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नेकी

A1 noun #3,000 most common 12 min read

नेकी

neki Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips नेकी in 30 Seconds

Explanation नेकी in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should understand 'Neki' as a simple word for 'good work' or 'kindness.' Think of it as the opposite of being 'bad.' In your first few months of Hindi, you will use it to describe simple acts of helping others. For example, if you give a pencil to a classmate, that is a small 'neki.' It is an easy word to remember because it sounds short and sweet. You will mostly use it with the word 'karna' which means 'to do.' So, 'neki karna' means 'to do a good thing.' It is a very positive word that makes people smile when they hear it. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just know that being a 'nek' (good) person is a great goal for everyone. You might see this word in children's books or hear it in simple cartoons where characters are taught to be helpful. It is one of the building blocks of talking about personality and behavior in Hindi. Even at this basic level, using 'neki' shows that you are interested in the moral values of the language. It is a feminine word, but at A1, people will understand you even if you make small mistakes with the gender. Focus on the meaning: help others, be kind, and that is 'neki.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 'Neki' in slightly more descriptive sentences. You will begin to notice that it is a feminine noun, so you will say 'acchi neki' (good virtue) or 'meri neki' (my kindness). You can use it to talk about your daily habits or the habits of people you know. For instance, 'Mera dost hamesha neki karta hai' (My friend always does good deeds). You will also encounter the famous proverb 'Neki kar, dariya mein daal,' which is a great way to impress native speakers with your cultural knowledge. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'Neki' (the noun) and 'Nek' (the adjective). You might say 'Woh ek nek ladka hai' (He is a good boy) and 'Usne ek neki ki' (He did a good deed). You are also starting to understand that 'Neki' is not just about being polite; it's about doing something meaningful for others. You might hear it in Bollywood songs or see it on posters for charity events. It is a word that helps you connect with the emotional and ethical side of the Hindi language. Start trying to use it in your journal or when talking about people you admire for their helpful nature.

At the B1 level, you should have a deeper grasp of the nuances of 'Neki.' You can now use it to discuss abstract concepts and moral dilemmas. You understand that 'Neki' is often associated with selflessness and a lack of ego. You can use it in the context of community service, social responsibility, and personal ethics. For example, you might say, 'Aaj kal ke samaj mein neki ki bahut kami hai' (There is a great lack of virtue in today's society). You can also use it in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'Neki karne se mann ko shanti milti hai' (Doing good deeds brings peace to the mind). At this stage, you should be able to compare 'Neki' with similar words like 'Bhalaai' or 'Acchaai' and choose the right one for the context. You will hear 'Neki' more frequently in news reports about local heroes or in motivational speeches. You are also becoming aware of the Persian influence on the word and how it adds a certain elegance to your speech. You can use 'Neki' to describe the motivations behind historical figures or characters in novels. It becomes a tool for you to express your own values and opinions on what constitutes a good life. Your vocabulary is expanding to include related terms like 'Nek-niyati' (good intention), which further enriches your ability to talk about 'Neki.'

At the B2 level, 'Neki' becomes a part of your sophisticated vocabulary. You can use it in formal debates, literary analysis, and deep philosophical conversations. You understand the subtle difference between 'Neki' and the Sanskrit-derived 'Punya,' knowing that 'Neki' often carries a more universal, less ritualistic connotation. You can discuss the role of 'Neki' in the works of famous Hindi and Urdu poets and writers. For example, you might analyze how a character's 'Neki' leads to their ultimate redemption. You are comfortable using the word in various idiomatic expressions and can even play with its meaning in a more creative or ironic sense if the situation calls for it. You can write essays on topics like 'The Importance of Neki in the Modern World' with ease. Your understanding of the word's gender and its agreement with adjectives and verbs is now instinctive. You might use it in sentences like, 'Uski beshumaar neki ne usse sabka priya bana diya' (His countless acts of virtue made him everyone's favorite). You are also aware of the word's historical journey from Persian into the heart of Hindi culture. This level of mastery allows you to use 'Neki' to evoke specific emotions and cultural resonances in your audience, making your Hindi sound much more natural and profound.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'Neki' is nearing that of a native speaker with a literary background. You can appreciate the word's use in classical Sufi poetry, where 'Neki' is often contrasted with the 'nafs' (the lower self or ego). You can engage in complex discussions about the ethics of 'Neki'—for instance, whether an act of kindness is still 'Neki' if it is publicized on social media. You can use the word to navigate delicate social situations, perhaps using it to subtly praise someone's character or to offer a moral critique. Your vocabulary includes very specific collocations and archaic uses of the word found in older texts. You can seamlessly switch between 'Neki,' 'Punya,' 'Sadguna,' and 'Khair' depending on the cultural and linguistic register of your conversation. You might use 'Neki' in a sentence like, 'Neki ki taseer hi aisi hai ki woh dushman ka dil bhi mom kar deti hai' (The nature of virtue is such that it can melt even an enemy's heart). You are capable of translating complex English philosophical texts into Hindi while maintaining the precise emotional and ethical weight of words like 'virtue' or 'rectitude' by using 'Neki.' Your speech is not just grammatically correct; it is culturally and contextually rich, reflecting a deep immersion in the language's moral philosophy.

