खिन्न
खिन्न in 30 Seconds
- Meaning: Dejected, sad, disheartened.
- Usage: Describes low spirits, often from disappointment.
- Tone: More formal/literary than general sadness.
- Key Idea: A dampened spirit, a quiet sorrow.
- Synonym
- उदासीन (udaseen) - indifferent, apathetic, but can also imply sadness or dejection.
- Synonym
- निराश (nirash) - disappointed, hopeless. This is a very close synonym.
- Synonym
- दुखी (dukhi) - sad, unhappy. A more general term for sadness.
- Usage Context
- Used in literature, poetry, and formal conversations to describe emotional states.
- Usage Context
- Can describe personal feelings or a general atmosphere of gloom.
- Usage Context
- Often implies a loss of spirit or enthusiasm.
परीक्षा में असफल होने के बाद वह बहुत खिन्न हो गया। (Pariksha mein asafal hone ke baad vah bahut khinn ho gaya.) - After failing the exam, he became very dejected.
आजकल उसका मन किसी काम में नहीं लगता, वह कुछ खिन्न रहता है। (Aajkal uska man kisi kaam mein nahin lagta, vah kuch khinn rehta hai.) - Nowadays, his mind isn't focused on any work; he remains somewhat disheartened.
- Basic Structure
- Subject + (Feeling Verb) + खिन्न
- Example Sentence
- लड़का खिन्न था। (Ladka khinn tha.) - The boy was dejected.
- With Modifiers
- You can use adverbs like 'बहुत' (bahut - very), 'थोड़ा' (thoda - a little), or 'कुछ' (kuch - somewhat) to modify the intensity of the feeling.
- Example Sentence
- वह बहुत खिन्न दिख रहा था। (Vah bahut khinn dikh raha tha.) - He was looking very disheartened.
- Describing a State
- It often follows verbs that indicate a change of state or a feeling, like 'होना' (hona - to be/become) or 'रहना' (rehna - to remain).
- Example Sentence
- परीक्षा के परिणाम आने के बाद से वह खिन्न रहने लगा। (Pariksha ke parinaam aane ke baad se vah khinn rehne laga.) - Ever since the exam results came, he started remaining dejected.
- In Clauses
- खिन्न can be used in subordinate clauses to explain the reason for a particular action or feeling.
- Example Sentence
- उसकी खिन्न देखकर, मैंने उससे बात करने की कोशिश की। (Uski khinn dekhkar, maine usse baat karne ki koshish ki.) - Seeing him dejected, I tried to talk to him.
- Figurative Use
- While primarily describing people, it can also be used to describe a mood or atmosphere.
- Example Sentence
- बारिश के कारण मौसम खिन्न लग रहा था। (Baarish ke kaaran mausam khinn lag raha tha.) - The weather seemed gloomy due to the rain.
- Connecting with Causes
- Often, the reason for being खिन्न is stated using prepositions like 'से' (se - from/due to) or conjunctions.
- Example Sentence
- नौकरी छूट जाने के कारण वह खिन्न था। (Naukri chhoot jaane ke kaaran vah khinn tha.) - He was disheartened due to losing his job.
- In Questions
- It can be used in questions to inquire about someone's state of mind.
- Example Sentence
- तुम आज इतने खिन्न क्यों लग रहे हो? (Tum aaj itne khinn kyon lag rahe ho?) - Why are you looking so dejected today?
- Combining with Actions
- It can be combined with verbs describing actions or lack thereof, stemming from this state.
- Example Sentence
- वह खिन्न होकर कमरे में बैठ गया। (Vah khinn hokar kamre mein baith gaya.) - Feeling dejected, he sat down in the room.
- Expressing Sympathy
- Used to express concern or sympathy for someone in a low mood.
- Example Sentence
- उसके खिन्न चेहरे को देखकर मुझे दुख हुआ। (Uske khinn chehre ko dekhkar mujhe dukh hua.) - Seeing his dejected face, I felt sad.
- Describing Events
- In narrative writing, it can describe the emotional impact of an event.
- Example Sentence
- The news of the accident left everyone खिन्न. (Durghatna ki khabar ne sabko खिन्न kar diya.)
- Formal vs. Informal
- While खिन्न is generally considered neutral to formal, it is understood in most everyday conversations.
- Example Sentence
- उसकी खिन्न प्रतिक्रिया ने मुझे चिंतित कर दिया। (Uski khinn pratikriya ne mujhe chintit kar diya.) - His dejected reaction worried me.
The student felt खिन्न because his project was rejected.
The atmosphere in the room became खिन्न after the bad news.
- Literature and Poetry
- Authors and poets often use खिन्न to convey deep emotional states, the melancholic moods of characters, or the somber atmosphere of a scene. It adds a layer of literary sophistication to the expression of sadness.
- Formal Conversations
- In more formal discussions, perhaps about personal challenges, setbacks, or emotional well-being, people might use खिन्न to articulate their feelings or describe someone else's state more precisely than a general term for sadness.
