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खुले में रखना

B2 noun 11 min read

खुले में रखना

khule mein rakhna

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips खुले में रखना in 30 Seconds

Explanation खुले में रखना in your Level:

In A1, we learn simple words. 'Khule mein rakhna' means 'to keep something outside' or 'without a lid'. Think of food. If you have a bowl of fruit, and you don't put it in the fridge or cover it, you are keeping it in the open. Example: 'Khane ko khule mein mat rakho' (Don't keep food in the open). It is a very useful phrase for daily life at home. You use it when you want to tell someone to be careful with things like milk, water, or toys. It is made of three parts: 'khule' (open), 'mein' (in), and 'rakhna' (to keep). It is easy to remember because it sounds like what it means.

At the A2 level, 'khule mein rakhna' is used to talk about basic safety and habits. You might use it to talk about where you put your shoes or where you leave your bicycle. For example, 'Maine apni cycle khule mein rakhi' (I kept my cycle in the open). This level also introduces the idea that keeping things in the open might lead to them getting dirty or wet. It's a common phrase used by parents and teachers. You should practice using it with different objects like 'kitaab' (book), 'kapde' (clothes), and 'paani' (water). Remember that the verb 'rakhna' changes if you are talking about the past.

For B1 learners, 'khule mein rakhna' starts to include more responsibility. You use it when discussing health, like not keeping garbage in the open because it attracts flies. 'Kachre ko khule mein rakhna bura hai' (Keeping garbage in the open is bad). You also use it in more complex sentences with 'kyunki' (because) or 'isliye' (therefore). You might talk about the weather: 'Baarish ho rahi thi, isliye maine samaan khule mein nahi rakha' (It was raining, therefore I didn't keep the stuff in the open). It shows you understand the consequences of the action, not just the action itself.

At the B2 level, you should use 'khule mein rakhna' to describe more abstract or professional situations. This includes security risks (leaving a password exposed), environmental issues (leaving chemicals in the open), or even social transparency. You should be able to use it in the passive voice or with modal verbs like 'chahiye' (should) and 'padta hai' (have to). For example, 'Audyogik kachre ko khule mein rakhne par jurmana lag sakta hai' (A fine can be imposed for keeping industrial waste in the open). You understand the nuance that 'khule mein' implies a lack of necessary protection or a breach of protocol.

C1 learners use 'khule mein rakhna' in sophisticated discourse. It might appear in a legal argument about negligence or a philosophical discussion about vulnerability. You can use it to critique a policy: 'Sarkaari dastavezon ko is tarah khule mein rakhna suraksha ki drishti se chintajanak hai' (Keeping government documents in the open like this is worrying from a security perspective). At this level, you also recognize when to use more formal synonyms like 'anaavrit karna' (to uncover) or 'asurakshit chhodna', and you choose 'khule mein rakhna' specifically for its idiomatic punch and clarity in describing physical exposure.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the phrase's connotations. You might use it ironically or in high-level literature to describe a character's state of mind—someone who has 'kept their heart in the open' (apne dil ko khule mein rakha), meaning they are extremely vulnerable. You understand its place in various dialects and registers, from street slang to administrative Hindi. You can use the phrase to build complex metaphors and you are aware of its historical usage in rural vs. urban contexts. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker who uses the phrase to convey subtle warnings or vivid descriptions.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

खुले में रखना in 30 Seconds

Khule mein rakhna means leaving something uncovered or outside.
It is commonly used as a warning for food safety and security.
Grammatically, the verb 'rakhna' agrees with the object in past tenses.
It spans from literal meanings (garbage) to abstract ones (secrets).

The Hindi phrase "खुले में रखना" (khule mein rakhna) is a versatile expression that translates literally to "to keep in the open." However, its usage spans a wide range of contexts from domestic hygiene to security and even abstract vulnerability. At its core, it describes the act of leaving something—whether an object, a substance, or even a concept—without a cover, protection, or enclosure. In the context of the CEFR B2 level, learners must understand that this isn't just about placing something outdoors; it’s about the state of being exposed to the elements or to public view in a way that might be risky or improper.

Literal Meaning: To place something in an area that is not enclosed by walls or a roof, or to leave a container without its lid.

