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खंजर

A1 noun #8,000 most common 10 min read

खंजर

khanjar Top 8,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips खंजर in 30 Seconds

Explanation खंजर in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn खंजर (khanjar) simply as a word for a 'small knife' or 'dagger' used in stories. You might see it in a picture book or hear it in a simple story about a king or a queen. It is a masculine noun. You can remember it by looking at pictures of historical Indian weapons. At this stage, focus on the basic sentence structure: 'यह एक खंजर है' (This is a dagger). It is not a common word for your daily life, like 'bread' or 'water', but it is a fun word to know when you watch Indian cartoons or read fairy tales. Remember, it's a weapon, so it's different from the knife you use to eat. You don't need to worry about the deep poetic meanings yet. Just know that it is sharp and used for fighting in old times. The sound is 'khan-jar'. The 'kh' is like a strong 'k' sound with a puff of air. Practice saying it while looking at a picture of a curved dagger. This will help you associate the sound with the object. Even at A1, knowing a few 'cool' words like this can make your Hindi learning more interesting. You might also hear it in very simple Bollywood songs where the singer talks about a 'sharp' look, but for now, just think of it as a historical object. It is a noun, so it names a thing. Because it is masculine, if you describe it, you use masculine endings for adjectives. For example, 'लाल खंजर' (red dagger) or 'बड़ा खंजर' (big dagger). Keep it simple and enjoy the historical flavor of the word.

At the A2 level, you can start using खंजर (khanjar) in more descriptive sentences. You should understand that it is a specific kind of weapon, often curved, and not just any knife. You might use it to describe a museum visit: 'संग्रहालय में बहुत सारे खंजर थे' (There were many daggers in the museum). You can also start to use it with basic verbs like 'रखना' (to keep) or 'देखना' (to see). For example, 'राजा के पास एक सोने का खंजर है' (The king has a gold dagger). This level is about building your ability to describe objects and their history. You should also be aware of the plural form. In the direct case, it stays 'खंजर' (khanjar), but in the oblique case (with prepositions), it becomes 'खंजरों' (khanjaro). For example, 'खंजरों की प्रदर्शनी' (Exhibition of daggers). At A2, you are expanding your vocabulary beyond the most basic household items. Knowing 'khanjar' helps you understand historical and cultural contexts better. You might encounter it in simple news reports about archaeological finds or in basic literature. It's also a good time to distinguish it from 'चाकू' (chaku), which is for the kitchen. If you say 'मेरे पास खंजर है', people will think you are talking about an antique or a weapon, not a tool for cutting vegetables. Start practicing small sentences about brave warriors or old kings to get comfortable with the word's masculine gender and its place in a sentence.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using खंजर (khanjar) in various contexts, including metaphorical ones. This is the stage where you might encounter the word in Hindi movies or more complex stories. You should understand the idiom 'पीठ में खंजर घोंपना' (to stab in the back), which means to betray someone. This is a very common expression in Hindi dramas and political discussions. At B1, you can also start to use adjectives that describe the quality of the dagger, such as 'तेज़' (sharp), 'पुरानी' (old - wait, 'पुराना' because it's masculine!), and 'कीमती' (valuable). For example, 'उसने एक पुरानी और कीमती खंजर खरीदी' (He bought an old and valuable dagger). You should also be able to discuss the cultural significance of the khanjar in Indian history, perhaps in a short essay or a conversation about heritage. You might hear it in the news when someone talks about a 'betrayal' in a political party. The word starts to take on a more dramatic tone at this level. You are moving from just identifying the object to understanding its emotional and symbolic power. It's important to get the gender agreement right every time now. Since it's masculine, the verb endings will reflect that: 'खंजर चमक रहा था' (The dagger was shining). Practice using it in sentences that involve emotions like fear, bravery, or shock. This will help you transition from literal usage to the more nuanced ways native speakers use the word.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of खंजर (khanjar) and its synonyms. You should be able to explain the difference between a 'khanjar', a 'katar', and a 'talwar'. This level requires you to understand the word's role in historical narratives and its specific aesthetic value. You might read historical fiction where the craftsmanship of a khanjar is described in detail—the 'मूठ' (hilt), the 'म्यान' (sheath), and the 'धार' (edge). You should also be familiar with how 'khanjar' is used in poetry to describe beauty or pain. For instance, 'उसकी आँखें खंजर की तरह हैं' (Her eyes are like daggers). This isn't just a simple comparison; it carries a specific poetic weight that implies the eyes are piercing and captivating. At B2, you should be able to participate in a discussion about the ethics of historical weapons or the portrayal of violence in media, using 'khanjar' appropriately. You should also be able to use the word in the passive voice: 'खंजर से हमला किया गया' (An attack was made with a dagger). Your ability to use the word in complex sentence structures, such as conditional or relative clauses, should be well-developed. For example, 'अगर उसके पास खंजर न होता, तो वह अपना बचाव नहीं कर पाता' (If he didn't have a dagger, he wouldn't have been able to defend himself). This level is about precision and the ability to use the word to add flavor and depth to your Hindi, whether in writing or speaking.