- News Reporting and Analysis
- Journalists or analysts, especially when discussing social issues, economic downturns, or the impact of events on public sentiment, might use खिन्न to describe a collective mood of discouragement.
- Psychological and Counseling Contexts
- In discussions related to mental health, therapy, or emotional states, खिन्न can be used by professionals or individuals to describe a state of low spirits or mild depression.
- Academic Writing
- In essays, research papers, or critical reviews, particularly those analyzing human behavior, emotions, or social commentary, खिन्न can be employed for precise emotional description.
- Personal Diaries or Letters
- When someone is reflecting deeply on their feelings and writing in a diary or a personal letter, they might choose खिन्न to articulate a particular shade of sadness or disappointment.
- Film and Theatre Scripts
- Screenwriters and playwrights use खिन्न in dialogue or stage directions to establish a character's emotional state or the mood of a scene, often indicating a more subtle or internal struggle.
- Speeches and Sermons
- Public speakers, particularly those aiming for a more eloquent or empathetic tone, might use खिन्न when discussing hardship, loss, or the need for support.
The novel described the protagonist's खिन्न state after losing his family.
During the formal meeting, he admitted to feeling खिन्न about the project's delays.
- Confusing with General Sadness
- Mistake: Using खिन्न for every instance of sadness. For example, saying someone is खिन्न just because they missed a bus.
Correct Usage: खिन्न implies a deeper, more persistent state of dejection or discouragement. For minor sadness, words like 'दुखी' (dukhi) or 'उदासी' (udasi - noun) are more appropriate. - Overuse in Casual Conversation
- Mistake: Employing खिन्न in very informal, everyday chats where a simpler word would suffice. खिन्न carries a more literary or formal tone.
Correct Usage: Reserve खिन्न for situations where you need to express a significant level of dejection or when the context is more formal. - Incorrect Grammatical Form
- Mistake: Treating खिन्न as a verb or a noun incorrectly. For example, saying 'वह खिन्नता है' (vah khinnata hai) to mean 'he is dejected' (khinnata is the noun 'dejection').
Correct Usage: खिन्न is an adjective. It should be used with linking verbs like 'होना' (hona - to be/become) or 'लगना' (lagna - to seem/appear) to describe a subject. e.g., 'वह खिन्न है' (vah khinn hai - he is dejected). - Confusing with 'निराश' (Nirash)
- Mistake: Using खिन्न and 'निराश' (nirash - disappointed, hopeless) interchangeably without considering the nuance. While both relate to negative emotions, 'निराश' specifically points to a lack of hope or disappointment in a particular outcome.
Correct Usage: 'निराश' is often a consequence of unmet expectations or failure. खिन्न is a broader term for low spirits, which might stem from disappointment but can also be due to other factors. - Applying to Inanimate Objects Incorrectly
- Mistake: Describing inanimate objects as खिन्न unless used in a clear metaphorical or poetic sense.
Correct Usage: While one can say the weather is 'gloomy' (which might be translated poetically as खिन्न), directly attributing human emotions like dejection to objects is usually avoided unless the intent is clearly figurative. - Ignoring Context
- Mistake: Using खिन्न when the situation calls for a different emotional descriptor, such as anger or boredom.
Correct Usage: Always consider the specific emotion being conveyed. खिन्न specifically refers to a state of being disheartened, dejected, or depressed in spirits.
Incorrect: वह बस छूटने से खिन्न हो गया। (He became dejected from missing the bus.)
More Appropriate: वह बस छूटने से दुखी हुआ। (He became sad from missing the bus.)
Incorrect: वह खिन्नता है। (He dejection is.)
Correct: वह खिन्न है। (He is dejected.)
- खिन्न (Khinn)
- Meaning: Dejected, sad; depressed in spirits; disheartened. Implies a state of low spirits, often due to disappointment or a general lack of enthusiasm. It suggests a quiet, internalized sadness.
- निराश (Nirash)
- Meaning: Disappointed, hopeless. This word specifically points to a feeling arising from unmet expectations, failure, or a loss of hope regarding a particular outcome or future prospect. It's more about the 'lack of hope' aspect.
- Comparison
- खिन्न is a general state of dejection, while 'निराश' is specifically about losing hope or being disappointed by an event or outcome. One can be खिन्न without being specifically निराश, and vice-versa. For example, a general feeling of melancholy might be खिन्न, but failing an exam would make one निराश.
- दुखी (Dukhi)
- Meaning: Sad, unhappy. This is the most general term for sadness. It can be used for almost any situation where someone feels sad, from minor to significant. It does not carry the nuance of low spirits or dejection as strongly as खिन्न.
- Comparison
- 'दुखी' is a broad umbrella term. खिन्न is a specific type of sadness characterized by dejection and low spirits. You might feel 'दुखी' about a scraped knee, but you would feel खिन्न after a significant failure or loss.
- उदासीन (Udaseen)
- Meaning: Indifferent, apathetic, detached. While 'उदासीन' can sometimes imply a lack of positive emotion, which might be a symptom of sadness, its primary meaning is a lack of interest or concern. It can also mean resigned or melancholy.
