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संकीर्ण

A1 noun #7,000 most common 11 min read

संकीर्ण

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips संकीर्ण in 30 Seconds

Explanation संकीर्ण in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) simply as a fancy way to say 'narrow.' Imagine a very small road where only one person can walk. That road is 'sankīrṇa.' You don't need to use this word in every sentence yet, but you should recognize it when you see it in a book or on a sign. For now, focus on its physical meaning: a road, a bridge, or a door that is not wide. You can say 'Rāstā sankīrṇa hai' (The path is narrow). It is an adjective, so it describes a noun. Just remember it is the opposite of 'chauṛā' (wide). This will help you describe places when you are traveling in India, especially in old cities like Delhi or Varanasi where the streets are famous for being 'sankīrṇa.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) to describe physical spaces with more detail. You might use it in a sentence like 'Yeh gali bahut sankīrṇa hai' (This lane is very narrow). You are also starting to learn that words can have 'hidden' or 'metaphorical' meanings. While you mostly use it for roads and paths, you might hear someone say 'sankīrṇa soch' (narrow thinking). At this stage, just understand that 'sankīrṇa' implies a limit. There isn't much space to move. Whether it is a car on a road or a new idea in someone's head, 'sankīrṇa' means it is hard for things to pass through. It is a great word to add to your vocabulary to sound more descriptive and less repetitive than always using 'chhoṭā' (small).

By B1, you should be comfortable using 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) in both physical and metaphorical contexts. You will encounter this word in news reports and short stories. You should be able to discuss social issues using this word. For example, 'Sankīrṇa mānasikatā samāj ke liye achhī nahīñ hai' (A narrow mindset is not good for society). You are moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to express opinions. You can also use it to describe a 'narrow escape' (sankīrṇa bachāv), though that is less common than other phrases. The key at this level is to recognize that 'sankīrṇa' often carries a slightly negative tone when applied to people's attitudes. It suggests a lack of progress or a lack of openness to the world.

At the B2 level, you should use 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) to analyze complex situations. You might talk about 'sankīrṇa rājnīti' (narrow/sectarian politics) or 'sankīrṇa svārtha' (narrow self-interest). You understand that this word is a powerful tool for critique. You can compare 'sankīrṇa' with its synonyms like 'sankuchit' or 'anudār' and choose the right one for the context. Your sentences should be more complex, such as: 'Hameñ apnī sankīrṇa dṛṣṭi ko tyāgkar vishva-bandhutva kī bhāvanā apnānī chāhiye' (We should abandon our narrow vision and adopt the feeling of universal brotherhood). You are now using the word to discuss philosophy, politics, and social psychology with confidence and precision.

At the C1 level, you are exploring the nuances of 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) in literature and formal academic writing. You understand its Sanskrit roots and how it functions in classical Hindi prose. You can use it to describe the 'sankīrṇatā' (narrowness - noun form) of a specific historical period or a literary movement. You might use it in technical contexts, like 'sankīrṇa mukh' (narrow opening) in a scientific description. You are also aware of how the word is used in political rhetoric to label ideologies. Your usage is effortless, and you can use it to create specific moods in your writing—perhaps using it to describe the suffocating atmosphere of a crowded urban slum or the intellectual stagnation of a conservative society.

At the C2 level, 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) is a tool you use with mastery. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about 'sankīrṇa-vāda' (narrow-mindedness/sectarianism) versus 'udār-vāda' (liberalism). You recognize the word in the most complex poetic structures and ancient texts. You can explain the etymological journey of the word from its Sanskrit origins to its modern socio-political usage. You use it with perfect register, knowing exactly when it adds the necessary weight to a sentence and when a simpler word would suffice. You might even use it ironically or in sophisticated metaphors to describe the 'sankīrṇa' path to spiritual enlightenment, where the 'narrowness' is not a limitation but a necessary focus. Your command of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

संकीर्ण in 30 Seconds

संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa) is a formal Hindi adjective meaning 'narrow' in both physical (roads, spaces) and metaphorical (mindset, perspective) contexts.
It is primarily used to describe things that are constricted, limited in scope, or lacking in openness and inclusivity.
The word is commonly paired with 'gali' (lane), 'mānasikatā' (mindset), and 'vichārdhārā' (ideology) to critique limited viewpoints.
It is a standard, formal word that adds precision and weight to descriptions of urban spaces and social attitudes.

The Hindi word संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa) is a multifaceted adjective that primarily translates to 'narrow' or 'restricted.' In a physical sense, it describes spaces that lack width, such as a narrow alleyway in an old city or a tight mountain pass. However, its most profound and frequent usage in modern Hindi is metaphorical. It is the standard term used to describe a 'narrow-minded' perspective, referring to thoughts, ideologies, or attitudes that are limited, prejudiced, or lacking in breadth and inclusivity. When you encounter this word, you are looking at a boundary—either a physical wall that constricts movement or a mental barrier that constricts understanding.

Physical Narrowness: Used to describe roads, paths, or openings that are difficult to pass through because they are not wide enough. For example, 'Sankīrṇa mārga' (narrow path).