At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the deep cultural and literary roots of खंजर (khanjar). You should be able to analyze its use in classical Urdu and Hindi poetry (Shayari) and understand the subtle differences in tone it brings compared to other words for weapons. At this level, you should recognize 'khanjar' as a symbol of 'Ishq' (love) and 'Dard' (pain) in the Sufi and Bhakti traditions. You might encounter complex metaphors where the 'khanjar' represents the divine will or the ultimate sacrifice. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'आबदार' (lustrous/sharp) or 'जौहर' (the pattern on the steel). You should be able to write sophisticated essays on historical warfare or the evolution of Indian metallurgy, discussing the 'khanjar' as a technological and artistic achievement. In conversation, you can use the word with flair, perhaps quoting a famous couplet or using it to describe a particularly sharp and effective argument in a debate: 'उसका तर्क एक खंजर की तरह सटीक था' (His argument was as precise as a dagger). You should also be aware of the sociolinguistic aspects of the word, including its Persian origins and how it has been assimilated into various Indian dialects. Your mastery of the word should be so complete that you can use it to evoke specific historical periods or emotional states with just a single sentence, demonstrating a high degree of linguistic and cultural fluency.

At the C2 level, your understanding of खंजर (khanjar) is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess a profound appreciation for the word's etymological journey from Persian into the heart of the Hindustani language. You can engage in high-level academic or literary criticism, discussing the semiotics of the khanjar in Mughal miniature paintings or its psychological symbolism in modern Hindi literature. You understand the most obscure references and can use the word in highly stylized, formal, or archaic contexts without effort. You might discuss the 'khanjar' in the context of 'Shastar Vidya' (the science of weapons) or its role in the courtly etiquette of the 18th century. Your ability to use the word metaphorically is boundless, extending to complex philosophical discussions where the 'khanjar' might represent the duality of creation and destruction. You are also sensitive to the subtle shifts in meaning that occur when the word is paired with different verbs or used in different regional contexts across North India. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a thread in the vast tapestry of your linguistic competence, allowing you to express the most delicate nuances of thought and emotion. You can effortlessly switch between the literal, historical, and highly abstract meanings of 'khanjar', using it as a precision tool in your own creative or analytical writing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

खंजर in 30 Seconds

A khanjar is a traditional curved dagger used as a weapon and status symbol in Hindi-speaking cultures.
It is a masculine noun and is distinct from a common utility knife (chaku) or a sword (talwar).
Metaphorically, it represents betrayal or the sharp, piercing emotions found in romantic poetry.
The word has Persian roots and is common in historical dramas, literature, and museum contexts.

The Hindi word खंजर (khanjar) refers specifically to a short, curved dagger. Unlike a standard kitchen knife or a long sword, the khanjar is characterized by its distinct double-edged blade and a hilt that is often shaped like a 'comma' or an 'I'. In the linguistic landscape of Hindi, which draws heavily from Persian and Arabic influences, this word carries a weight that transcends its physical utility as a weapon. It is a symbol of historical martial prowess, a decorative piece of art, and a potent metaphor in literature. When you encounter this word in a modern Hindi context, it is rarely about a common tool; it almost always evokes a sense of history, drama, or poetic intensity. Historically, the khanjar was an essential part of the attire for noblemen and warriors in the Indian subcontinent, especially during the Mughal era. It was worn tucked into a waistband or sash (patka) as a sign of status and readiness. Today, you might hear it in historical dramas, read it in classical Hindi and Urdu poetry, or see it displayed in museums. The word is masculine in gender, and its pronunciation requires a slight nasalization on the first syllable followed by a sharp 'ja' sound. Understanding this word requires looking beyond the steel; one must see the craftsmanship of the bone or ivory hilts, the intricate carvings on the sheath, and the cultural honor associated with carrying such a weapon. In a metaphorical sense, the khanjar is frequently used to describe a 'stab' of emotion, particularly the pain of betrayal or the sharp sting of a lover's glance in the tradition of 'Shayari' (poetry).

Physical Form: A short, curved, double-edged dagger with a distinctive hilt, often made of precious materials.

संग्रहालय में एक प्राचीन खंजर रखा है। (An ancient dagger is kept in the museum.)

Symbolism: Represents bravery, nobility, and sometimes the sharp pain of betrayal in poetic contexts.

उसने अपनी सुरक्षा के लिए एक खंजर निकाला। (He pulled out a dagger for his protection.)

राजपूत योद्धा हमेशा अपने पास खंजर रखते थे। (Rajput warriors always kept a dagger with them.)

Linguistic Origin: Derived from Persian 'khanjar', which shares roots with Arabic and is recognized across Central and South Asia.

इस खंजर की मूठ हाथी के दांत की बनी है। (The hilt of this dagger is made of ivory.)

शायर ने अपनी विरह की वेदना को खंजर के समान बताया। (The poet described the pain of separation like a dagger.)

Using the word खंजर (khanjar) correctly involves understanding its specific nuance as a weapon rather than a tool. In everyday conversation, you wouldn't use it to describe a kitchen knife. Instead, it appears when discussing history, action, or deep emotional betrayal. Because it is a masculine noun, adjectives and verbs must agree with it accordingly. For example, you would say 'बड़ा खंजर' (big dagger) rather than 'बड़ी खंजर'. When placed in a sentence, it often acts as the direct object of verbs like 'निकालना' (to take out), 'घोंपना' (to stab), or 'रखना' (to keep). In historical narratives, you might see it used to describe the equipment of a soldier: 'सिपाही ने अपनी कमर से खंजर निकाला' (The soldier pulled a dagger from his waist). In a more abstract, literary sense, it is used to heighten the emotional stakes. For instance, 'उसकी बातों ने मेरे दिल पर खंजर का काम किया' (His words acted like a dagger on my heart). This sentence uses the word to illustrate how words can be just as sharp and painful as a physical blade. When teaching this to English speakers, it is helpful to compare it to the English word 'dagger' or 'dirk'. It isn't just a knife; it's a specific type of weapon with cultural baggage. In Hindi films, especially those set in historical periods or underworld dramas, the 'khanjar' is a common prop. It symbolizes a silent, deadly, and often personal form of violence. Unlike a gun, which is impersonal and distant, a khanjar requires the attacker to be close, making the act more intimate and, in the eyes of storytellers, more treacherous.