- Comparison
- 'उदासीन' is about a lack of engagement or feeling, whereas खिन्न is about a specific negative emotional state of dejection. Someone feeling खिन्न might still feel things deeply, just with a sense of sadness. An 'उदासीन' person might not feel much at all, or might appear emotionally numb.
- विषाद (Vishad)
- Meaning: Grief, sorrow, melancholy. This is a noun and often implies a deeper, more profound sadness or grief, perhaps related to loss. It is a more formal and literary term than 'दुखी'.
- Comparison
- 'विषाद' is a noun referring to a state of deep sorrow, whereas खिन्न is an adjective describing the feeling of being dejected. You can feel 'विषाद' (grief), and as a result, you might be खिन्न (dejected).
- हताश (Hatash)
- Meaning: Desperate, disheartened, dispirited. This is very close to 'निराश' and also implies a loss of courage or spirit due to difficult circumstances.
- Comparison
- 'हताश' shares a lot of ground with 'निराश' and खिन्न. It emphasizes a loss of spirit and courage, often in the face of overwhelming odds. खिन्न is more about the general dejection, while 'हताश' implies a more active struggle against despair.
He was खिन्न after the failure, but not completely निराश.
She felt दुखी about the news, but her overall spirit wasn't broken.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The Sanskrit root 'क्लिश्' is related to the English word 'clinch', which originally meant to fasten or bind, but also came to mean to struggle or fight, suggesting a connection to suffering or being troubled.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'kh' as a simple 'k' without aspiration.
- Shortening the 'nn' sound.
- Confusing the vowel sound with a longer 'ee' sound.
Difficulty Rating
Understanding <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> requires grasping the nuance of dejection and low spirits, which is beyond basic vocabulary. It often appears in more literary or formal texts, requiring context to fully appreciate its meaning.
Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> accurately in writing means understanding its specific shade of meaning and its register. Beginners might overuse it or use it in inappropriate contexts, so careful application is needed.
While pronunciation is straightforward, using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> in spoken Hindi requires awareness of its slightly formal tone. It's not typically used in very casual chats but is understood. Choosing it over simpler words indicates a desire for more precise emotional expression.
Recognizing <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> in spoken Hindi requires a good grasp of vocabulary and context. It might be confused with other words for sadness if not clearly articulated or if the surrounding speech is informal.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
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Grammar to Know
Adjective placement: In Hindi, adjectives usually precede the noun they modify or follow the subject with a linking verb.
वह खिन्न लड़का है। (He is a dejected boy.) / वह खिन्न है। (He is dejected.)
Use of 'होना' (to be/become): This verb is frequently used with adjectives to describe a state or change of state.
वह खिन्न हो गया। (He became dejected.)
Use of 'लगना' (to seem/appear): This verb can be used to describe how someone appears.
वह खिन्न लग रहा था। (He looked dejected.)
Use of 'रहना' (to remain/stay): This verb indicates a continuous state.
वह कई दिनों तक खिन्न रहा। (He remained dejected for many days.)
Adverbs modifying adjectives: Adverbs like 'बहुत' (very) or 'थोड़ा' (a little) can modify the intensity of the adjective.
वह बहुत खिन्न था। (He was very dejected.)
Examples by Level
वह दुखी है।
He is sad.
Simple sentence structure.
मैं उदास हूँ।
I am sad.
Subject-verb agreement.
उसका मन नहीं लग रहा।
His mind is not engaged / He is not feeling well.
Idiomatic expression for lack of interest.
वह थोड़ा उदास था।
He was a little sad.
Use of adverb 'थोड़ा'.
मुझे अच्छा नहीं लग रहा।
I am not feeling good.
General expression of feeling unwell.
वह चुपचाप बैठा था।
He was sitting quietly.
Describes demeanor.
उसका चेहरा उतरा हुआ था।
His face was downcast.
Descriptive phrase for sadness.
वह सोच में डूबा था।
He was lost in thought.
Describes a state of contemplation.
परीक्षा में अच्छे नंबर न आने पर वह निराश हो गया।
He became disappointed when he didn't get good marks in the exam.
Use of 'निराश' for disappointment.
आजकल वह कुछ उदास रहता है।
Nowadays, he remains somewhat sad.
Use of 'कुछ' (somewhat) with an adjective.
उसकी बातें सुनकर मुझे दुख हुआ।
Hearing his words, I felt sad.
Expressing sadness based on hearing something.
मौसम बहुत खिन्न लग रहा था।
The weather seemed very gloomy.
Figurative use of खिन्न for weather.
उसका चेहरा खिन्न दिख रहा था।
His face was looking dejected.
Describing appearance with खिन्न.
बारिश की वजह से पार्टी का मज़ा किरकिरा हो गया और लोग खिन्न हो गए।
Due to the rain, the party's enjoyment was spoiled and people became dejected.
Cause and effect with खिन्न.
लंबे इंतजार के बाद भी जब ट्रेन नहीं आई, तो वह खिन्न हो गया।
After a long wait, when the train didn't arrive, he became disheartened.