पुराने शहर की गलियाँ बहुत संकीर्ण हैं। (The lanes of the old city are very narrow.)

Mental/Ideological Narrowness: This refers to a person's mindset (mānasikatā) or viewpoint (dṛṣṭikoṇa). It suggests a lack of tolerance or an inability to see the bigger picture. 'Sankīrṇa vichār' means narrow thoughts.

In social discourse, you will hear intellectuals and reformers urging people to leave behind their 'sankīrṇa' beliefs. It carries a slightly negative connotation when applied to people, implying that they are stuck in old, unhelpful ways of thinking. In literature, it might be used to describe the suffocating nature of a small room or a restricted life. Historically, the word finds its roots in Sanskrit, where it implies being crowded or pressed together. This visual of things being 'pressed' helps explain why it feels so restrictive. Whether you are navigating the 'sankīrṇa' streets of Varanasi or debating someone with 'sankīrṇa' political views, the word perfectly captures the sense of being hemmed in. It is a vital word for anyone looking to discuss social issues, urban planning, or psychology in Hindi. Understanding 'sankīrṇa' allows you to express not just a physical measurement, but a qualitative judgment on the openness of a system or a mind. It is the opposite of 'vistṛt' (wide/expansive) and 'udār' (generous/open-minded).

हमें अपनी संकीर्ण विचारधारा से ऊपर उठना चाहिए। (We should rise above our narrow ideology.)

Register and Tone: The word is formal and standard. You will find it in newspapers (Samāchār-patra), textbooks, and formal speeches. In casual conversation, people might use 'chhoṭā' (small) or 'tañg' (tight), but 'sankīrṇa' adds a layer of sophistication and precision.

Using संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa) correctly requires understanding whether you are describing a physical object or an abstract concept. Because it is an adjective, it must precede the noun it modifies or follow a linking verb. In Hindi grammar, 'sankīrṇa' does not change its form based on gender or number (it is an 'invariable' adjective), making it relatively easy for learners to use without worrying about inflection. Let's look at the different contexts where this word shines.

यह पुल बहुत संकीर्ण है, यहाँ से ट्रक नहीं जा सकता। (This bridge is very narrow; a truck cannot pass from here.)

In the sentence above, 'sankīrṇa' describes a physical structure. It highlights a limitation of space. When using it for physical objects, you are often explaining why something *cannot* happen—like a car not fitting or a crowd getting stuck. Now, let's look at the metaphorical usage, which is arguably more common in higher-level Hindi discourse.

The 'Mindset' Pattern: The most common collocation is 'sankīrṇa mānasikatā' (narrow mindset). Example: 'Duniya ko dekhne ki uski dṛṣṭi sankīrṇa hai' (His vision of looking at the world is narrow).

जातिवाद एक संकीर्ण सोच का परिणाम है। (Casteism is the result of a narrow way of thinking.)

When you use 'sankīrṇa' to describe 'soch' (thought) or 'vichārdhārā' (ideology), you are critiquing it. It implies that the thought is not inclusive of others. It is often used in political debates to accuse opponents of being 'sankīrṇa-vādī' (narrow-minded/sectarian). Another interesting usage is in the field of biology or botany, where it might describe a specific type of leaf or opening, though this is quite technical. For a learner, focusing on 'narrow roads' and 'narrow minds' covers 90% of usage. Remember, you can intensify it with 'bahut' (very) or 'atyant' (extremely). 'Atyant sankīrṇa' sounds very formal and serious.

Sentence Structure Tip: Noun + [Adjective] + Hai. Example: 'Rāstā sankīrṇa hai.' Or [Adjective] + Noun + [Verb]. Example: 'Sankīrṇa rāste par dhīre chalo' (Walk slowly on the narrow path).

क्या आप इस संकीर्ण गली में कार चला सकते हैं? (Can you drive a car in this narrow lane?)

In summary, use 'sankīrṇa' when you want to sound precise and formal. If you are talking about a tight shirt, use 'tañg'. If you are talking about a narrow-minded politician or a narrow mountain pass, 'sankīrṇa' is your best choice. It conveys a sense of restriction that is both physical and intellectual.

You are most likely to encounter संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa) in formal environments. While it's not a 'slang' word, it's a staple of the Hindi language's intellectual and descriptive vocabulary. If you are watching a news broadcast on NDTV India or Aaj Tak, or reading an editorial in 'Dainik Jagran,' this word will appear frequently. Journalists use it to describe everything from 'sankīrṇa rājnīti' (narrow politics) to 'sankīrṇa galiyāñ' (narrow lanes) during urban development reports.

In the News: News anchors often use it when discussing social issues. 'Sankīrṇa vichārdhārā desh ke liye khatrā hai' (Narrow ideology is a danger to the country). It's a powerful word for critique.

समाचार: 'शहर के संकीर्ण रास्तों के कारण एम्बुलेंस को पहुँचने में देरी हुई।' (News: Due to the narrow paths of the city, the ambulance was delayed in reaching.)