Grammatical Agreement: Masculine noun: 'तेज़ खंजर' (sharp dagger), 'खंजर गिरा' (the dagger fell).

राजा ने अपने दुश्मन को खंजर से मार दिया। (The king killed his enemy with a dagger.)

Action Verbs: Commonly paired with 'चलाना' (to use/wield), 'छिपाना' (to hide), and 'दिखाना' (to show).

उसने अपनी आस्तीन में एक छोटा खंजर छिपा रखा था। (He had hidden a small dagger in his sleeve.)

धोखेबाज़ दोस्त ने उसकी पीठ में खंजर घोंप दिया। (The treacherous friend stabbed a dagger into his back.)

Descriptive Context: Used to describe the sharpness of an object or a feeling: 'खंजर जैसी धार' (edge like a dagger).

इस खंजर की चमक दूर से ही दिख रही थी। (The shine of this dagger was visible from afar.)

शिकारी ने अपने बचाव में खंजर का प्रयोग किया। (The hunter used a dagger in his defense.)

The word खंजर (khanjar) isn't something you would hear at a grocery store or a modern tech office, but it is ubiquitous in several specific spheres of Indian life and culture. First and foremost is the world of Bollywood and Indian television. In historical epics like 'Jodhaa Akbar' or 'Bajirao Mastani', the 'khanjar' is a key element of the costume and the action choreography. Characters will often refer to their 'khanjar' when making vows of loyalty or threats of vengeance. Secondly, in the realm of Urdu and Hindi literature, especially poetry (Shayari), the word is used with incredible frequency. It is a classic trope to compare the 'ada' (style) or the 'nigaah' (glance) of a beloved to a 'khanjar' that pierces the lover's heart. If you attend a 'Mushaira' (poetry recital), you are almost certain to hear this word used in a romantic or tragic couplet. Thirdly, in the context of history and museums. When visiting the Red Fort in Delhi or the palaces in Rajasthan, the audio guides and placards will frequently use 'khanjar' to describe the ornate weapons on display. It is also a word you might encounter in news reports, though usually in a metaphorical sense, such as 'पीठ में खंजर' to describe a political betrayal. Furthermore, in certain communities in North India and Pakistan, the 'khanjar' remains a traditional symbol of manhood and heritage, sometimes gifted during ceremonies, though this is becoming rarer in modern urban settings.

Cinematic Usage: Used in period dramas to establish the setting and the warrior status of characters.

फिल्म में विलेन ने हीरो पर खंजर से हमला किया। (In the movie, the villain attacked the hero with a dagger.)

Literary Usage: A staple in 'Ghazals' and 'Nazms' to represent sharp, painful emotions or beauty.

ग़ज़ल में अक्सर 'निगाह-ए-खंजर' का ज़िक्र होता है। (In Ghazals, there is often mention of a 'dagger-like glance'.)

इतिहास की किताबों में मुगलकालीन खंजर के चित्र मिलते हैं। (Drawings of Mughal-era daggers are found in history books.)

Museum Context: Used by guides to explain the weaponry of the past royal courts.

गाइड ने सोने के पानी चढ़े खंजर के बारे में बताया। (The guide told us about the gold-plated dagger.)

पुराने ज़माने में खंजर उपहार में भी दिए जाते थे। (In olden times, daggers were also given as gifts.)

One of the most frequent errors learners make is using खंजर (khanjar) interchangeably with 'चाकू' (chaku - knife). While both are sharp objects, their contexts are worlds apart. You would never say 'मुझे सेब काटने के लिए खंजर चाहिए' (I need a khanjar to cut an apple) unless you were trying to be extremely melodramatic or humorous. A 'chaku' is a tool; a 'khanjar' is a weapon. Another common mistake involves gender agreement. Since 'khanjar' ends in a consonant, some learners mistakenly treat it as feminine. However, it is masculine. Ensure that accompanying adjectives and verbs reflect this: 'तेज़ खंजर' (correct) vs 'तेज़ी खंजर' (incorrect). There is also a confusion between 'khanjar' and 'तलवार' (talwar - sword). A sword is a long-bladed weapon used for slashing or thrusting, usually held with one or two hands. A khanjar is much shorter, usually under a foot in length, and is designed for close-quarter stabbing. Using 'khanjar' when you mean 'talwar' can make a historical description seem inaccurate. Additionally, pay attention to the pronunciation of the 'kh' (ख). It is a voiceless aspirated velar plosive, similar to the 'kh' in 'Khatmandu', not the 'k' in 'kite'. Mispronouncing it as 'kanjar' (कंजर) can be particularly problematic, as 'kanjar' is a derogatory term used for a specific marginalized community in South Asia. Therefore, clear pronunciation is essential to avoid giving offense. Lastly, learners often forget that 'khanjar' is a loanword from Persian. While it is perfectly integrated into Hindi, using it in a very Sanskritized (Tatsam) context might feel slightly jarring, where a word like 'कृपाण' (kripaan) or 'असि' (asi) might be more appropriate, though 'khanjar' is widely understood and used across all registers of Hindustani.

Semantic Error: Confusing 'khanjar' (weapon) with 'chaku' (utility knife).

गलत: रसोई में खंजर रखा है। सही: रसोई में चाकू रखा है। (Wrong: A khanjar is in the kitchen. Right: A knife is in the kitchen.)

Pronunciation Pitfall: Pronouncing it as 'kanjar' instead of 'khanjar'.

