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गोश्त

A1 noun #4,000 most common 10 min read

गोश्त

gosht Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips गोश्त in 30 Seconds

Explanation गोश्त in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that गोश्त means 'meat'. You should be able to use it in very simple sentences like 'I eat meat' or 'This is meat'. You will mostly hear it when talking about food or shopping. It is a masculine noun, so you say 'achha gosht' (good meat). This is one of the basic food words you learn early on, similar to 'paani' (water) or 'khana' (food). You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on identifying the word and using it to express basic likes or dislikes. For example, if someone asks 'What is this?', you can point and say 'Yeh gosht hai'. Knowing this word helps you navigate menus at restaurants where non-vegetarian food is served. It's a foundational brick in your Hindi vocabulary wall.

As an A2 learner, you should be able to use गोश्त in more descriptive ways. You can talk about buying it at the market ('Main bazaar se gosht laya' - I brought meat from the market) or how it is cooked ('Gosht paka hai' - The meat is cooked). You should start noticing that it usually refers to goat or lamb. You can also use simple adjectives like 'taza' (fresh), 'thanda' (cold), or 'garam' (hot) with it. At this stage, you are beginning to understand that Hindi has different words for different types of meat, and गोश्त is the most common one for red meat. You might also start using it with quantities, like 'ek kilo gosht' (one kilo of meat). This level is about building practical, everyday sentences that allow you to function in a Hindi-speaking environment.

At the B1 level, your use of गोश्त becomes more nuanced. You can discuss preferences and give reasons, such as 'I prefer meat over vegetables because it has more protein'. You are also more comfortable with the masculine gender of the word and use it correctly with various postpositions ('gosht ke liye' - for the meat, 'gosht ka swad' - the taste of the meat). You can follow simple recipes that use the word and understand instructions like 'gosht को धीमी आंच पर पकाएं' (cook the meat on a low flame). You are also starting to recognize common phrases and dishes. This level marks the transition from just knowing the word to being able to use it in a conversation about cooking, health, or cultural traditions. You can participate in a discussion about what to cook for a dinner party.

At the B2 level, you can use गोश्त in more abstract and complex discussions. You might talk about the environmental impact of meat consumption or the ethics of the meat industry. Your vocabulary is rich enough to distinguish between 'Maans' and गोश्त and use them in appropriate contexts. You understand idiomatic expressions and can use the word in metaphors. For example, you might describe a very lean person as having 'no meat on their bones' using Hindi equivalents. You can also engage in detailed culinary discussions about the different ways गोश्त is prepared in various regions of India. Your grammar is mostly flawless, and you can switch between formal and informal registers with ease. You are a confident user of the word in almost any social or professional setting.

By the C1 level, your understanding of गोश्त is deeply rooted in cultural and historical knowledge. You understand its Persian etymology and how it differs from Sanskrit-based terms. You can read literature or news articles where the word is used in sophisticated ways. You are aware of the subtle social connotations of using this word versus others. You can discuss the history of Mughlai cuisine and the role of गोश्त in it with great detail. Your speech is fluent and spontaneous, and you can use the word in complex grammatical structures without hesitation. You might even use it in creative writing or poetry. You are not just a learner of the language; you are a proficient user who understands the 'soul' of the word and its place in the linguistic tapestry of India.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of the word गोश्त. You can perceive the slightest shades of meaning and intention when someone uses it. You are familiar with obscure idioms and literary references involving the word. You can hold high-level academic or philosophical debates about dietary habits, religious laws regarding meat, or the linguistic evolution of culinary terms. Your use of the word is perfectly natural and indistinguishable from a native speaker. You can appreciate the word's use in classical Urdu poetry and understand its metaphorical depth. You are a master of the language, and गोश्त is just one of the many thousands of words you use with absolute precision and cultural sensitivity. You can even explain the nuances of this word to other learners.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

गोश्त in 30 Seconds

Gosht is the most common Hindi/Urdu word for red meat, specifically mutton or goat.
It is a masculine noun of Persian origin and is used widely in North Indian culinary contexts.
Unlike 'Maans', which is more formal, 'Gosht' is the everyday term used in markets and restaurants.
It is never used for fish and rarely for chicken, which have their own specific names.