In literature and poetry (Kavitā), 'sankīrṇa' is used to evoke a feeling of claustrophobia or limited potential. A poet might describe a character's life as 'sankīrṇa,' meaning they haven't had the chance to experience the vastness of the world. In classroom settings, particularly in subjects like History, Civics, or Geography, teachers use this word to describe narrow straits (in geography) or narrow-minded policies (in history).

In Cinema and TV: In serious dramas or period pieces (like those on Netflix or Amazon Prime set in rural India), characters might use this word to argue against traditional or restrictive customs. It sounds more educated and impactful than just saying 'chhoṭī soch' (small thinking).

फिल्म संवाद: 'तुम अपनी इस संकीर्ण सोच से बाहर कब आओगे?' (Movie Dialogue: When will you come out of this narrow thinking?)

Lastly, in religious or spiritual discourses (Pravachan), gurus often talk about the 'sankīrṇa svārtha' (narrow self-interest) of humans. They contrast this with 'paramārtha' (supreme good or altruism). Thus, from the gritty reality of city traffic to the lofty heights of spiritual philosophy, 'sankīrṇa' is a word that bridges the physical and the metaphysical in the Indian consciousness. If you are in a meeting and want to suggest that a proposal is too limited in scope, saying 'Yeh prastāv thoṛā sankīrṇa hai' will make you sound like a native speaker with a great command of formal Hindi.

Learning a word like संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa) comes with a few pitfalls, especially because English often uses the single word 'narrow' for many things where Hindi uses different terms. The most common mistake is using 'sankīrṇa' where 'patlā' (thin) or 'tañg' (tight) would be more appropriate. Let's break down these distinctions so you can avoid sounding unnatural.

Mistake 1: Sankīrṇa vs. Patlā: 'Patlā' means thin in terms of thickness (like a book, a slice of bread, or a person). 'Sankīrṇa' is about the distance between two sides. You would never say a person is 'sankīrṇa' unless you mean they are narrow-minded!

❌ गलत: वह आदमी बहुत संकीर्ण है। (Wrong: That man is very narrow - meaning thin.)
✅ सही: वह आदमी बहुत पतला है। (Right: That man is very thin.)

Mistake 2: Sankīrṇa vs. Tañg: 'Tañg' means 'tight' (like clothes) or 'troubled' (like being fed up). While 'tañg gali' (tight lane) is common and synonymous with 'sankīrṇa gali,' you cannot use 'sankīrṇa' for a shirt that is too small for you.

Another mistake is overusing the word in casual settings. Using 'sankīrṇa' while buying vegetables or talking to a friend about a small room might sound overly dramatic or academic. In those cases, 'chhoṭā' (small) or 'kam chauṛā' (less wide) is more natural. 'Sankīrṇa' is a 'heavy' word; save it for when you want to make a point about space or character.

Mistake 3: Pronunciation: Many learners mispronounce the 'ṇ' (ण) as a simple 'n' (न). In 'Sankīrṇa,' the 'ṇ' is retroflex. Mispronouncing it doesn't usually change the meaning, but it marks you as a beginner. Practice curling your tongue back.

उच्चारण: 'सं-कीर्ण' (Sun-keer-na) - focus on the 'rn' sound at the end.

Finally, remember that 'sankīrṇa' is an adjective. Don't try to use it as a verb. If you want to say 'to narrow down,' you would use 'kam karnā' (to reduce) or 'sankuchit karnā.' Understanding these nuances will ensure that you use 'sankīrṇa' with the same precision as a native scholar.

Hindi is rich with synonyms, and depending on whether you are talking about a physical gap or a mental attitude, you might want to choose a different word than संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa). Exploring these alternatives will help you fine-tune your expression and understand the subtle shades of meaning in different contexts.

1. संकुचित (Sankuchit): This is the closest synonym. While 'sankīrṇa' means narrow, 'sankuchit' often implies 'contracted' or 'shrunken.' It is very common in the phrase 'sankuchit dṛṣṭikoṇa' (shrunken/narrow perspective). Use this when you want to imply that something *should* be wider but has been limited.

2. तंग (Tañg): As mentioned before, 'tañg' is the everyday word for 'tight' or 'narrow.' If you are talking about a narrow street in a casual way, 'tañg gali' is actually more common than 'sankīrṇa gali.' 'Tañg' feels more physical and immediate.

तुलना: 'संकीर्ण' (Sankīrṇa) is formal/academic; 'तंग' (Tañg) is casual/daily use.

3. कम चौड़ा (Kam Chauṛā): Literally 'less wide.' This is a neutral, descriptive way to say narrow. It lacks the negative metaphorical baggage of 'sankīrṇa.' Use this for measurements or objective descriptions. 'Yeh mez kam chauṛī hai' (This table is less wide/narrow).

4. अनुदार (Anudār): This means 'illiberal' or 'not generous.' It is the direct antonym of 'udār' (generous/liberal). While 'sankīrṇa' describes the *size* of the mind, 'anudār' describes the *quality* of the character. They are often used together.

