At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'कंगी' (Kangī) means 'comb'. It is a feminine noun. You should learn to say 'This is a comb' (यह एक कंगी है - Yeh ek kangi hai) and 'My comb' (मेरी कंगी - Meri kangi). Focus on the physical object you see in your bathroom. Imagine you are in a shop and you need to buy one. You would point and say 'Kangi'. At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar. Just remember the word and that it's a 'she' (feminine) in Hindi grammar. This will help you use the right words like 'meri' (my) instead of 'mera'. Practice saying the word clearly, emphasizing the nasal 'n' sound. It's one of the first 500 words you should learn because grooming is a basic human activity.
At the A2 level, you start using 'कंगी' (Kangī) in simple daily sentences. You can talk about your morning routine: 'Main kangi karta hoon' (I comb). You can ask for its location: 'Meri kangi kahan hai?' (Where is my comb?). You should also learn simple adjectives like 'badi kangi' (big comb) or 'lal kangi' (red comb). You are now aware that 'kangi' is a feminine noun, so you use 'ki' and 'meri'. You might also start to see the alternative spelling 'कंघी' (Kanghī). You can describe simple actions like 'Kangi toot gayi' (The comb broke). This level is about using the word to satisfy basic needs and describe immediate surroundings. You might also use it in a phrase like 'Baal kangi karo' (Comb your hair) when talking to a friend or child.
At the B1 level, you can use 'कंगी' (Kangī) in more detailed descriptions and contexts. You might discuss the material of the comb: 'Mujhe plastic ki kangi pasand nahi hai, main neem ki kangi istemal karta hoon' (I don't like plastic combs, I use a neem comb). You can handle situations at a barber shop or salon, explaining how you want your hair combed. You understand the plural form 'kangiyan' and can use it in sentences like 'Yahan bahut saari kangiyan rakhi hain' (Many combs are kept here). You can also use the word in the past tense: 'Maine subah kangi ki thi' (I had combed in the morning). You are becoming comfortable with the nasal pronunciation and the feminine agreement in more complex sentence structures.
At the B2 level, you use 'कंगी' (Kangī) with fluency and can understand it in various idiomatic or cultural contexts. You might talk about the importance of 'Kanga' in Sikhism or discuss the aesthetics of traditional Indian combs made of sandalwood or ivory. You can use the word in compound sentences: 'Halaanki mere paas kangi thi, phir bhi mere baal uljhe hue the' (Although I had a comb, my hair was still tangled). You understand the nuance between 'kangi karna' and 'baal banana'. You can also understand metaphors involving combs in poetry or songs where 'kangi' represents the act of bringing order to chaos or the preparation for a romantic meeting. Your grammar is precise, and you never miss the feminine gender agreement.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of 'कंगी' (Kangī) and its place in Hindi literature and history. You can discuss the etymology from the Sanskrit 'Kankatikā'. You might analyze how the presence or absence of a comb in a story signifies a character's mental state or social class. You are comfortable using the word in very formal or very colloquial settings. You can explain the difference between various grooming tools in Hindi with technical precision. You might use the word in complex grammatical constructions like the passive voice: 'Kangi dwara baalon ko suljhaya gaya' (The hair was untangled by the comb). You are also aware of regional variations in pronunciation and the historical transition of the word's spelling.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 'कंगी' (Kangī). You can use it in high-level academic discussions about Indian material culture or semiotics. You might use it in a philosophical sense, perhaps in an essay about how humans impose order on nature (represented by hair). You are familiar with obscure synonyms and archaic forms of the word found in ancient texts. You can effortlessly switch between 'kangi' and 'kanghi' depending on the audience's dialect or the desired level of formality. You understand every subtle connotation the word carries in various Indian communities. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, incorporating it into complex metaphors and sophisticated wordplay.

कंगी in 30 Seconds

  • Kangi means 'comb' in Hindi.
  • It is a feminine noun (use 'meri', not 'mera').
  • Commonly used with the verb 'karna' (to comb).
  • Available in plastic, wood (neem), or metal.