The word गोश्त (pronounced as 'gosht') is a fundamental term in the Hindi and Urdu linguistic landscape, primarily used to denote meat. While the English word 'meat' is a broad umbrella term covering everything from poultry to beef, in the specific cultural and culinary context of the Indian subcontinent, गोश्त predominantly refers to red meat, specifically mutton (goat or lamb). This distinction is vital for any learner because if you walk into a traditional restaurant in Delhi or Lucknow and ask for a गोश्त dish, you will almost certainly be served goat meat. The word has deep Persian roots, reflecting the historical influence of Persian culture on the Hindi language through the Mughal era. It is a masculine noun and is considered a standard, respectful term used in both formal and informal settings. Whether you are discussing a recipe, shopping at a butcher shop, or ordering at a fine-dining establishment, this word is your primary tool for navigating meat-based conversations.

Etymological Root: Derived from the Persian word 'Gōšt', it entered the Indian lexicon several centuries ago and became deeply embedded in the culinary vocabulary of North India.

आज हम रात के खाने में गोश्त बनाएंगे। (Today we will make meat for dinner.)

Beyond its literal meaning, the word carries a certain weight of tradition. It is associated with the rich, aromatic gravies of Mughlai and Awadhi cuisines, such as Nihari, Korma, and Rogan Josh. In these contexts, the quality of the गोश्त is the centerpiece of the meal. It is also important to note that while 'Maans' is the Sanskrit-derived Hindi word for meat, गोश्त is often preferred in urban areas and in the context of specific non-vegetarian traditions. Understanding this word is not just about vocabulary; it is about understanding the dietary habits and cultural history of millions of people. When you use this word correctly, you demonstrate a nuanced grasp of the language that goes beyond simple textbook definitions. It shows you understand the flavor of the culture.

यह गोश्त बहुत ताज़ा और नरम है। (This meat is very fresh and tender.)

Cultural Nuance: In Hindu-majority areas, 'Maans' might be more common, whereas in areas with a strong Islamic influence or in traditional Urdu-speaking households, 'Gosht' is the standard.

क्या आप गोश्त खाते हैं? (Do you eat meat?)

बाज़ार से आधा किलो गोश्त ले आना। (Bring half a kilo of meat from the market.)

Register: Neutral to Formal. It is appropriate for all social settings, from high-end restaurants to local street stalls.

बिरयानी में गोश्त के टुकड़े बड़े होने चाहिए। (The meat pieces in the biryani should be large.)

In summary, the word is indispensable for anyone interested in Indian food, culture, or daily life. It bridges the gap between language and the sensory experience of eating, providing a window into the diverse culinary heritage of the region. By mastering its use, you unlock a significant portion of the Hindi vocabulary related to diet and social gatherings.

Using गोश्त correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical gender and how it interacts with adjectives and postpositions. As a masculine noun, any adjectives describing it must take the masculine form. For example, 'fresh meat' is 'taaza gosht' (ताज़ा गोश्त), not 'taazi'. When using it as a subject or object, it follows standard Hindi word order. Because it is a mass noun in many contexts, but can also refer to specific portions, its usage is versatile. You might use it to describe a general preference, such as 'I don't eat meat' (main gosht nahi khaata), or to specify a quantity, such as 'two kilos of meat' (do kilo gosht).

Grammatical Gender: Masculine. Adjectives and verbs must agree. Example: Gosht achha hai (The meat is good).

मुझे गोश्त का सालन पसंद है। (I like meat curry.)

In complex sentences, गोश्त often appears with verbs like 'pakaana' (to cook), 'khareedna' (to buy), or 'dhona' (to wash). If you are describing the texture, you might use 'naram' (soft/tender) or 'sakht' (tough). For instance, 'The meat was very tough' would be 'Gosht bahut sakht tha'. This level of detail is essential for effective communication in a kitchen or restaurant setting. Moreover, in the plural sense, while 'goshton' exists, it is rarely used; one usually sticks to the singular form even when referring to multiple types or quantities, much like the English word 'meat' in many contexts.

क्या इस डिश में गोश्त है? (Is there meat in this dish?)

Common Verb Pairings: Khaana (to eat), Pakaana (to cook), Kaatna (to cut), Bhunna (to roast/fry).

उसने गोश्त को छोटे टुकड़ों में काट दिया। (He cut the meat into small pieces.)

ज़्यादा गोश्त खाना सेहत के लिए अच्छा नहीं है। (Eating too much meat is not good for health.)

वह सिर्फ़ हलाल गोश्त ही खरीदता है। (He only buys halal meat.)

Sentence Structure: Subject + Object (Gosht) + Verb. Example: Main (Subject) Gosht (Object) Paka raha hoon (Verb).

त्योहार के दौरान गोश्त की मांग बढ़ जाती है। (The demand for meat increases during festivals.)

Understanding these patterns allows you to build more complex thoughts. You can describe the source of the meat (bakre ka gosht - goat meat), the method of preparation (bhuna gosht - roasted meat), or the dietary restriction associated with it. This versatility makes it a core component of intermediate and advanced Hindi conversation.