In summary, 'sankīrṇa' is your go-to word for formal writing and describing narrow-mindedness. 'Tañg' is for physical tightness in daily life. 'Sankuchit' is for a shrunken or restricted view. Understanding these differences will make your Hindi sound much more nuanced and precise. You'll be able to choose the word that fits the 'vibe' of your conversation—whether it's a deep philosophical debate or a simple walk through a crowded market.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Sanskrit texts, the word was sometimes used to describe 'hybrid' or 'mixed' castes (Sankīrṇa Jāti), showing its long history of describing social boundaries.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sʌŋˈkiːr.nə/

US /sʌŋˈkiːr.nə/

Stress is primarily on the second syllable 'kī'.

Rhymes With

विस्तीर्ण (Vistīrṇa) प्रकीर्ण (Prakīrṇa) कीर्ण (Kīrṇa) उत्तीर्ण (Uttīrṇa) विकीर्ण (Vikīrṇa) आकीर्ण (Ākīrṇa) सम्पूर्ण (Sampūrṇa - partial) चूर्ण (Chūrṇa - partial)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ṇ' (ण) as a simple 'n' (न).
Shortening the long 'ī' in 'kī'.
Missing the nasalization of the first syllable.
Pronouncing it as 'sankiran' (adding an extra vowel).
Failing to curl the tongue for the 'r' and 'ṇ' cluster.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts once learned, but looks similar to other Sanskrit words.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct spelling of the 'n' (ण) and anusvara.

Speaking 4/5

The retroflex 'ṇ' can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation in formal speech makes it easy to spot.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

रास्ता (Path) गली (Lane) सोच (Thought) बहुत (Very) चौड़ा (Wide)

Learn Next

संकुचित (Sankuchit) व्यापक (Vyāpak) मानसिकता (Mānasikatā) विचारधारा (Vichārdhārā) रूढ़िवादी (Rūṛhivādī)

Advanced

सांप्रदायिकता (Communalism) प्रादेशिकता (Regionalism) संकीर्णतावाद (Parochialism) उदारवाद (Liberalism) परिधि (Perimeter)

Grammar to Know

Invariable Adjectives

संकीर्ण doesn't change for 'rāstā' (m) or 'gali' (f).

Anusvara (Nasalization)

The dot on 'Sa' (सं) creates the 'n' sound.

Retroflex Consonants

The 'ṇ' (ण) requires curling the tongue.

Compound Formation

Adding '-tā' to make it a noun: संकीर्णता.

Adjective Placement

Usually comes before the noun: 'संकीर्ण गली'.

Examples by Level

यह रास्ता संकीर्ण है।

This path is narrow.

Simple subject-adjective-verb structure.

गली संकीर्ण है।

The lane is narrow.

Gali (lane) is feminine, but 'sankīrṇa' stays the same.

संकीर्ण पुल पर मत जाओ।

Don't go on the narrow bridge.

Imperative sentence with 'mat' (don't).

यह कमरा संकीर्ण लगता है।

This room feels narrow/cramped.

Using 'lagta hai' (feels/seems).

क्या वह संकीर्ण है?

Is that narrow?

Simple question form.

संकीर्ण रास्ता खतरनाक है।

The narrow path is dangerous.

Adjective modifying the noun 'rāstā'.

यहाँ का दरवाज़ा संकीर्ण है।

The door here is narrow.

Possessive 'kā' linking place and object.

बस संकीर्ण सड़क पर है।

The bus is on a narrow road.

Locative case with 'par' (on).

पुराने शहर में संकीर्ण गलियाँ हैं।

There are narrow lanes in the old city.

Plural 'galīyāñ' used with 'haiñ'.

उसकी सोच बहुत संकीर्ण है।

His thinking is very narrow.

First introduction of metaphorical usage.

हमें संकीर्ण रास्तों से बचना चाहिए।

We should avoid narrow paths.

Oblique plural 'rāstoñ' with 'se'.

यह संकीर्ण जगह है।

This is a narrow place.

Descriptive adjective use.

पहाड़ पर रास्ता संकीर्ण हो जाता है।

The path becomes narrow on the mountain.

Verb 'ho jātā hai' (becomes).

संकीर्ण सोच अच्छी नहीं है।

Narrow thinking is not good.

Adjective used as part of a subject phrase.

गाड़ी इस संकीर्ण पुल से नहीं जा सकती।

The car cannot go through this narrow bridge.

Negative 'nahīñ' with 'saktī'.

क्या तुम इस संकीर्ण छेद से देख सकते हो?

Can you see through this narrow hole?

Instrumental 'se' (through/with).

संकीर्ण विचारधारा प्रगति में बाधा डालती है।

Narrow ideology creates obstacles in progress.

Formal vocabulary like 'vichārdhārā' and 'pragati'.

वह अपनी संकीर्ण दुनिया में खुश है।

He is happy in his narrow world.

Metaphorical 'duniyā' (world).

इस संकीर्ण विवाद का कोई अंत नहीं है।

There is no end to this narrow dispute.

Describing a dispute (vivād) as narrow/petty.

लेखक ने संकीर्ण समाज का चित्रण किया है।

The author has depicted a narrow society.

Perfect tense 'chitran kiyā hai'.