The Hindi word कंगी (Kangī), often also spelled and pronounced as कंघी (Kanghī), refers to a comb—a fundamental grooming tool used for untangling, smoothing, and styling hair. In the linguistic landscape of India, this word is ubiquitous, appearing in daily morning routines, beauty parlor conversations, and even classical literature. The term is a feminine noun, which dictates the grammatical structure of the sentences it inhabits. Understanding 'Kangī' goes beyond just knowing the object; it involves understanding the cultural emphasis on well-groomed hair in Indian society, where hair is often seen as a symbol of health and social standing.

Material Variety
In modern India, while plastic combs are common, there is a significant traditional and health-conscious preference for neem ki kangi (combs made from the wood of the Neem tree), believed to have medicinal properties for the scalp.
Grammatical Gender
As a feminine noun, you would say 'Meri kangi' (My comb) rather than 'Mera kangi'. Adjectives and verbs must agree with this feminine gender.

क्या आपने मेरी कंगी देखी है? (Have you seen my comb?)

The word is used in various contexts, from a mother telling her child to comb their hair before school to a professional hairstylist discussing the teeth of a comb (kangi ke daant). In rural settings, 'kangi' might refer to simpler, hand-crafted wooden tools, whereas in urban settings, it encompasses high-end styling combs. The act of combing is usually paired with the verb karna (to do) or marna (to strike/run through, in a more colloquial sense).

नीम की कंगी बालों के लिए अच्छी होती है। (A neem wood comb is good for hair.)

Action Verbs
Commonly used with 'pherna' (to run through) or 'karna' (to do/use).

Historically, the comb has been more than just a tool. In various Indian cultures, the comb is a decorative item, sometimes made of ivory or silver, given as part of a bridal trousseau. Thus, the word 'kangi' carries with it a sense of personal care, domesticity, and preparation. When you use this word, you are tapping into a daily ritual shared by millions across the subcontinent.

Using 'कंगी' (Kangī) correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of Hindi's gender-based grammar. Since 'kangi' is feminine, it influences the possessive pronouns (meri, tumhari, uski) and the verbs that describe actions performed on it or by it. For instance, if you want to say 'The comb is broken,' you would say 'Kangi toot gayi hai' (feminine ending) rather than 'toot gaya hai' (masculine ending).

मैं रोज़ सुबह कंगी करता हूँ। (I comb [my hair] every morning.)

In Hindi, we don't always say 'I comb my hair'; we often just say 'I do comb' (Main kangi karta hoon). The object 'hair' (baal) is often implied. However, to be specific, you can say 'Main apne baalon mein kangi kar raha hoon' (I am combing my hair). Notice the preposition 'mein' (in), suggesting you are running the comb through the hair.

Possession
Use 'Meri' (my), 'Apki' (your), 'Ye' (this). Example: 'Ye kangi kiski hai?' (Whose comb is this?)
Pluralization
The plural of kangi is 'kangiyan' (कंगियाँ). Example: 'Dukan mein bahut saari kangiyan hain.' (There are many combs in the shop.)

उसने अपनी नई कंगी खो दी। (She lost her new comb.)

When describing the comb, use feminine adjectives: 'Chhoti kangi' (small comb), 'Lambi kangi' (long comb), 'Neeli kangi' (blue comb). If you are asking someone to do the action for you, you might say: 'Zara mere baalon mein kangi kar do' (Please comb my hair). This use of 'kar do' makes it a request for a favor.

'Kangi' is a household word. You will hear it most frequently in the privacy of a home during the 'readying' phase of the day. Parents often yell it out to children who are running late for school: 'Kangi ki?' (Did you comb?). It is also a staple word in 'Naai ki dukan' (barber shops) and 'Beauty parlors'. A barber might ask, 'Kangi se set karoon ya brush se?' (Should I set it with a comb or a brush?).

बाज़ार से एक लकड़ी की कंगी ले आना। (Bring a wooden comb from the market.)

In marketplaces (Bazaars), especially at small kiosks or 'Patri' shops (pavement shops), you will see vendors selling colorful plastic combs, often shouting out prices. You might hear: 'Das rupaye ki kangi!' (Comb for ten rupees!). It is also found in literature and Bollywood songs, often used to describe a heroine grooming her long tresses, symbolizing beauty and preparation for a meeting.