You will encounter the word गोश्त in a variety of real-world settings across North India and beyond. The most common place is undoubtedly the local market, specifically at the 'Gosht ki Dukaan' (Meat Shop) or butcher. Here, the word is used in a transactional sense, often accompanied by requests for specific cuts or quantities. In restaurants, especially those serving Mughlai, Nizami, or Kashmiri cuisine, गोश्त is a staple on the menu. You'll see it listed in dishes like 'Gosht Do Pyaza', 'Badaam Gosht', or 'Palak Gosht'. In these contexts, the word evokes a sense of richness and culinary tradition.

Marketplace Dynamics: Butchers use the term to categorize their products. You might hear them shout 'Taaza gosht!' to attract customers.

वेटर, गोश्त की सबसे अच्छी डिश कौन सी है? (Waiter, which is the best meat dish?)

Another significant arena is the domestic kitchen. In many households, especially during festivals like Eid-ul-Adha (Bakrid), the word गोश्त is heard constantly as families prepare large feasts. It is also used in health and nutrition discussions. A doctor might advise a patient to 'Gosht kam khaayen' (eat less meat) to manage certain health conditions. In literature and poetry, particularly Urdu poetry which heavily influences Hindi, the word is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to the physical body or the carnal nature of human existence, though this is a more advanced usage.

दावत में गोश्त के कई पकवान थे। (There were many meat dishes at the feast.)

Media and News: In news reports about food prices or agricultural exports, 'Gosht' is the standard term used for the meat industry.

इस दुकान पर गोश्त बहुत महंगा है। (Meat is very expensive at this shop.)

क्या आपने कभी ऊँट का गोश्त चखा है? (Have you ever tasted camel meat?)

माँ गोश्त साफ़ कर रही हैं। (Mother is cleaning the meat.)

Regional Usage: While universal, it is most frequently used in North India (Delhi, UP, Bihar) and Hyderabad.

पुराने शहर में गोश्त के कबाब मशहूर हैं। (Meat kebabs are famous in the old city.)

Whether you are watching a cooking show on YouTube, reading a menu, or chatting with a neighbor about their lunch, गोश्त is a word that will frequently cross your path. Its prevalence makes it a vital part of your active vocabulary.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word गोश्त is misidentifying its gender. As mentioned earlier, it is masculine. Beginners often mistakenly treat it as feminine because many food items in Hindi are feminine, leading to errors like 'Gosht achhi hai' instead of 'Gosht achha hai'. Another frequent error is using गोश्त to refer to chicken or fish. While technically 'meat' in a biological sense, culturally and linguistically, Hindi speakers use 'Murgh' or 'Chicken' for poultry and 'Machli' for fish. Using गोश्त for chicken can lead to confusion in a restaurant or market.

Gender Error: Incorrect: Gosht paki hai. Correct: Gosht paka hai (The meat is cooked).

गलती: मुझे गोश्त खानी है। (Error: I want to eat meat - feminine verb used incorrectly.)

Pronunciation is another area where mistakes occur. The 'sh' sound (श) and the 't' sound (त) must be clear. Some learners might confuse the dental 't' (त) with the retroflex 'T' (ट). In गोश्त, the 't' is soft and dental, made by touching the tongue to the back of the upper teeth. Also, the 'o' sound should be a clear, long 'o' as in 'goat', not a short 'o' as in 'got'. Furthermore, learners sometimes confuse गोश्त with 'Maans'. While they are synonyms, 'Maans' is often used in more formal, scientific, or purely Hindu religious contexts, whereas गोश्त is the everyday, culinary term. Using 'Maans' at a Mughlai restaurant might sound slightly out of place.

सही: यह गोश्त बहुत लज़ीज़ है। (Correct: This meat is very delicious.)

Vocabulary Slip: Mistaking 'Gosht' for 'Ghosht' (adding an 'h' sound). The 'G' is a simple 'G' as in 'Go'.

गलती: क्या यह मुर्गे का गोश्त है? (Error: Is this chicken meat? While understandable, usually people just say 'chicken' or 'murgh'.)

बाज़ार में गोश्त की दुकानें बंद हैं। (The meat shops in the market are closed.)

Contextual Error: Using 'Gosht' in a strictly vegetarian environment might be sensitive; always be aware of your surroundings.

मुझे गोश्त का अचार पसंद है। (I like meat pickle.)

Finally, avoid over-pluralizing. In Hindi, you wouldn't usually say 'bahut saare gosht' to mean 'lots of meat'; you would say 'bahut saara gosht' (singular masculine). Keeping these points in mind will help you sound much more like a native speaker.