हमें अपनी संकीर्ण सीमाओं से बाहर निकलना होगा।

We will have to come out of our narrow boundaries.

Future obligation 'nikalnā hogā'.

उसका दृष्टिकोण बहुत संकीर्ण और रूढ़िवादी है।

His perspective is very narrow and conservative.

Pairing 'sankīrṇa' with 'rūṛhivādī'.

संकीर्ण गलियों में एम्बुलेंस नहीं पहुँच पाई।

The ambulance could not reach the narrow lanes.

Past ability 'pahuñch pāī'.

यह एक संकीर्ण और अंधेरा रास्ता है।

This is a narrow and dark path.

Multiple adjectives modifying one noun.

सांप्रदायिकता संकीर्ण मानसिकता का सबसे बुरा रूप है।

Communalism is the worst form of narrow mindset.

Superlative sense using 'sabse burā'.

यह संकीर्ण दृष्टिकोण वैज्ञानिक शोध के लिए हानिकारक है।

This narrow perspective is harmful to scientific research.

Academic context.

राजनीति को संकीर्ण हितों से ऊपर उठना चाहिए।

Politics should rise above narrow interests.

Using 'hit' (interest) in a plural sense.

संकीर्ण राष्ट्रवाद अक्सर युद्ध का कारण बनता है।

Narrow nationalism often becomes the cause of war.

Abstract political concept.

इस संकीर्ण गली के पुनर्विकास की आवश्यकता है।

This narrow lane needs redevelopment.

Noun 'āvaśyaktā' (need).

उसकी संकीर्ण व्याख्या ने पूरे मामले को उलझा दिया।

His narrow interpretation complicated the whole matter.

Describing an 'interpretation' (vyākhyā).

शिक्षा का उद्देश्य संकीर्णता को मिटाना है।

The purpose of education is to erase narrowness.

Using the noun form 'sankīrṇatā'.

संकीर्ण गलियों के कारण शहर में ट्रैफिक की समस्या रहती है।

Due to narrow lanes, there remains a traffic problem in the city.

Causal 'ke kāran'.

साहित्य में संकीर्ण यथार्थवाद की अपनी सीमाएं हैं।

Narrow realism in literature has its own limitations.

Literary criticism context.

संकीर्ण स्वार्थों की पूर्ति के लिए लोग किसी भी हद तक जा सकते हैं।

People can go to any extent to fulfill narrow self-interests.

Idiomatic 'kisi bhi had tak'.

दार्शनिक ने संकीर्ण बोध और व्यापक चेतना के बीच अंतर स्पष्ट किया।

The philosopher clarified the difference between narrow perception and vast consciousness.

Philosophical terminology.

यह संकीर्ण गलियारा इतिहास के कई रहस्यों को समेटे हुए है।

This narrow corridor holds many secrets of history.

Poetic/Descriptive style.

संकीर्ण धार्मिक व्याख्याएं अक्सर समाज में वैमनस्य पैदा करती हैं।

Narrow religious interpretations often create discord in society.

High-level vocabulary like 'vaimanasya'.

आधुनिक युग में संकीर्ण क्षेत्रीयता का कोई स्थान नहीं होना चाहिए।

There should be no place for narrow regionalism in the modern era.

Political discourse.

संकीर्ण गलियों की उस भूलभुलैया में खो जाना आसान था।

It was easy to get lost in that labyrinth of narrow lanes.

Metaphorical 'bhūlbhulaiyā' (labyrinth).

उसकी संकीर्ण निष्ठा ने उसे सत्य देखने से रोक दिया।

His narrow loyalty stopped him from seeing the truth.

Abstract concept 'niṣṭhā' (loyalty).

संकीर्णतावाद की परिधि में रहकर सत्य का अन्वेषण असंभव है।

It is impossible to explore truth while remaining within the perimeter of narrow-mindedness.

Complex Sanskritized Hindi.

वैश्वीकरण के इस दौर में संकीर्ण आर्थिक नीतियां आत्मघाती हो सकती हैं।

In this era of globalization, narrow economic policies can be suicidal.

Economic and political analysis.

कविता की संकीर्ण संरचना उसके भावों के विस्तार को बाधित कर रही थी।

The narrow structure of the poem was hindering the expansion of its emotions.

Literary analysis.

संकीर्ण सांप्रदायिक दृष्टिकोण मानवता के व्यापक मूल्यों का हनन करता है।

A narrow communal perspective violates the broad values of humanity.

Ethical/Philosophical discourse.

इतिहासकार ने संकीर्ण राष्ट्रवादी इतिहासलेखन की आलोचना की है।

The historian has criticized narrow nationalist historiography.

Historiographical context.

संकीर्ण गलियों के इस स्थापत्य में एक अजीब सा आकर्षण है।

There is a strange charm in this architecture of narrow lanes.

Architectural discussion.

संकीर्ण मनोवृत्ति से ग्रस्त व्यक्ति कभी भी पूर्णता को प्राप्त नहीं कर सकता।

A person afflicted with a narrow mindset can never achieve completeness.

Spiritual/Psychological depth.

