn'.

हमें शांति के चिह्न की ज़रूरत है।

We need a sign of peace.

Abstract usage of 'chihn'.

यह चिह्न असली सोने की पहचान है।

This mark is the identification of real gold.

Using 'chihn' as a mark of authenticity.

उसने दीवार पर एक गुप्त चिह्न बनाया।

He made a secret mark on the wall.

Adjective 'gupt' (secret).

गणित में 'बराबर' का चिह्न बहुत महत्वपूर्ण है।

In math, the 'equals' sign is very important.

Technical usage in mathematics.

क्या आप इस ब्रांड के चिह्न को पहचानते हैं?

Do you recognize this brand's logo?

Using 'chihn' for brand recognition.

पासपोर्ट में आपके चेहरे का पहचान चिह्न लिखा होता है।

An identification mark of your face is written in the passport.

Formal term 'pehchan chihn' for identification mark.

लेखक ने कहानी में कई प्रतीकात्मक चिह्नों का प्रयोग किया है।

The author has used many symbolic signs in the story.

Literary usage with 'prateekatmak' (symbolic).

इस पुराने दस्तावेज़ पर राजा का शाही चिह्न है।

This old document has the King's royal seal/mark.

Formal usage 'shahi chihn' (royal seal/mark).

विराम चिह्नों के बिना वाक्य पढ़ना कठिन है।

It is difficult to read sentences without punctuation marks.

Grammatical term 'viram chihn' (punctuation marks).

आसमान में काले बादल बारिश के चिह्न हैं।

Dark clouds in the sky are signs of rain.

Metaphorical usage for natural signs.

कंपनी ने अपना नया व्यापारिक चिह्न रजिस्टर करवाया है।

The company has registered its new trademark.

Business context with 'register karwana'.

हड़प्पा की खुदाई में कई प्राचीन चिह्न मिले।

Many ancient marks/symbols were found in the Harappa excavation.

Historical/Archeological context.

क्या आप इन सड़क चिह्नों का पालन कर रहे हैं?

Are you following these road signs?

Usage of 'palan karna' (to follow/obey) with 'chihn'.

संस्कृति के चिह्न हमारी परंपराओं में जीवित हैं।

The marks of culture are alive in our traditions.

Abstract philosophical usage.

न्यायालय ने व्यापारिक चिह्न के उल्लंघन का मामला दर्ज किया।

The court registered a case of trademark infringement.

Legal term 'vyaparik chihn ka ullanghan' (trademark infringement).

उनकी बातों में गहरे दुख के चिह्न स्पष्ट थे।

Signs of deep sadness were evident in their words.

Metaphorical usage for emotions.

इतिहास के ये चिह्न हमें अपनी जड़ों की याद दिलाते हैं।

These traces of history remind us of our roots.

Using 'chihn' as 'traces' or 'remnants'.

वैज्ञानिकों ने मंगल ग्रह पर पानी के चिह्न खोजे हैं।

Scientists have discovered signs of water on Mars.

Scientific usage for 'evidence' or 'signs'.

इस कविता में 'कमल' को पवित्रता के चिह्न के रूप में देखा गया है।

In this poem, the 'lotus' is seen as a sign of purity.

Literary analysis context.

निर्वाचन आयोग ने प्रत्येक दल को एक चुनाव चिह्न आवंटित किया।

The Election Commission allotted an election symbol to each party.

Political term 'chunaav chihn' (election symbol).

भाषा में प्रयुक्त चिह्नों का अपना एक व्याकरण होता है।

The symbols used in language have their own grammar.

Academic linguistic context.

यह शिलालेख मौर्य काल के विशिष्ट चिह्नों से सुसज्जित है।

This inscription is adorned with the distinctive marks of the Mauryan period.

High-level historical description.

चिह्न-विज्ञान (Semiotics) प्रतीकों और उनके अर्थों का अध्ययन है।

Semiotics is the study of signs and their meanings.

Academic term 'chihn-vigyan' for semiotics.

वैश्वीकरण के युग में, व्यापारिक चिह्नों की सुरक्षा एक चुनौती है।

In the era of globalization, protecting trademarks is a challenge.

Complex socio-economic context.

दार्शनिकों के अनुसार, जगत सत्य का केवल एक बाह्य चिह्न है।

According to philosophers, the world is merely an external sign of truth.

