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प्रश्न

A1 noun #500 most common 10 min read

प्रश्न

prashn Top 500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips प्रश्न in 30 Seconds

Explanation प्रश्न in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'Prashna' is one of the first formal nouns you will learn. It simply means 'question'. You will use it to ask for information or to tell someone you have a query. At this stage, you should focus on the basic sentence structure: 'Mere paas ek prashna hai' (I have a question). You will mostly see it in your Hindi textbooks where it introduces the exercises at the end of a lesson. It is important to remember that it is a masculine noun, so you say 'ek prashna' (one question). You will also learn the question words like 'Kya' (What), 'Kaun' (Who), and 'Kahan' (Where), which are used to form a 'Prashna'. This level is about identifying the word and using it in simple, direct sentences to facilitate basic communication in a classroom or learning environment.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'Prashna' in more varied contexts. You will learn to describe questions using simple adjectives like 'chhota' (small), 'bada' (big), 'saral' (simple), or 'mushkil' (difficult). You will also start using the verb 'puchhna' (to ask) correctly with the postposition 'se'. For example, 'Teacher se prashna pucho' (Ask the teacher a question). You will also encounter the plural form in direct sentences like 'Ye prashna bahut mushkil hain' (These questions are very difficult). At this stage, you are expected to understand the difference between 'Prashna' and 'Sawaal', recognizing that 'Prashna' is slightly more formal. You might also see it in signs or simple news headlines.

At the B1 level, you move into the 'oblique' case, learning how 'Prashna' changes to 'Prashnon' when followed by words like 'ka', 'ke', 'ki', or 'mein'. For example, 'Prashnon ke uttar likho' (Write the answers to the questions). You will also start using 'Prashna' to discuss abstract ideas, such as 'Zindagi ka prashna' (The question of life). You will become familiar with compound words like 'Prashna-patra' (Question paper) and 'Prashna-chinh' (Question mark). Your ability to use 'Prashna' in more complex sentence structures, like 'Mujhe nahi pata ki is prashna ka kya uttar hai' (I don't know what the answer to this question is), will develop. You will also start hearing this word in more formal media like documentaries or standard news reports.

At the B2 level, you use 'Prashna' to engage in debates and express opinions. You will learn idiomatic expressions like 'Prashna uthana' (to raise a question/doubt) and 'Prashna khada hona' (a question to arise). You will be able to distinguish between 'Prashna' and 'Shanka' (doubt) in nuanced ways. For example, you might say, 'Mujhe is policy par prashna hai' (I have a question about this policy), implying a need for clarification, versus 'Mujhe is par shanka hai', implying you don't trust it. You will also encounter 'Prashna' in professional settings, such as 'Interview ke prashna' (Interview questions). Your vocabulary will expand to include related formal terms like 'Prashnavali' (questionnaire).

At the C1 level, 'Prashna' becomes a tool for intellectual and philosophical discourse. You will use it to discuss complex socio-political issues, such as 'Naitik prashna' (Ethical questions) or 'Rashtriya suraksha ka prashna' (The question of national security). You will understand the historical and literary significance of the word, such as its role in the Upanishads or the Mahabharata. You will be able to use the word in sophisticated grammatical structures, including passive voice and conditional sentences. You will also recognize the use of 'Prashna' in legal and academic writing, where it often refers to a 'matter' or 'issue' under consideration rather than just a simple query. Your use of the word will be precise, reflecting the formal register of Shuddh Hindi.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command over 'Prashna' and its myriad nuances. You can use it to interrogate texts, deconstruct arguments, and engage in high-level academic or literary criticism. You will be familiar with rare and highly formal derivatives like 'Pariprashna' or 'Prashnottari'. You can use the word to convey subtle irony, rhetorical flourish, or deep existential inquiry. You will understand how the word functions in different dialects and registers of Hindi, and you can switch between 'Prashna' and 'Sawaal' perfectly to suit the social context. For you, 'Prashna' is not just a word for a question; it is a fundamental concept of inquiry that you can manipulate to express the most complex human thoughts and societal dilemmas.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

प्रश्न in 30 Seconds

Prashna is the formal Hindi word for 'question', used in schools and official settings.
It is a masculine noun, so it takes masculine adjectives like 'bada' or 'saral'.
The plural form changes to 'prashnon' when followed by postpositions like 'ka' or 'mein'.
It is synonymous with 'sawaal', but 'sawaal' is more common in casual conversation.