संकीर्ण स्वार्थपरता सामाजिक ताने-बाने को छिन्न-भिन्न कर देती है।

Narrow selfishness tears apart the social fabric.

Idiomatic 'tānā-bānā' (fabric/weave).

Synonyms

तंग संकुचित सँकरा सीमित छोटा

Antonyms

व्यापक उदार चौड़ा

Common Collocations

संकीर्ण गली (Sankīrṇa Gali)

संकीर्ण मानसिकता (Sankīrṇa Mānasikatā)

संकीर्ण विचारधारा (Sankīrṇa Vichārdhārā)

संकीर्ण स्वार्थ (Sankīrṇa Svārtha)

संकीर्ण दृष्टिकोण (Sankīrṇa Dṛṣṭikoṇa)

संकीर्ण मार्ग (Sankīrṇa Mārga)

संकीर्ण राजनीति (Sankīrṇa Rājnīti)

संकीर्ण व्याख्या (Sankīrṇa Vyākhyā)

संकीर्ण क्षेत्र (Sankīrṇa Kṣetra)

संकीर्ण पुल (Sankīrṇa Pul)

Common Phrases

संकीर्ण सोच (Sankīrṇa Soch)

— Narrow thinking. Used to criticize someone's lack of openness.

संकीर्ण सोच से बाहर निकलें।

संकीर्ण दायरा (Sankīrṇa Dāyarā)

— Narrow circle/scope. Refers to a limited range of activity or influence.

उसका काम एक संकीर्ण दायरे में सिमट गया है।

संकीर्ण हित (Sankīrṇa Hit)

— Narrow interests. Usually refers to selfish or parochial goals.

संकीर्ण हितों से ऊपर उठना ज़रूरी है।

संकीर्ण अर्थों में (Sankīrṇa Arthoñ Meñ)

— In a narrow sense. Used to define something strictly.

संकीर्ण अर्थों में, यह कानून केवल यहाँ लागू होता है।

संकीर्ण रास्ता (Sankīrṇa Rāstā)

— A narrow path. Can be literal or metaphorical (a difficult choice).

सफलता का रास्ता संकीर्ण हो सकता है।

संकीर्ण गलियारा (Sankīrṇa Galiyārā)

— Narrow corridor. Often used in architecture or politics (e.g., Siliguri Corridor).

यह संकीर्ण गलियारा दो देशों को जोड़ता है।

संकीर्ण भाव (Sankīrṇa Bhāv)

— Narrow feeling. Refers to petty or limited emotions.

मन में संकीर्ण भाव नहीं रखने चाहिए।

संकीर्ण आधार (Sankīrṇa Ādhār)

— Narrow base. Used for arguments or structures with little support.

यह तर्क एक संकीर्ण आधार पर टिका है।

संकीर्ण जातिवाद (Sankīrṇa Jātivād)

— Narrow casteism. A critique of strict caste-based prejudice.

संकीर्ण जातिवाद विकास में बाधक है।

संकीर्ण सांप्रदायिकता (Sankīrṇa Sāmpradāyiktā)

— Narrow communalism. Referring to religious intolerance.

संकीर्ण सांप्रदायिकता से देश का माहौल बिगड़ता है।

Often Confused With

संकीर्ण vs पतला (Patlā)

Patlā means thin/slim (thickness). Sankīrṇa means narrow (width of a gap).

संकीर्ण vs तंग (Tañg)

Tañg is more colloquial and can also mean 'tight' or 'bothered'.

संकीर्ण vs छोटा (Chhoṭā)

Chhoṭā is just 'small' in size. Sankīrṇa is specifically 'narrow'.

Idioms & Expressions

"संकीर्ण सोच का शिकार होना (Sankīrṇa soch kā śikār honā)"

— To be a victim of narrow thinking. Being trapped by one's own prejudices.

वह अपनी संकीर्ण सोच का शिकार हो गया है।

Formal

"संकीर्ण दायरे में सिमटना (Sankīrṇa dāyare meñ simaṭnā)"

— To be limited to a narrow circle. Losing one's broad influence or reach.

उसका करियर एक संकीर्ण दायरे में सिमट गया।

Literary

"संकीर्ण मानसिकता से ग्रस्त (Sankīrṇa mānasikatā se grasta)"

— Afflicted with a narrow mindset. Used for someone deeply prejudiced.

वह संकीर्ण मानसिकता से ग्रस्त है।

Formal/Medical metaphor

"संकीर्ण हितों की बलि चढ़ाना (Sankīrṇa hitoñ kī bali chaṛhānā)"

— To sacrifice (something) for narrow interests.

उसने संकीर्ण हितों के लिए अपनी दोस्ती की बलि चढ़ा दी।

Dramatic/Formal

"संकीर्ण चश्मे से देखना (Sankīrṇa caśme se dekhnā)"

— To look through a narrow lens. To perceive things with bias.

दुनिया को संकीर्ण चश्मे से मत देखो।

Metaphorical

"संकीर्ण गली में फँसना (Sankīrṇa gali meñ phaṅsnā)"

— To be stuck in a narrow lane. Often implies being in a difficult, tight spot.

