पोशाक in 30 Seconds
- Means 'outfit', 'dress', or 'costume'.
- It is a feminine noun (स्त्रीलिंग).
- Used for special, formal, or traditional clothes.
- Different from 'कपड़े' which means everyday clothes.
The Hindi word पोशाक (poshak) is a feminine noun that fundamentally translates to 'outfit', 'dress', 'costume', or 'attire'. Unlike the generic word 'कपड़े' (kapde), which simply means 'clothes' or 'garments' and can refer to any piece of fabric worn on the body, पोशाक carries a much richer connotation. It implies a complete, coordinated set of clothing, often worn for a specific purpose, occasion, or role. When you use this word, you are painting a picture of a full ensemble rather than just a shirt or a pair of pants. This distinction is crucial for learners who want to elevate their Hindi vocabulary from basic survival phrases to more descriptive and culturally aware communication.
- Etymological Root
- Derived from Persian, where 'pushak' means garment or covering.
- Grammatical Gender
- Feminine (स्त्रीलिंग). This dictates that adjectives and verbs must agree with it, e.g., 'सुंदर पोशाक' (beautiful outfit) and 'पोशाक पहनी' (wore the outfit).
- Cultural Weight
- Often associated with traditional Indian wear, royal garments, or festive attire.
उसने दिवाली के लिए एक नई पोशाक खरीदी। (She bought a new outfit for Diwali.)
Understanding the nuances of this word requires looking at its common contexts. You will rarely hear someone call their gym clothes or sleepwear a 'poshak'. Instead, it is reserved for situations where appearance matters. For instance, a bride's wedding dress, a dancer's stage costume, or a king's royal robes are all perfectly described by this term. In literature and poetry, it is frequently used to describe the majestic appearance of characters, adding a layer of elegance and formality to the text.
राजा की पोशाक सोने के धागों से बनी थी। (The king's attire was made of gold threads.)
Furthermore, the word is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of South Asia. India is a land of diverse cultures, and each state has its own traditional attire. When discussing these regional garments—such as the Phiran of Kashmir, the Mekhela Chador of Assam, or the Kanjeevaram sarees of Tamil Nadu—the term 'पारंपरिक पोशाक' (traditional attire) is the most respectful and accurate descriptor. It acknowledges that the clothing is not just fabric, but a representation of heritage and identity.
- पारंपरिक पोशाक (Paaramparik Poshak)
- Traditional attire, often worn during festivals and cultural events.
- शाही पोशाक (Shahi Poshak)
- Royal attire, historically worn by kings, queens, and nobility.
- राष्ट्रीय पोशाक (Rashtriya Poshak)
- National dress, representing a country's cultural identity on a global stage.
स्वतंत्रता दिवस पर बच्चों ने विभिन्न राज्यों की पोशाक पहनी। (On Independence Day, children wore outfits of different states.)
In modern times, the usage has expanded slightly to include professional uniforms or specific dress codes, though words like 'वर्दी' (vardi - uniform) are more common for police or military attire. However, a 'school uniform' can sometimes be referred to as 'स्कूल की पोशाक', especially in formal written Hindi or school prospectuses. This demonstrates the word's versatility while maintaining its core meaning of a 'designated set of clothes'.
इस नाटक के लिए तुम्हारी पोशाक बहुत अच्छी है। (Your costume for this play is very good.)
To truly master this word, one must practice it in various contexts. Whether you are complimenting a friend's wedding dress, reading a historical novel, or discussing cultural heritage, knowing when and how to deploy this elegant noun will significantly enhance your Hindi proficiency. It bridges the gap between basic communication and expressive, culturally resonant language.
- Synonym Check: परिधान (Paridhan)
- A highly formal, Sanskritized synonym often used in news, literature, or high-end fashion boutiques.
- Synonym Check: लिबास (Libaas)
- An Urdu-origin synonym that carries a poetic, romantic, or philosophical tone, frequently found in Bollywood songs.
- Synonym Check: वेशभूषा (Veshbhusha)
- Refers to the entire 'getup' or costume, including accessories and makeup, often used in the context of theater or disguise.
विदूषक की पोशाक देखकर बच्चे हंसने लगे। (Seeing the clown's costume, the children started laughing.)
Using the word पोशाक correctly in Hindi requires a solid understanding of its grammatical properties, particularly its gender, and the specific verbs and adjectives that naturally collocate with it. As a feminine noun (स्त्रीलिंग), it dictates the gender of the words that interact with it in a sentence. This is a fundamental rule in Hindi grammar that learners must internalize to sound natural and fluent. Let us explore the mechanics of using this elegant word in everyday and formal contexts.
- Adjective Agreement
- Adjectives ending in 'आ' (aa) must change to 'ई' (ee). For example, 'नया' (new) becomes 'नई पोशाक'.
- Possessive Pronouns
- Use feminine possessives: 'मेरी' (my), 'तुम्हारी' (your), 'उसकी' (his/her), 'हमारी' (our).
- Verb Agreement
- In past tense with 'ने' (ne), the verb agrees with the object. 'राम ने पोशाक खरीदी' (Ram bought the outfit).
यह मेरी सबसे पसंदीदा पोशाक है। (This is my most favorite outfit.)
When it comes to verbs, there are several common actions associated with clothing. The most frequent is 'पहनना' (to wear or put on). You can say 'पोशाक पहनना' (to wear an outfit). When taking off the outfit, the verb is 'उतारना' (to take off). If you are changing your outfit, you use 'बदलना' (to change). For the creation of the outfit, the verb 'सिलना' (to sew/stitch) or 'बनवाना' (to get made) is used. These verb pairings are essential for constructing meaningful sentences.