In a typical Indian household, you will frequently hear this phrase concerning food. Mothers often warn children not to leave milk or sweets "khule mein" because of flies or the risk of spoilage. It implies a lack of care or a breach of standard safety protocols. When we talk about "khule mein rakhna" in a modern urban setting, it might refer to leaving a bicycle on the street without a lock or leaving sensitive documents on a desk where anyone can see them.

भोजन को खुले में रखना बीमारियों को दावत देना है। (Keeping food in the open is inviting diseases.)

Environmental Context: Used when discussing pollution, where leaving waste in the open contributes to environmental degradation.

Furthermore, the phrase carries a connotation of vulnerability. If you leave your emotions "khule mein" (metaphorically), you are exposing yourself to potential hurt. However, the most common B2-level application involves physical objects. For example, leaving construction materials in the open during the monsoon season is a classic example of "khule mein rakhna" leading to damage. It suggests a conscious or subconscious decision to forego protection.

उसने अपनी साइकिल रात भर खुले में रखी और वह चोरी हो गई। (He kept his cycle in the open all night and it got stolen.)

Politically or socially, the phrase can be used to describe transparency, though other words like 'saaf' or 'pardarshi' are more common. Still, saying "baaton ko khule mein rakhna" can mean putting matters out in the open for discussion. This versatility is what makes it a B2 level phrase; you must discern whether the speaker is concerned about hygiene, security, or philosophical exposure.

Grammatical Note: The verb 'rakhna' changes according to the gender and number of the object being kept in the open, even though the phrase 'khule mein' remains static.

अनाज को धूप में खुले में रखना सुखाने का सबसे अच्छा तरीका है। (Keeping grain in the open in the sun is the best way to dry it.)

गहनों को खुले में रखना सुरक्षित नहीं है। (Keeping jewelry in the open is not safe.)

In summary, "khule mein rakhna" is a phrase that encapsulates the act of exposing something to its surroundings. Whether for drying, by negligence, or for public display, it describes the spatial relationship between an object and its lack of protective enclosure.

Using "खुले में रखना" (khule mein rakhna) correctly requires attention to the object being described. Since 'rakhna' is a transitive verb, it agrees with the object in perfective tenses (using the 'ne' construction). In other tenses, it agrees with the subject. Let's look at the nuances of construction across various scenarios.

Scenario 1: Food Safety: When advising someone about hygiene, the phrase often appears in the imperative or as a general rule.

मिठाइयों को खुले में मत रखो, मक्खियाँ आ जाएँगी। (Don't keep the sweets in the open, flies will come.)

Notice how 'rakho' is the imperative form. The phrase 'khule mein' acts as an adverbial phrase of place. It tells us *where* the action of keeping is happening. In more formal writing, you might see the gerund form 'rakhna' used as a subject.

Scenario 2: Security and Negligence: When discussing theft or damage, the phrase highlights the cause of the problem.

उसने अपना कीमती सामान खुले में रखा था। (He had kept his expensive belongings in the open.)

In complex sentences, you can use the conjunctive participle 'rakhkar' (having kept). For example: "Samaan ko khule mein rakhkar vah bhool gaya" (Having kept the luggage in the open, he forgot). This shows a sequence of actions where the exposure was the first step.

Scenario 3: Environmental and Social Issues: Often used in government campaigns or news reports regarding public health.

कूड़े को खुले में रखना कानूनन अपराध है। (Keeping garbage in the open is a legal offense.)

In this sentence, 'khule mein rakhna' acts as the noun phrase subject. It is treated as a masculine singular noun. This is a very common structure for B2 level academic or formal Hindi. You are not just describing an action; you are defining a concept.

क्या हम इन पौधों को खुले में रख सकते हैं? (Can we keep these plants in the open?)

When asking for permission or possibility, the phrase is used with modal verbs like 'sakna' (can). Here, 'khule mein rakh' is the stem form. It sounds natural and is used in gardening or home decoration contexts.

दवाइयों को कभी भी खुले में नहीं रखना चाहिए। (Medicines should never be kept in the open.)

Finally, the 'chahiye' (should) construction is vital for B2 learners. It provides a way to give recommendations. "Davaaiyon ko khule mein nahi rakhna chahiye" uses the infinitive 'rakhna' and is a standard way to express medical or safety advice. This comprehensive range of sentence structures shows how "khule mein rakhna" integrates into the Hindi grammatical framework.