The Barber Shop
Barbers use 'kangi' to measure the length of hair before cutting with scissors. 'Kangi lagana' is a common phrase here.

You might also hear it in the context of lost items. 'Meri kangi nahi mil rahi' (I can't find my comb) is a common morning lament in many Indian households. Because it is a small, portable object, it is frequently misplaced, making it a common subject of domestic dialogue.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 'कंगी' is regarding its gender. Many English speakers, used to 'comb' being neutral, might accidentally use masculine modifiers. Remember: It is always Meri kangi, never Mera kangi. Another common error is the confusion between 'Kangi' (Comb) and 'Kangna' (Bangle). While they sound slightly similar to a beginner, they refer to entirely different objects.

Pronunciation Pitfall
The 'n' in kangi is a nasal sound (anusvar). Avoid pronouncing it as a hard 'n' like in 'can'. It's closer to the 'ng' in 'sing'.
Spelling Confusion
Learners often struggle with 'कंगी' vs 'कंघी'. While 'कंगी' is acceptable and common in simplified Hindi, 'कंघी' is the more traditional spelling. Both are understood.

गलत: मेरा कंगी कहाँ है? (Wrong: Where is my [masc] comb?)

सही: मेरी कंगी कहाँ है? (Right: Where is my [fem] comb?)

Another mistake involves the verb 'to comb'. Beginners often try to translate 'I am combing' literally and fail. In Hindi, you don't 'comb' (verb) your hair; you 'do comb' (noun + verb) or 'run a comb'. Using 'Main baal kangi kar raha hoon' is natural; trying to turn 'kangi' into a standalone verb doesn't work in Hindi.

Finally, be careful with the plural. While 'kangiyan' is the plural, in casual speech, people often use the singular 'kangi' even when referring to multiple, depending on the sentence structure, but for exams and formal writing, the '-yan' ending for feminine nouns ending in 'i' is essential.

While 'कंगी' is the most common word for a comb, there are several related terms depending on the tool's specific design or the context of use. In modern urban Hindi, the English word 'Brush' is frequently used for hairbrushes, which are distinct from flat combs. You will often hear 'Hair-brush' used by younger generations or in salons.

Kangi vs. Brush
A 'Kangi' is typically flat with a single row of teeth. A 'Brush' (ब्रश) has multiple rows of bristles and is used for volume.
Kanga (कंगा)
Often used interchangeably in some dialects, but specifically refers to the wooden comb kept by Sikhs as a religious requirement.

मुझे कंगी चाहिए, ब्रश नहीं। (I want a comb, not a brush.)

In some technical or very formal contexts, you might encounter the word 'Kankat' (कंकत), which is the pure Sanskrit root, but this is almost never used in daily conversation. For detangling, you might hear the phrase 'Uljhan nikalna' (removing tangles), which is what you do with a 'kangi'.

Comparing 'Kangi' with 'Jhaadu' (Broom) might seem odd, but linguistically, both are tools for 'cleaning' or 'ordering' a space (the head vs. the floor). However, 'Kangi' is a personal, intimate object, whereas 'Jhaadu' is a utility item. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right word for the right level of personal care.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"कृपया केश-प्रसाधन हेतु कंघी का उपयोग करें।"

Neutral

"क्या आपने मेरी कंगी देखी है?"

Informal

"अरे, कंगी दे न ज़रा!"

Child friendly

"चलो, गुड़िया की कंगी करते हैं।"

Slang

"कंगी मार के निकल।"

Fun Fact

Combs are among the oldest artifacts found by archaeologists, with some in India dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization, made of ivory and bone, showing that 'kangi' has been part of Indian life for over 5,000 years.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kəŋ.ɡiː/
US /kʌŋ.ɡi/
Stress is on the first syllable 'Kan'.
Rhymes With
Changi (Good) Tangi (Tightness/Shortage) Bangi (Sample) Nangi (Naked) Rangi (Colored) Sangi (Companion) Dangi (Rioter) Pangi (A tribe/region)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'n' as a hard 'n' (like 'can-gee'). It should be nasal.
  • Making the 'g' silent.
  • Using a short 'i' at the end instead of a long 'ee'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read, common letters.