पार्टी के बाद उसने अपनी पोशाक बदल ली। (After the party, she changed her outfit.)
Adjectives play a massive role in bringing this word to life. Because it refers to an ensemble, descriptive words often focus on the style, origin, or aesthetic quality of the clothes. Common adjectives include 'सुंदर' (beautiful), 'आकर्षक' (attractive), 'पारंपरिक' (traditional), 'आधुनिक' (modern), 'रंगीन' (colorful), and 'कीमती' (expensive/precious). By combining these adjectives with the correct verbs, you can create highly descriptive and engaging sentences.
- Describing Style
- आधुनिक पोशाक (Modern outfit), पश्चिमी पोशाक (Western outfit), देसी पोशाक (Local/Indian outfit).
- Describing Quality
- रेशमी पोशाक (Silken outfit), सूती पोशाक (Cotton outfit), मखमली पोशाक (Velvet outfit).
- Describing Purpose
- शादी की पोशाक (Wedding outfit), नृत्य की पोशाक (Dance costume), खेल की पोशाक (Sports attire).
दुल्हन की पोशाक बहुत कीमती और भारी थी। (The bride's outfit was very expensive and heavy.)
In formal writing or polite conversation, using this word elevates your tone. If you receive an invitation to a formal event, the dress code might be mentioned using this term. For example, 'कृपया औपचारिक पोशाक में आएं' (Please come in formal attire). This sounds much more refined than saying 'औपचारिक कपड़े पहन कर आएं'. It shows a mastery of register—knowing which words belong in casual chats and which belong in formal discourse.
समारोह के लिए सभी अतिथियों ने सफेद पोशाक पहनी थी। (For the ceremony, all guests wore white attire.)
Finally, let's look at pluralization. The plural form is 'पोशाकें' (poshakein). When talking about a collection of outfits, a wardrobe, or the costumes of a group of people, the plural form is used. For example, 'दुकान में कई सुंदर पोशाकें थीं' (There were many beautiful outfits in the shop). Notice the nasalized 'ें' at the end, which is standard for feminine nouns ending in a consonant in Hindi. Mastering both the singular and plural forms, along with their gender agreements, will make your Hindi sound polished and native-like.
- Singular vs Plural
- एक पोशाक (One outfit) vs. अनेक पोशाकें (Many outfits).
- Oblique Case (Singular)
- पोशाक का/की/के (Of the outfit), पोशाक में (In the outfit).
- Oblique Case (Plural)
- पोशाकों का/की/के (Of the outfits), पोशाकों में (In the outfits).
इन सभी पोशाकों में से तुम्हें कौन सी पसंद है? (Out of all these outfits, which one do you like?)
The word पोशाक is ubiquitous in Hindi-speaking regions, but it tends to appear in specific social, cultural, and media contexts. Because it denotes a complete or special outfit rather than just everyday clothes, you are most likely to hear it when appearance, tradition, or performance is the focal point. Understanding these contexts will help you not only recognize the word but also know exactly when it is appropriate to use it yourself.
- Weddings and Festivals
- During Diwali, Eid, or big Indian weddings, discussing what one is going to wear is a major topic of conversation.
- Historical Dramas and Cinema
- Bollywood movies, especially period pieces, frequently use this word to describe the elaborate costumes of the characters.
- Fashion and Retail
- High-end boutiques and fashion designers use it to market their complete ensembles.
फिल्म 'पद्मावत' में अभिनेत्रियों की पोशाकें बेहद शानदार थीं। (In the movie 'Padmaavat', the actresses' costumes were absolutely magnificent.)
One of the most common places you will hear this word is during wedding preparations. Indian weddings are grand affairs with multiple ceremonies (Haldi, Mehndi, Sangeet, Shaadi, Reception), and each event often requires a different, elaborate outfit. Relatives and friends will frequently ask, 'शादी के लिए तुम्हारी पोशाक कैसी है?' (How is your outfit for the wedding?) or 'क्या तुमने अपनी पोशाक तय कर ली?' (Have you decided on your outfit?). In this context, the word carries excitement, anticipation, and a sense of celebration.
दादी ने मुझे जन्मदिन पर एक रेशमी पोशाक उपहार में दी। (Grandmother gifted me a silken outfit on my birthday.)
Another prominent domain is the performing arts. Whether it is a school play, a classical Bharatanatyam dance recital, or a professional theater production, the costumes are a vital part of the performance. Directors, choreographers, and actors will constantly discuss the 'पोशाक'. You might hear a dance teacher say, 'नृत्य के लिए सभी की पोशाक एक जैसी होनी चाहिए' (Everyone's costume for the dance must be identical). Here, the word translates perfectly to 'costume', emphasizing uniformity, character portrayal, and visual impact.
- School Plays
- Parents discussing their children's costumes for annual day functions.
- Classical Dance
- Specific, highly codified attire required for traditional Indian dance forms.
- Fancy Dress Competitions
- A popular school event in India where children dress up in various costumes.
फैंसी ड्रेस प्रतियोगिता में उसने एक परी की पोशाक पहनी थी। (In the fancy dress competition, she wore a fairy's costume.)