The phrase "खुले में रखना" (khule mein rakhna) is ubiquitous in India, resonating through various layers of daily life, from the bustling street markets to formal government announcements. Understanding where you hear this word helps in grasping its cultural weight and practical application.

1. In the Kitchen and Household: This is the most common place. You will hear grandmothers and parents constantly reminding everyone to cover the food. If a lid is missing, the immediate instruction is: "Isse khule mein mat rakho" (Don't keep this in the open). It is deeply tied to the Indian climate where heat and insects can spoil food quickly.

दूध को खुले में रखने से वह फट सकता है। (Keeping milk in the open can cause it to spoil/curdle.)

2. **Public Service Announcements (PSAs):** The Indian government has launched massive campaigns like 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' (Clean India Mission). In these campaigns, the phrase is used extensively regarding waste management. You will see posters in parks or near dumpsters saying "Kachre ko khule mein na rakhein/phenke" (Do not keep/throw garbage in the open). Here, it is a formal directive for public health.

3. **Construction and Logistics:** If you are near a building site, you might hear a supervisor yelling at workers about cement bags or steel rods. "Sariya khule mein kyun rakha hai? Baarish aane waali hai!" (Why is the rebar kept in the open? It's going to rain!). In this context, it signifies a risk of material damage and financial loss.

सीमेंट को खुले में रखना उसे खराब कर देगा। (Keeping cement in the open will ruin it.)

4. News and Environmental Reports: News anchors often use this phrase when discussing chemical leaks or hazardous materials. If a factory leaves toxic waste in the open, the report will state: "Zeharile padarthon ko khule mein rakha gaya tha" (Toxic substances were kept in the open).

5. **Daily Conversations about Safety:** When friends talk about a recent theft, they might blame the victim's habit of leaving things "khule mein." For instance, "Usne apni car ki chaabi khule mein rakh di thi" (He had left his car keys in the open/exposed). It serves as a cautionary tale in social circles.

अपने पासवर्ड को खुले में रखना मूर्खता है। (Keeping your password in the open is foolishness.)

In all these settings, the phrase acts as a marker for the boundary between the protected and the unprotected. Whether you are listening to a Bollywood movie where a secret is "kept in the open" for everyone to see, or a doctor advising you not to keep medicines in the sun, "khule mein rakhna" is the essential linguistic tool for describing exposure.

While "खुले में रखना" (khule mein rakhna) seems straightforward, English speakers often make subtle errors in nuance, grammar, and context. Avoiding these mistakes will make your Hindi sound more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Khula Chhodna' (खुला छोड़ना): 'Khule mein rakhna' means to place something in an exposed area. 'Khula chhodna' means to leave something open (like a door, a bottle, or a tap). You wouldn't say "Nal ko khule mein rakho" to mean leave the tap running; you'd say "Nal khula chhod do."

Incorrect: दरवाजे को खुले में रखो। (Keep the door in the open.)
Correct: दरवाजे को खुला छोड़ दो। (Leave the door open.)

2. **Agreement Errors with 'Rakhna':** In the past tense with 'ne', many learners forget that the verb agrees with the object, not the person who did the action. If you kept 'kitaabein' (books - feminine plural) in the open, the verb must be 'rakheen'.

3. **Misusing 'Mein' and 'Par':** Sometimes learners say "khule par rakhna," thinking they mean "keep on the open." In Hindi, the idiom is strictly "khule mein" (in the open). Using 'par' (on) sounds unnatural and is grammatically incorrect in this idiomatic context.

Incorrect: सामान को खुले पर मत रखो।
Correct: सामान को खुले में मत रखो।

4. **Over-literal Translation of 'Expose':** If you want to say "He exposed the truth," you shouldn't use "khule mein rakhna." Instead, use "parda-faash karna" or "saamne laana." "Khule mein rakhna" is mostly for physical objects or keeping things in an unprotected state, not for revealing secrets in a journalistic sense.

Mistake 5: Using it for People: You generally don't 'keep' people in the open. If someone is standing outside, you say "Vah bahar khada hai." Using 'khule mein rakhna' for a person sounds like you are treating them like an object, which can be offensive or just very weird.

6. **Ignoring the Connotation:** Learners often use it neutrally, but in Hindi, it often implies a warning. If you say "I kept my car in the open," a Hindi speaker might immediately ask, "Is it safe there?" Be aware that the phrase often triggers a sense of concern in the listener.