Metaphysical usage.

पांडुलिपि में स्याही के चिह्न उसकी प्राचीनता को सिद्ध करते हैं।

The ink marks on the manuscript prove its antiquity.

Forensic/Bibliographic context.

उन्होंने अपने कार्यों से समाज पर एक अमिट चिह्न छोड़ा है।

He has left an indelible mark on society with his works.

Idiomatic usage 'amit chihn' (indelible mark).

यह शोध पत्र गणितीय चिह्नों की उत्पत्ति पर प्रकाश डालता है।

This research paper sheds light on the origin of mathematical signs.

Academic research context.

वास्तुकला में प्रयुक्त ये चिह्न सांस्कृतिक संश्लेषण को दर्शाते हैं।

These signs used in architecture reflect cultural synthesis.

Critical architectural analysis.

Common Collocations

व्यापारिक चिह्न

विराम चिह्न

प्रश्न चिह्न

पहचान चिह्न

यातायात चिह्न

विजय चिह्न

शुभ चिह्न

पद-चिह्न

पूर्णविराम चिह्न

उद्धरण चिह्न

Common Phrases

चिह्नित करना

— To mark something or to highlight it.

महत्वपूर्ण पैराग्राफ को चिह्नित करें।

चिह्न छोड़ना

— To leave a mark or impression.

इतिहास ने यहाँ अपने चिह्न छोड़े हैं।

चिह्न लगाना

— To put a mark or sign on something.

सही उत्तर पर चिह्न लगाओ।

चिह्न पहचानना

— To recognize a sign or brand.

क्या आप इस कंपनी के चिह्न को पहचानते हैं?

चिह्न मिटाना

— To erase a mark or trace.

उसने सबूत के सारे चिह्न मिटा दिए।

चिह्न बदलना

— To change a logo or sign.

कंपनी ने अपना चिह्न बदल दिया है।

चिह्न ढूंढना

— To look for signs or traces.

पुलिस अपराधी के चिह्न ढूंढ रही है।

चिह्न देना

— To give a sign or symbol.

उसने रुकने का चिह्न दिया।

चिह्न बनाना

— To create a mark or logo.

नया चिह्न बनाना आसान नहीं है।

चिह्न समझना

— To understand the meaning of a sign.

इन गुप्त चिह्नों को समझना मुश्किल है।

Often Confused With

चिह्न vs निशान (Nishaan)

Nishaan is more for physical marks, stains, or targets. Chihn is more for symbols and brands.

चिह्न vs चीन (China)

Phonetically similar to the simplified pronunciation 'chin', but refers to the country.

चिह्न vs छीन (Chheen)

Means 'to snatch', sounds similar but has a different vowel and 'chh' sound.

Idioms & Expressions

"प्रश्न चिह्न खड़ा करना"

— To raise doubts or questions about something.

उसकी ईमानदारी पर प्रश्न चिह्न खड़ा हो गया है।

Metaphorical

"अमिट चिह्न छोड़ना"

— To leave an everlasting impression or legacy.

गांधीजी ने इतिहास पर अमिट चिह्न छोड़ा है।

Formal

"पद-चिह्नों पर चलना"

— To follow in someone's footsteps or emulate them.

वह अपने पिता के पद-चिह्नों पर चल रहा है।

Literary

"चिह्न तक न रहना"

— To disappear completely without leaving a trace.

बाढ़ के बाद गाँव का चिह्न तक न रहा।

Emphatic

"विराम चिह्न लगना"

— To come to a complete stop or end.

उसके करियर पर अब विराम चिह्न लग गया है।

Metaphorical

"खून के चिह्न"

— Evidence of violence or a struggle.

कमरे में खून के चिह्न मिले।

Legal/Dramatic

"समय के चिह्न"

— Signs of aging or the passage of time.

उसके चेहरे पर समय के चिह्न दिखने लगे हैं।

Poetic

"सफलता के चिह्न"

— Indications that someone will be successful.

उसमें बचपन से ही सफलता के चिह्न थे।

General

"खतरे के चिह्न"

— Warning signs of impending trouble.

अर्थव्यवस्था में खतरे के चिह्न दिख रहे हैं।

Economic/Formal

"पहचान का चिह्न"

— A unique trait that identifies someone.