At the C2 level, you have achieved a complete mastery of 'Neki' and its place in the vast tapestry of Hindi-Urdu literature and thought. You can discern the finest shades of meaning in its usage across different centuries and genres. You might find yourself debating the ontological status of 'Neki' in the context of Advaita Vedanta versus Sufi mysticism. You can use the word with such precision and evocative power that you can influence others' thoughts and feelings. You are likely to use 'Neki' in your own creative writing, perhaps in a poem or a short story, where it serves as a central motif. You understand how 'Neki' interacts with concepts like 'Karm,' 'Dharm,' 'Imaan,' and 'Ikhlaq' (ethics). You can analyze the socio-linguistic shifts that have affected the word's frequency and usage over time. Your mastery is such that you can even use the word in a highly stylized, archaic, or experimental way while still being perfectly understood and respected. For you, 'Neki' is not just a word; it is a gateway to the entire history of ethical thought in the Indian subcontinent. You can use it in a sentence like, 'Neki ka falsafa sirf afaal tak mehdood nahi, balki yeh rooh ki ek daimi kaifiyat hai' (The philosophy of virtue is not limited to actions; it is a permanent state of the soul). At this level, you are a true connoisseur of the language, and 'Neki' is one of the many jewels in your linguistic crown.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

नेकी in 30 Seconds

Neki is a Hindi noun meaning virtue, goodness, or kindness, often used in moral and spiritual contexts to describe selfless acts.
It is a feminine noun of Persian origin, commonly paired with the verb 'karna' (to do) and contrasted with 'buraai' (evil).
The word is central to famous proverbs like 'Neki kar, dariya mein daal,' emphasizing the importance of doing good without seeking rewards.
It is a high-register word used in literature, Bollywood, and daily life to praise character and encourage ethical behavior among people.

The Hindi word नेकी (Neki) is a profound and spiritually resonant noun that translates most directly to 'goodness,' 'virtue,' or 'kindness.' However, its cultural weight extends far beyond a simple act of being nice. Derived from the Persian root 'Nek,' which means good or virtuous, the suffix '-i' transforms it into an abstract noun representing the quality of moral excellence. In the context of Hindi-speaking society, Neki is often viewed through a lens of selfless service. It is the act of doing something beneficial for another human being, animal, or society at large without the slightest expectation of recognition, material gain, or even a 'thank you.' This concept is deeply rooted in the philosophical fabric of the Indian subcontinent, where the accumulation of 'Neki' is seen as a way to enrich one's soul and improve one's spiritual standing. People use this word when discussing character, ethics, and the fundamental duty of a human being to contribute positively to the world. It is a word that commands respect; to say someone is a person of 'Neki' is one of the highest compliments regarding their character.

Moral Compass: Neki serves as a linguistic North Star, guiding individuals toward altruism and away from the ego-driven desires of the self.

बुजुर्गों ने हमेशा सिखाया है कि नेकी का रास्ता कभी नहीं छोड़ना चाहिए। (Elders have always taught that one should never leave the path of virtue.)

In daily conversation, you might hear a parent telling a child to do 'Neki,' or a friend reminding another that 'Neki' eventually brings peace of mind. It is contrasted sharply with 'Buraai' (evil or badness). While 'Bhalaai' is a close synonym, 'Neki' carries a slightly more formal, poetic, and sometimes religious or Sufi connotation, making it sound more dignified in literature and formal speech. It is not just about the deed itself, but the purity of the intention behind the deed. If you help someone to get famous, it might be 'Daan' (donation) or 'Madaad' (help), but it is rarely called 'Neki' in the truest sense, as 'Neki' requires a humble heart.

आज के ज़माने में नेकी ढूँढना मुश्किल है, पर नामुमकिन नहीं। (In today's age, finding virtue is difficult, but not impossible.)

Spiritual Context: In Sufi traditions and Bhakti poetry, Neki is the currency of the divine, the only thing that remains when everything else fades away.

उसकी नेकी ने कई लोगों का जीवन बदल दिया। (His kindness changed the lives of many people.)

Understanding 'Neki' is essential for anyone wanting to grasp the moral landscape of Hindi speakers. It is a word that bridges the gap between the mundane act of helping and the spiritual journey of self-improvement. Whether it is giving water to a thirsty traveler or speaking the truth in a difficult situation, 'Neki' covers it all. It is the silent, invisible force that keeps society compassionate.

सच्ची नेकी वही है जो बिना किसी दिखावे के की जाए। (True virtue is that which is done without any show.)

Social Impact: Communities built on the foundation of Neki are more resilient and cohesive, as they prioritize collective well-being over individual greed.

हर इंसान को अपने जीवन में कम से कम एक नेकी रोज़ करनी चाहिए। (Every human should perform at least one act of kindness every day in their life.)

Using नेकी correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as an abstract noun. In Hindi grammar, it functions similarly to words like 'imaandaari' (honesty) or 'sachaai' (truth). It is almost always used in the singular form, as virtue is considered a singular concept, though one can perform multiple 'acts of Neki.' The most common verb associated with it is 'karna' (to do). You will frequently hear the phrase 'Neki karna' (to do good). Because it is a feminine noun, when you use it in possessive structures, you use 'ki.' For example, 'uski neki' (his/her goodness). If you are describing the path of virtue, you would say 'neki ki raah' (the path of virtue).

Common Verb Pairings: Neki provides the object for verbs like 'karna' (to do), 'phelana' (to spread), and 'kamaana' (to earn - in a spiritual sense).

उसने अपनी पूरी ज़िंदगी नेकी कमाने में लगा दी। (He spent his whole life earning virtue.)

When constructing more complex sentences, 'Neki' can be the subject. For instance, 'Neki kabhi bekaar nahi jaati' (Virtue never goes to waste). Here, 'Neki' is the subject, and 'jaati' (feminine form of 'jaana') agrees with it. Another important structure is using 'Neki' with postpositions. 'Neki se' (with virtue/by doing good) or 'Neki par' (on virtue). You might say, 'Neki par chalne waale log hamesha khush rehte hain' (People who walk on the path of virtue are always happy).

तुम्हारी यह नेकी मुझे हमेशा याद रहेगी। (I will always remember this kindness of yours.)

Agreement Rules: Since Neki is feminine, use 'acchi' (good) instead of 'accha.' Example: 'Ek acchi neki' (One good act of virtue).