Writing 3/5

Requires memory of the nasal 'anusvar'.

Speaking 2/5

Simple two-syllable word.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound, easy to pick out.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

बाल (Baal - Hair) करना (Karna - To do) मेरा/मेरी (My)

Learn Next

ब्रश (Brush) तेल (Oil) आईना (Mirror)

Advanced

श्रृंगार (Shringar - Grooming/Makeup) सुलझाना (Suljhana - To untangle)

Grammar to Know

Feminine Noun Agreement

मेरी (Fem) कंगी (Fem) अच्छी (Fem) है।

Compound Verb Construction

कंगी (Noun) + करना (Verb) = To comb.

Postposition Usage

कंगी के साथ (With the comb).

Pluralization of '-i' ending nouns

कंगी -> कंगियाँ।

Oblique case plural

कंगियों में (In the combs).

Examples by Level

1

यह मेरी कंगी है।

This is my comb.

Uses 'meri' because 'kangi' is feminine.

2

कंगी कहाँ है?

Where is the comb?

Simple question structure.

3

मुझे कंगी चाहिए।

I want a comb.

Basic 'chahiye' (want) construction.

4

यह एक नई कंगी है।

This is a new comb.

Adjective 'nai' (new) is feminine.

5

कंगी मेज़ पर है।

The comb is on the table.

Use of postposition 'par' (on).

6

तुम्हारी कंगी छोटी है।

Your comb is small.

Adjective 'chhoti' agrees with 'kangi'.

7

वह कंगी लाल है।

That comb is red.

Color 'lal' remains same, but 'voh' (that) is used.

8

एक कंगी दो।

Give one comb.

Imperative 'do' (give).

1

मैं रोज़ कंगी करता हूँ।

I comb [my hair] every day.

Compound verb 'kangi karna'.

2

क्या आपके पास कंगी है?

Do you have a comb?

Possession with 'ke paas'.

3

मेरी कंगी टूट गई।

My comb broke.

Verb 'toot gayi' is feminine past tense.

4

बाज़ार से कंगी लाओ।

Bring a comb from the market.

Command form 'lao'.

5

उसकी कंगी बहुत महँगी है।

Her comb is very expensive.

Adjective 'mahangi' is feminine.

6

बिना कंगी के बाल मत बनाओ।

Don't do your hair without a comb.

Use of 'bina' (without).

7

यह कंगी साफ़ नहीं है।

This comb is not clean.

Negative 'nahin'.

8

अपनी कंगी यहाँ रखो।

Keep your comb here.

Reflexive pronoun 'apni'.

1

नीम की कंगी बालों के लिए फ़ायदेमंद होती है।

A neem comb is beneficial for hair.

General fact using 'hoti hai'.

2

मैंने अपनी कंगी अलमारी में रख दी थी।

I had kept my comb in the cupboard.

Past perfect feminine.

3

जब मैं स्कूल जा रहा था, तब मुझे कंगी नहीं मिली।

When I was going to school, I couldn't find the comb.

Complex 'jab-tab' structure.

4

क्या तुम मुझे अपनी कंगी उधार दे सकते हो?

Can you lend me your comb?

Request with 'sakte ho'.

5

इस कंगी के दाँत बहुत तीखे हैं।

The teeth of this comb are very sharp.

Plural masculine 'daant' (teeth).

6

वह अपनी कंगी हमेशा अपने बैग में रखती है।

She always keeps her comb in her bag.

Habitual present feminine.

7

अच्छी कंगी इस्तेमाल करना ज़रूरी है।

It is important to use a good comb.

Infinitive as subject.

8

मेरी कंगी खो गई है, क्या मैं तुम्हारी ले लूँ?

My comb is lost, can I take yours?

Permission with 'loon'.

1

आजकल लोग प्लास्टिक की जगह लकड़ी की कंगी पसंद करते हैं।

Nowadays people prefer wooden combs over plastic ones.

Use of 'ki jagah' (instead of).

2

उसने कंगी की और फिर बाहर चला गया।

He combed [his hair] and then went out.

Sequence of actions.