You will also encounter this word frequently in literature, news media, and formal invitations. When a newspaper reports on a cultural parade, such as the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, journalists will describe the 'रंग-बिरंगी पोशाकें' (colorful attire) of the participants. In formal event invitations, a dress code might be specified as 'भारतीय पारंपरिक पोशाक' (Indian traditional attire). Reading Hindi literature, you will find authors using it to paint vivid descriptions of their characters, setting the scene and the era through the details of their garments.
प्रधानमंत्री ने आज पूर्वोत्तर राज्य की पारंपरिक पोशाक धारण की थी। (The Prime Minister donned the traditional attire of the northeastern state today.)
Finally, in the booming Indian fashion and retail industry, this word is a staple. While English words like 'outfit' and 'dress' are heavily used in urban centers, Hindi advertisements, boutique signboards, and online shopping platforms targeting a broader demographic will proudly use 'पोशाक'. You might see a shop named 'राजपूती पोशाक केंद्र' (Rajputi Outfit Center), specializing in the traditional wear of Rajasthan. Understanding this word helps you navigate local markets, appreciate cultural nuances, and engage more deeply with the vibrant world of Indian textiles and fashion.
- Boutiques
- Signboards advertising custom tailoring and ethnic wear.
- E-commerce
- Categories on Hindi versions of shopping apps for ethnic ensembles.
- Advertisements
- Festive season commercials promoting new clothing collections.
इस दुकान में महिलाओं की पोशाकों का बहुत अच्छा संग्रह है। (This shop has a very good collection of women's outfits.)
When learning a new language, making mistakes is a natural part of the process. However, being aware of common pitfalls can significantly accelerate your fluency. With the word पोशाक, learners frequently stumble over a few specific areas: gender agreement, confusing it with similar words, and misjudging the appropriate context for its use. Let's break down these common errors so you can avoid them and speak Hindi with greater confidence and accuracy.
- Error 1: Wrong Gender
- Treating it as a masculine noun (using 'मेरा' instead of 'मेरी').
- Error 2: Overuse for Casual Wear
- Using it to describe everyday, mundane clothing like pajamas or gym wear.
- Error 3: Confusing with 'कपड़ा'
- Using it to mean a piece of raw fabric or cloth, rather than a stitched outfit.
❌ गलत (Wrong): यह मेरा नया पोशाक है।
✅ सही (Right): यह मेरी नई पोशाक है।
The most frequent and noticeable mistake is getting the grammatical gender wrong. Because many common Hindi words for clothes (like कपड़ा - kapda, जूता - joota, कुर्ता - kurta) are masculine, learners often assume this word is masculine too. This leads to sentences like 'मेरा पोशाक अच्छा है' (My outfit is good), which sounds immediately incorrect to a native speaker. You must train your brain to link this word with feminine markers: मेरी (meri), अच्छी (achchi), नई (nai), सुंदर (sundar - gender neutral but takes feminine verbs). Consistent practice with feminine adjectives is the key to overcoming this hurdle.
❌ गलत: उसने लाल पोशाक पहना।
✅ सही: उसने लाल पोशाक पहनी।
Another common mistake is a semantic one: using the word in the wrong context. As established, this word implies a complete, often special, ensemble. If you are talking about doing the laundry, you should not say 'मैं अपनी पोशाकें धो रहा हूँ' (I am washing my outfits) unless you are literally a theater actor washing your stage costumes. For everyday laundry, the correct word is 'कपड़े' (kapde - clothes). Using 'पोशाक' for dirty socks, old t-shirts, or casual home wear sounds overly dramatic and slightly comical in Hindi.
- Context: Laundry
- Use 'कपड़े' (kapde). 'मुझे कपड़े धोने हैं' (I have to wash clothes).
- Context: Buying Fabric
- Use 'कपड़ा' (kapda). 'मुझे शर्ट के लिए कपड़ा चाहिए' (I need cloth for a shirt).
- Context: Wedding Attire
- Use 'पोशाक' (poshak). 'शादी की पोशाक बहुत सुंदर है' (The wedding outfit is very beautiful).
❌ गलत: मैं सोने के लिए अपनी पोशाक पहन रहा हूँ। (I am putting on my outfit to sleep.)
✅ सही: मैं सोने के लिए अपने कपड़े बदल रहा हूँ। (I am changing my clothes to sleep.)
Learners also sometimes confuse this word with 'पहनावा' (pehnawa). While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. 'पहनावा' refers more broadly to a style of dressing or the general clothing habits of a region or group of people. For example, 'राजस्थान का पहनावा बहुत रंगीन है' (The dressing style of Rajasthan is very colorful). You wouldn't usually say 'राजस्थान की पोशाक बहुत रंगीन है' unless you are referring to one specific traditional outfit. 'पोशाक' is a countable noun referring to specific sets of clothes, whereas 'पहनावा' is an uncountable concept of fashion or style.
❌ गलत: पुलिस की पोशाक खाकी रंग की होती है।
✅ सही: पुलिस की वर्दी खाकी रंग की होती है।
By paying attention to these nuances—respecting the feminine gender, reserving the word for complete or special ensembles, and distinguishing it from general fabric, dressing styles, or strict uniforms—you will use पोशाक exactly like a native speaker. It is a beautiful word that adds color and precision to your Hindi, provided it is used in the right place and with the right grammar.
- Summary of Fixes
- Check your adjectives (ई ending). Check your verbs (ई ending in past tense with 'ने'). Check your context (is it a special outfit or just a t-shirt?).