To truly master Hindi, it is important to know the alternatives to गोश्त and when to use them. The most prominent synonym is 'Maans' (माँस). While both mean meat, 'Maans' has a more Sanskritic origin and is often used in official documents, biological contexts, or by people who prefer pure Hindi (Shuddh Hindi). In a scientific discussion about protein, you might hear 'Maans' more often than गोश्त. Another word is 'Laham' (लहम), which is the Arabic word for meat; while rare in daily Hindi, it might appear in highly Persianized/Arabized Urdu poetry or religious texts.

Maans (माँस) vs. Gosht (गोश्त): Maans is formal/academic; Gosht is culinary/everyday. Maans is used for any animal flesh; Gosht is specifically red meat.

शेर गोश्त खाता है। (The lion eats meat - here 'Maans' would also be very common.)

For poultry, the word is 'Murgh' (मुर्ग) or 'Murga' (मुर्गा). For fish, it is 'Machli' (मछली). If you are referring to the flesh of a fruit, the word is 'Guda' (गूदा), not गोश्त. Understanding these boundaries prevents you from making awkward substitutions. For example, calling the inside of a mango गोश्त would be incorrect and confusing. In terms of culinary styles, 'Keema' (कीमा) refers to minced meat, which is a specific form of गोश्त. Similarly, 'Boti' (बोटी) refers to a small piece or cube of meat.

मुझे गोश्त की जगह मछली ज़्यादा पसंद है। (I prefer fish over meat.)

Keema (कीमा): Minced or ground meat. It is a sub-category of gosht and used in many specific dishes like Keema Matar.

यह गोश्त की बोटी बहुत नरम है। (This piece of meat is very tender.)

क्या आप गोश्त के बिना बिरयानी बना सकते हैं? (Can you make biryani without meat?)

Vegetarian Alternatives: Paneer (Cottage cheese) or Kathal (Jackfruit) are often called 'the meat of vegetarians' in India.

कटहल को शाकाहारियों का गोश्त कहा जाता है। (Jackfruit is called the meat of vegetarians.)

By knowing these synonyms and related words, you can tailor your speech to the specific context, whether you are in a butcher shop, a fancy restaurant, or a biology class. This breadth of vocabulary is what distinguishes a beginner from a fluent speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"इस क्षेत्र में गोश्त का निर्यात बढ़ रहा है।"

Neutral

"क्या आपने गोश्त खरीदा?"

Informal

"यार, आज गोश्त खाने का मन है।"

Child friendly

"बेटा, गोश्त खाने से आप मज़बूत बनोगे।"

Slang

"अबे, गोश्त खिला दे आज! "

Fun Fact

Despite being a Persian word, 'Gosht' is so integrated into Hindi that many native speakers don't even realize it's a loanword. It is the preferred word in the culinary world of North India.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡəʊʃt/

US /ɡoʊʃt/

The stress is equal on the syllable, but the long 'o' vowel makes the first part of the word feel slightly more prominent.

Rhymes With

Most (English) Post (English) Host (English) Dost (Hindi - friend) Post (Hindi - post/mail) Kosh (Hindi - treasure) Hosh (Hindi - senses) Josh (Hindi - passion)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 't' as a retroflex 'T' (like in 'table'). It should be soft.
Adding an 'h' sound to the 'G' (Ghosht). It is a plain 'G'.
Shortening the 'o' sound so it sounds like 'gosht' (rhyming with 'lost'). It should rhyme with 'most'.
Confusing 'sh' (श) with 's' (स).
Swallowing the final 't' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read as it follows standard phonetics.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'sh' and dental 't'.

Speaking 3/5

Must distinguish dental 't' from retroflex 'T'.

Listening 2/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick up in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

खाना (Food) बाज़ार (Market) बकरी (Goat) ताज़ा (Fresh) पकाना (Cook)

Learn Next

माँस (Meat - formal) कीमा (Minced meat) शाकाहारी (Vegetarian) मांसाहारी (Non-vegetarian) ज़ायका (Flavor)

Advanced

नश्वरता (Mortality) कसाई (Butcher) ज़बीहा (Slaughter) लज़्ज़त (Deliciousness) तन्ज़ीम (Organization - often used in meat trade context)

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Agreement

Achha gosht (Good meat), Gosht paka hai (Meat is cooked).

Oblique Case with Postpositions

Gosht ko (To the meat), Gosht mein (In the meat).

Compound Verbs with 'Khana'

Gosht kha lena (To eat up the meat).

Adjective placement

Taaza gosht (Fresh meat) - Adjective comes before the noun.