3

अगर तुम कंगी नहीं करोगे, तो बाल उलझ जाएँगे।

If you don't comb, the hair will get tangled.

Conditional sentence.

4

सिख धर्म में 'कंगा' (कंगी) का बहुत महत्व है।

The 'Kanga' (comb) has great importance in Sikhism.

Cultural context.

5

पार्लर में उसने एक विशेष कंगी का उपयोग किया।

In the parlor, she used a special comb.

Use of 'vishesh' (special).

6

बिना कंगी के बाल सुलझाना मुश्किल है।

It is difficult to untangle hair without a comb.

Gerund 'suljhana'.

7

पुरानी फिल्मों में कंगी का इस्तेमाल अक्सर श्रृंगार के लिए होता था।

In old movies, the comb was often used for grooming/adornment.

Passive-like construction.

8

उसने अपनी कंगी मेज़ पर पटक दी।

She threw her comb down on the table (in anger).

Expressive verb 'patak di'.

1

साहित्य में कंगी को अक्सर व्यवस्था और सुंदरता का प्रतीक माना गया है।

In literature, the comb has often been considered a symbol of order and beauty.

Abstract usage.

2

उसकी आँखों में आँसू थे और हाथ में वही पुरानी कंगी।

There were tears in her eyes and that same old comb in her hand.

Descriptive narrative style.

3

जैसे-जैसे तकनीक बदली, कंगी के स्वरूप में भी बदलाव आया।

As technology changed, the form of the comb also underwent changes.

Correlative 'jaise-jaise'.

4

एक अच्छी कंगी न केवल बालों को सुलझाती है बल्कि स्कैल्प की मालिश भी करती है।

A good comb not only untangles hair but also massages the scalp.

Correlative 'na keval... balki'.

5

हड़प्पा सभ्यता की खुदाई में भी हाथीदांत की कंगियाँ मिली हैं।

Ivory combs have been found in the excavations of the Harappan civilization as well.

Historical reference.

6

वह अपनी कंगी को लेकर बहुत चूज़ी (सचेत) है।

He is very picky (conscious) about his comb.

Colloquial 'choosy' used in Hindi.

7

कंगी के दाँतों के बीच फँसे बाल उसकी लापरवाही दर्शाते थे।

The hair stuck between the teeth of the comb showed his carelessness.

Participle 'fanse hue'.

8

शायद ही कोई ऐसा घर हो जहाँ कंगी का उपयोग न होता हो।

There is hardly any house where a comb is not used.

Subjunctive 'hota ho'.

1

कंगी की बनावट और उसके दांतों के अंतराल का भौतिकी विश्लेषण किया जा सकता है।

The design of a comb and the spacing of its teeth can be physically analyzed.

Scientific/Academic register.

2

उसकी स्मृतियों में वह कंगी एक युग की कहानी कह रही थी।

In her memories, that comb was telling the story of an era.

Metaphorical narrative.

3

कंगी का सांस्कृतिक इतिहास मानव सभ्यता के विकास के समांतर चलता है।

The cultural history of the comb runs parallel to the development of human civilization.

High-level sociological observation.

4

विभिन्न लकड़ियों से बनी कंगियों के औषधीय गुणों पर शोध जारी है।

Research is ongoing on the medicinal properties of combs made from various woods.

Formal research context.

5

उसने अपनी विरासत में मिली चाँदी की कंगी को सहेज कर रखा है।

She has carefully preserved the silver comb she received as an inheritance.

Complex participle 'virasat mein mili'.

6

कंगी केवल एक साधन नहीं, अपितु सौंदर्यबोध की एक अभिव्यक्ति है।

A comb is not just a tool, but an expression of aesthetic sense.

Philosophical 'apitu' (but rather).

7

आधुनिक युग में कंगी के उत्पादन में प्रयुक्त रसायनों पर चिंता व्यक्त की गई है।

Concerns have been expressed about the chemicals used in the production of combs in the modern era.

Environmental/Health context.

8

कंगी फेरने की क्रिया में भी एक प्रकार की लयबद्धता होती है।

There is a kind of rhythm even in the act of running a comb.

Abstract observation.