Situational use of खिन्न.
उसकी खिन्न आवाज़ सुनकर मुझे चिंता हुई।
Hearing his dejected voice, I became worried.
Describing voice with खिन्न.
नौकरी छूट जाने के बाद वह काफी समय तक खिन्न रहा।
After losing his job, he remained dejected for a long time.
Use of खिन्न to describe a prolonged state.
उसकी खिन्न प्रतिक्रिया ने संकेत दिया कि वह खुश नहीं था।
His dejected reaction indicated that he was not happy.
Connecting a reaction to the state of being खिन्न.
चित्रकला में उसकी रुचि कम हो गई थी, और वह खिन्न महसूस कर रहा था।
His interest in painting had decreased, and he was feeling dejected.
Describing a decline in interest and feeling खिन्न.
जब उसके दोस्त ने उसे अकेला छोड़ दिया, तो वह बहुत खिन्न हो गया।
When his friend left him alone, he became very dejected.
Cause and effect: friend's action leading to खिन्न.
शहरी जीवन की भागदौड़ से वह खिन्न महसूस करने लगा था।
He had started feeling dejected by the hustle and bustle of city life.
Using खिन्न to describe a feeling related to lifestyle.
उसकी खिन्न मुस्कान ने उसके अंदर के दर्द को छिपाने की कोशिश की।
His dejected smile tried to hide the pain within him.
Oxymoron-like description: खिन्न smile.
समाज की उपेक्षा से वह खिन्न था और एकांत पसंद करने लगा था।
He was disheartened by society's neglect and had started preferring solitude.
Connecting societal issues to feeling खिन्न.
बारिश का लंबा दौर शहर को खिन्न बना रहा था।
The long spell of rain was making the city gloomy.
Figurative use of खिन्न for atmosphere.
आर्थिक मंदी के कारण कई लोग खिन्न और भविष्य को लेकर चिंतित थे।
Due to the economic recession, many people were dejected and worried about the future.
Connecting economic conditions to a collective feeling of being खिन्न.
उसकी खिन्न आवाज में वह निराशा साफ झलक रही थी जिसे वह छिपाने की कोशिश कर रहा था।
The disappointment that he was trying to hide was clearly visible in his dejected voice.
Describing the nuance of emotion in voice.
प्रकृति की सुंदरता के बावजूद, वह अपने व्यक्तिगत नुकसान के कारण खिन्न महसूस कर रहा था।
Despite the beauty of nature, he was feeling dejected due to his personal loss.
Contrast between external beauty and internal sadness.
पुरानी यादों ने उसे खिन्न कर दिया, लेकिन साथ ही एक अजीब सी शांति भी दे गई।
Old memories made him dejected, but at the same time, they also gave him a strange sense of peace.
Complex emotions: खिन्नness and peace coexisting.
कलाकार अपनी खिन्न मनोदशा को कैनवास पर उतार रहा था।
The artist was pouring his dejected mood onto the canvas.
Expressing emotions through art.
उसकी खिन्न उपस्थिति ने कमरे में एक उदास माहौल बना दिया।
His dejected presence created a somber atmosphere in the room.
Describing the impact of a person's mood on the environment.
लगातार असफलताओं से वह इतना खिन्न हो गया कि उसने कोशिश करना ही छोड़ दिया।
He became so disheartened by continuous failures that he gave up trying.
Extreme effect of failure leading to giving up.
शहर की खिन्न गलियों में घूमते हुए उसे अपने अकेलेपन का एहसास हुआ।
Wandering through the gloomy streets of the city, he realized his loneliness.
Setting the mood with खिन्न streets.
साहित्यिक कृतियों में, खिन्न शब्द का प्रयोग अक्सर पात्रों की आंतरिक उथल-पुथल और जीवन के प्रति उनके मोहभंग को दर्शाने के लिए किया जाता है।
In literary works, the word khinn is often used to depict characters' internal turmoil and their disillusionment with life.
Analytical use of खिन्न in literary context.
उसकी खिन्न मुस्कान में व्यंग्य और निराशा का एक जटिल मिश्रण था, जो उसके चरित्र की गहराई को दर्शाता था।
His dejected smile held a complex mix of sarcasm and despair, reflecting the depth of his character.
Describing a nuanced emotional expression.
राजनीतिक परिदृश्य में आई खिन्नता ने जनता के विश्वास को और भी कम कर दिया।
The gloominess in the political landscape further eroded public trust.
Abstract use of खिन्न (as part of 'खिन्नता' - noun) for a political situation.
अस्तित्ववादी दर्शन के अनुसार, मनुष्य अक्सर अपने जीवन के अर्थ की खोज में खिन्न महसूस करता है।
According to existential philosophy, humans often feel dejected in their search for the meaning of life.
Philosophical context for feeling खिन्न.
उसकी खिन्न आँखों में सदियों का दर्द और एक अनकहा अफसोस छिपा था।
Centuries of pain and an unspoken regret were hidden in his dejected eyes.
Poetic and evocative description of eyes.