✅ सही उपयोग: नर्तकी ने अपने प्रदर्शन के लिए एक नई पोशाक बनवाई है। (The dancer has got a new costume made for her performance.)
The Hindi language is incredibly rich, drawing vocabulary from Sanskrit, Persian, Arabic, and regional dialects. Because of this, there are many words related to clothing, dressing, and attire. While पोशाक is a fantastic and versatile word, knowing its synonyms and related terms will allow you to express yourself with greater precision and adapt your tone to different situations, whether you are writing a formal essay, reading a poem, or chatting with friends.
- कपड़े (Kapde) - Clothes
- The most common, everyday word for clothes. Masculine plural. Used for anything you wear.
- परिधान (Paridhan) - Attire/Garment
- A highly formal, Sanskrit-derived word. Masculine. Used in literature, news, and formal invitations.
- वेशभूषा (Veshbhusha) - Costume/Getup
- Feminine. Refers to the entire appearance, including clothes, makeup, and accessories. Often used for cultural or theatrical dress.
तुलना: मैंने कपड़े पहने (I wore clothes) vs. मैंने पोशाक पहनी (I wore an outfit).
Let us start with the most basic alternative: 'कपड़े' (kapde). This is the plural of 'कपड़ा' (kapda - cloth). This is your go-to word for 90% of daily conversations. 'मेरे कपड़े कहाँ हैं?' (Where are my clothes?), 'कपड़े धो लो' (Wash the clothes). It lacks the elegance and specificity of 'पोशाक'. If you want to sound formal or emphasize that the clothing is a coordinated set, you upgrade from 'कपड़े' to 'पोशाक'.
भारतीय परिधान विश्व भर में अपनी सुंदरता के लिए प्रसिद्ध हैं। (Indian attire is famous worldwide for its beauty.)
For formal writing, journalism, or high-end fashion, the Sanskrit word 'परिधान' (paridhan) is frequently used. Unlike 'पोशाक', which is feminine, 'परिधान' is a masculine noun. You will see this word on the signboards of expensive boutiques (e.g., 'उत्कृष्ट परिधान' - Exquisite Garments) or in news reports about cultural festivals. It carries a sense of dignity and tradition. Another beautiful, formal word is 'वस्त्र' (vastr), which is also Sanskrit-derived and means garment or cloth, often used in religious or highly literary contexts (e.g., 'साधु के वस्त्र' - a sage's garments).
- लिबास (Libaas) - Dress/Attire
- An Urdu word, masculine. Very poetic, often used in songs and poetry to describe someone's elegant dress.
- पहनावा (Pehnawa) - Dressing Style
- Masculine. Refers to the general style or habit of dressing of a particular region or culture.
- वर्दी (Vardi) - Uniform
- Feminine. Strictly used for official uniforms like police, military, or school.
उसका सादा लिबास भी बहुत आकर्षक था। (Even her simple attire was very attractive.)
If you are listening to Bollywood music or reading Urdu poetry (Shayari), you will undoubtedly encounter the word 'लिबास' (libaas). It shares the exact same meaning as 'पोशाक' but brings a romantic, lyrical flavor to the sentence. It is a masculine noun. For example, a poet might write about a lover's 'सफेद लिबास' (white dress). Understanding 'लिबास' helps you appreciate the poetic side of the Hindustani language spectrum.
नाटक में राम की वेशभूषा बहुत सजीव लग रही थी। (In the play, Ram's getup looked very lifelike.)
Lastly, it is important to distinguish 'पोशाक' from 'पहनावा' (pehnawa). While 'पोशाक' is a specific outfit you can touch and wear, 'पहनावा' is the abstract concept of dressing style. You can say, 'मुझे इस शहर का पहनावा पसंद है' (I like the dressing style of this city). You cannot wear a 'पहनावा', but you can wear a 'पोशाक' that reflects a certain 'पहनावा'. By mastering these subtle distinctions, your Hindi vocabulary will become not just larger, but significantly more accurate and expressive.
- Quick Recap
- Everyday = कपड़े. Outfit/Costume = पोशाक. Formal/Academic = परिधान. Poetic = लिबास. Entire Getup = वेशभूषा. Uniform = वर्दी.
सैनिक अपनी वर्दी पर गर्व करते हैं। (Soldiers take pride in their uniform.)
How Formal Is It?
Difficulty Rating
Grammar to Know
Feminine noun adjective agreement (आ -> ई)
Past tense verb agreement with 'ने' (ne) for transitive verbs
Pluralization of feminine nouns ending in consonants (add ें)
Oblique case pluralization (add ों)
Use of compound verbs (e.g., पहन लेना, बदल लेना)
Examples by Level
यह मेरी नई पोशाक है।
This is my new outfit.
Uses feminine pronoun 'मेरी' (meri) and adjective 'नई' (nai) to agree with 'पोशाक'.
मुझे यह पोशाक पसंद है।
I like this outfit.
Simple expression of liking using 'मुझे ... पसंद है'.
तुम्हारी पोशाक सुंदर है।
Your outfit is beautiful.
'सुंदर' (sundar) is an adjective that does not change form for gender.
मैं लाल पोशाक पहनूँगी।
I will wear a red outfit.
Future tense verb 'पहनूँगी' (pahanungi) for a female speaker.
क्या यह पोशाक तुम्हारी है?
Is this outfit yours?
Question structure using 'क्या' at the beginning.
यह पोशाक बहुत बड़ी है।
This outfit is very big.
Feminine adjective 'बड़ी' (badi) agreeing with the noun.