Common Collocations

कंगी करना
नीम की कंगी
कंगी के दाँत
लकड़ी की कंगी
प्लास्टिक की कंगी
कंगी फेरना
बारीक कंगी
कंगी मारना
नई कंगी
पुरानी कंगी

Common Phrases

कंगी की?

— Did you comb your hair?

मम्मी ने पूछा, 'कंगी की?'

कंगी कहाँ है?

— Where is the comb?

सुबह-सुबह सब पूछते हैं, 'कंगी कहाँ है?'

कंगी टूट गई

— The comb broke.

ज़ोर से खींचने पर कंगी टूट गई।

बालों में कंगी

— Combing the hair.

बालों में कंगी करना ज़रूरी है।

कंगी साफ़ करो

— Clean the comb.

अपनी कंगी साफ़ करो, इसमें बाल हैं।

कंगी लाना

— Bring a comb.

मेरे लिए एक कंगी लाना।

बिना कंगी के

— Without a comb.

बिना कंगी के वह अजीब लग रहा था।

कंगी का सेट

— A set of combs.

उसने कंगी का सेट उपहार में दिया।

जेब वाली कंगी

— Pocket comb.

वह जेब वाली कंगी रखता है।

कंगी करना भूल गया

— Forgot to comb.

आज मैं कंगी करना भूल गया।

Often Confused With

कंगी vs कंगना

Means 'bangle'. Sounds similar but starts with the same 'Kang' sound.

कंगी vs कंजूस

Means 'miser'. Only shares the first syllable sound.

कंगी vs गंदगी

Means 'dirt'. Rhymes with 'kangi' but has a completely different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"कंगी फेरना"

— To briefly groom oneself or to bring order.

उसने बस एक बार कंगी फेरी और तैयार हो गया।

Neutral
"कंगी के दाँत गिनना"

— To do something useless or excessively detailed (rare).

वह कंगी के दाँत गिनने जैसा काम कर रहा है।

Colloquial
"बाल-बाल कंगी"

— Meticulous grooming (literal/descriptive).

वह बाल-बाल कंगी करके निकलता है।

Informal
"कंगी साफ़ होना"

— To be completely ready or polished (contextual).

उसकी तैयारी कंगी साफ़ जैसी है।

Informal
"कंगी का साथ"

— Inseparable (rare metaphor for grooming tools).

बालों और कंगी का साथ पुराना है।

Literary
"कंगी की धार"

— Sharpness of the comb (descriptive).

कंगी की धार तेज़ थी।

Neutral
"कंगी का खेल"

— Easy task (colloquial metaphor).

यह तो कंगी का खेल है।

Slang
"कंगी में फँसना"

— To get caught in a mess (metaphorical).

वह बातों की कंगी में फँस गया।

Informal
"कंगी की तरह सीधा"

— As straight as a comb's back (rare).

वह कंगी की तरह सीधा आदमी है।

Informal
"कंगी करना सिखाना"

— To teach basic manners/hygiene.

उसे कंगी करना सिखाना पड़ेगा।

Informal

Easily Confused

कंगी vs ब्रश (Brush)

Both are hair tools.

A brush has bristles; a kangi has a single row of teeth.

मैं ब्रश नहीं, कंगी इस्तेमाल करता हूँ।

कंगी vs काँटा (Kanta)

Both have 'teeth' or 'prongs'.

Kanta is a fork or a thorn; Kangi is for hair.

बालों में काँटा नहीं, कंगी लगाओ।

कंगी vs कंगा (Kanga)

Almost identical.

Kanga is usually larger or refers to the specific Sikh religious comb.

सिखों के पास कंगा होता है।

कंगी vs कैंची (Kainchi)

Both found in barber shops.

Kainchi is for cutting (scissors); Kangi is for combing.

कैंची और कंगी दोनों लाओ।

कंगी vs जूड़ा (Juda)

Relates to hair styling.

Juda is a hair bun; Kangi is the tool to make it.

कंगी से जूड़ा बनाओ।

Sentence Patterns

A1

यह [Adj] कंगी है।

यह लाल कंगी है।

A2

मैं [Time] कंगी करता हूँ।

मैं सुबह कंगी करता हूँ।

B1

क्या मुझे [Possessive] कंगी मिल सकती है?