कलाकार ने अपनी खिन्न मनोदशा को दर्शाने के लिए गहरे और उदास रंगों का प्रयोग किया।
The artist used dark and somber colors to depict his dejected mood.
Connecting color choices to emotional state.
समाज के बदलते मूल्यों के बीच, कई युवा खिन्न और दिशाहीन महसूस करते हैं।
Amidst changing societal values, many young people feel dejected and directionless.
Societal change impacting youth's emotional state.
उसकी खिन्न टिप्पणी ने सभा में एक अजीब सी चुप्पी ला दी।
His dejected remark brought an awkward silence to the assembly.
Impact of a dejected comment on a group's mood.
विभिन्न सांस्कृतिक संदर्भों में, खिन्न शब्द की अभिव्यक्ति और इसके कारण भिन्न हो सकते हैं, जो मानव अनुभव की जटिलता को दर्शाते हैं।
In different cultural contexts, the expression and causes of the word khinn can vary, reflecting the complexity of human experience.
Cross-cultural analysis of emotional expression.
अस्तित्ववादी संकट के चरम पर, व्यक्ति अक्सर उस खिन्नता से जूझता है जो जीवन के निरर्थक होने के बोध से उत्पन्न होती है।
At the peak of an existential crisis, an individual often struggles with the dejection that arises from the sense of life being meaningless.
Deep philosophical exploration of खिन्नta (dejection/gloom).
उसके खिन्न अवलोकन में एक तीक्ष्ण अंतर्दृष्टि थी, जो समाज की सतही खुशियों के पीछे छिपे गहरे मोहभंग को उजागर करती थी।
His dejected observation held a sharp insight, exposing the deep disillusionment hidden behind society's superficial happiness.
Insightful observation from a dejected perspective.
The prose was imbued with a pervasive sense of खिन्नता, as if the author themselves were wrestling with profound melancholy.
The prose was imbued with a pervasive sense of dejection, as if the author themselves were wrestling with profound melancholy.
Author's internal state reflected in writing style.
उसकी खिन्न काया और धीमी गति उसके मन की भारीपन को बयां कर रही थी, भले ही उसने कुछ कहा न हो।
His dejected physique and slow movements were articulating the heaviness of his mind, even though he said nothing.
Non-verbal communication of dejection.
कला के माध्यम से खिन्न भावनाओं का अन्वेषण अक्सर दर्शकों को अपनी स्वयं की छिपी हुई उदासी से जुड़ने में मदद करता है।
The exploration of dejected emotions through art often helps viewers connect with their own hidden sadness.
Art as a medium for emotional exploration and connection.
The novel's denouement, steeped in a profound sense of खिन्नता, left readers contemplating the ephemeral nature of happiness.
The novel's conclusion, steeped in a profound sense of dejection, left readers contemplating the ephemeral nature of happiness.
Literary analysis of a narrative's emotional impact.
उसकी खिन्नता केवल बाहरी परिस्थितियों का परिणाम नहीं थी, बल्कि उसके आंतरिक संघर्षों का एक गहरा प्रतिबिंब थी।
His dejection was not merely a result of external circumstances, but a deep reflection of his internal struggles.
Distinguishing between external and internal causes of dejection.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— He was looking dejected.
उसका चेहरा खिन्न दिख रहा था, मानो कोई बुरी खबर मिली हो।
— To work with a dejected mind.
वह खिन्न मन से काम कर रहा था, इसलिए गलती हो गई।
Often Confused With
खिन्न means dejected or disheartened, a general low spirit. 'निराश' specifically means disappointed or hopeless, often due to a particular outcome or lack of future prospects.
'दुखी' is a general term for sad or unhappy. खिन्न implies a deeper, more persistent sadness characterized by low spirits and discouragement.
'उदासीन' means indifferent or apathetic. While it can sometimes overlap with sadness, its primary meaning is a lack of interest or emotional engagement, whereas खिन्न is a specific feeling of dejection.
Idioms & Expressions
— To feel disheartened or dejected; one's heart sinks.
जब मैंने परिणाम सुना, तो मेरा दिल बैठ गया। (When I heard the result, my heart sank.)
Neutral— To feel discouraged or disheartened, to lose heart.
छोटी-मोटी बातों पर मन छोटा मत करो। (Don't lose heart over small things.)
Neutral— To have a persistent look of sadness or dejection in one's eyes.
उसकी आँखों में उदासी छाई रहती थी, जैसे उसने बहुत कुछ खो दिया हो। (A sadness lingered in her eyes, as if she had lost a lot.)
Neutral— To look pale or worried due to shock or fear, often implying a dejected or stunned state.
यह खबर सुनकर उसके चेहरे पर हवाइयाँ उड़ गईं। (Hearing this news, his face turned pale/looked stunned.)
Informal— This idiom usually means to be obsessed with something. However, in a context of extreme disappointment, it can sometimes be used colloquially to describe someone being overwhelmed and dejected, though not its primary meaning.
हार के बाद वह इतना सिर पर भूत सवार हो गया कि किसी से बात नहीं करता। (After the defeat, he became so overwhelmed that he doesn't talk to anyone.)