दुकान में अच्छी पोशाक है।
There is a good outfit in the shop.
Basic location sentence using 'में' (in).
वह पोशाक साफ है।
That outfit is clean.
'साफ' (saaf) means clean, an invariant adjective.
उसने शादी के लिए एक महँगी पोशाक खरीदी।
She bought an expensive outfit for the wedding.
Past tense with 'ने' (ne). The verb 'खरीदी' (kharidi) is feminine to match 'पोशाक'.
दिवाली पर हम नई पोशाकें पहनते हैं।
We wear new outfits on Diwali.
Plural form 'पोशाकें' (poshakein) is used here.
दर्जी मेरी पोशाक सिल रहा है।
The tailor is stitching my outfit.
Present continuous tense 'सिल रहा है' (is stitching).
क्या तुमने अपनी पोशाक बदल ली?
Have you changed your outfit?
Compound verb 'बदल ली' (changed) agreeing with the feminine object.
बच्चों की पोशाकें बहुत रंगीन हैं।
The children's outfits are very colorful.
Possessive 'की' (ki) is used because the possessed object (पोशाकें) is feminine.
मुझे कल के नाटक के लिए पोशाक चाहिए।
I need a costume for tomorrow's play.
Using 'चाहिए' (chahiye) to express need.
उसकी पोशाक का रंग नीला है।
The color of her outfit is blue.
Using 'का' (ka) because 'रंग' (color) is masculine, despite 'पोशाक' being feminine.
कृपया अपनी पोशाक साफ रखें।
Please keep your outfit clean.
Imperative sentence using 'कृपया' (please) and 'रखें' (keep).
पारंपरिक पोशाक पहनकर वह बहुत सुंदर लग रही थी।
Wearing traditional attire, she was looking very beautiful.
Use of conjunctive participle 'पहनकर' (having worn / wearing).
इस समारोह के लिए औपचारिक पोशाक पहनना अनिवार्य है।
It is mandatory to wear formal attire for this function.
Formal vocabulary: 'औपचारिक' (formal) and 'अनिवार्य' (mandatory).
अभिनेता ने अपनी ऐतिहासिक पोशाक में शानदार प्रदर्शन किया।
The actor gave a brilliant performance in his historical costume.
Use of 'ऐतिहासिक' (historical) as an adjective.
विभिन्न राज्यों की पोशाकें वहाँ की संस्कृति को दर्शाती हैं।
The outfits of different states reflect their culture.
Complex sentence connecting clothing to culture using 'दर्शाती हैं' (reflect/show).
मुझे अपनी पुरानी पोशाकों को दान करना है।
I have to donate my old outfits.
Oblique plural 'पोशाकों' (poshakon) before the postposition 'को'.
क्या आप बता सकते हैं कि यह पोशाक किस कपड़े से बनी है?
Can you tell me what fabric this outfit is made of?
Distinguishing between 'पोशाक' (outfit) and 'कपड़े' (fabric/material) in the same sentence.
नर्तकियों की पोशाकें मंच पर बहुत आकर्षक लग रही थीं।
The dancers' costumes were looking very attractive on the stage.
Past continuous tense in plural feminine 'लग रही थीं'.
उसने अपनी पोशाक के साथ मेल खाते हुए जूते पहने।
He wore shoes matching with his outfit.
Use of phrase 'के साथ मेल खाते हुए' (matching with).
स्वतंत्रता दिवस की परेड में विविधता से भरी पोशाकें भारत की अखंडता का प्रतीक हैं।
The diverse outfits in the Independence Day parade are a symbol of India's integrity.
Advanced vocabulary: 'विविधता' (diversity), 'अखंडता' (integrity), 'प्रतीक' (symbol).
फैशन डिज़ाइनर ने आधुनिक और पारंपरिक शैलियों को मिलाकर एक नई पोशाक तैयार की है।
The fashion designer has created a new outfit by blending modern and traditional styles.
Use of 'मिलाकर' (having mixed/blended) to show combination of styles.
हालांकि उसकी पोशाक साधारण थी, लेकिन उसका व्यक्तित्व बहुत प्रभावशाली था।
Although his attire was simple, his personality was very impressive.
Complex sentence structure using 'हालांकि... लेकिन' (Although... but).
ऐतिहासिक फिल्मों में पात्रों की पोशाकें उस युग की प्रामाणिकता को स्थापित करने में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाती हैं।
In historical films, the costumes of the characters play an important role in establishing the authenticity of that era.
Academic phrasing: 'प्रामाणिकता को स्थापित करने में' (in establishing authenticity).
मौसम के अनुकूल पोशाक का चयन करना स्वास्थ्य के लिए लाभदायक होता है।
Choosing an outfit suited to the weather is beneficial for health.
Use of 'के अनुकूल' (suited to / according to).
विदेशी पर्यटकों को भारतीय पोशाकें पहनकर तस्वीरें खिंचवाना बहुत भाता है।
Foreign tourists really enjoy taking pictures wearing Indian outfits.
Use of the verb 'भाता है' (appeals to / is pleasing to).
कठोर नियमों वाले इस विद्यालय में निर्धारित पोशाक के बिना प्रवेश वर्जित है।
In this school with strict rules, entry without the prescribed attire is prohibited.
Formal administrative language: 'निर्धारित' (prescribed), 'वर्जित' (prohibited).
उसकी शाही पोशाक पर जड़े हुए कीमती पत्थर रोशनी में चमक रहे थे।
The precious stones studded on his royal attire were shining in the light.