सावधानी: रसायनों को खुले में रखना खतरनाक है। (Caution: Keeping chemicals in the open is dangerous.)

By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can use "khule mein rakhna" with the precision of a native speaker, ensuring your message is clear and contextually appropriate.

In Hindi, there are several ways to describe the act of exposing or leaving something unprotected. Depending on the context, you might want to choose a word that is more specific than "खुले में रखना" (khule mein rakhna).

1. बेपर्दा करना (Be-parda karna): This literally means 'to remove the veil.' It is used for revealing secrets or exposing someone's true character. Unlike 'khule mein rakhna', this is almost always metaphorical and abstract.

सच को बेपर्दा करना ज़रूरी था। (It was necessary to expose the truth.)

2. **असुरक्षित छोड़ना (Asurakshit chhodna):** This means 'to leave unprotected.' While 'khule mein rakhna' describes the physical state (in the open), 'asurakshit chhodna' focuses on the consequence (lack of safety). It is more formal and often used in security contexts.

3. **नुमाइश करना (Numaish karna):** This means 'to display' or 'to show off.' If you are keeping something in the open so that people can admire it (like a trophy), 'numaish' is a better word. 'Khule mein rakhna' is more about the lack of a cover than the intent to show.

अपनी दौलत की नुमाइश करना अच्छी बात नहीं है। (Displaying/showing off your wealth is not a good thing.)

4. उजागर करना (Ujagar karna): This means 'to bring to light' or 'to highlight.' It is used in journalism and formal discussions to talk about exposing scams or hidden facts.

5. **बाहर रखना (Bahar rakhna):** This is the simplest alternative, meaning 'to keep outside.' It lacks the idiomatic weight of 'khule mein rakhna.' If you just mean "put the shoes outside the door," you would use 'bahar rakhna'. If you mean "leave the shoes exposed to rain and dust," you might use 'khule mein rakhna'.

मामले को उजागर करना पुलिस का काम है। (Exposing the matter is the police's job.)

Understanding these synonyms allows you to tailor your Hindi to the specific situation, moving beyond basic vocabulary to more nuanced B2-level expression. Each word carries a different emotional and contextual weight that 'khule mein rakhna' might not capture.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Khula' is also used in Urdu and Persian with similar meanings, showing the deep linguistic blend in North India.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkʰʊ.leː mẽː ˈɾəkʰ.nɑː/

US /ˈkʰuːleɪ meɪn ˈrʌknə/

Primary stress is on 'khu' and 'rakh'.

Rhymes With

Bhule mein rakhna Jhule mein rakhna Dule mein rakhna Sule mein rakhna Khule mein chakhna Khule mein lakhna Khule mein takhna Khule mein bakhna

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kh' as a soft 'k'.
Forgetting the nasalization of 'mein'.
Pronouncing 'rakhna' as 'ra-khana'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize but requires understanding of context.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct verb agreement with the object.

Speaking 4/5

Nasalization of 'mein' and aspiration of 'kh' are tricky.

Listening 3/5

Commonly heard in daily life and news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

खुला में रखना बाहर ढकना

Learn Next

उजागर करना असुरक्षित सावधानी परिणाम लापरवाही

Advanced

पारदर्शिता अनावरण सार्वजनिक गोपनीयता जोखिम

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verb Agreement

Maine rotiyan (fem. pl.) khule mein rakheen.

Gerund as Subject

Khule mein rakhna bura hai.

Oblique Case with Postpositions

Khule mein rakhne se (because of keeping in the open).

Imperative Forms

Rakho (informal), Rakhiye (formal).

Compound Verbs

Rakh dena (to put away/down).

Examples by Level

दूध को खुले में मत रखो।

Don't keep the milk in the open.

Imperative negative 'mat' used with 'rakho'.

आम को खुले में रखो।

Keep the mango in the open.

Simple command.

क्या मैं इसे खुले में रखूँ?

Should I keep this in the open?

Subjunctive 'rakhoon' for asking permission.

पानी खुले में है।

The water is in the open.

Simple present state.

खाना खुले में मत छोड़ो।

Don't leave the food in the open.

Using 'chhodna' as a synonym for 'rakhna' here.

खिलौने खुले में हैं।

The toys are in the open.

Plural agreement.

जूते खुले में रखो।

Keep the shoes in the open.

Plural object.

चीनी को खुले में मत रखो।

Don't keep the sugar in the open.