Informal— To lose color from one's face due to fear, shock, or extreme sadness; to look pale and dejected.
यह सुनकर उसके रंग उड़ गए। (Hearing this, his face turned pale/he looked dejected.)
Neutral— To feel choked up with emotion, often sadness or grief; to feel like crying.
उसकी कहानी सुनकर मेरा जी भर आया। (Hearing his story, I felt choked up.)
Neutral— To have one's heart broken; to be deeply disappointed or saddened.
जब उसका रिश्ता टूटा, तो उसका दिल टूट गया। (When her relationship broke, her heart was broken.)
Neutral— To disappear from sight; to be no longer visible. Can sometimes imply a sense of loss or sadness.
जैसे ही वह आँखों से ओझल हुआ, मुझे उसकी कमी महसूस हुई। (As soon as he disappeared from sight, I felt his absence.)
Neutral— To have one's breath catch; to be stunned or shocked, often into a state of speechless dejection.
इस खबर को सुनकर मेरी साँसें थम गईं। (Hearing this news, my breath caught.)
NeutralEasily Confused
Both words describe negative emotional states related to disappointment or failure.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (khinn) describes a general state of dejection and low spirits, a feeling of being downcast. It's a mood. 'निराश' (nirash) specifically means disappointed or hopeless, implying a loss of hope regarding a particular outcome or future. One can be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> due to general circumstances, while <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>निराश</mark> is often a direct result of a specific failure or unmet expectation.
परीक्षा में असफल होने पर वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>निराश</mark> हुआ, लेकिन उसने फिर भी कोशिश जारी रखी, इसलिए वह पूरी तरह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> नहीं था। (Upon failing the exam, he became disappointed, but he still continued trying, so he wasn't entirely dejected.)
Both words mean sad.
'दुखी' (dukhi) is a broad, general term for sadness that can apply to almost any negative emotional experience, from minor to severe. <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (khinn) is more specific; it denotes a deeper sadness characterized by dejection, low spirits, and a sense of discouragement. You might be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>दुखी</mark> if you stub your toe, but you would feel <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> after a significant personal failure.
बच्चा खिलौना टूटने से <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>दुखी</mark> था, लेकिन उसने जल्दी ही खेलना शुरू कर दिया। बड़े होकर, जब उसे नौकरी नहीं मिली, तो वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> हो गया। (The child was sad because the toy broke, but he soon started playing again. As an adult, when he didn't get the job, he became dejected.)
Both can describe a lack of positive emotion or a state of melancholy.
'उदासीन' (udaseen) primarily means indifferent, apathetic, or detached. It signifies a lack of interest or emotional engagement. While a prolonged state of <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (dejection) can sometimes lead to apathy, <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> itself is an active feeling of sadness and low spirits, not a lack of feeling. Someone <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>उदासीन</mark> might not care, whereas someone <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> feels the weight of sadness.
वह जीवन से <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>उदासीन</mark> हो गया था और किसी भी चीज़ में रुचि नहीं लेता था। दूसरी ओर, वह अपनी हार के बाद <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> था, लेकिन फिर भी हार के बारे में सोच रहा था। (He had become indifferent to life and didn't take interest in anything. On the other hand, he was dejected after his defeat, but still thinking about the loss.)
Both words convey a sense of discouragement or loss of spirit.
'हताश' (hatash) implies a loss of courage and spirit, often in the face of overwhelming odds or difficult circumstances, suggesting desperation or helplessness. <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (khinn) is more about a general state of dejection and low spirits, a quiet sadness. One can be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> without feeling desperate, and 'हताश' often carries a stronger sense of being unable to cope.
लगातार असफलताओं के बाद वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>हताश</mark> हो गया और उसने कोशिश करना छोड़ दिया। वह सिर्फ <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> नहीं था, बल्कि पूरी तरह से हिम्मत हार चुका था। (After continuous failures, he became disheartened and stopped trying. He wasn't just dejected, but had completely lost courage.)
Both words describe a state of deep sadness or sorrow.
'विषादग्रस्त' (vishadgrast) is a more formal and intense term, meaning grief-stricken or deeply sorrowful, often associated with loss or tragedy. <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (khinn) refers to dejection or low spirits, which is a less intense state than profound grief. One can be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> without experiencing deep sorrow, whereas <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>विषादग्रस्त</mark> implies a more severe emotional impact.
प्रियजन की मृत्यु के बाद वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>विषादग्रस्त</mark> हो गया, और उसका <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> चेहरा उसकी अंदरूनी पीड़ा को दर्शाता था। (After the death of his loved one, he became grief-stricken, and his dejected face reflected his inner pain.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + [Verb: होना/लगना] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> है। (He is dejected.)
Subject + [Verb: होना/लगना] + [Adverb: बहुत/थोड़ा] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
वह बहुत <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> लग रहा था। (He was looking very dejected.)
Subject + [Verb: होना/रहना] + [Time Phrase] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
वह कई दिनों तक <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> रहा। (He remained dejected for many days.)