Descriptive imagery using 'जड़े हुए' (studded) and 'कीमती पत्थर' (precious stones).
सांस्कृतिक वैश्वीकरण के इस युग में, अपनी क्षेत्रीय पोशाक को सहेजना अस्मिता का प्रश्न बन गया है।
In this era of cultural globalization, preserving one's regional attire has become a question of identity.
High-level vocabulary: 'वैश्वीकरण' (globalization), 'अस्मिता' (identity).
लेखक ने नायक की फटी-पुरानी पोशाक के माध्यम से समाज की आर्थिक विषमताओं पर तीखा व्यंग्य किया है।
Through the protagonist's torn and old outfit, the author has made a biting satire on the economic disparities of society.
Literary analysis terminology: 'तीखा व्यंग्य' (biting satire), 'आर्थिक विषमताओं' (economic disparities).
राज्याभिषेक के अवसर पर राजा की पोशाक इतनी भव्य थी कि देखने वालों की आँखें चौंधिया गईं।
On the occasion of the coronation, the king's attire was so grand that the onlookers' eyes were dazzled.
Idiomatic expression: 'आँखें चौंधिया जाना' (eyes getting dazzled).
वेशभूषा और पोशाक केवल शरीर ढकने का साधन नहीं, बल्कि किसी सभ्यता के क्रमिक विकास का दर्पण होते हैं।
Costume and attire are not merely a means to cover the body, but are a mirror to the gradual evolution of a civilization.
Philosophical/sociological statement using 'क्रमिक विकास' (gradual evolution) and 'दर्पण' (mirror).
उसने अपनी सादगीपूर्ण पोशाक से यह सिद्ध कर दिया कि गरिमा महँगे वस्त्रों की मोहताज नहीं होती।
With her simple attire, she proved that dignity is not dependent on expensive garments.
Advanced phrasing: 'मोहताज नहीं होती' (is not dependent on / at the mercy of).
संग्रहालय में प्रदर्शित मुग़लकालीन पोशाकें उस समय की उत्कृष्ट हस्तकला का जीवंत प्रमाण हैं।
The Mughal-era outfits displayed in the museum are a living proof of the exquisite handicraft of that time.
Historical context using 'मुग़लकालीन' (Mughal-era) and 'उत्कृष्ट हस्तकला' (exquisite handicraft).
रंगमंच पर प्रकाश व्यवस्था और अभिनेताओं की पोशाकों का अद्भुत सामंजस्य नाटक को जीवंत बना रहा था।
The wonderful harmony of the lighting and the actors' costumes on stage was bringing the play to life.
Theatrical terminology: 'रंगमंच' (stage), 'प्रकाश व्यवस्था' (lighting), 'सामंजस्य' (harmony).
विवाह के रीति-रिवाजों में पोशाक का रंग और उसकी बनावट विशिष्ट सांस्कृतिक मान्यताओं को रेखांकित करती है।
In wedding rituals, the color and texture of the outfit underscore specific cultural beliefs.
Academic phrasing: 'विशिष्ट सांस्कृतिक मान्यताओं को रेखांकित करती है' (underscores specific cultural beliefs).
इस महाकाव्य में वर्णित सामंती युग की पोशाकों का सूक्ष्म विवरण तत्कालीन समाज की पदानुक्रमित संरचना को उद्घाटित करता है।
The meticulous description of the feudal era's outfits described in this epic reveals the hierarchical structure of the contemporary society.
Highly academic vocabulary: 'सामंती युग' (feudal era), 'पदानुक्रमित संरचना' (hierarchical structure), 'उद्घाटित करता है' (reveals).
आधुनिकता की अंधी दौड़ में पारंपरिक पोशाकों का विलुप्त होना महज़ वस्त्रों का नहीं, अपितु एक पूरी जीवन-पद्धति का अवसान है।
In the blind race of modernity, the disappearance of traditional outfits is not merely the end of garments, but the demise of an entire way of life.
Philosophical discourse: 'अंधी दौड़' (blind race), 'जीवन-पद्धति का अवसान' (demise of a way of life).
कवि ने नायिका की श्वेत पोशाक को उसकी आत्मा की निर्मलता और पवित्रता के रूपक के तौर पर प्रयुक्त किया है।
The poet has used the heroine's white attire as a metaphor for the purity and immaculateness of her soul.
Literary criticism terminology: 'रूपक के तौर पर प्रयुक्त किया है' (used as a metaphor).
औपनिवेशिक काल में स्वदेशी पोशाक धारण करना ब्रिटिश साम्राज्यवाद के विरुद्ध एक मूक परंतु सशक्त विद्रोह का प्रतीक बन गया था।
During the colonial period, wearing indigenous attire had become a symbol of a silent yet powerful rebellion against British imperialism.
Historical/Political context: 'औपनिवेशिक काल' (colonial period), 'साम्राज्यवाद' (imperialism), 'मूक परंतु सशक्त विद्रोह' (silent yet powerful rebellion).
परिधानों के समाजशास्त्र का अध्ययन यह स्पष्ट करता है कि पोशाकें किस प्रकार सत्ता, लिंग और वर्ग के जटिल समीकरणों को बुनती हैं।
The study of the sociology of garments clarifies how outfits weave the complex equations of power, gender, and class.
Sociological academic phrasing: 'समाजशास्त्र' (sociology), 'जटिल समीकरणों को बुनती हैं' (weave complex equations).