सावधानी: 'क' (k) और 'ख' (kh) के उच्चारण के अंतर को समझें। (Caution: Understand the difference in pronunciation between 'k' and 'kh'.)

गलत: यह खंजर बहुत लंबी है। सही: यह खंजर बहुत लंबा है। (Wrong: This dagger is very long [feminine]. Right: This dagger is very long [masculine].)

Category Confusion: Mixing up 'khanjar' with 'talwar' (sword).

खंजर छोटा होता है, जबकि तलवार लंबी होती है। (A dagger is short, while a sword is long.)

शत्रु ने खंजर से हमला किया। (The enemy attacked with a dagger.)

While खंजर (khanjar) is a very specific term, Hindi offers several related words that describe various types of bladed objects. Understanding these nuances will make your vocabulary much richer. First, there is 'कटार' (katar). A katar is a unique Indian punch-dagger with a H-shaped handle. It is distinct from the khanjar, which has a traditional handle. Second, 'छुरा' (chura) or 'छुरी' (churi). 'Chura' is a larger, often straight-bladed knife or dagger, while 'churi' is a smaller one, often used for a kitchen knife. Third, 'कृपाण' (kripaan). This word is specifically associated with the Sikh faith, where it is one of the five articles of faith (Kakkars). It is a ceremonial dagger that carries deep religious significance. Fourth, 'करौली' (karauli). This is a smaller, often curved dagger, similar to a khanjar but sometimes smaller and used more for personal defense. Fifth, 'असि' (asi). This is a very formal, Sanskrit-derived word for a sword or a sharp weapon, rarely used in spoken Hindi today but found in classical texts. Comparing these words helps clarify that 'khanjar' sits in a space of both martial history and poetic metaphor. If you are talking about a betrayal, 'khanjar' is your best bet. If you are talking about a Sikh religious object, 'kripaan' is necessary. If you are talking about slicing a mango, stick to 'chaku'.

Khanjar vs. Katar: Khanjar has a curved blade and a regular hilt; Katar is a punch-dagger with a horizontal grip.

राजपूतों के पास खंजर और कटार दोनों होते थे। (The Rajputs had both daggers and punch-daggers.)

Khanjar vs. Kripaan: Khanjar is a general term for a dagger; Kripaan is a specific religious symbol for Sikhs.

सिख धर्म में कृपाण का बहुत महत्व है। (The Kripaan is very important in the Sikh religion.)

डाकू ने एक बड़ा छुरा निकाला। (The bandit pulled out a large knife.)

Khanjar vs. Chaku: Khanjar is a weapon; Chaku is a utility tool.

सब्ज़ी काटने के लिए चाकू लाओ। (Bring a knife to cut the vegetables.)

पुराने युद्धों में खंजर का बहुत इस्तेमाल होता था। (Daggers were used a lot in old wars.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Omani khanjar is so culturally significant that it appears on the national emblem and flag of Oman, and the word is recognized globally for its specific design.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkʌndʒər/

US /ˈkɑːndʒər/

The stress is on the first syllable: KHAN-jar.

Rhymes With

मंज़र (Manzar - scene) बंज़र (Banzar - barren) अंज़र (Anzar - sight) कंजर (Kanjar - though avoid this context) अजगर (Ajgar - python, near rhyme) सागर (Sagar - ocean, near rhyme) गागर (Gagar - pot, near rhyme) चादर (Chadar - sheet, near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kh' (ख) as a simple 'k' (क).
Missing the nasal 'n' sound in the first syllable.
Pronouncing it as 'kanjar', which is a derogatory term.
Treating it as a feminine word in speech.
Over-aspirating the 'j' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text due to its distinct spelling and frequency in stories.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct spelling of the nasalized 'n' and the aspirated 'kh'.

Speaking 4/5

Challenging due to the 'kh' vs 'k' distinction and potential for offense if mispronounced.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear in audio because of the sharp 'j' sound.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

चाकू (Knife) हथियार (Weapon) तेज़ (Sharp) राजा (King) पीठ (Back)

Learn Next

तलवार (Sword) म्यान (Sheath) धोखा (Betrayal) वीरता (Bravery) इतिहास (History)

Advanced

कृपाण (Kripaan) नश्तर (Lancet) जौहर (Patterned steel) सिपहसालार (Commander) मुहावरा (Idiom)

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Endings

खंजर (Khanjar) is masculine, so it takes 'का' (ka) and 'पुराना' (purana).

Oblique Case Plural

When using a preposition: 'खंजरों के साथ' (with the daggers).

Compound Verbs

'घोंप देना' (to stab thoroughly) is often used with 'खंजर'.

Aspirated Consonants

The 'ख' (kh) in 'खंजर' must be aspirated, unlike the 'क' (k) in 'कलम'.

Genitive Agreement

'खंजर की धार' (the dagger's edge) - 'की' agrees with 'धार' (feminine).

Examples by Level

यह एक खंजर है।

This is a dagger.

Simple 'Subject + Verb' structure. 'खंजर' is the object.

खंजर तेज़ है।

The dagger is sharp.

Adjective 'तेज़' describes the noun 'खंजर'.

मेरे पास एक खंजर है।

I have a dagger.

Using 'के पास' to show possession.

यह खंजर छोटा है।

This dagger is small.

'छोटा' agrees with the masculine noun 'खंजर'.

वह खंजर पुराना है।

That dagger is old.

'पुराना' agrees with the masculine noun 'खंजर'.

खंजर कहाँ है?

Where is the dagger?

A simple question using 'कहाँ'.

यहाँ एक खंजर देखो।

See a dagger here.

Imperative sentence using 'देखो'.

खंजर मेज़ पर है।

The dagger is on the table.