क्या तुम नेकी और बदी में फर्क जानते हो? (Do you know the difference between virtue and vice?)

In conversational Hindi, the word is often used in the imperative to encourage someone. 'Neki karo!' (Do good!). It is also central to one of the most famous proverbs in the language: 'Neki kar, dariya mein daal.' This literally means 'Do good and throw it into the river,' which is an idiomatic way of saying 'Do a good deed and forget about it; don't wait for a reward.' This usage highlights how the word is used to define a specific type of selfless behavior.

उसने बिना किसी स्वार्थ के नेकी की। (He did a good deed without any selfishness.)

Adjectival Use: While Neki is a noun, the root 'Nek' is the adjective. 'Nek insaan' (A virtuous person). 'Neki' is the quality that the 'Nek' person possesses.

दुनिया नेकी से ही टिकी हुई है। (The world is sustained only by virtue.)

You will encounter the word नेकी in a variety of settings, ranging from high literature to everyday street wisdom. One of the most prominent places to hear it is in Bollywood films, particularly those with a moral or social theme. Song lyrics frequently use 'Neki' because of its poetic sound and deep meaning. For example, the famous song 'Neki Ki Raah' from the movie 'Traffic' emphasizes walking the path of righteousness despite the challenges. In such contexts, the word evokes a sense of struggle and eventual triumph of the human spirit.

Media and Cinema: Bollywood often uses Neki to define the 'hero's path,' contrasting it with the villain's 'buraai' or 'sharaarat.'

फिल्मों में अक्सर हीरो नेकी का साथ देता है। (In movies, the hero often supports virtue.)

Beyond the screen, you will hear this word in religious and philosophical discourses. Whether it is a Hindu 'Pravachan' (sermon) or a Muslim 'Khutbah' (sermon), 'Neki' is a universal term used to describe the righteous actions prescribed by faith. It is one of those rare words that seamlessly crosses communal lines in India, being used by speakers of all faiths to describe the same universal human goodness. Grandparents are another primary source of this word. In Indian households, moral education often happens through storytelling, where the 'Nek' character always wins in the end because of their 'Neki.'

दादी माँ की कहानियों में हमेशा नेकी की जीत होती थी। (In grandmother's stories, virtue always triumphed.)

Daily Wisdom: You will hear it in proverbs used by common people to give advice or console someone who has been wronged despite being good.

लोग कहते हैं कि नेकी कभी बेकार नहीं जाती। (People say that virtue never goes to waste.)

In the modern digital world, 'Neki' has also found a place in social media campaigns and non-profit slogans. Phrases like 'Neki ka Pitara' (The box of virtue/kindness) are used for community donation drives. This shows that while the word is ancient, its relevance is timeless. It is also heard in courtrooms or formal debates when discussing the 'moral character' of an individual. In literature, from the works of Premchand to modern Hindi poets, 'Neki' remains a central theme, symbolizing the struggle of the honest individual against a corrupt world.

साहित्य में नेकी को हमेशा सर्वोच्च स्थान दिया गया है। (In literature, virtue has always been given the highest place.)

Formal Oratory: Politicians and social reformers often invoke Neki to call for a return to traditional values and ethical governance.

समाज को नेकी की सख्त ज़रूरत है। (Society is in dire need of virtue.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make with नेकी is confusing it with 'Bhalaai' or 'Acchaai.' While they are synonyms, they are not always interchangeable. 'Acchaai' is a very general term for 'goodness' (like a 'good' flavor or 'good' weather), whereas 'Neki' specifically refers to moral and spiritual virtue. Using 'Neki' to describe a well-cooked meal would be incorrect and sound quite strange to a native speaker. Another mistake is grammatical gender. As mentioned, 'Neki' is feminine. Learners often treat it as masculine because many abstract nouns in other languages are masculine. Forgetting to use 'ki' instead of 'ka' (e.g., saying 'uska neki' instead of 'uski neki') is a frequent error.

Gender Confusion: Always remember: Neki is feminine. Adjectives like 'acchi' and possessives like 'meri/uski' must be used.

गलत: उसका नेकी महान है। सही: उसकी नेकी महान है। (Wrong: His virtue [masc] is great. Right: His virtue [fem] is great.)

Another subtle mistake is using 'Neki' in a transactional context. 'Neki' implies selflessness. If you say you did 'Neki' but then complain that you didn't get a reward, you are contradicting the very essence of the word. Native speakers might find it ironic or even arrogant if someone constantly boasts about their own 'Neki.' In Indian culture, true 'Neki' is often something others say about you, rather than something you claim for yourself. Furthermore, learners sometimes confuse 'Nek' (the adjective) with 'Neki' (the noun). You cannot say 'He is a Neki man'; you must say 'He is a Nek man' or 'He is a man of Neki.'

गलत: वह एक नेकी इंसान है। सही: वह एक नेक इंसान है। (Wrong: He is a virtue human. Right: He is a virtuous human.)

Contextual Nuance: Neki is best reserved for significant acts of moral courage or kindness, not trivial favors like passing the salt.

अपनी नेकी का बखान करना अच्छी बात नहीं है। (Boasting about your own virtue is not a good thing.)

Lastly, avoid overusing the word in very informal, slang-heavy conversations. While it's a common word, it has a certain 'wazan' (weight) and 'tehzeeb' (etiquette) associated with it. Using it sarcastically is possible, but for a learner, it's safer to use it in its sincere, original sense to avoid sounding mocking. Understanding these nuances will help you use 'Neki' with the same grace and depth as a native speaker.

क्या आप जानते हैं कि नेकी और भलाई में क्या अंतर है? (Do you know what the difference between Neki and Bhalaai is?)

Register and Tone: Neki has a slightly 'Urdu-fied' or 'Ganga-Jamuni' feel, making it sound more sophisticated than the purely Sanskrit 'Punya.'