उसकी विरक्त वेशभूषा और मलिन पोशाक इस बात की साक्षी थी कि उसने सांसारिक मोह-माया को पूर्णतः त्याग दिया है।
His detached getup and soiled attire were a witness to the fact that he had completely renounced worldly illusions.
Spiritual/Literary vocabulary: 'विरक्त' (detached), 'मलिन' (soiled), 'सांसारिक मोह-माया' (worldly illusions).
वैश्वीकृत बाज़ारवाद ने पारंपरिक पोशाकों को उनके सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ से काटकर महज़ एक उपभोज्य वस्तु में तब्दील कर दिया है।
Globalized consumerism has severed traditional outfits from their cultural context, transforming them into mere consumable commodities.
Economic/Cultural critique: 'बाज़ारवाद' (consumerism/marketism), 'उपभोज्य वस्तु' (consumable commodity).
साहित्यिक कृतियों में पोशाक का मानवीकरण अक्सर निर्जीव वस्तुओं के माध्यम से मानवीय संवेदनाओं को मुखरित करने की एक उत्कृष्ट युक्ति है।
The personification of an outfit in literary works is often an excellent device to articulate human sensibilities through inanimate objects.
Advanced literary theory: 'मानवीकरण' (personification), 'मानवीय संवेदनाओं को मुखरित करना' (articulate human sensibilities).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
Idioms & Expressions
Easily Confused
Sentence Patterns
How to Use It
Implies a complete set or a coordinated look, not just a single piece of clothing.
Slightly more formal and specific than 'कपड़े'. Suitable for polite conversation.
Understood across all Hindi-speaking regions, though Urdu speakers might prefer 'लिबास'.
- Using masculine adjectives (मेरा पोशाक instead of मेरी पोशाक).
- Using it to describe doing laundry (मैं पोशाक धो रहा हूँ instead of मैं कपड़े धो रहा हूँ).
- Using it for raw fabric (मुझे शर्ट की पोशाक चाहिए instead of मुझे शर्ट का कपड़ा चाहिए).
- Using masculine verbs in past tense (उसने पोशाक पहना instead of उसने पोशाक पहनी).
- Confusing it with 'वर्दी' for police or school uniforms in strict contexts.
Tips
Always Feminine
Never forget that 'पोशाक' is a feminine noun. Train yourself to always say 'मेरी पोशाक' (my outfit) and never 'मेरा पोशाक'. This single correction will make your Hindi sound much more native.
Upgrade from Kapde
If you are talking about a special event, stop using 'कपड़े' (clothes) and start using 'पोशाक' (outfit). It shows that you have a deeper, more nuanced vocabulary and understand cultural contexts.
Complimenting
Use this word to give compliments. 'तुम्हारी पोशाक अच्छी है' (Your outfit is nice) is a great icebreaker at Indian weddings or parties. It shows you notice their effort in dressing up.
Watch Period Dramas
To really get a feel for this word, watch Bollywood historical movies like 'Jodhaa Akbar' or 'Padmaavat'. You will hear characters constantly discussing royal 'पोशाकें', which will cement the word in your memory.
Descriptive Writing
When writing a story in Hindi, use 'पोशाक' combined with colorful adjectives to describe your characters. Instead of saying 'उसने लाल कपड़े पहने थे', write 'उसने एक सुंदर लाल पोशाक पहनी थी'.
Traditional Context
Remember the phrase 'पारंपरिक पोशाक' (traditional attire). It is a highly respectful term used to describe the ethnic wear of different Indian states. Use it when discussing cultural diversity.
Past Tense Agreement
In the past tense with 'ने' (ne), the verb must end in 'ई' (ee) to match the feminine 'पोशाक'. For example: राम ने पोशाक खरीदी (Ram bought the outfit). The verb matches the outfit, not Ram.
Synonym Awareness
If you are reading a newspaper, you might see 'परिधान' instead of 'पोशाक'. Do not get confused; they mean the same thing, but 'परिधान' is just the formal, Sanskritized version.
Not for Laundry
Do not use 'पोशाक' when talking about doing chores. You wash 'कपड़े' (clothes), not 'पोशाकें' (outfits), unless you are specifically washing delicate party wear.
Soft 'Sh'
Pronounce the 'श' (sh) softly, like in the English word 'shoe'. The emphasis is slightly on the second syllable: po-SHAAK. Practice saying it aloud to get the rhythm right.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'POSH' person wearing a very expensive 'SHOCK'ing outfit. POSH-SHOCK -> Poshak (Outfit).
Word Origin
Persian
Cultural Context
The bride and groom's outfits are central to Indian wedding discussions.
Highly relevant during Diwali, Eid, and Navratri when buying new outfits is customary.
India has 28 states, each with its own unique 'पारंपरिक पोशाक' (traditional attire).
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Conversation Starters
"शादी के लिए आपकी पोशाक कैसी है?"
"क्या आपको भारतीय पारंपरिक पोशाक पहनना पसंद है?"
"इस राज्य की मुख्य पोशाक क्या है?"
"आपने यह सुंदर पोशाक कहाँ से खरीदी?"
"नाटक में आपकी पोशाक किस रंग की होगी?"
Journal Prompts
Describe your favorite outfit (पोशाक) in detail.
Write about the traditional attire of your home country.
How does a person's outfit influence our first impression of them?
Describe the costumes you saw in a recent movie or play.