Genitive 'ka/ke/ki'

Bakre ka gosht (Goat's meat) - 'ka' agrees with 'gosht'.

Examples by Level

यह गोश्त है।

This is meat.

Simple identification sentence.

मैं गोश्त खाता हूँ।

I eat meat.

Subject-Object-Verb structure.

गोश्त अच्छा है।

The meat is good.

Masculine adjective 'achha' agrees with 'gosht'.

क्या यह गोश्त है?

Is this meat?

Simple question formation.

मुझे गोश्त चाहिए।

I want meat.

Using 'chahiye' for wanting something.

बाज़ार में गोश्त है।

There is meat in the market.

Locative case 'bazaar mein'.

वह गोश्त नहीं खाता।

He does not eat meat.

Negative sentence construction.

ताज़ा गोश्त लाओ।

Bring fresh meat.

Imperative sentence.

आज हमने एक किलो गोश्त खरीदा।

Today we bought one kilo of meat.

Past tense 'khareeda'.

गोश्त बहुत महंगा हो गया है।

Meat has become very expensive.

Present perfect tense.

क्या आप गोश्त पका सकते हैं?

Can you cook meat?

Using 'sakna' for ability.

मुझे गोश्त का स्वाद पसंद है।

I like the taste of meat.

Genitive case 'gosht ka'.

यह गोश्त ताज़ा नहीं है।

This meat is not fresh.

Negative descriptive sentence.

वह दुकान गोश्त बेचती है।

That shop sells meat.

Simple present habitual.

गोश्त को फ्रिज में रखो।

Keep the meat in the fridge.

Imperative with postposition 'ko'.

मेरे दोस्त को गोश्त पसंद नहीं है।

My friend doesn't like meat.

Dative subject 'mere dost ko'.

अगर आप गोश्त खाएंगे, तो आपको ताकत मिलेगी।

If you eat meat, you will get strength.

Conditional sentence.

बिरयानी बनाने के लिए अच्छा गोश्त ज़रूरी है।

Good meat is necessary for making biryani.

Infinitive as a purpose.

उसने गोश्त को मसालों के साथ मिलाया।

He mixed the meat with spices.

Past tense with 'ne' particle.

क्या आपने कभी हिरण का गोश्त खाया है?

Have you ever eaten venison (deer meat)?

Present perfect question.

गोश्त को गलने में समय लगता है।

Meat takes time to become tender.

Using 'lagna' for time.

डॉक्टर ने उसे गोश्त कम करने की सलाह दी।

The doctor advised him to reduce meat.

Indirect speech/advice.

गाँव में लोग ताज़ा गोश्त ही पसंद करते हैं।

People in the village prefer only fresh meat.

Habitual present with 'hi' for emphasis.

यह गोश्त बहुत ज़्यादा सख्त है।

This meat is way too tough.

Intensifier 'bahut zyada'.

गोश्त की बढ़ती कीमतों ने आम आदमी को परेशान कर दिया है।

The rising prices of meat have troubled the common man.

Complex subject with gerundive adjective.

कुछ लोग धार्मिक कारणों से गोश्त नहीं खाते।

Some people don't eat meat for religious reasons.

Ablative of reason.

इस होटल का भुना हुआ गोश्त पूरे शहर में मशहूर है।

This hotel's roasted meat is famous in the whole city.

Past participle as adjective 'bhuna hua'.

क्या गोश्त का उत्पादन पर्यावरण के लिए हानिकारक है?

Is meat production harmful to the environment?

Abstract noun 'utpaadan'.

उसने गोश्त को इतनी अच्छी तरह पकाया कि वह मुँह में घुल गया।

He cooked the meat so well that it melted in the mouth.

Result clause 'ki...'.

त्योहारों पर गोश्त की मांग अचानक बढ़ जाती है।

The demand for meat suddenly increases during festivals.

Adverbial 'achanak'.

वैज्ञानिक अब प्रयोगशाला में गोश्त बनाने की कोशिश कर रहे हैं।

Scientists are now trying to make meat in laboratories.

Present continuous with compound verb.

गोश्त में प्रोटीन की मात्रा बहुत अधिक होती है।

The amount of protein in meat is very high.

Stating a fact.

मुग़लई व्यंजनों में गोश्त का उपयोग एक कला माना जाता है।

The use of meat in Mughlai cuisine is considered an art.

Passive construction 'maana jaata hai'.

लेखक ने समाज की क्रूरता को गोश्त के टुकड़ों के रूप में चित्रित किया है।

The author has depicted the cruelty of society in the form of pieces of meat.

Metaphorical usage.