Using the preposition 'पर' (on).

राजा ने अपना खंजर निकाला।

The king took out his dagger.

Past tense with 'ने' and the verb 'निकालना'.

संग्रहालय में बहुत सारे खंजर हैं।

There are many daggers in the museum.

Plural form 'खंजर' remains the same in the direct case.

उसने एक सुंदर खंजर खरीदा।

He bought a beautiful dagger.

Adjective 'सुंदर' describes the noun.

क्या यह खंजर आपका है?

Is this dagger yours?

Possessive pronoun 'आपका' agrees with 'खंजर'.

खंजर की धार बहुत तेज़ है।

The edge of the dagger is very sharp.

Genitive 'की' links 'खंजर' to 'धार' (feminine).

बच्चे खंजर से मत खेलो।

Children, don't play with the dagger.

Negative imperative using 'मत'.

उसने खंजर को म्यान में रखा।

He put the dagger in the sheath.

Using 'को' and 'में' with the verb 'रखना'.

यह खंजर सोने का बना है।

This dagger is made of gold.

Using 'का बना है' to show material.

उसने अपने दुश्मन की पीठ में खंजर घोंप दिया।

He stabbed a dagger into his enemy's back.

Use of the compound verb 'घोंप दिया' for emphasis.

राजनीति में पीठ में खंजर घोंपना आम बात है।

Stabbing in the back is common in politics.

Idiomatic usage of the word.

शिकारी ने शेर से बचने के लिए खंजर का इस्तेमाल किया।

The hunter used a dagger to escape from the lion.

Using 'का इस्तेमाल करना' (to use).

इस पुराने खंजर की अपनी एक कहानी है।

This old dagger has a story of its own.

Personification of an object.

सिपाही ने खंजर से रस्सी काट दी।

The soldier cut the rope with a dagger.

Using 'से' to denote the instrument.

उसकी आँखों की चमक खंजर जैसी थी।

The glint in his eyes was like a dagger.

Comparative 'जैसी' used for a feminine noun 'चमक'.

डाकू ने खंजर दिखाकर सबको डरा दिया।

The bandit scared everyone by showing a dagger.

Participial construction 'दिखाकर' (by showing).

यह खंजर पीढ़ी दर पीढ़ी हमारे परिवार में रहा है।

This dagger has been in our family for generations.

Present perfect tense showing duration.

खंजर की मूठ पर हाथियों के चित्र उकेरे गए थे।

Drawings of elephants were carved on the hilt of the dagger.

Passive voice 'उकेरे गए थे'.

उसने अपनी सुरक्षा के लिए खंजर को हमेशा तैयार रखा।

He always kept the dagger ready for his safety.

Adverbial use of 'हमेशा तैयार'.

युद्ध के दौरान खंजर एक महत्वपूर्ण हथियार साबित हुआ।

During the war, the dagger proved to be an important weapon.

Using 'साबित हुआ' (proved to be).

उसकी तीखी बातों ने मेरे दिल पर खंजर का काम किया।

His sharp words acted like a dagger on my heart.

Metaphorical usage.

राजपूत योद्धा अपनी कमर में खंजर खोंसकर रखते थे।

Rajput warriors kept daggers tucked into their waists.

Specific verb 'खोंसना' (to tuck in).

संग्रहालय के अधिकारी ने खंजर की ऐतिहासिक महत्ता बताई।

The museum official explained the historical significance of the dagger.

Compound noun 'ऐतिहासिक महत्ता'.

खंजर की चमक से साफ़ था कि उसे हाल ही में तेज़ किया गया है।

It was clear from the dagger's shine that it had been recently sharpened.

Complex sentence with 'कि' clause.

उसने खंजर के प्रहार से खुद को बड़ी मुश्किल से बचाया।

He barely managed to save himself from the dagger's strike.

Using 'के प्रहार से' (from the blow of).

शायर ने महबूब की निगाहों को 'निगाह-ए-खंजर' का नाम दिया है।

The poet has named the beloved's gaze 'the dagger-glance'.

Literary Persianized Hindi construction.

इस खंजर की बनावट मध्यकालीन कारीगरी का एक उत्कृष्ट नमूना है।

The design of this dagger is an excellent specimen of medieval craftsmanship.

Advanced vocabulary: 'बनावट', 'उत्कृष्ट', 'नमूना'.

धोखे की उस घड़ी में, उसे लगा जैसे किसी ने उसके विश्वास पर खंजर चला दिया हो।

In that moment of betrayal, he felt as if someone had wielded a dagger against his trust.

Subjunctive mood 'चला दिया हो'.

खंजर का ज़िक्र आते ही ज़हन में वीरता और विश्वासघात के मिले-जुले भाव आते हैं।

As soon as a dagger is mentioned, mixed feelings of bravery and betrayal come to mind.

Participial phrase 'ज़िक्र आते ही'.

उसने अपनी वसीयत में वह पुश्तैनी खंजर अपने सबसे बड़े बेटे को देने का निर्णय लिया।

He decided to give that ancestral dagger to his eldest son in his will.

Formal vocabulary: 'वसीयत', 'पुश्तैनी', 'निर्णय'.

खंजर की धार जितनी तेज़ थी, उतनी ही ठंडी उसकी पकड़ थी।

As sharp as the dagger's edge was, just as cold was its grip.

Correlative structure 'जितनी... उतनी'.

इतिहासकारों के अनुसार, खंजर केवल एक हथियार नहीं बल्कि सामाजिक प्रतिष्ठा का प्रतीक भी था।

According to historians, the dagger was not just a weapon but also a symbol of social prestige.