किसी की मदद करना सबसे बड़ी नेकी है। (Helping someone is the greatest virtue.)

To truly master नेकी, you should understand the words that surround it in the semantic field of 'goodness.' The most common alternative is 'Bhalaai' (भलाई). While 'Neki' focuses on the moral quality, 'Bhalaai' often focuses on the 'well-being' or 'benefit' resulting from an action. For example, 'Sabki bhalaai mein hi hamari bhalaai hai' (Our well-being lies in everyone's well-being). Another word is 'Acchaai' (अच्छाई), which is the most general term for 'goodness' and can be used for everything from character to the quality of a product. Then there is 'Punya' (पुण्य), a Sanskrit-derived term used primarily in Hindu religious contexts to describe the spiritual merit earned through good deeds. 'Neki' is often preferred in secular or culturally syncretic contexts, while 'Punya' is more specific to the theory of Karma.

Neki vs. Punya: Neki is Persian-origin and feels more poetic/universal; Punya is Sanskrit-origin and feels more ritualistic/theological.
Neki vs. Bhalaai: Neki is the virtue of the doer; Bhalaai is the benefit to the receiver.
Neki vs. Insaaniyat: Insaaniyat means 'humanity.' While Neki is an act or quality, Insaaniyat is the broader philosophy of being human.

उसने नेकी और पुण्य दोनों कमाए। (He earned both virtue and spiritual merit.)

Other related words include 'Karam' (deeds/actions), which can be 'Nek Karam' (good deeds) or 'Bure Karam' (bad deeds). The word 'Dharm' (duty/righteousness) also overlaps with 'Neki,' but 'Dharm' is a much broader concept encompassing social order and cosmic law. 'Sachaai' (truthfulness) and 'Imaandaari' (honesty) are specific types of 'Neki.' In Urdu-heavy Hindi, you might also hear 'Khair' (well-being/goodness), though it's less common as a direct substitute for 'Neki.' Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that best fits the specific 'flavor' of goodness you wish to describe. For instance, if you are talking about a charitable act, 'Sakhawat' (generosity) might be more specific, but 'Neki' would be the overarching moral category it falls under.

सच्ची नेकी इंसानियत का दूसरा नाम है। (True virtue is another name for humanity.)

Formal Alternatives: Sadguna (Virtue - Sanskrit), Paropkar (Helping others - Sanskrit), Khidmat (Service - Persian/Urdu).

उसकी नेकी का कोई जवाब नहीं है। (There is no match for his virtue.)

By learning these alternatives, you can navigate different social and linguistic registers in Hindi, from the temple to the street to the mushaira (poetry gathering). 'Neki' remains the most versatile and emotionally resonant word for goodness in the Hindi-Urdu lexicon.

हर मज़हब नेकी की ही शिक्षा देता है। (Every religion teaches only virtue.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Nek' is so versatile that it appears in many compound words in Hindi/Urdu, such as 'Nek-bakht' (fortunate) and 'Nek-kho' (good-natured). It has been part of the North Indian lexicon for over 700 years since the arrival of Persian speakers in the region.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈneɪ.ki/

US /ˈneɪ.ki/

The stress is slightly more on the first syllable 'Ne-', but both syllables are pronounced clearly.

Rhymes With

फेकी (Pheki - Thrown) देखी (Dekhi - Saw) रेखी (Rekhi - Line/Linear) सेकी (Seki - Toasted/Warmed) टेकी (Teki - Supported) लेखी (Lekhi - Written) भेकी (Bheki - Disguised) मेकी (Meki - Made-up/Slang)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'Ne' as 'Neh' (like in 'neck'). It should be a long vowel like 'ay'.
Pronouncing the 'k' too softly. It should be a crisp unaspirated 'k'.
Pronouncing the final 'i' as a short 'ih'. It must be a long 'ee'.
Missing the dental 'n'. Westerners often use an alveolar 'n' (tongue on the ridge), but Hindi 'n' is dental.
Nasalizing the vowel 'e' unnecessarily.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is short and easy to recognize in text, though its philosophical depth requires context.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of feminine gender agreement for related adjectives and verbs.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers once the dental 'n' and long 'e' are mastered.

Listening 2/5

Clearly audible in songs and speeches due to its distinct phonetic shape.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

अच्छा (Accha) बुरा (Bura) मदद (Madad) काम (Kaam) इंसान (Insaan)

Learn Next

पुण्य (Punya) भलाई (Bhalaai) ईमानदारी (Imaandaari) सत्य (Satya) त्याग (Tyaag)

Advanced

परोपकार (Paropkar) सदाचार (Sadachar) नैतिकता (Naitikta) आध्यात्मिकता (Adhyatmikta) निस्वार्थ (Niswarth)

Grammar to Know

Feminine Noun Agreement

नेकी 'अच्छी' होती है (not 'अच्छा').

Compound Verbs with 'Karna'

उसने नेकी 'की' (Past tense of 'karna' agreeing with Neki).

Possessive Postpositions

राम 'की' नेकी (Ram's virtue).

Adjective-to-Noun transformation

नेक (Adjective) + ई (Suffix) = नेकी (Noun).

Oblique Case with Postpositions

नेकी 'के' लिए (For virtue - though Neki doesn't change form in singular oblique).

Examples by Level

नेकी करना अच्छी बात है।

Doing good is a good thing.

Simple subject-predicate structure. 'Neki karna' acts as a gerundial subject.

हमें हमेशा नेकी करनी चाहिए।

We should always do good deeds.

Use of 'chahiye' for obligation/advice. Note feminine agreement of 'karni'.

नेकी क्या है?

What is virtue/goodness?

Simple interrogative sentence using 'kya'.

वह बहुत नेकी करता है।

He does a lot of good deeds.