बिना गोश्त के भी एक संतुलित आहार संभव है।

A balanced diet is possible even without meat.

Concessive 'bina... ke bhi'.

गोश्त के व्यापार ने क्षेत्र की अर्थव्यवस्था में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई है।

The meat trade has played a significant role in the region's economy.

Idiomatic 'bhumika nibhaana'.

उसकी बातों में कोई गोश्त नहीं था, बस खाली शब्द थे।

There was no substance (meat) in his words, just empty words.

Idiomatic usage for 'substance'.

हलाल और झटका गोश्त के बीच का अंतर धार्मिक मान्यताओं पर आधारित है।

The difference between Halal and Jhatka meat is based on religious beliefs.

Comparative structure.

शहरीकरण के साथ-साथ गोश्त की खपत के पैटर्न में भी बदलाव आया है।

Along with urbanization, there has also been a change in the patterns of meat consumption.

Compound postposition 'ke saath-saath'.

वह गोश्त के हर रेशे को बारीकी से परख रहा था।

He was examining every fiber of the meat minutely.

Detailed descriptive sentence.

गोश्त का यह टुकड़ा मानों सभ्यता के विकास की कहानी कहता है।

This piece of meat, as if, tells the story of civilization's development.

Philosophical/Literary 'maano'.

मांसाहार और शाकाहार के बीच का द्वंद्व गोश्त की परिभाषा तक सीमित नहीं है।

The conflict between meat-eating and vegetarianism is not limited to the definition of meat.

High-level abstract noun usage.

उसकी कविता में 'गोश्त' नश्वरता का प्रतीक बनकर उभरा है।

In his poetry, 'Gosht' has emerged as a symbol of mortality.

Literary analysis.

वैश्विक खाद्य सुरक्षा के संदर्भ में गोश्त के विकल्पों पर चर्चा अनिवार्य है।

In the context of global food security, discussion on meat alternatives is mandatory.

Formal academic register.

गोश्त की लज़्ज़त और उसके पीछे का श्रम, दोनों ही सराहनीय हैं।

The deliciousness of the meat and the labor behind it are both commendable.

Parallel structure with 'aur'.

क्या हम गोश्त के प्रति अपनी आसक्ति को त्याग सकते हैं?

Can we renounce our attachment to meat?

Philosophical inquiry.

इतिहास गवाह है कि गोश्त की खोज में इंसान ने कितनी दूरियां तय कीं।

History is witness to how much distance man covered in search of meat.

Historical narrative style.

गोश्त के रेशे-रेशे में ज़ायका बसा हुआ था।

Flavor was settled in every fiber of the meat.

Reduplication 'reshe-reshe' for emphasis.

Synonyms

मांस मिष आमिष शिकार

Antonyms

शाकाहार फलहार

Common Collocations

ताज़ा गोश्त

भुना गोश्त

बकरी का गोश्त

कच्चा गोश्त

पका हुआ गोश्त

गोश्त का सालन

हलाल गोश्त

नरम गोश्त

गोश्त की दुकान

ज़्यादा गोश्त

Common Phrases

गोश्त-खोर

— A meat-eater or carnivore. Used to describe someone's diet.

वह पक्का गोश्त-खोर है।

गोश्त का लोथड़ा

— A lump of flesh. Often used to describe something heavy or lifeless.

वह गोश्त का लोथड़ा बन गया है।

हड्डियों पर गोश्त न होना

— To be very thin; literally 'no meat on the bones'.

बीमारी के बाद उसकी हड्डियों पर गोश्त नहीं बचा।

गोश्त और नाखून का रिश्ता

— An inseparable relationship, like meat and nails.

उनका रिश्ता गोश्त और नाखून जैसा है।

गोश्त गलना

— For the meat to become tender/cooked.

गोश्त अभी गला नहीं है।

गोश्त छोड़ना

— To give up eating meat.

उसने सेहत के लिए गोश्त छोड़ दिया।

गोश्त का टुकड़ा

— A piece of meat. Can be literal or metaphorical for a child.

बच्चा माँ के गोश्त का टुकड़ा होता है।

गोश्त का बाज़ार

— Meat market. Can also be a derogatory term for a red-light district.

वह गोश्त के बाज़ार में काम करता है।

गोश्त की खुशबू

— The aroma of cooking meat.

गोश्त की खुशबू से भूख बढ़ गई।

गोश्त का शौकीन

— Someone who is fond of eating meat.

मेरे पिताजी गोश्त के शौकीन हैं।

Often Confused With

गोश्त vs Gosh (English)

The English exclamation 'Gosh!' sounds similar but has no relation.

गोश्त vs Ghosht

A common misspelling adding an 'h' to the 'G'.