Feminine object 'cheeni'.

कल मैंने अपनी किताब खुले में रखी थी।

Yesterday I kept my book in the open.

Past tense 'rakhi thi' agreeing with feminine 'kitab'.

साइकिल को खुले में मत रखना, बारिश होगी।

Don't keep the cycle in the open, it will rain.

Future warning.

उसने अपने कपड़े खुले में रखे हैं।

He has kept his clothes in the open.

Present perfect.

सब्जियों को खुले में रखने से वे खराब हो जाती हैं।

Keeping vegetables in the open makes them go bad.

Gerundial phrase as a cause.

क्या आपने चाबियाँ खुले में रखीं?

Did you keep the keys in the open?

Past tense plural feminine agreement.

वह हमेशा अपना बैग खुले में रखता है।

He always keeps his bag in the open.

Habitual present.

गेंद को खुले में मत रखो, खो जाएगी।

Don't keep the ball in the open, it will get lost.

Warning of loss.

हमने पुराने बर्तन खुले में रख दिए।

We put the old utensils in the open.

Compound verb 'rakh diye'.

कूड़े को खुले में रखना स्वास्थ्य के लिए हानिकारक है।

Keeping garbage in the open is harmful to health.

Formal subject phrase.

अगर तुम फोन खुले में रखोगे, तो कोई ले जाएगा।

If you keep the phone in the open, someone will take it.

Conditional sentence.

मिठाइयों को खुले में रखने के बजाय डिब्बे में रखो।

Instead of keeping sweets in the open, keep them in a box.

Comparison using 'ke bajay'.

उसने अपने गहने खुले में रखे थे, जो बहुत बड़ी गलती थी।

She had kept her jewelry in the open, which was a big mistake.

Relative clause.

क्या सामान को खुले में रखना सुरक्षित है?

Is it safe to keep the luggage in the open?

Interrogative about safety.

किसानों को अनाज खुले में नहीं रखना चाहिए।

Farmers should not keep grain in the open.

Use of 'chahiye'.

धूप में कपड़े खुले में रखना अच्छा होता है।

It is good to keep clothes in the open in the sun.

Positive context of the phrase.

दवाइयों को खुले में रखने से उनका असर कम हो सकता है।

Keeping medicines in the open can reduce their effect.

Causal link to effectiveness.

महत्वपूर्ण दस्तावेजों को खुले में रखना लापरवाही है।

Keeping important documents in the open is negligence.

Abstract noun 'laparvahi' as predicate.

रसायनों को कभी भी खुले में रखने की अनुमति नहीं दी जानी चाहिए।

Chemicals should never be allowed to be kept in the open.

Passive voice with 'chahiye'.

उसने अपना सारा पैसा खुले में रखा और अब पछता रहा है।

He kept all his money in the open and is now regretting it.

Perfective tense with consequence.

क्या आप जानते हैं कि खुले में रखना कितना खतरनाक हो सकता है?

Do you know how dangerous keeping [it] in the open can be?

Complex interrogative.

भवन निर्माण सामग्री को खुले में रखने से वह खराब हो गई।

The construction material got ruined because of being kept in the open.

Gerund as an oblique object of 'se'.

किसी भी राज को इस तरह खुले में रखना ठीक नहीं है।

It's not right to keep any secret in the open like this.

Metaphorical usage.

सुरक्षा कारणों से, लैपटॉप को खुले में मत रखिए।

For security reasons, please do not keep the laptop in the open.

Formal imperative 'rakhiye'.

सर्दियों में पौधों को खुले में रखने से वे मर सकते हैं।

Keeping plants in the open in winter can kill them.

Environmental constraint.

परमाणु कचरे को खुले में रखने के परिणामों पर चर्चा की गई।

The consequences of keeping nuclear waste in the open were discussed.

High-level academic context.

संवेदनशील डेटा को खुले में रखना साइबर सुरक्षा के नियमों का उल्लंघन है।

Keeping sensitive data in the open is a violation of cybersecurity rules.

Professional/Technical register.

उसने अपने इरादों को खुले में रखा ताकि कोई गलतफहमी न हो।

He kept his intentions in the open so there would be no misunderstanding.

Abstract/Strategic usage.

ऐतिहासिक धरोहरों को खुले में रखने से उनके क्षरण का डर रहता है।

Keeping historical heritage in the open risks their erosion.