Present indefinite tense showing a habitual action.

नेकी से खुशी मिलती है।

Virtue brings happiness.

Use of 'se' postposition to indicate the source of happiness.

छोटी नेकी भी बड़ी होती है।

Even a small good deed is big.

Use of 'bhi' (also/even) for emphasis.

उसकी नेकी देखो।

Look at his/her kindness.

Imperative sentence using 'dekho'.

नेकी का रास्ता सरल है।

The path of virtue is simple.

Genitive construction 'neki ka raasta'.

नेकी कर, दरिया में डाल।

Do good and throw it into the river (forget about it).

Classic proverb using imperative verbs 'kar' and 'daal'.

मेरी माँ हमेशा नेकी की बातें करती हैं।

My mother always talks about good deeds.

Plural respectful form 'karti hain' for mother.

क्या तुमने आज कोई नेकी की?

Did you do any good deed today?

Simple past tense interrogative.

नेकी का फल मीठा होता है।

The fruit of virtue is sweet.

Metaphorical use of 'phal' (fruit/result).

हमें दूसरों की नेकी याद रखनी चाहिए।

We should remember the kindness of others.

Compound verb 'yaad rakhni' agreeing with feminine 'neki'.

उसने नेकी के लिए अपना समय दिया।

He gave his time for the sake of virtue/goodness.

Use of 'ke liye' (for/for the sake of).

नेकी और बदी में फर्क समझो।

Understand the difference between virtue and vice.

Pairing 'neki' with its antonym 'badi'.

सच्ची नेकी दिल से होती है।

True virtue comes from the heart.

Adjective 'sacchi' agreeing with feminine noun 'neki'.

नेकी की राह पर चलना हमेशा आसान नहीं होता।

Walking on the path of virtue is not always easy.

Gerundial subject 'chalna' with 'neki ki raah par'.

उसकी नेकी ने पूरे गाँव का दिल जीत लिया।

His virtue won the hearts of the entire village.

Transitive verb 'jeet liya' in the past tense.

हमें नेकी को अपने स्वभाव का हिस्सा बनाना चाहिए।

We should make virtue a part of our nature.

Complex object construction using 'hissa banana'.

बिना स्वार्थ के की गई नेकी ही असली नेकी है।

Virtue done without selfishness is the real virtue.

Passive participle 'ki gayi' modifying 'neki'.

समाज में नेकी फैलाने के लिए हिम्मत चाहिए।

Courage is needed to spread virtue in society.

Use of 'ke liye' with an infinitive 'phelane'.

नेकी करने का अवसर कभी नहीं छोड़ना चाहिए।

The opportunity to do good should never be missed.

Genitive construction 'neki karne ka avsar'.

उसने अपनी नेकी से दुश्मनों को भी दोस्त बना लिया।

Through his virtue, he turned even enemies into friends.

Use of 'se' to show the means/instrument.

नेकी एक ऐसा निवेश है जो कभी घाटा नहीं देता।

Virtue is such an investment that never gives a loss.

Relative clause starting with 'jo'.

नेकी की खुश्बू दूर-दूर तक फैलती है।

The fragrance of virtue spreads far and wide.

Metaphorical use of 'khushbu' (fragrance).

इतिहास गवाह है कि नेकी की हमेशा जीत होती है।

History is witness that virtue always triumphs.

Formal opening 'itihas gawah hai'.

वह अपनी नेकी के कारण ही आज इस मुकाम पर है।

He is at this position today only because of his virtue.

Compound postposition 'ke kaaran' (because of).

नेकी और ईमानदारी एक ही सिक्के के दो पहलू हैं।

Virtue and honesty are two sides of the same coin.

Idiomatic expression 'ek hi sikke ke do pehlu'.

सच्ची नेकी वह है जो अंधेरे में भी चमकती है।

True virtue is that which shines even in the dark.

Symbolic use of 'chamakti' (shines).

उसने नेकी की खातिर अपनी सुख-सुविधाओं का त्याग कर दिया।

For the sake of virtue, he sacrificed his comforts.

Use of 'ki khatir' (for the sake of).

नेकी का जज्बा हर इंसान के अंदर होना चाहिए।

The spirit of virtue should be inside every human.

Use of 'jazba' (spirit/passion).

उसकी नेकी की चर्चा आज पूरे शहर में है।

His virtue is the talk of the whole town today.

Use of 'charcha' (discussion/talk).

नेकी का मार्ग काँटों भरा हो सकता है, पर अंत सुखद होता है।

The path of virtue may be full of thorns, but the end is pleasant.

Contrastive structure using 'par' (but).

दिखावे की नेकी से कहीं बेहतर है गुमनाम भलाई।

Anonymous well-doing is much better than showy virtue.

Comparative structure 'se kahin behtar' (much better than).

नेकी की पराकाष्ठा वही है जहाँ इंसान अपना सब कुछ न्योछावर कर दे।

The pinnacle of virtue is where a person sacrifices everything.

Use of high-register word 'parakashta' (pinnacle/climax).

उसकी नेकी में एक ऐसी रूहानी कशिश है जो सबको अपनी ओर खींचती है।

There is such a spiritual attraction in his virtue that it pulls everyone toward him.

Use of 'ruhani kashish' (spiritual attraction).

नेकी को किसी मज़हब की सीमाओं में नहीं बाँधा जा सकता।

Virtue cannot be bound within the boundaries of any religion.

Passive voice 'nahi bandha ja sakta'.

साहित्य में नेकी को अक्सर मानवीय गरिमा का प्रतीक माना गया है।

In literature, virtue is often considered a symbol of human dignity.

Use of 'prateek' (symbol) and 'garima' (dignity).

उसने अपनी नेकी से समाज की दूषित मानसिकता को बदलने का प्रयास किया।

Through his virtue, he attempted to change the corrupted mindset of society.