वह अपनी ही बातों की संकीर्ण गली में फँस गया।

Colloquial

"संकीर्णता की दीवारें (Sankīrṇatā kī dīvāreñ)"

— Walls of narrowness. Barriers created by limited thinking.

हमें संकीर्णता की दीवारें तोड़नी होंगी।

Poetic

"संकीर्ण हृदय (Sankīrṇa hṛday)"

— Narrow heart. Meaning a person who is not generous or kind.

संकीर्ण हृदय वाले लोग कभी महान नहीं बन सकते।

Literary

"संकीर्ण पथ पर चलना (Sankīrṇa path par calnā)"

— To walk on a narrow path. Can mean a very specific, strict way of life.

सत्य का मार्ग एक संकीर्ण पथ है।

Spiritual/Philosophical

"संकीर्णता की गर्त (Sankīrṇatā kī gart)"

— The abyss of narrowness. A deep state of prejudice.

वह संकीर्णता की गर्त में गिरता जा रहा है।

Highly Formal/Literary

Easily Confused

संकीर्ण vs संकल्प (Sankalpa)

Starts with 'San-'.

Sankalpa means 'resolution' or 'determination.' It has nothing to do with width.

मेरा संकल्प दृढ़ है।

संकीर्ण vs संकेत (Sanket)

Starts with 'San-'.

Sanket means 'sign' or 'indication.'

खतरे का संकेत।

संकीर्ण vs संसार (Sansār)

Starts with 'San-'.

Sansār means 'world.'

सारा संसार।

संकीर्ण vs संकट (Sankaṭ)

Starts with 'San-'.

Sankaṭ means 'crisis' or 'danger.'

देश पर संकट है।

संकीर्ण vs संकुचित (Sankuchit)

Very similar meaning.

Sankuchit often implies 'shrunken' or 'contracted,' while sankīrṇa is just 'narrow.'

उसका मन संकुचित है।

Sentence Patterns

[Object] + संकीर्ण + है।

रास्ता संकीर्ण है।

यह + [Object] + बहुत + संकीर्ण + है।

यह गली बहुत संकीर्ण है।

हमें + [Abstract Noun] + संकीर्ण + नहीं + रखनी + चाहिए।

हमें अपनी सोच संकीर्ण नहीं रखनी चाहिए।

[Concept] + संकीर्ण + मानसिकता + का + परिणाम + है।

भेदभाव संकीर्ण मानसिकता का परिणाम है।

[Subject] + ने + [Object] + की + संकीर्ण + व्याख्या + की।

उसने कानून की संकीर्ण व्याख्या की।

संकीर्णता + की + परिधि + में + [Action] + संभव + नहीं + है।

संकीर्णता की परिधि में विकास संभव नहीं है।

Any

संकीर्ण + [Noun] + से + [Verb]

संकीर्ण रास्ते से जाओ।

Any

अत्यंत + संकीर्ण

यह अत्यंत संकीर्ण विचार है।

Word Family

Nouns

संकीर्णता (Sankīrṇatā - Narrowness)

संकीर्णतावाद (Sankīrṇatāvād - Parochialism/Sectarianism)

Verbs

संकीर्ण करना (Sankīrṇa karnā - To narrow/constrict)

संकीर्ण होना (Sankīrṇa honā - To become narrow)

Adjectives

संकीर्ण (Sankīrṇa - Narrow)

संकीर्ण-मना (Sankīrṇa-manā - Narrow-minded)

संकुचित (Sankuchit)

तंग (Tañg)

सीमा (Sīmā)

विस्तार (Vistār)

उदारता (Udārtā)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in media, literature, and formal speech. Rare in daily slang.

Common Mistakes

Using it for a thin person. → वह पतला है।
Sankīrṇa is for gaps/paths/minds, not bodies.
Using it for tight shoes. → जूते तंग हैं।
Clothing/shoes are 'tañg', not 'sankīrṇa'.
Pronouncing it as 'Sankiran'. → Sankīrṇa
The 'a' at the end is silent/short, and there is no 'i' between r and n.
Confusing with 'Sanksipta' (Brief). → संक्षिप्त उत्तर (Brief answer)
Sankīrṇa is narrow; Sanksipta is brief/concise.
Changing it to 'sankīrṇī' for feminine nouns. → संकीर्ण गली
It is an invariable adjective.

Tips

Context Matters

Always use 'sankīrṇa' when you want to sound educated or formal. In a market, use 'tañg'.

No Gender Change

Don't worry about changing the ending of 'sankīrṇa' for feminine nouns. It stays the same!

Social Critique

Use 'sankīrṇa mānasikatā' to discuss social issues like caste or religious bias in Hindi essays.

Retroflex Fun

Practice saying 'rṇa' by curling your tongue back. It's a great workout for your mouth!

Antonym Pairing

Learn it alongside 'udār' (generous) to remember the mental contrast.

Spelling Check

The 'r' sound is written as a hook (reph) on top of the 'ṇ'. Looks like: र्ण.

News Keywords

When you hear 'gali' or 'soch' in news, listen for 'sankīrṇa' right before it.

The Alley Rule

Visualize a 'Sankīrṇa Gali' every time you see the word.