Cause + [Conjunction] + Subject + [Verb: होना/लगना] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
बारिश की वजह से वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> हो गया। (Due to the rain, he became dejected.)
Subject + [Verb: महसूस करना] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
उसने <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस किया। (He felt dejected.)
Subject + [Verb: होना] + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> + [Prepositional Phrase: के कारण/की वजह से].
वह अपनी असफलता के कारण <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> था। (He was dejected due to his failure.)
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> + [Noun] + [Verb].
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> आवाज़ ने उसकी उदासी बताई। (The dejected voice told of his sadness.)
Complex sentence with subordinate clause describing the cause of being <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark>.
जब उसने सुना कि उसकी योजना स्वीकार नहीं हुई, तो वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> हो गया।
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Moderately frequent, more so in written and formal contexts.
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Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> for very minor sadness.
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Using 'दुखी' (dukhi) or 'उदास' (udas) for everyday sadness.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> implies a more significant and lingering dejection or low spirits. Using it for minor sadness can sound overly dramatic or incorrect.
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Confusing <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> with 'निराश' (nirash) in all contexts.
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Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> for general dejection and 'निराश' for specific disappointment or hopelessness.
'निराश' is about losing hope or being let down by a specific event. <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> is a broader state of low spirits. For example, you might be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>निराश</mark> by a rejection, but that could lead to feeling <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> overall.
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Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> in very informal slang.
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Using more casual words like 'उदास' or informal phrases when appropriate.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> has a slightly formal or literary tone. While understood, it might sound out of place in very casual slang conversations.
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Incorrect grammatical use, e.g., treating it as a verb.
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Using it as an adjective with verbs like 'होना', 'लगना', or 'रहना'.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> describes a state. For instance, say 'वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> है' (He is dejected), not 'वह खिन्नता है' (He dejection is).
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Overgeneralizing its use for any negative feeling.
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Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> specifically for dejection, low spirits, and discouragement.
It doesn't mean angry, bored, or anxious. It specifically refers to a state of being disheartened and sad.
Tips
Master the 'kh' sound
The initial 'kh' in खिन्न is aspirated. Practice saying 'k' with a puff of air, like in 'loch' in Scottish English, but with a 'k' sound. This is crucial for accurate pronunciation.
Distinguish from Synonyms
Understand the subtle differences between खिन्न, 'निराश', and 'दुखी'. खिन्न is about low spirits, 'निराश' about lost hope, and 'दुखी' is general sadness.
Use in Writing
When writing, consider using खिन्न to add depth to character descriptions or to evoke a specific mood, especially in more formal or literary pieces.
Visual Association
Imagine someone with slumped shoulders and a grey, sad face. This visual of 'low spirits' can help you remember the meaning of खिन्न.
Common Verb Pairings
Remember that खिन्न is an adjective. It is commonly used with verbs like 'होना' (to be/become), 'लगना' (to seem), and 'रहना' (to remain) to describe a state or feeling.
Formal vs. Informal
While understood in most contexts, खिन्न carries a slightly more formal or literary tone. It's less common in very casual slang but perfectly appropriate in thoughtful conversation or writing.
Create Your Own Sentences
The best way to learn is by doing. Try creating your own sentences using खिन्न to describe different scenarios and characters.
Cultural Nuance
In Hindi culture, खिन्न often implies an internalized sadness or melancholy, which is a common theme in Indian literature and artistic expressions.
Root Meaning
Knowing that खिन्न comes from a Sanskrit root meaning 'to suffer' or 'to be pained' can help you grasp its core meaning of distress and dejection.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'kin' (a relative) who is always 'khinn' (sad) because they lost their 'tin' (can) of beans. The sound 'khinn' sounds like 'kin' and 'tin'.
Visual Association
Picture a person with a very slumped posture, looking down at the ground, their face looking grey and sad. This visual represents the 'low spirits' and 'dejected' feeling of being खिन्न.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a character in a story you are reading or watching using the word खिन्न. What happened to make them feel this way? How do they look and act?
Word Origin
The word खिन्न originates from Sanskrit. The root word is 'क्लिश्' (kliś), which means 'to suffer', 'to be troubled', or 'to be pained'. Over time, through Prakrit and Apabhramsha, it evolved into its current Hindi form.
Original meaning: To be distressed, tormented, or pained.
Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit -> Prakrit -> Hindi)Cultural Context
The word खिन्न is generally not offensive. However, like any word describing a negative emotion, it should be used with empathy and in appropriate contexts. It is important to be sensitive when describing someone as खिन्न, especially if they are going through a difficult time.