Use of 'dusit mansikta' (corrupted mindset).

नेकी का अस्तित्व ही दुनिया को विनाश से बचाए हुए है।

The very existence of virtue is what is saving the world from destruction.

Use of 'astitva' (existence) and 'vinnash' (destruction).

नेकी की अवधारणा केवल कर्मों तक सीमित नहीं, अपितु यह चेतना की एक अवस्था है।

The concept of virtue is not limited to actions alone, but rather it is a state of consciousness.

Use of 'avdharna' (concept) and 'apitu' (but rather/furthermore).

सूफी संतों के अनुसार, नेकी ही वह सीढ़ी है जो बंदे को खुदा से मिलाती है।

According to Sufi saints, virtue is that ladder which connects the servant to God.

Philosophical context using 'bande' and 'khuda'.

उसकी नेकी की गहराई को समझना साधारण बुद्धि के परे है।

Understanding the depth of his virtue is beyond ordinary intelligence.

Use of 'pare' (beyond).

नेकी का निस्वार्थ भाव ही उसे अन्य नैतिक क्रियाओं से पृथक करता है।

The selfless nature of virtue is what separates it from other moral actions.

Use of 'niswarth bhav' (selfless feeling) and 'prithak' (separate).

समाज के पतन के दौर में नेकी ही वह मशाल है जो अंधकार को चीरती है।

In the era of society's decline, virtue is that torch which pierces the darkness.

Metaphorical use of 'mashal' (torch).

नेकी की यह शाश्वत ज्योति कभी बुझ नहीं सकती।

This eternal flame of virtue can never be extinguished.

Use of 'shashwat' (eternal).

उसकी नेकी में एक ऐसी सात्विकता है जो मन को निर्मल कर देती है।

There is such a purity (Sattvikta) in his virtue that it cleanses the mind.

Use of 'sattvikta' (purity) and 'nirmal' (pure/clean).

नेकी का फल काल की सीमाओं से परे जाकर भी प्राप्त होता है।

The fruit of virtue is obtained even by going beyond the boundaries of time.

Use of 'kaal ki simaon' (boundaries of time).

Synonyms

भलाई अच्छाई पुण्य परोपकार सज्जनता मदद

Antonyms

बदी बुराई पाप

Common Collocations

नेकी करना

नेकी की राह

नेकी कमाना

सच्ची नेकी

नेकी का फल

नेकी और बदी

नेकी का जज्बा

नेकी की मिसाल

नेकी फैलाना

नेकी का काम

Common Phrases

नेकी कर, दरिया में डाल

— Do good and forget about it. Don't expect a reward for your kindness.

मैंने उसकी मदद की और भूल गया, क्योंकि नेकी कर दरिया में डाल।

नेकी और पूछ-पूछ

— Why ask before doing something obviously good? It's used when someone asks permission for a good deed.

क्या मैं आपकी मदद करूँ? - नेकी और पूछ-पूछ!

नेकी की राह पर

— On the path of virtue. Following a moral and righteous lifestyle.

वह बचपन से ही नेकी की राह पर चल रहा है।

नेकी का बदला

— The reward or return for a good deed. Often used to say goodness is rewarded.

नेकी का बदला नेकी ही होता है।

नेकी की दीवार

— Wall of Kindness. A modern concept where people leave clothes/items for the needy.

हमारे शहर में एक 'नेकी की दीवार' बनाई गई है।

नेकी के रास्ते

— Ways of doing good. Different methods to help others.

नेकी के रास्ते हज़ारों हैं, बस नीयत साफ़ होनी चाहिए।

नेकी की तालीम

— Education or teaching of virtue. Moral instruction.

स्कूलों में नेकी की तालीम देना ज़रूरी है।

नेकी का फरिश्ता

— An angel of virtue. Used to describe a person who is exceptionally kind.

वह मेरे लिए नेकी का फरिश्ता बनकर आया।

नेकी का ज़माना

— The age of virtue. Often used to lament that times have changed.

अब नेकी का ज़माना नहीं रहा, लोग स्वार्थी हो गए हैं।

नेकी की शक्ति

— The power of virtue. The strength derived from doing good.

नेकी की शक्ति से बड़े-बड़े पहाड़ भी हिल सकते हैं।

Often Confused With

नेकी vs नेक (Nek)

Nek is the adjective (virtuous), while Neki is the noun (virtue). You say 'Nek man' but 'His Neki'.

नेकी vs नकी (Naki)

This is not a common word and might be a misspelling or mispronunciation of Neki.

नेकी vs निकली (Nikli)

The feminine past tense of 'nikalna' (to emerge). It sounds somewhat similar but has a completely different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"नेकी कर, दरिया में डाल"

— Selfless service without expectation of reward. This is the most famous idiom involving the word.

सच्चा इंसान वही है जो नेकी कर दरिया में डाल दे।

Universal/Proverbial

"नेकी और पूछ-पूछ"

— Used to indicate that a good action requires no permission or second thought.

अगर तुम दान देना चाहते हो तो नेकी और पूछ-पूछ क्या?

Conversational

"नेकी की राह का मुसाफ़िर"

— A person who has dedicated their life to doing good.

वह तो नेकी की राह का मुसाफ़िर है, उसे धन का लोभ नहीं है।

Poetic/Literary

"नेकी का चोला पहनना"

— To put on a facade of virtue (often used sarcastically for hypocrites).

वह नेकी का चोला पहनकर लोगों को ठगता है।

Critical/Informal

"नेकी की जड़"

— The root or source of goodness.

विनम्रता ही सब नेकी की जड़ है।

Philosophical

"नेकी के बीज बोना"

— To start good initiatives that will benefit others in the future.