Formal structure 'केवल... नहीं बल्कि... भी'.

उसकी लेखनी में वह धार थी जो किसी भी खंजर को मात दे सकती थी।

There was a sharpness in his writing that could outdo any dagger.

Metaphor comparing writing to a weapon.

ग़ालिब के कलाम में खंजर का प्रयोग अक्सर इश्क़ की जानलेवा कशिश को दर्शाने के लिए किया गया है।

In Ghalib's poetry, the use of the dagger is often employed to depict the lethal attraction of love.

High-level literary analysis.

खंजर के जौहर और उसकी आबदारी को परखना हर किसी के बस की बात नहीं थी।

Judging the pattern and luster of a dagger was not something everyone could do.

Archaic/specialized vocabulary 'जौहर', 'आबदारी'.

उसने अपनी भावनाओं को इस तरह संयमित किया जैसे म्यान के भीतर कोई खंजर शांत पड़ा हो।

He restrained his emotions in such a way, as if a dagger lay quietly within its sheath.

Sophisticated simile.

राजनीतिक पटल पर हुए इस औचक परिवर्तन ने मित्र राष्ट्रों के सीने में खंजर सा काम किया।

This sudden change on the political stage acted like a dagger in the chests of the allied nations.

Complex political metaphor.

खंजर की वक्रता और उसके संतुलन में छिपा विज्ञान प्राचीन भारतीय धातुकर्म की पराकाष्ठा है।

The science hidden in the curvature and balance of the dagger is the pinnacle of ancient Indian metallurgy.

Academic vocabulary 'वक्रता', 'धातुकर्म', 'पराकाष्ठा'.

सत्य का खंजर जब झूठ के आवरण को चीरता है, तब वास्तविकता का नग्न स्वरूप सामने आता है।

When the dagger of truth pierces the veil of lies, the naked form of reality emerges.

Abstract philosophical construction.

उसकी आवाज़ में वह खंजर जैसी काट थी जो सुनने वाले के अंतर्मन तक उतर जाती थी।

There was a dagger-like cutting edge in his voice that would descend into the listener's innermost self.

Deep psychological description.

इस महाकाव्य में खंजर को केवल विनाश का साधन नहीं, बल्कि न्याय की स्थापना का उपकरण माना गया है।

In this epic, the dagger is considered not just a means of destruction, but an instrument for establishing justice.

Formal literary critique.

Synonyms

कटार छुरा कृपाण जमधर असिपुत्री

Antonyms

ढाल म्यान

Common Collocations

तेज़ खंजर

सोने का खंजर

खंजर घोंपना

खंजर निकालना

खंजर की धार

खंजर की मूठ

खंजर चलाना

पुश्तैनी खंजर

खंजर का वार

खंजर छिपाना

Common Phrases

खंजर की नोक पर

— To do something under threat or force. Literally 'at the point of a dagger'.

उसने खंजर की नोक पर सारा धन लूट लिया।

खंजर जैसा

— Like a dagger; usually describing something sharp or piercing.

उसकी नज़रें खंजर जैसी तीखी थीं।

खंजर और तलवार

— Daggers and swords; often used to describe a collection of weapons.

महल की दीवारों पर खंजर और तलवारें सजी थीं।

खंजर की चमक

— The glint or shine of a dagger, often used to create suspense.

अँधेरे में खंजर की चमक दिखाई दी।

खंजर की चोट

— A wound from a dagger; often used metaphorically for emotional pain.

अपनों की बातें खंजर की चोट की तरह लगती हैं।

खंजर म्यान में

— The dagger in its sheath; implies potential power that is currently restrained.

जब तक खंजर म्यान में है, शांति बनी रहेगी।

खंजर से लैस

— Armed with a dagger.

वह सैनिक खंजर से लैस था।

खंजर का प्रहार

— A strike with a dagger.

उसने खंजर के एक ही प्रहार से रस्सी काट दी।

खंजर की तरह चुभना

— To prick or sting like a dagger; usually about words or memories.

उसकी यादें मेरे दिल में खंजर की तरह चुभती हैं।

खंजर उठाना

— To pick up a dagger; often implies starting a fight.

उसने अन्याय के खिलाफ खंजर उठाया।

Often Confused With

खंजर vs चाकू (Chaku)

A common knife for utility or cooking. 'Khanjar' is specifically a weapon.

खंजर vs तलवार (Talwar)

A long sword. 'Khanjar' is a short dagger.

खंजर vs कंजर (Kanjar)

A derogatory term; avoid this pronunciation.

Idioms & Expressions

"पीठ में खंजर घोंपना"

— To betray someone who trusts you. This is the most common idiom using this word.

मैंने उस पर भरोसा किया, लेकिन उसने मेरी पीठ में खंजर घोंप दिया।

Common/Informal

"दिल पर खंजर चलना"

— To feel extreme emotional pain or shock, as if the heart is being cut.

उसकी कड़वी बातें सुनकर मेरे दिल पर खंजर चल गया।

Literary/Poetic

"निगाहों का खंजर"

— A sharp, piercing, or captivating gaze that 'wounds' the observer emotionally.

उसकी निगाहों के खंजर से बचना मुश्किल है।

Poetic/Romantic

"खंजर की धार पर चलना"

— To take a very risky or dangerous path. Similar to 'walking on a razor's edge'.

यह व्यापार करना खंजर की धार पर चलने जैसा है।

Formal/Figurative

"ज़ुबान का खंजर"

— Using words as a weapon to hurt someone deeply.

कभी-कभी ज़ुबान का खंजर घाव से ज़्यादा गहरा होता है।

Literary

"खंजर आज़माना"

— To test one's weapon or, metaphorically, to test someone's patience or endurance.