In English, 'dejected', 'disheartened', and 'low in spirits' are close equivalents. The word carries a slightly more formal or literary tone than 'sad'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Personal setbacks and failures
- परीक्षा में असफल होने पर <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> हो गया।
- नौकरी छूटने के कारण <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस करना।
Disappointment with circumstances
- योजना रद्द होने से <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> होना।
- मौसम के कारण <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस करना।
Literary and artistic expression
- लेखक ने पात्र के <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> मन का वर्णन किया।
- कलाकार ने अपनी <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> मनोदशा को पेंटिंग में उतारा।
Describing atmosphere or mood
- कमरे में <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> माहौल था।
- शहर <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> लग रहा था।
Formal discussions on well-being
- वह <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस कर रहा है और उसे मदद की ज़रूरत है।
- इस स्थिति से लोग <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> हो सकते हैं।
Conversation Starters
"आज आप कैसा महसूस कर रहे हैं? क्या आप खिन्न महसूस कर रहे हैं?"
"हाल ही में क्या हुआ जिसने आपको थोड़ा खिन्न महसूस कराया?"
"क्या आपने कभी किसी ऐसी स्थिति का सामना किया है जिसने आपको बहुत खिन्न कर दिया हो?"
"जब आप खिन्न महसूस करते हैं, तो आप क्या करते हैं?"
"क्या खिन्न महसूस करना सामान्य है, या यह चिंता का विषय है?"
Journal Prompts
आज मुझे कैसा महसूस हो रहा है? क्या मैं <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस कर रहा हूँ, और क्यों?
उस समय को याद करें जब आप बहुत <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> थे। क्या हुआ था और आपने उस भावना से कैसे निपटा?
क्या कोई ऐसी चीज़ है जो आपको नियमित रूप से <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस कराती है? यदि हाँ, तो आप इसे कैसे बदल सकते हैं?
यदि मैं आज <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> महसूस कर रहा हूँ, तो मैं खुद को बेहतर महसूस कराने के लिए क्या कर सकता हूँ?
मैं अपने जीवन में <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्नता</mark> को कैसे कम कर सकता हूँ और अधिक खुशी कैसे ला सकता हूँ?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile 'sad' is a general term, खिन्न (khinn) specifically implies a state of being dejected, disheartened, or depressed in spirits. It suggests a deeper and often more prolonged feeling of low morale than simple sadness. Think of it as 'low spirits' or 'dampened enthusiasm'.
Primarily, खिन्न describes people's emotional states. However, it can be used figuratively to describe an atmosphere or mood, like 'a खिन्न atmosphere' or 'gloomy weather'. In these cases, it's personifying the environment to reflect a feeling of sadness or dejection.
खिन्न is understood by most Hindi speakers, but it's not as common in very casual, everyday chat as words like 'दुखी' (dukhi - sad) or 'उदास' (udas - sad). It tends to appear more in written contexts, literature, or when someone wants to express a more specific or profound sense of dejection.
The closest English translations are 'dejected', 'disheartened', 'low in spirits', and 'discouraged'. 'Sad' can be used, but it might not capture the full nuance of खिन्न, which implies a loss of enthusiasm and a sense of being weighed down.
You would use खिन्न to describe a general state of low spirits or dejection. You would use 'निराश' when there's a specific disappointment or loss of hope about an outcome. For example, failing an exam might make you निराश, and this disappointment could lead to a general feeling of being खिन्न.
Yes, the noun form is खिन्नता (khinnata), which means 'dejection', 'sadness', or 'gloom'.
Try writing sentences describing characters in books or movies who seem dejected. You can also practice by describing hypothetical situations where someone might feel खिन्न, like after a long period of bad luck or a significant failure.
No, खिन्न does not typically imply anger. It is about sadness, dejection, and low spirits, rather than frustration or rage.
The word खिन्न originates from Sanskrit, stemming from the root 'क्लिश्' (kliś), which means 'to suffer' or 'to be pained'. It evolved through Prakrit and Apabhramsha to its current Hindi form.
Yes, it can be used figuratively to describe a mood or atmosphere that feels gloomy or dejected. For example, 'The party had a खिन्न mood after the bad news was announced.'
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Summary
The word <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>खिन्न</mark> (khinn) signifies a state of being dejected or disheartened, characterized by low spirits and a lack of enthusiasm, often stemming from disappointment or misfortune. It is more nuanced than simple sadness and often carries a literary or formal tone, implying a quiet, internalized sorrow.
- Meaning: Dejected, sad, disheartened.
- Usage: Describes low spirits, often from disappointment.
- Tone: More formal/literary than general sadness.
- Key Idea: A dampened spirit, a quiet sorrow.
Master the 'kh' sound
The initial 'kh' in खिन्न is aspirated. Practice saying 'k' with a puff of air, like in 'loch' in Scottish English, but with a 'k' sound. This is crucial for accurate pronunciation.
Context is Key
Pay attention to the situations where खिन्न is used. It's often linked to disappointment, failure, or a general sense of melancholy, distinguishing it from simple sadness.
Distinguish from Synonyms
Understand the subtle differences between खिन्न, 'निराश', and 'दुखी'. खिन्न is about low spirits, 'निराश' about lost hope, and 'दुखी' is general sadness.
Use in Writing
When writing, consider using खिन्न to add depth to character descriptions or to evoke a specific mood, especially in more formal or literary pieces.
Example
परीक्षा में असफल होने के बाद वह बहुत खिन्न हो गया।
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