आज तुम जो नेकी के बीज बोओगे, कल उनका फल मिलेगा।

Inspirational

"नेकी की खुशबू"

— The positive reputation or 'vibe' that follows a good person.

उसकी नेकी की खुशबू हर जगह फैली हुई है।

Literary

"नेकी का पल्ला भारी होना"

— When one's good deeds outweigh their bad deeds.

न्याय के दिन उसकी नेकी का पल्ला भारी रहेगा।

Religious/Spiritual

"नेकी का सिला"

— The reward or result of a good deed.

उसे अपनी नेकी का सिला ज़रूर मिलेगा।

Neutral

"नेकी की पोटली"

— A collection of good deeds (metaphorical).

वह अपनी नेकी की पोटली भरकर ऊपर गया।

Folkloric/Spiritual

Easily Confused

नेकी vs भलाई (Bhalaai)

Both mean 'goodness' or 'doing good'.

Neki is more about the moral character and the act of virtue itself, often with a spiritual or poetic tone. Bhalaai is more about the practical benefit or well-being of the person being helped.

उसकी नेकी (his virtue) vs उसकी भलाई (his well-being).

नेकी vs अच्छाई (Acchaai)

Both translate to 'goodness'.

Acchaai is a very broad, common term for any kind of goodness (quality, weather, person). Neki is specifically moral and altruistic goodness.

इस फल की अच्छाई (the goodness of this fruit) - you cannot use Neki here.

नेकी vs पुण्य (Punya)

Both refer to good deeds.

Punya is a Sanskrit word tied to Hindu theology and the accumulation of spiritual merit for the afterlife. Neki is Persian-origin and used more broadly across cultures in a moral sense.

दान देने से पुण्य मिलता है।

नेकी vs मदद (Madad)

Both involve helping someone.

Madad is a simple act of assistance (like helping someone carry bags). Neki is the underlying virtue or a more significant, selfless act of goodness.

मुझे आपकी मदद चाहिए (I need your help).

नेकी vs इंसानियत (Insaaniyat)

Both relate to being a good person.

Insaaniyat is 'humanity'—the philosophy of being human. Neki is the specific quality or act of virtue that demonstrates one's Insaaniyat.

इंसानियत के नाते नेकी करो (Do good for the sake of humanity).

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] [Neki] [Karta/Karti] hai.

वह नेकी करता है।

[Neki] [Karna] [Accha] hai.

नेकी करना अच्छा है।

[Neki] ki [Raah] par [Chalna] [Chahiye].

हमें नेकी की राह पर चलना चाहिए।

[Neki] ka [Phal] [Hamesha] [Meetha] hota hai.

नेकी का फल हमेशा मीठा होता है।

[Dikhave] ki [Neki] se [Kahinn] [Behtar] [Bhalaai] hai.

दिखावे की नेकी से कहीं बेहतर गुप्त भलाई है।

[Neki] ki [Avdharna] [Manviya] [Garima] ka [Prateek] hai.

नेकी की अवधारणा मानवीय गरिमा का प्रतीक है।

Mixed

[Neki] kar, [Dariya] mein [Daal].

नेकी कर, दरिया में डाल।

Mixed

[Neki] aur [Puch-Puch]?

नेकी और पूछ-पूछ?

Word Family

Nouns

नेक (Nek - Good person/root)

नेकी (Neki - Virtue)

नेक-चलनी (Nek-chalni - Good conduct)

नेक-नामी (Nek-naami - Good reputation)

Verbs

नेकी करना (Neki karna - To do good)

Adjectives

नेक (Nek - Virtuous/Good)

नेक-दिल (Nek-dil - Kind-hearted)

नेक-नीयत (Nek-niyat - Having good intentions)

भलाई (Bhalaai)

अच्छाई (Acchaai)

इंसानियत (Insaaniyat)

पुण्य (Punya)

मदद (Madad)

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in moral, religious, and literary contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'Neki' as a masculine noun. → Treating it as feminine.
Many learners say 'Mera neki' instead of 'Meri neki'. In Hindi, abstract nouns ending in 'i' are almost always feminine.
Using 'Neki' for non-moral 'goodness'. → Using 'Acchaai' or 'Swaad'.
You can't say a pizza has 'neki'. 'Neki' is only for moral virtue and selfless deeds.
Confusing 'Nek' and 'Neki'. → Using 'Nek' as an adjective and 'Neki' as a noun.
Learners often say 'He is a neki person' (incorrect) instead of 'He is a nek person' (correct).
Expecting a reward when using the word 'Neki'. → Understanding it as selfless.
Culturally, if you call your own act 'Neki' and then ask for something in return, it's considered contradictory.
Mispronouncing the 'N' as alveolar. → Using a dental 'N'.
English speakers tend to put their tongue too far back. For Hindi 'N', it must touch the teeth.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Always remember that 'Neki' is feminine. Your adjectives should end in 'i' (like 'acchi') and your verbs should reflect this (like 'karni').

Nek vs Neki

Don't confuse the adjective 'Nek' with the noun 'Neki'. Use 'Nek' for people and 'Neki' for the quality or the act itself.

Proverb Power

Using 'Neki kar, dariya mein daal' will instantly make your Hindi sound more authentic and culturally grounded.

Dental N

Focus on the dental 'N' pronunciation. It's a small detail that makes a big difference in how native you sound.

Moral Deeds

Save 'Neki' for acts that have a moral or selfless component. For simple favors, 'Madad' (help) is usually enough.

Song Lyrics

Listen to Sufi-inspired Bollywood songs. You'll often find 'Neki' used in a very beautiful and emotional way.

Abstract Nouns

Neki is a great word to use in essays about society, ethics, or personal growth to show a high level of vocabulary.

Praising Others

Use 'Neki' to praise someone's character. Saying 'Aapki neki dekh kar khushi hui' is a very polite and heartfelt compliment.