क्या मुझे आपकी कंगी मिल सकती है?

B2

अगर कंगी [Verb], तो [Result] होगा।

अगर कंगी टूटेगी, तो दुख होगा।

C1

[Noun] के लिए कंगी का उपयोग [Adj] है।

बालों के स्वास्थ्य के लिए कंगी का उपयोग अनिवार्य है।

C2

कंगी के [Noun] में [Abstract Noun] झलकता है।

कंगी के चुनाव में व्यक्ति का सौंदर्यबोध झलकता है।

A1

कंगी कहाँ है?

मेरी कंगी कहाँ है?

A2

कंगी लाओ।

ज़रा कंगी लाओ।

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in daily life.

Common Mistakes
  • Mera kangi Meri kangi

    Using masculine possessive for a feminine noun.

  • Main kangi hoon Main kangi kar raha hoon

    Saying 'I am a comb' instead of 'I am combing'.

  • Kangi toot gaya Kangi toot gayi

    Verb gender mismatch.

  • Baal kangi Baal kangi karna

    Missing the verb 'karna' to complete the action.

  • Kanga (for a plastic comb) Kangi

    Using the specific/larger term for a general small comb.

Tips

Gender Check

Always remember 'kangi' is feminine. This is the most common mistake for learners. Practice saying 'Badi kangi', 'Chhoti kangi', 'Meri kangi'.

Wooden Combs

In India, wooden combs (especially Neem) are seen as a sign of health consciousness. Mentioning 'neem ki kangi' will make you sound very culturally aware.

Nasalization

The dot (anusvar) in कंगी is crucial. It's a nasal sound. Try humming the 'n' while saying 'Ka'.

Verb Pairing

Don't just learn the noun; learn 'kangi karna'. It's much more useful in conversation.

Market Talk

In local markets, you can bargain for combs. They are often sold in sets.

Personal Use

In many Indian homes, it's polite to ask before using someone else's kangi, as it's considered a very personal item.

Sikh Context

If you are in Punjab or with Sikh friends, you might hear 'Kanga'. It's a sacred item, so handle the topic with respect.

Implied Object

When you say 'Main kangi kar raha hoon', you don't need to say 'baal' (hair). It's usually understood.

Spelling

Look at the shape of the word कंगी. The dot on top is like a little bead on the comb.

Daily Routine

Label your comb at home with a sticker that says 'कंगी' to remind you every morning.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a **KAN**garoo with a **G**iant **I**vory comb. KAN-G-I.

Visual Association

Visualize a bright neon comb sitting next to a mirror. Every time you see a comb, say 'Kangi' in your head.

Word Web

Hair Teeth Plastic Wood Grooming Morning Mirror Style

Challenge

Try to use the word 'Kangi' three times today: once when you wake up, once if you see one in a store, and once before bed.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Kankatikā' (कङ्कतिका), which refers to a comb or a similar toothed instrument. Over centuries, the word evolved through Prakrit and Apabhramsha into the modern Hindi 'Kanghi' or 'Kangi'.

Original meaning: A toothed instrument for hair grooming.

Indo-Aryan

Cultural Context

Be mindful that in some religious contexts (like Sikhism), the comb (Kanga) is a sacred object and should be handled with respect.

While English speakers use 'comb' as both a noun and a verb, Hindi speakers almost always use 'kangi' as a noun with the verb 'karna'.

The 'Kanga' in the 5 Ks of Sikhism. Ancient ivory combs in the National Museum, Delhi. References in Sufi poetry where combing hair symbolizes sorting out one's thoughts.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Morning Routine

  • कंगी कहाँ है?
  • कंगी करो।
  • जल्दी कंगी लाओ।
  • कंगी मिल गई।

At the Barber

  • कंगी लगाओ।
  • बारीक कंगी चाहिए।
  • कंगी से सेट करो।
  • कंगी साफ़ है?