Context of conservation.

बिना किसी सुरक्षा के रसायनों को खुले में रखना एक आपराधिक कृत्य है।

Keeping chemicals in the open without any protection is a criminal act.

Legal terminology 'apradhik kritya'.

बाजार में अपनी योजनाओं को खुले में रखना जोखिम भरा हो सकता है।

Keeping your plans in the open in the market can be risky.

Business strategy context.

प्रदूषण के स्तर को देखते हुए, निर्माण सामग्री को खुले में रखना प्रतिबंधित है।

Given the pollution levels, keeping construction material in the open is prohibited.

Administrative directive.

क्या सरकार अपनी नीतियों को जनता के लिए खुले में रखने के लिए तैयार है?

Is the government ready to keep its policies in the open for the public?

Political transparency usage.

दार्शनिक रूप से, अपने अस्तित्व को खुले में रखना ही सच्ची स्वतंत्रता है।

Philosophically, keeping one's existence in the open is true freedom.

Deeply abstract/philosophical.

लेखक ने समाज की बुराइयों को खुले में रखने का साहस दिखाया।

The author showed the courage to keep the evils of society in the open (to expose them).

Literary analysis.

बिना किसी आवरण के सत्य को खुले में रखना अक्सर कड़वा होता है।

Keeping the truth in the open without any cover is often bitter.

Metaphorical 'aavran' (cover).

कूटनीति में, हर बात को खुले में रखना संभव नहीं होता।

In diplomacy, it is not possible to keep everything in the open.

Geopolitical context.

उसकी कविताएँ अपनी भावनाओं को खुले में रखने का एक जरिया हैं।

Her poems are a medium for keeping her emotions in the open.

Artistic expression.

वैज्ञानिक प्रयोगों के दौरान नमूनों को खुले में रखने की प्रक्रिया जटिल थी।

The process of keeping samples in the open during scientific experiments was complex.

Scientific procedure.

क्या हम वास्तव में अपनी निजता को तकनीक के सामने खुले में रख रहे हैं?

Are we really keeping our privacy in the open before technology?

Critique of modern life.

इतिहास गवाह है कि सत्ता को खुले में रखना कभी आसान नहीं रहा।

History is witness that keeping power in the open has never been easy.

Historical/Rhetorical.

Synonyms

खुला छोड़ना बाहर रखना असुरक्षित छोड़ना उजागर करना बेपर्दा करना नुमाइश करना सामने लाना अनावृत करना

Antonyms

ढककर रखना छिपाकर रखना सुरक्षित रखना अंदर रखना

Common Collocations

खाने को खुले में रखना

कूड़े को खुले में रखना

समान को खुले में रखना

अनाज को खुले में रखना

दवाइयों को खुले में रखना

साइकिल को खुले में रखना

कीमती चीजों को खुले में रखना

दूध को खुले में रखना

दस्तावेजों को खुले में रखना

भावनाओं को खुले में रखना

Common Phrases

खुले में रखना मना है

— It is prohibited to keep [it] in the open.

यहाँ कचरा खुले में रखना मना है।

सब कुछ खुले में रखना

— To keep everything transparent/exposed.

उसने अपनी योजनाएं खुले में रख दीं।

खुले में रखने की आदत

— The habit of leaving things in the open.

उसकी खुले में रखने की आदत उसे महंगी पड़ी।

खुले में रखना जोखिम भरा

— Keeping [it] in the open is risky.

पैसे खुले में रखना जोखिम भरा है।

खुले में रखा हुआ

— Something that is already kept in the open.

खुले में रखा हुआ खाना मत खाओ।

खुले में रखने का नतीजा

— The result of keeping [it] in the open.

यह खुले में रखने का नतीजा है कि सामान खराब हो गया।

खुले में रखने की अनुमति

— Permission to keep [it] in the open.

क्या यहाँ सामान खुले में रखने की अनुमति है?

बिना सोचे-समझे खुले में रखना

— Keeping [it] in the open without thinking.

उसने बिना सोचे-समझे चाबियाँ खुले में रख दीं।

खुले में रखना मजबूरी है

— Keeping [it] in the open is a compulsion.

जगह की कमी के कारण अनाज खुले में रखना मजबूरी है।

खुले में रखने से बचना

— To avoid keeping [it] in the open.