गोश्त vs Goshth (गोष्ठ)

A Sanskrit word meaning a cow-shed or assembly, very different from Gosht.

Idioms & Expressions

"गोश्त का चस्का"

— A strong craving or habit of eating meat.

उसे बचपन से ही गोश्त का चस्का है।

Informal

"हाथ-पैर में गोश्त होना"

— To have strength or vitality in the body.

काम करने के लिए हाथ-पैर में गोश्त होना ज़रूरी है।

Colloquial

"ज़बान में गोश्त न होना"

— To speak without any weight or authority; also to be talkative without substance.

उसकी ज़बान में गोश्त नहीं है, बस बोलता रहता है।

Slang

"गोश्त-पोस्त"

— Flesh and skin; refers to the physical body.

यह सब गोश्त-पोस्त का खेल है।

Literary

"अपनी ही गोश्त खाना"

— To hurt oneself or one's own people.

लालच में वह अपना ही गोश्त खा रहा है।

Metaphorical

"गोश्त की हांडी"

— A pot of meat; refers to a situation full of benefits.

उसे गोश्त की हांडी मिल गई है।

Idiomatic

"गोश्त पर नज़र"

— To have an eye on something valuable (like a hawk on meat).

सबकी नज़र उस गोश्त पर है।

Informal

"गोश्त का पुतला"

— A puppet of flesh; a mere human being.

इंसान आखिर गोश्त का पुतला ही तो है।

Philosophical

"गोश्त से गोश्त रगड़ना"

— To be in a very crowded place where bodies touch.

मेले में गोश्त से गोश्त रगड़ रहा था।

Descriptive

"हड्डी और गोश्त"

— Skin and bones; very close friends or relatives.

वे दोनों हड्डी और गोश्त की तरह साथ रहते हैं।

Informal

Easily Confused

गोश्त vs माँस (Maans)

Both mean meat.

Maans is Sanskrit-based and more formal/biological. Gosht is Persian-based and more culinary.

Vigyan mein ise maans kehte hain, par rasoi mein gosht.

गोश्त vs मुर्ग (Murgh)

Both are non-veg.

Murgh is specifically chicken. Gosht is red meat.

Main gosht nahi, sirf murgh khata hoon.

गोश्त vs मछली (Machli)

Both are non-veg.

Machli is fish. Gosht is red meat.

Bengali log machli zyada khate hain.

गोश्त vs कीमा (Keema)

Both are meat.

Keema is specifically minced meat. Gosht is a general term.

Gosht se keema banta hai.

गोश्त vs बोटी (Boti)

Both are meat.

Boti is a single piece of meat. Gosht is the substance.

Ek boti gosht dena.

Sentence Patterns

Yeh [Noun] hai.

Yeh gosht hai.

Mujhe [Noun] pasand hai.

Mujhe gosht pasand hai.

Main [Noun] khareedne [Verb] gaya.

Main gosht khareedne bazaar gaya.

[Noun] ki keemat [Verb] rahi hai.

Gosht ki keemat badh rahi hai.

[Noun] ka upyog [Context] mein hota hai.

Gosht ka upyog biryani mein hota hai.

[Noun] ke bina [Something] adhoora hai.

Gosht ke bina daavat adhoori hai.

Kya yeh [Noun] hai?

Kya yeh gosht hai?

[Noun] ko [Adjective] karke [Verb].

Gosht ko saaf karke pakao.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very frequent in North India, especially among non-vegetarians.

Common Mistakes

Using feminine adjectives → Achha gosht
Learners often think food items are feminine, but 'Gosht' is masculine.
Using it for chicken → Murgh / Chicken
In common usage, 'Gosht' is reserved for red meat.
Pronouncing 't' as retroflex → Dental 't'
The retroflex 'T' sounds harsh and incorrect in this word.
Confusing with 'Maans' in a menu → Gosht
Menus almost always use 'Gosht', not 'Maans'.
Adding 'h' to G → Gosht (Simple G)
There is no aspiration on the 'G' sound.

Tips

Check the Gender

Always pair 'Gosht' with masculine modifiers. This is the most common mistake for learners. Say 'Bohot saara gosht' not 'Bohot saari'.

Know your Meat

In India, 'Gosht' usually means goat. If you want something else, like lamb, be specific by saying 'Lamb ka gosht'.

Soft 'T'

The 't' at the end of 'Gosht' is dental. Practice by touching your tongue to your teeth, not the roof of your mouth.

Synonym Usage

Use 'Gosht' in the kitchen and 'Maans' in a science class. This shows high-level awareness of register.