वो हम पर अपना खंजर आज़मा रहे हैं।

Poetic

"खंजर तले होना"

— To be at someone's mercy or under their immediate threat.

पूरा शहर अब दुश्मनों के खंजर तले है।

Formal/Historical

"खंजर की नोक से लिखना"

— To achieve something through bravery or force; to write history with blood.

शहीदों ने देश का भाग्य खंजर की नोक से लिखा है।

Patriotic/Literary

"आस्तीन में खंजर छिपाना"

— To hide a treacherous intent behind a friendly appearance.

उससे सावधान रहो, वो आस्तीन में खंजर छिपाए रखता है।

Common

"खंजर का काम करना"

— To act as a sharp instrument of destruction or pain.

यह खबर उसके लिए खंजर का काम कर गई।

Neutral

Easily Confused

खंजर vs छुरा (Chura)

Both mean dagger/large knife.

Chura is more informal and can refer to a large butcher knife; Khanjar is more formal and historical.

डाकू ने छुरा निकाला, लेकिन राजा ने अपना शाही खंजर।

खंजर vs कटार (Katar)

Both are daggers.

Katar is a specific Indian punch-dagger with a horizontal handle; Khanjar is a curved dagger with a vertical handle.

उसके पास एक राजस्थानी कटार और एक ईरानी खंजर था।

खंजर vs कृपाण (Kripaan)

Both are daggers.

Kripaan is specifically a Sikh religious symbol; Khanjar is a general term.

सिख योद्धा ने अपनी कृपाण निकाली।

खंजर vs नश्तर (Nashtar)

Both are sharp instruments of pain.

Nashtar is a surgical lancet or a very small blade; Khanjar is a combat weapon.

डॉक्टर ने नश्तर का प्रयोग किया।

खंजर vs आरी (Aari)

Both are sharp metal tools.

Aari is a saw used for wood; Khanjar is a dagger.

बढ़ई ने आरी से लकड़ी काटी।

Sentence Patterns

यह [Noun] है।

यह खंजर है।

[Subject] के पास [Noun] है।

राजा के पास खंजर है।

[Subject] ने [Object] को [Verb] किया।

उसने खंजर को छिपा लिया।

[Noun] की [Property] बहुत [Adjective] है।

खंजर की धार बहुत तेज़ है।

[Subject] ने [Indirect Object] की पीठ में खंजर घोंप दिया।

उसने अपने दोस्त की पीठ में खंजर घोंप दिया।

जैसे ही [Action], वैसे ही [Result] खंजर की तरह...

जैसे ही उसने सच बोला, वो शब्द खंजर की तरह चुभे।

[Noun] केवल [X] नहीं, बल्कि [Y] भी है।

खंजर केवल हथियार नहीं, बल्कि कला भी है।

[Abstract Noun] का खंजर जब [Abstract Noun] को...

सत्य का खंजर जब झूठ को काटता है...

Word Family

Nouns

खंजर (Khanjar - Dagger)

खंजर-बरदार (Khanjar-bardar - Dagger-bearer, historical term)

Verbs

खंजर घोंपना (Khanjar ghonpna - To stab with a dagger)

खंजर चलाना (Khanjar chalana - To wield a dagger)

Adjectives

खंजरनुमा (Khanjarnuma - Dagger-like in shape)

म्यान (Sheath)

मूठ (Hilt)

धार (Edge)

हथियार (Weapon)

दुश्मनी (Enmity)

How to Use It

frequency

Occasional (Common in literature and media, rare in daily conversation).

Common Mistakes

Using 'khanjar' for a kitchen knife. → चाकू (Chaku)
A khanjar is a weapon of war or history, not a kitchen tool. You wouldn't use a combat dagger to cut a tomato.
Pronouncing it as 'kanjar'. → खंजर (Khanjar)
The 'kh' must be aspirated. 'Kanjar' is a derogatory slur in South Asia and should be strictly avoided.
Treating 'khanjar' as a feminine noun. → Masculine agreement (e.g., 'पुराना खंजर').
Hindi learners often think words ending in consonants are feminine, but 'khanjar' is masculine.
Confusing 'khanjar' with 'talwar'. → खंजर for dagger, तलवार for sword.
A sword is long; a khanjar is short. Using the wrong one can ruin the imagery of your sentence.
Saying 'खंजर के साथ मारना' for stabbing. → खंजर से मारना / खंजर घोंपना
In Hindi, we use the instrument marker 'से' (with/by) or the specific verb 'घोंपना' (to stab).

Tips

Master the 'KH'

The 'kh' in khanjar is a voiceless aspirated sound. Place the back of your tongue against the roof of your mouth and release a puff of air. This distinguishes it from the 'k' in 'kite' and prevents you from saying a derogatory slur.

Remember the Gender

Always treat 'khanjar' as masculine. If you are describing a sharp dagger, say 'तेज़ खंजर' (Tez khanjar). If it's a big dagger, say 'बड़ा खंजर' (Bada khanjar). Consistent gender agreement is key to sounding natural.

Context is King

Only use 'khanjar' for weapons or metaphors. For daily tools, stick to 'chaku'. Using 'khanjar' correctly shows that you understand the cultural and historical weight of Hindi words.

Learn the History

The khanjar was a status symbol. Knowing this helps you understand why it's often described with gold, jewels, or ivory in Hindi literature and movies.

The Backstabber

Memorize 'पीठ में खंजर घोंपना'. It's a powerful and common way to describe betrayal. Using it in a conversation will instantly boost your perceived fluency level.