हमें रसायनों को खुले में रखने से बचना चाहिए।

Often Confused With

खुले में रखना vs खुला छोड़ना

Means leaving something functioning or unfastened (tap, door).

खुले में रखना vs बाहर निकालना

Means to take something out of a container, not necessarily leaving it exposed.

खुले में रखना vs फेंकना

Means to throw away, while 'rakhna' implies placing it there.

Idioms & Expressions

"खुली किताब होना"

— To be an open book (related to being 'khule mein').

उसका जीवन एक खुली किताब है।

Metaphorical

"मैदान में रखना"

— To put something in the field/open for competition.

उसने अपनी बात मैदान में रख दी।

Competitive

"पर्दे के पीछे न रखना"

— To not keep behind a curtain (to keep in the open).

उसने कुछ भी पर्दे के पीछे नहीं रखा।

Idiomatic

"हवा में रखना"

— To leave something to the air (expose).

गीले कपड़ों को हवा में रखो।

Practical

"चौराहे पर रखना"

— To put something at a crossroads (public exposure).

उसने खानदान की इज्जत चौराहे पर रख दी।

Cultural/Negative

"धूप में रखना"

— To put in the sun (specific type of khule mein).

अचार को धूप में रखो।

Culinary

"सामने रखना"

— To place in front of someone.

अपनी मांगें सबके सामने रखो।

Neutral

"जगजाहिर करना"

— To make something known to the whole world.

उसने अपनी सफलता को जगजाहिर कर दिया।

Formal

"खुले आम करना"

— To do something openly (often something bad).

वे खुले आम नियम तोड़ रहे हैं।

Informal/Slang

"सबके सामने लाना"

— To bring before everyone.

सच को सबके सामने लाना होगा।

Neutral

Easily Confused

खुले में रखना vs Khulna

Sounds similar.

Khulna is to open (intransitive); Rakhna is to keep.

Darvaza khul gaya.

खुले में रखना vs Rakhna

Generic verb.

Rakhna is just to keep; Khule mein rakhna is a specific state.

Kitab mez par rakho.

खुले में रखना vs Khelna

Phonetically similar for beginners.

Khelna means to play.

Bachhe khel rahe hain.

खुले में रखना vs Khilna

Phonetically similar.

Khilna means to bloom.

Phool khil rahe hain.

खुले में रखना vs Khulasa

Related to opening.

Khulasa means a summary or an exposure of a secret.

Usne khulasa kiya.

Sentence Patterns

[Object] + मत + रखो

दूध मत रखो।

[Object] + को + खुले में + रखना + [Reason]

सब्जियों को खुले में रखना खराब है।

अगर + [Subject] + [Object] + खुले में + [Verb], तो...

अगर तुम पैसे खुले में रखोगे, तो चोरी हो जाएंगे।

[Object] + को + खुले में + रखने की + अनुमति + नहीं है

कूड़े को खुले में रखने की अनुमति नहीं है।

[Abstract Concept] + को + खुले में + रखना + [Formal Predicate]

डेटा को खुले में रखना नियमों का उल्लंघन है।

दार्शनिक रूप से + [Phrase]

दार्शनिक रूप से स्वयं को खुले में रखना कठिन है।

All

खुले में + रखा हुआ + [Noun]

खुले में रखा हुआ पानी।

All

[Subject] + ने + [Object] + खुले में + रख + दिया

उसने सामान खुले में रख दिया।

Word Family

Nouns

खुलापन (Openness)

रखाव (Maintenance)

Verbs

खुलना (To open)

रखना (To keep)

Adjectives

खुला (Open)

रखा हुआ (Kept)

ढकना (To cover)

छिपाना (To hide)

बचाना (To save)

छोड़ना (To leave)

फेंकना (To throw)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in domestic and public safety contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'par' instead of 'mein'. → खुले में रखना
It is an idiomatic phrase; 'mein' is mandatory.
Using it for 'opening a shop'. → Dukaan kholna
Khule mein rakhna is only for placing objects, not starting a business.
Incorrect past tense agreement. → Maine roti khule mein rakhi (not rakha).
Verb must match the feminine noun 'roti'.
Confusing with 'khula chhodna' for taps. → Nal khula chhodna
You don't 'keep' a running tap in the open; you 'leave' it open.
Using for 'exposed secrets' in formal news. → Parda-faash karna
Khule mein rakhna is too literal for high-level journalism.