उसकी आवाज़ ही उसकी पहचान का चिह्न है।

Descriptive

Easily Confused

चिह्न vs प्रतीक (Prateek)

Both mean sign/symbol.

Prateek is deeper and more representational/abstract. Chihn is more general and can be a simple mark.

Swastika ek pavitra prateek hai.

चिह्न vs संकेत (Sanket)

Both imply a sign.

Sanket is a signal or a hint (dynamic). Chihn is a static mark or emblem.

Usne aankh se sanket kiya.

चिह्न vs लक्षण (Lakshan)

Both can mean a sign of something.

Lakshan is a trait, characteristic, or symptom. Chihn is a visual mark.

Bukhaar bimari ka lakshan hai.

चिह्न vs छाप (Chhaap)

Both mean an impression/mark.

Chhaap is usually the result of pressure or a stamp, or a mental impression. Chihn is the symbol itself.

Usne dil par chhaap chhodi.

चिह्न vs मुद्रा (Mudra)

Both can mean a seal or mark.

Mudra is specifically a seal, currency, or a posture. Chihn is any general sign.

Bharat ki rajkiya mudra.

Sentence Patterns

यह [Noun] का चिह्न है।

यह जोड़ का चिह्न है।

क्या आपने [Adjective] चिह्न देखा?

क्या आपने वह लाल चिह्न देखा?

इस [Noun] पर एक [Adjective] चिह्न है।

इस पैकेट पर एक हरा चिह्न है।

[Noun] के लिए [Compound Noun] का प्रयोग करें।

वाक्य के अंत में पूर्णविराम चिह्न का प्रयोग करें।

[Abstract Noun] के चिह्न [Verb] रहे हैं।

सफलता के चिह्न दिखाई दे रहे हैं।

[Complex Noun] [Chihn] का एक उदाहरण है।

यह मंदिर प्राचीन वास्तुकला के चिह्नों का एक उदाहरण है।

यहाँ [Verb] का चिह्न लगाओ।

यहाँ रुकने का चिह्न लगाओ।

[Company] का चिह्न [Description] है।

एप्पल का चिह्न एक सेब है।

Word Family

Nouns

चिह्नीकरण (Marking/Labeling)

चिह्न-विज्ञान (Semiotics)

Verbs

चिह्नित करना (To mark/To label)

Adjectives

चिह्नित (Marked/Highlighted)

निशान

प्रतीक

संकेत

छाप

मुद्रा

How to Use It

frequency

High in educational, legal, and business contexts.

Common Mistakes

Writing 'चिन्ह' → चिह्न
The 'h' sound comes before the 'n' sound. The letter 'ह्न' is a conjunct of h + n.
Using feminine gender → Masculine gender
People often say 'badi chihn' but it must be 'bada chihn'.
Confusing with 'China' → Chihn
The simplified pronunciation 'chin' sounds like the country China, but the context usually clarifies it.
Using 'nishaan' for math signs → chihn
'Nishaan' is too informal for mathematical or grammatical symbols.
Forgetting the oblique plural → chihnon
When followed by 'ko', 'se', etc., you must use 'chihnon', not 'chihn'.

Tips

The 'H' First Rule

Always write the 'h' before the 'n' in चिह्न. It's a common mistake even for native speakers, so getting it right will make your Hindi look very professional.

Math Signs

Learn the math signs: '+' is 'yog chihn', '-' is 'ghatav chihn', 'x' is 'guna chihn', and '/' is 'bhag chihn'.

Election Symbols

If you are in India during elections, look at the posters. You will see 'chunaav chihn' everywhere. It's a great way to see the word in action.

Gender Check

Remember it's masculine! 'Yah chihn achha hai', not 'achhi hai'.

Use for Brands

In a resume or business letter, use 'vyaparik chihn' to sound more formal than just saying 'brand'.

Soft H

Don't over-pronounce the 'H'. It's a soft breath that blends into the 'N'.

Punctuation

Learn 'viram chihn' early. It helps you understand Hindi sentence structure and pauses.

Footsteps

Use 'pad-chihn' when you want to talk about following someone's legacy. It's a very poetic and common expression.

ID Marks

If you fill out an Indian visa or passport form, look for 'pehchan chihn'. It asks for a visible mark like a mole or scar.