Why is it important to preserve traditional clothing?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe word 'पोशाक' is a feminine noun (स्त्रीलिंग) in Hindi. This is a very important rule to remember. Because it is feminine, all adjectives describing it must also be in their feminine form. For example, you must say 'नई पोशाक' (new outfit) and not 'नया पोशाक'. Similarly, verbs in the past tense with 'ने' will take the feminine ending, like 'मैंने पोशाक पहनी' (I wore the outfit).
'कपड़े' (kapde) is the generic word for clothes and can refer to anything you wear, from socks to a t-shirt. It is what you wash when doing laundry. 'पोशाक' (poshak), on the other hand, refers to a complete outfit, dress, or costume. It is usually reserved for special occasions, traditional wear, or coordinated ensembles. You wear 'कपड़े' at home, but you wear a 'पोशाक' to a wedding.
Yes, you can use it for a school uniform, especially in formal written Hindi. A school prospectus might refer to the uniform as 'विद्यालय की पोशाक'. However, in everyday spoken Hindi, the English word 'uniform' or the Hindi word 'वर्दी' (vardi) is much more commonly used. 'वर्दी' specifically implies a strict, official uniform like that of the police or military.
The most accurate and commonly used phrase for 'traditional attire' is 'पारंपरिक पोशाक' (paaramparik poshak). 'पारंपरिक' means traditional. You will hear this phrase very often during cultural festivals, national holidays, or when discussing the diverse clothing styles of different Indian states. For example, 'साड़ी भारत की पारंपरिक पोशाक है' (The saree is India's traditional attire).
The plural of 'पोशाक' is 'पोशाकें' (poshakein). Because it is a feminine noun ending in a consonant, you add 'ें' (ein) to make it plural. For example, 'दुकान में कई सुंदर पोशाकें हैं' (There are many beautiful outfits in the shop). If it is followed by a postposition like 'में' or 'का', it becomes 'पोशाकों' (poshakon) in the oblique case.
The word 'पोशाक' originally comes from Persian (پوشاک - pushak). Because Hindi and Urdu share a massive amount of vocabulary, especially words of Persian and Arabic origin, it is used in both languages. However, in highly poetic or heavily Persianized Urdu, you might also hear the word 'लिबास' (libaas) used to mean dress or attire.
Absolutely. 'पोशाक' is not restricted to women's clothing. It refers to the outfit itself, regardless of who wears it. A man's suit, a traditional Sherwani, or a king's royal robes are all perfectly described as 'पोशाक'. Just remember that the word itself remains grammatically feminine, even if a man is wearing the outfit.
The most common verb for wearing clothes in Hindi is 'पहनना' (pehnna). So, you say 'पोशाक पहनना' (to wear an outfit). If you want to say 'take off', you use 'उतारना' (utaarna). If you want to say 'change', you use 'बदलना' (badalna). For example, 'उसने अपनी पोशाक बदल ली' (He/She changed their outfit).
'परिधान' (paridhan) is a synonym for 'पोशाक', but it is much more formal. 'परिधान' is derived from Sanskrit and is typically used in literature, news broadcasts, or high-end fashion contexts. It is also a masculine noun, unlike the feminine 'पोशाक'. In everyday conversation, 'पोशाक' is much more natural and common.
A very polite and natural way to compliment someone's outfit is to say, 'आपकी पोशाक बहुत सुंदर लग रही है' (Your outfit is looking very beautiful). You can also say, 'यह पोशाक तुम पर बहुत जँच रही है' (This outfit is really suiting you). Using the word 'पोशाक' makes the compliment sound thoughtful and appreciative of their entire look.
Test Yourself 180 questions
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Summary
Use 'पोशाक' (poshak) when you want to describe a complete, coordinated outfit, especially for weddings, festivals, or performances. Always remember it is a feminine noun, so use adjectives like 'नई' (new) and 'सुंदर' (beautiful).
- Means 'outfit', 'dress', or 'costume'.
- It is a feminine noun (स्त्रीलिंग).
- Used for special, formal, or traditional clothes.
- Different from 'कपड़े' which means everyday clothes.
Always Feminine
Never forget that 'पोशाक' is a feminine noun. Train yourself to always say 'मेरी पोशाक' (my outfit) and never 'मेरा पोशाक'. This single correction will make your Hindi sound much more native.
Upgrade from Kapde
If you are talking about a special event, stop using 'कपड़े' (clothes) and start using 'पोशाक' (outfit). It shows that you have a deeper, more nuanced vocabulary and understand cultural contexts.
Complimenting
Use this word to give compliments. 'तुम्हारी पोशाक अच्छी है' (Your outfit is nice) is a great icebreaker at Indian weddings or parties. It shows you notice their effort in dressing up.
Watch Period Dramas
To really get a feel for this word, watch Bollywood historical movies like 'Jodhaa Akbar' or 'Padmaavat'. You will hear characters constantly discussing royal 'पोशाकें', which will cement the word in your memory.
Example
सुंदर पोशाक है।
Related Content
More general words
आभार व्यक्त करना
B1To express gratitude or thankfulness.
आचरण करना
C1To conduct oneself; behave in a particular way.
आगे
A1Forward; ahead.
आगे बढ़ना
A2To move forward or progress.
आगामी
B1Happening in the near future; upcoming or next.
आह्वान करना
B1To call, to summon, to request someone's presence.
आज रात
A2The night of the present day; tonight.
आजमाना
A2To make an attempt or effort to do something; to test.
आक्रमण करना
B2To begin military operations against a country or group.
आखिरी
A2Last, final.