Sensitivity

Be mindful of the setting. India has many vegetarians, so discuss meat where appropriate.

Common Dishes

Learn dish names like 'Gosht Korma' or 'Gosht Biryani' to navigate menus easily.

Quantity

Meat is usually sold by weight. Use 'kilo' (kilogram) or 'paav' (250 grams) with 'Gosht'.

Chicken vs Gosht

If a menu has 'Murgh' and 'Gosht' sections, 'Gosht' will be mutton/goat.

Persian Connection

Remembering the Persian root 'Gōšt' can help if you also study Urdu or Farsi.

Nuance

Using 'Gosht' in your Hindi writing adds a touch of natural, everyday flavor.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **Go**at that is **Sh**ort. **Go-sh-t**. Since goats provide the most common meat in India, this helps you remember that 'Gosht' means meat.

Visual Association

Imagine a steaming bowl of red meat curry (Korma) with the word 'GOSHT' written in the steam rising from the bowl.

Word Web

Mutton Goat Lamb Beef Curry Butcher Protein Dinner

Challenge

Try to go to a local Indian restaurant and find the word 'Gosht' on the menu. If you can't find it, ask the waiter: 'Kya aapke paas gosht ki koi dish hai?'

Word Origin

The word originates from the Persian word 'Gōšt' (گوشت). It entered Northern India during the medieval period through Persian speakers, soldiers, and administrators.

Original meaning: The original Persian meaning is exactly the same: meat or flesh.

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Iranian -> Persian.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using the word around strict vegetarians; some may find the topic of meat unappealing or offensive depending on the setting.

English speakers should be aware that 'Meat' in India almost always means goat meat, not beef or pork, due to religious sensitivities.

Nihari Gosht (a famous slow-cooked stew) Rogan Josh (a Kashmiri meat dish) Goshtaba (Kashmiri meatball dish)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Restaurant

गोश्त की डिश दिखाएं।
क्या गोश्त ताज़ा है?
गोश्त को अच्छी तरह पकाएं।
सालन में गोश्त कम है।

At the Butcher

एक किलो गोश्त दें।
हड्डी वाला गोश्त चाहिए।
साफ़ गोश्त देना।
आज गोश्त का क्या भाव है?

At Home

आज गोश्त बनेगा।
गोश्त फ्रिज से निकाल दो।
गोश्त में नमक कम है।
गोश्त गल गया है।

Health Discussion

गोश्त में प्रोटीन होता है।
ज़्यादा गोश्त मत खाओ।
लाल गोश्त से बचें।
गोश्त सेहतमंद है।

Religious Festivals

ईद पर गोश्त बांटा जाता है।
कुर्बानी का गोश्त।
त्योहार के लिए गोश्त लाओ।
गोश्त की दावत।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको गोश्त खाना पसंद है?"

"आपके शहर में गोश्त की सबसे अच्छी दुकान कौन सी है?"

"आप गोश्त कैसे पकाते हैं?"

"क्या आप गोश्त की बिरयानी खाना पसंद करेंगे?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि गोश्त खाना सेहत के लिए अच्छा है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने पहली बार गोश्त की एक नई डिश चखी...

मेरे परिवार में गोश्त पकाने का एक खास तरीका है...

अगर मुझे कभी गोश्त छोड़ना पड़े, तो मुझे सबसे ज़्यादा क्या खलेगा...

बाज़ार में गोश्त खरीदते समय मैंने देखा कि...

गोश्त और शाकाहार पर मेरे विचार यह हैं कि...

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, 'meat' includes chicken, but in Hindi, 'Gosht' almost always refers to red meat (mutton, goat, or beef). For chicken, you should use 'Murgh' or 'Chicken'.

It is a masculine noun. You should always use masculine adjectives and verb forms with it, such as 'Achha gosht' or 'Gosht paka hai'.

'Gosht' is of Persian origin and is common in culinary and everyday contexts. 'Maans' is of Sanskrit origin and is more formal, academic, or used in religious contexts.

No, you should not use 'Gosht' for fish. The word for fish is 'Machli'.

Yes, it is a perfectly neutral and polite word to use in any setting, from a local butcher to a five-star hotel.

In India, 'Gosht' most commonly refers to goat meat (mutton). It can also refer to lamb or buffalo meat depending on the region.

Minced meat is called 'Keema'. It is a type of 'Gosht'.

No, for the flesh of a fruit, the word 'Guda' is used. 'Gosht' is only for animal meat.

Yes, especially in areas with a strong Urdu influence like Hyderabad, the word 'Gosht' is very common.

You can say, 'Kya aapke paas taaza gosht hai?' (Do you have fresh meat?)