Use in Descriptions

When writing stories, use the 'glint' (chamak) of a khanjar to create tension. 'अँधेरे में खंजर की चमक' is a classic suspenseful phrase in Hindi storytelling.

Watch Period Dramas

Watch shows like 'The Empire' or movies like 'Panipat'. You will hear the word 'khanjar' used frequently in its original historical and martial context.

Understand the Metaphor

In poetry, if someone says 'your look is a khanjar', they aren't being mean! They are saying your beauty is so sharp it pierces their heart. It's a compliment.

Khan + Jar

Think of a 'Khan' (ruler) keeping his daggers in a 'Jar'. It's a silly image, but it will help you remember the word 'Khanjar' forever.

Daily Usage

Try to spot the word in Hindi news headlines. Even if the story is about politics, the word 'khanjar' will often appear to describe a betrayal or a sharp move.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'KHAN' (a powerful leader) holding a 'JAR' of sharp daggers. KHAN + JAR = KHANJAR.

Visual Association

Visualize a bright, curved silver blade with a hilt shaped like the letter 'I'. See it tucked into the colorful sash of a Mughal prince.

Word Web

Weapon Curved Sharp Dagger History Betrayal Poetry Mughal

Challenge

Try to write three sentences: one about a museum, one about a king, and one about a 'backstabbing' friend using the word खंजर.

Word Origin

The word 'खंजर' comes from the Persian word 'khanjar' (خنجر), which itself has roots in Middle Persian and is related to the Arabic 'khanjar'. It entered Hindi through the influence of Persian-speaking courts in India during the medieval period.

Original meaning: A short, curved blade or dagger.

Indo-European (via Persian influence on Indo-Aryan Hindi).

Cultural Context

Be careful with the pronunciation to avoid 'kanjar', which is a caste-based slur. Always emphasize the aspirated 'kh'.

English speakers might associate the word with the Middle East or 'Aladdin' style imagery, but in Hindi, it has a specific South Asian historical context.

The national emblem of Oman features a khanjar. Mirza Ghalib's poetry often uses 'khanjar' metaphors. Bollywood movie 'Khanjar' (1980) features the weapon as a central plot point.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Historical Fiction

खंजर की चमक
कमर में खंजर
सोने की मूठ
पुश्तैनी हथियार

Poetry/Shayari

निगाह-ए-खंजर
दिल पर खंजर
कातिल खंजर
इश्क़ का खंजर

Betrayal/Drama

पीठ में खंजर
विश्वासघात
दोस्ती में खंजर
खंजर घोंपना

Museum/Tourism

प्राचीन खंजर
मुगलकालीन शस्त्र
प्रदर्शनी
कारीगरी

Action Movies

खंजर निकालना
हमला करना
बचाव
तेज़ धार

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपने कभी संग्रहालय में प्राचीन खंजर देखे हैं?"

"इतिहास की फिल्मों में खंजर का इस्तेमाल क्यों इतना ज़्यादा होता है?"

"क्या आपको 'पीठ में खंजर घोंपना' मुहावरे का अर्थ पता है?"

"पुरानी शायरी में खंजर का ज़िक्र किस तरह किया जाता है?"

"अगर आपको एक ऐतिहासिक खंजर मिले, तो आप उसका क्या करेंगे?"

Journal Prompts

किसी ऐसी फिल्म का वर्णन करें जिसमें खंजर का महत्वपूर्ण स्थान था।

क्या कभी किसी ने आपकी 'पीठ में खंजर घोंपा' है? उस अनुभव के बारे में लिखें।

अगर आप एक प्राचीन खंजर होते, तो आपने इतिहास की कौन सी घटनाएँ देखी होतीं?

खंजर और कलम की तुलना करते हुए एक छोटा लेख लिखें।

एक ऐसी कहानी लिखें जो एक रहस्यमयी खंजर के इर्द-गिर्द घूमती हो।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'khanjar' is never used for a kitchen knife in standard Hindi. You should use 'chaku' (चाकू) for that. Using 'khanjar' in the kitchen would sound very dramatic or strange, as if you are using a combat weapon to cut vegetables.

The word 'khanjar' is masculine. This means you use masculine adjectives (like 'पुराना' - old) and masculine verb endings (like 'गिरा' - fell). For example: 'मेरा खंजर खो गया' (My dagger is lost).

The most common idiom is 'पीठ में खंजर घोंपना' (peeth mein khanjar ghonpna), which literally means 'to stab a dagger in the back'. It is used to describe a deep betrayal by someone you trusted.

A 'talwar' is a long sword used with one or two hands for slashing. A 'khanjar' is a short dagger, usually curved, used for stabbing or close combat. A 'khanjar' is small enough to be tucked into a belt.

It is originally a Persian word that has been fully adopted into Hindi and Urdu. It is used so commonly that most native speakers consider it a part of their own language, though it is technically a loanword.

Yes, in a poetic context (Shayari). 'खंजर जैसी आँखें' (dagger-like eyes) is a common way to describe someone with a sharp, piercing, or captivating gaze that 'wounds' the heart of the lover.

No, you must be very careful. 'Kanjar' (without the 'h') is a derogatory term and a slur against a specific community. Always make sure to pronounce the 'kh' (ख) clearly to mean 'dagger'.

You can see real historical khanjars in major Indian museums like the National Museum in Delhi, the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad, or the City Palace museums in Rajasthan.

Not very often. Modern slang usually uses words like 'chaku' or 'ustara'. 'Khanjar' remains more associated with literature, history, and formal drama.

The suffix '-numa' means 'like' or 'resembling'. So, 'khanjar-numa' means 'dagger-like'. It can be used to describe anything that has the shape of a curved dagger.