Chihn vs Prateek

Use 'chihn' for functional signs and 'prateek' for deep, symbolic meanings.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CHIn' with a 'H'idden 'N'ote on it. The 'h' is silent-ish but it's there to make it a 'CHIH-N' (mark).

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red 'Check' mark on a paper. That visual sign is a 'chihn'. Or imagine a famous logo like the Nike swoosh—that is a 'vyaparik chihn'.

Word Web

Logo Symbol Mark Trademark Punctuation Trace Sign Emblem

Challenge

Try to find five different 'chihn' (signs/logos) in your room and name them in Hindi. For example: 'Yah Apple ka chihn hai'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Chihna' (चिह्न), which means 'mark', 'token', or 'characteristic'. It has been preserved in Hindi as a 'Tatsam' word (a word borrowed directly from Sanskrit without change).

Original meaning: A distinguishing trait or a physical mark that identifies the nature of a person or object.

Indo-Aryan

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but ensure you use the correct spelling 'चिह्न' in formal writing to show respect for the language.

English speakers use 'brand' or 'logo' where Hindi speakers use 'chihn'. In grammar, 'punctuation' is 'viram chihn'.

The Election Commission of India's 'Symbols Order'. Ancient Ashoka Pillars (which bear the 'chihn' of the empire). Mathematical textbooks.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Driving

यातायात चिह्न
रुकने का चिह्न
बाएँ मुड़ने का चिह्न
चिह्न का पालन करें

Shopping

ब्रांड का चिह्न
असली होने का चिह्न
कीमत का चिह्न
कंपनी का चिह्न

School/Math

जोड़ का चिह्न
घटाने का चिह्न
विराम चिह्न
प्रश्न चिह्न

Government/Legal

व्यापारिक चिह्न
पहचान चिह्न
सरकारी चिह्न
पंजीकृत चिह्न

Nature/Hiking

पैरों के चिह्न
रास्ते के चिह्न
जानवर के चिह्न
पुराने चिह्न

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप इस कंपनी के चिह्न को पहचानते हैं?"

"सड़क पर लगे उस चिह्न का क्या मतलब है?"

"आपके पसंदीदा ब्रांड का चिह्न कैसा दिखता है?"

"क्या हमें इस दस्तावेज़ पर कोई चिह्न लगाना चाहिए?"

"इतिहास के कौन से चिह्न आपको सबसे ज़्यादा प्रभावित करते हैं?"

Journal Prompts

आज आपने अपने आस-पास कौन से दिलचस्प चिह्न देखे? उनके बारे में लिखें।

अगर आपको अपनी खुद की कंपनी बनानी हो, तो आपका व्यापारिक चिह्न कैसा होगा?

क्या आपको लगता है कि चिह्न शब्दों से ज़्यादा शक्तिशाली होते हैं? क्यों?

अपने जीवन के किसी ऐसे 'चिह्न' के बारे में लिखें जिसने आपको रास्ता दिखाया।

विराम चिह्नों का महत्व एक पैराग्राफ में समझाएँ।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Chihn' is formal and used for symbols, brands, and punctuation. 'Nishaan' is common and used for physical marks like stains, scars, or footprints. For example, a trademark is a 'vyaparik chihn', but a coffee stain is a 'coffee ka nishaan'.

It is a masculine noun. You should use masculine adjectives and verbs with it, such as 'bada chihn' or 'chihn laga hai'.

The correct spelling is चिह्न (h is half, n is full). Many people incorrectly write it as चिन्ह (n is half, h is full). Remember: the 'h' comes first!

Yes, 'vyaparik chihn' is the formal term for a trademark. In casual conversation, you can also use 'brand' or just 'chihn' if the context is clear.

'Viram chihn' means punctuation marks. 'Viram' means stop/pause, so these are the signs that tell you where to pause in a sentence.

Yes, it is very common in schools (math and grammar), business, and on the road (traffic signs).

It is called a 'chunaav chihn'. Every political party in India has one.

It is called 'prashna-vachak chihn'.

In formal or older Hindi, yes, but 'lakshan' is the more common and correct word for medical symptoms today.

In the direct case, it is still 'chihn'. In the oblique case (with postpositions), it becomes 'chihnon'.