Tips

Verb Agreement

In the past tense, 'rakhna' changes to 'rakha', 'rakhi', or 'rakhe' based on the object.

Social Context

In India, leaving food in the open is a major health taboo due to the climate.

Nuance

Use 'khule mein' for physical space and 'khula' for state of an object.

Easy Recall

Think: 'Khule' = 'Cool air'. Keeping things in the cool air is 'khule mein rakhna'.

Nasalization

Don't forget the 'n' sound in 'mein'. It's 'may-n', not 'may'.

Compound Verbs

Pair it with 'dena' (rakh dena) to sound more like a native speaker.

Security

It's the go-to phrase for telling someone they are being careless with their bags.

Environment

Use it when talking about pollution or garbage disposal.

Abstract Use

Try using it for 'transparency' in business or politics at B2 level.

Home Tip

Tell your roommate 'Bartan khule mein mat rakho' (Don't leave dishes in the open).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Khule' as 'Cooler'. If you put something in a 'Cooler' in the 'Open', you are 'Khule mein rakhna'.

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red apple sitting on a table in the middle of a busy street with no one watching it.

Word Web

Food Garbage Security Weather Exposure Warning Lid Outside

Challenge

Try to find 3 things in your room that should not be 'khule mein rakha' and say it in Hindi.

Word Origin

Derived from Sanskrit 'Kshulla' (open/small) and 'Raksh' (to keep/protect).

Original meaning: To place in an unobstructed space.

Indo-Aryan.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using it for social habits; it can sound judgmental.

English speakers might say 'leave it out', but 'khule mein rakhna' feels more formal and specific about the lack of cover.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan slogans. Bollywood scenes where a character leaves a secret letter in the open. Hindi poems about the vulnerability of the heart.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Kitchen

दूध ढक दो
खुले में मत रखो
चींटियाँ आ जाएँगी
खराब हो जाएगा

Security

पैसे संभाल कर रखो
खुले में मत छोड़ो
चोरी हो सकता है
ताला लगाओ

Construction

सीमेंट ढक दो
बारिश आने वाली है
खुले में क्यों है?
अंदर ले जाओ

Office

फाइलें अलमारी में रखो
खुले में मत छोड़ो
गोपनीय है
कोई भी देख लेगा

Gardening

धूप में रखो
खुले में ठीक है
हवा लगेगी
पानी मत डालो

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको लगता है कि शहर में सामान खुले में रखना सुरक्षित है?"

"आपके देश में कूड़े को खुले में रखने पर क्या नियम हैं?"

"क्या आपने कभी गलती से अपनी चाबियाँ खुले में रखी हैं?"

"भोजन को खुले में रखने से कौन सी बीमारियाँ हो सकती हैं?"

"क्या हमें अपनी भावनाओं को सबके सामने खुले में रखना चाहिए?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने देखा कि किसी ने अपना कीमती सामान खुले में रखा था। मुझे कैसा लगा?

खुले में रखने के फायदे और नुकसान के बारे में लिखें (अनाज सुखाने के संदर्भ में)।

एक कहानी लिखें जहाँ 'खुले में रखना' एक बड़ी समस्या बन गया।

क्या तकनीक हमारी निजता को खुले में रख रही है? अपने विचार लिखें।

बचपन की एक याद जब आपने कुछ खुले में रखा और वह खराब हो गया।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally no. It sounds like you are treating a person like an object. Use 'bahar chhodna' or 'akele chhodna' instead.

Not always. In farming, keeping grain in the open (khule mein rakhna) is necessary for drying it in the sun.

'Bahar' just means outside. 'Khule mein' implies there is no cover or protection, even if it's inside a large hall.

Use 'Darvaza khula mat chhodo'. 'Khule mein rakhna' doesn't apply to doors.

You can also use 'chhodna' (to leave) in 'khule mein chhodna', which is very similar.

Yes, in a B2/C1 context, you can say 'Files ko khule mein rakhna' to mean leaving them without a password.

No, 'khule' is the oblique form of 'khula' used with the postposition 'mein'. It stays 'khule mein'.

Usually, we say 'khuli twacha', but you can say 'twacha को धूप में खुले में रखना' (keeping skin exposed in the sun).

It's neutral. It's used in both slang and formal government warnings.

The most common opposite is 'dhak-kar rakhna' (to keep covered).