Persian Suffix

Learn the pattern: Adjective + 'i' = Abstract Noun. This will help you understand other words like 'Khushi' (Happiness) and 'Galti' (Mistake).

Universal Appeal

Remember that 'Neki' is used by everyone in North India, regardless of religion, making it a truly unifying word.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Neki' as 'Neck-i'. Imagine a person wearing a beautiful necklace of good deeds around their neck. The 'i' at the end makes it 'The Quality of the Neck-lace'.

Visual Association

Visualize a bright, glowing heart being placed into a flowing blue river. This links the word to the famous proverb 'Neki kar, dariya mein daal.'

Word Web

Kindness Virtue Selflessness Good Deeds Righteousness Altruism Morality Character

Challenge

Try to use 'Neki' in three different sentences today: one about a friend, one about a historical figure, and one as a piece of advice to yourself.

Word Origin

The word 'Neki' comes from the Persian language. It is formed by taking the adjective 'Nek' (meaning good or virtuous) and adding the Persian suffix '-i' to create an abstract noun. This linguistic pattern is very common in Persian-influenced Hindi and Urdu.

Original meaning: In Old Persian and Middle Persian (Pahlavi), the root related to 'Nek' signified something that was proper, beautiful, or beneficial according to moral and social standards.

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Iranian -> Persian -> Hindi/Urdu (Loanword).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, as it is a universally positive word. However, avoid using it mockingly to describe someone's genuine efforts to be good.

The English concept of 'Virtue' or 'Pay it forward' is very similar to Neki. However, Neki has a more soulful and spiritual undertone that 'kindness' sometimes lacks.

The song 'Neki Ki Raah' from the Bollywood movie Traffic (2016). The writings of Munshi Premchand, where characters often struggle to maintain their 'Neki' in a corrupt world. Sufi poetry by Rumi or Amir Khusro that has been translated and adapted into Hindi.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Charity/Social Work

दान और नेकी
गरीबों की सेवा
समाज कल्याण
मदद का हाथ

Moral Stories/Fables

एक नेक राजा
नेकी की जीत
लालच का फल
ईमानदार लकड़हारा

Religious Sermons

ईश्वर की राह
नेकी का सिला
गुनाहों से तौबा
पाक रूह

Bollywood Songs

नेकी की राह पे चल
दिल में नेकी रख
दुनिया की भलाई
इंसानियत का नाता

Everyday Advice

नेकी कर दरिया में डाल
बुराई से बचो
अच्छे काम करो
सबका भला चाहो

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप मानते हैं कि आज के दौर में नेकी करना मुश्किल हो गया है?"

"आपके जीवन में नेकी की सबसे बड़ी मिसाल कौन है?"

"क्या आपने कभी 'नेकी कर दरिया में डाल' वाली बात को महसूस किया है?"

"बच्चों को नेकी की शिक्षा कैसे देनी चाहिए?"

"क्या नेकी करने के लिए अमीर होना ज़रूरी है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने कौन सी छोटी सी नेकी की और मुझे कैसा महसूस हुआ?

मेरे दादा-दादी ने मुझे नेकी के बारे में क्या सिखाया था?

अगर मुझे दुनिया में नेकी फैलानी हो, तो मेरा पहला कदम क्या होगा?

नेकी और स्वार्थ के बीच के अंतर पर अपने विचार लिखें।

क्या आपको लगता है कि समाज में नेकी की कमी हो रही है? क्यों?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Neki' is a feminine noun. This means that adjectives and verbs associated with it must take the feminine form. For example, you would say 'acchi neki' (good virtue) and 'uski neki' (his/her virtue). Understanding the gender is crucial for correct Hindi grammar.

'Nek' is an adjective meaning 'virtuous' or 'good,' while 'Neki' is the abstract noun meaning 'virtue' or 'goodness.' You would use 'Nek' to describe a person (e.g., 'Nek insaan') and 'Neki' to describe their actions or character (e.g., 'Uski neki').

Use 'Neki' when you want to emphasize moral excellence, selflessness, or a spiritual quality of goodness. 'Acchaai' is much more general and can refer to the quality of a movie, food, or weather. 'Neki' is reserved for human character and ethical deeds.

Yes, 'Neki' is frequently used in religious contexts by both Hindus and Muslims in India. It refers to the righteous deeds prescribed by faith. While Hindus might also use 'Punya,' 'Neki' is a very common and respected term across all religious groups.

This proverb literally translates to 'Do good and throw it into the river.' It means that you should perform good deeds selflessly and then forget about them, without waiting for praise or a reward. It is a core ethical teaching in Indian culture.

Yes, 'Neki' is still very much in use. While it may sound a bit more formal or literary than 'bhalaai,' you will hear it in news, movies, and even in daily advice given by parents to children. It has a timeless quality that hasn't faded.

The 'N' in 'Neki' is a dental 'n.' To pronounce it correctly, place the tip of your tongue against the back of your upper front teeth, rather than on the alveolar ridge (the bumpy part further back) as you would in English.

'Bhalaai' and 'Acchaai' are slightly more common and neutral in daily conversation. However, 'Neki' is not necessarily 'stiff'; it's just more meaningful. There isn't really a 'slang' version of 'Neki' because of its positive and serious nature.

Yes, the plural is 'Nekiyan' (नेकियां), but it is used much less frequently than the singular form. You might use the plural if you are specifically counting different types of good deeds, but usually, 'Neki' as a concept remains singular.

No, 'Neki' is of Persian origin. It entered the Hindi language through the influence of Persian and Urdu. The Sanskrit equivalent would be words like 'Punya' or 'Sadguna.' This Persian origin gives 'Neki' a poetic and universal feel.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about a person you know who is 'Nek'. Use the word 'Neki' at least once.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.