Polite Disagreement

Say 'Aapka vichār thoṛā sankīrṇa hai' to politely suggest someone is being narrow-minded.

Noun Power

Master 'sankīrṇatā' to discuss abstract concepts of narrowness.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Sun' + 'Keen' + 'Na'. Imagine the 'Sun' trying to shine through a 'Keen' (sharp/narrow) crack in a wall, but it can't because the gap is 'Na' (No/Not wide). Sankīrṇa!

Visual Association

Imagine a very narrow, dark alleyway in an old Indian city where you have to walk sideways to pass. Label that alley 'Sankīrṇa Gali.'

Word Web

Road Mind Bridge Ideology Narrow Restricted Prejudice Alley

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that are 'sankīrṇa' (like a gap behind a fridge) and describe them out loud in Hindi.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'संकीर्ण' (Saṃkīrṇa). It is a combination of the prefix 'sam' (together/thoroughly) and 'kīrṇa' (scattered/poured/filled).

Original meaning: Originally, it meant 'crowded together,' 'mixed,' or 'confused.' It implied a space filled with too many things.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit -> Prakrit -> Hindi).

Cultural Context

Be careful when calling a person's ideas 'sankīrṇa' to their face, as it is a direct and strong critique of their character and intelligence.

Similar to how 'narrow' can be neutral (narrow road) or negative (narrow-minded) in English, 'sankīrṇa' shares this duality, but it feels more formal and 'heavy' than 'narrow'.

Used in the Preamble of some Hindi versions of legal documents to discuss limited interests. Commonly found in the writings of Premchand to describe the narrow lives of villagers. Frequently used in modern Bollywood 'social message' movies like 'Article 15' or 'Mulk'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Driving/Navigation

आगे रास्ता संकीर्ण है।
संकीर्ण गली में मोड़ना मुश्किल है।
क्या बस यहाँ से जा पाएगी? रास्ता संकीर्ण है।
संकीर्ण पुल पर सावधानी रखें।

Social Critique

यह संकीर्ण मानसिकता का प्रतीक है।
हमें संकीर्णता से ऊपर उठना होगा।
उसकी सोच बहुत संकीर्ण है।
संकीर्ण राजनीति देश को बांटती है।

Literature/Art

संकीर्ण जीवन का चित्रण।
संकीर्ण गलियों का सौंदर्य।
पात्र की संकीर्ण दुनिया।
संकीर्ण दायरे में कला।

Academic/Formal

विषय की संकीर्ण व्याख्या।
संकीर्ण आर्थिक नीतियां।
संकीर्ण भौगोलिक क्षेत्र।
संकीर्ण शोध का दायरा।

Daily Life

यह कमरा संकीर्ण है।
संकीर्ण दरवाज़ा।
संकीर्ण खिड़की।
संकीर्ण जूते (rare, usually 'tañg').

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको लगता है कि पुराने शहरों की संकीर्ण गलियाँ पर्यटन के लिए अच्छी हैं?"

"हम समाज से संकीर्ण मानसिकता को कैसे दूर कर सकते हैं?"

"क्या आपने कभी किसी बहुत संकीर्ण पुल पर गाड़ी चलाई है?"

"शिक्षा कैसे हमारी संकीर्ण सोच को बदलने में मदद करती है?"

"आपके शहर में सबसे संकीर्ण रास्ता कौन सा है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने एक संकीर्ण रास्ते पर चलते हुए क्या महसूस किया? (How did I feel walking on a narrow path today?)

क्या मेरे किसी विचार में संकीर्णता है? मैं उसे कैसे सुधार सकता हूँ?

एक ऐसी घटना के बारे में लिखें जब किसी की संकीर्ण सोच ने आपको परेशान किया हो।

संकीर्ण गलियों वाले शहर और चौड़ी सड़कों वाले शहर में क्या अंतर है?

क्या 'सत्य' का मार्ग हमेशा संकीर्ण होता है? अपने विचार लिखें।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but only for their mindset (sankīrṇa mānasikatā) or heart (sankīrṇa hṛday), not their physical body. For a thin person, use 'patlā'.

No, 'tañg' is the correct word for tight clothing. 'Sankīrṇa' would sound very strange in that context.

The noun form is 'संकीर्णता' (Sankīrṇatā), which means 'narrowness' or 'narrow-mindedness'.

Usually, yes. Physically, it implies a difficult passage. Metaphorically, it implies prejudice or lack of vision.

Hindi doesn't use 'sankīrṇa' as a verb. You would say 'sūchī ko chhoṭā karnā' (shorten the list) or 'vikalpoñ ko kam karnā' (reduce options).

In lyrics, no. In serious dialogues about society or family restrictions, yes.

Yes, the retroflex 'ṇ' (ण) is the correct standard pronunciation, though some speakers might simplify it.

'Sāñkarā' is a more common, slightly less formal version often used for physical paths. 'Sankīrṇa' is the formal/literary choice.

No, for brief use 'saṅkṣipta' (संक्षिप्त). These are often confused by learners.

Yes, to describe narrow apertures or biological structures.