Shopping

  • कंगी कितने की है?
  • अच्छी कंगी दिखाओ।
  • लकड़ी की कंगी है?
  • दो कंगी दे दो।

Travel

  • बैग में कंगी रखो।
  • कंगी भूल मत जाना।
  • छोटी कंगी लाओ।
  • सफर वाली कंगी।

Hair Care

  • कंगी से बाल सुलझाओ।
  • नीम की कंगी अच्छी है।
  • कंगी साफ़ रखो।
  • ज़ोर से कंगी मत करो।

Conversation Starters

"क्या मैं आपकी कंगी इस्तेमाल कर सकता हूँ?"

"आपको किस तरह की कंगी पसंद है, लकड़ी की या प्लास्टिक की?"

"क्या आपको पता है कि नीम की कंगी के क्या फायदे हैं?"

"मेरी कंगी खो गई है, क्या आपने उसे देखा है?"

"क्या आप रोज़ सुबह कंगी करते हैं?"

Journal Prompts

आज सुबह मैंने अपनी कंगी कहाँ रखी थी और मुझे वह कैसे मिली?

मेरे पास जो कंगी है, उसका वर्णन करें (रंग, सामग्री, आकार)।

अगर मेरी कंगी बोल पाती, तो वह मेरे बालों के बारे में क्या कहती?

बचपन में मेरी पहली कंगी कैसी दिखती थी?

कंगी करना मेरे दैनिक जीवन का हिस्सा क्यों है?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is feminine. You should use feminine adjectives and verbs with it. For example, 'Meri kangi' (My comb) and 'Kangi toot gayi' (The comb broke).

They are the same word. 'Kanghi' is the more traditional, formal spelling with an aspirated 'h'. 'Kangi' is the common, simplified version often used in speech.

You use the compound verb 'kangi karna' (कंगी करना). For example, 'Main baal kangi kar raha hoon' means 'I am combing my hair'.

It is a comb made from the wood of the Neem tree. It is very popular in India because it is believed to prevent dandruff and scalp infections.

Almost. 'Kanga' is often a larger version or specifically refers to the wooden comb that is one of the five Ks of Sikhism.

Yes, if you are specifically referring to a hairbrush. 'Brush' is a common loanword in Hindi now.

The plural is 'kangiyan' (कंगियाँ).

You say 'Yeh kangi kiski hai?' (यह कंगी किसकी है?).

Yes, but they are less common than plastic or wooden ones. They are usually called 'steel ki kangi'.

It is called 'baarik kangi' (बारीक कंगी), often used for removing lice or very fine styling.

Test Yourself 172 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Hindi: 'I have a red comb.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Where did you keep the comb?'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I am combing my hair' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to the word: 'कंगी'. Does it end in a long or short 'i'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Give me the comb.'

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

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writing

Translate: 'The comb is in the bag.'

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speaking

Ask someone if they have a comb.

Read this aloud:

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writing

Write: 'I am buying a new comb today.'

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writing

Translate: 'Whose comb is this?'

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speaking

Say: 'I need a comb.'

Read this aloud:

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writing

Translate: 'My mother gave me a comb.'

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speaking

Say: 'I lost my comb.'

Read this aloud:

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writing

Translate: 'The comb is small but good.'

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speaking

Say: 'This comb is very old.'

Read this aloud:

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writing

Translate: 'I need a wide-toothed comb.'

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speaking

Say: 'The comb is broken into two.'

Read this aloud:

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writing

Translate: 'I am looking for my comb.'

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speaking

Say: 'This comb is made of plastic.'

Read this aloud:

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writing

Write 'Small comb'.

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writing

Write 'New comb'.

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writing

Write 'My comb'.

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writing

Write 'Where is the comb?'.

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writing

Write 'I do comb'.

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writing

Write 'Wooden comb'.

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writing

Write 'Broken comb'.

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writing

Write 'Clean the comb'.

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writing

Write 'Give me a comb'.

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writing

Write 'Comb is red'.

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speaking

Say 'Comb' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'My comb' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Where is the comb?' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I am combing' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Give me a comb' in Hindi.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Does 'Kangi' rhyme with 'Tangi'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Is the first sound 'K' or 'G'?

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listening

Is the last sound 'a' or 'i'?

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listening

How many syllables in 'Kangi'?

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listening

Is the 'n' sound nasal?

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writing

Write 'I need a comb'.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 172 correct

Perfect score!

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