The Hindi word प्रश्न (Prashna) is a masculine noun that translates directly to 'question' or 'inquiry' in English. Rooted in the ancient Sanskrit language, it carries a weight of formality and intellectual rigor that distinguishes it from its more common Urdu-derived counterpart, 'सवाल' (Sawaal). While 'Sawaal' is the bread and butter of daily street conversation, Prashna is the language of the classroom, the courtroom, the sacred text, and the formal examination hall. When you use this word, you are often signaling a structured inquiry rather than a casual curiosity.

Formal Inquiry: Used in academic settings to denote a specific problem or query in a test or textbook. For example, 'प्रश्न संख्या पाँच' (Question number five).
Philosophical Doubt: Refers to existential or deep inquiries. In Indian philosophy, the 'Yaksha Prashna' represents a series of profound questions posed to the hero Yudhishthira.
Legal/Official Context: Used in government documents or news reports to describe an interrogation or a formal challenge to a policy.

शिक्षक ने छात्रों से एक कठिन प्रश्न पूछा। (The teacher asked the students a difficult question.)

In everyday life, you might hear a news anchor say, 'आज का मुख्य प्रश्न यह है...' (Today's main question is this...). This usage frames the topic as a serious matter of public debate. Unlike 'Sawaal', which can sometimes imply a 'problem' (e.g., 'paisa ka sawaal' - the question/problem of money), Prashna almost always refers to the act of asking or the query itself. It is a word that demands an 'Uttar' (answer).

इस प्रश्न का उत्तर देना अनिवार्य है। (It is mandatory to answer this question.)

Culturally, the concept of 'Prashna' is central to the Indian tradition of 'Shastras' (scriptures), where knowledge is often transmitted through a dialogue of questions and answers. This Socratic-like method is known as 'Prashnottari' (Question-Answer session). Therefore, the word carries a connotation of seeking truth and enlightenment. When a student asks a Prashna, they are not just being curious; they are participating in a long tradition of intellectual inquiry.

क्या आपके मन में कोई प्रश्न है? (Do you have any question in your mind?)

Compound Usage: Prashna-patra (Question paper), Prashna-chinh (Question mark), Prashna-kaal (Question hour in Parliament).

परीक्षा का प्रश्न-पत्र बहुत लंबा था। (The exam question paper was very long.)

Understanding the nuances of Prashna helps a learner navigate the hierarchy of Hindi vocabulary. While A1 learners might start with 'Sawaal', moving to Prashna marks a transition into more sophisticated, standard Hindi (Shuddh Hindi). It is the gateway to understanding academic lectures, news broadcasts, and formal literature. In the following sections, we will explore how to construct sentences with this word and avoid common pitfalls.

जीवन का सबसे बड़ा प्रश्न क्या है? (What is the biggest question of life?)

Using प्रश्न (Prashna) correctly requires an understanding of Hindi's verb-object agreement and the specific verbs that pair with it. Since Prashna is a masculine noun, any adjectives or verbs modifying it must reflect this gender. For instance, 'a big question' is 'बड़ा प्रश्न' (bada prashna), not 'बड़ी प्रश्न' (badi prashna). The most common verb used with it is 'पूछना' (puchhna - to ask) or 'करना' (karna - to do/to pose).

The 'Ask' Pattern: [Subject] + [Indirect Object + से] + [Prashna] + [Puchhna]. Example: 'मैंने आपसे एक प्रश्न पूछा' (I asked you a question).
The 'Pose' Pattern: [Subject] + [Prashna] + [Karna]. This is often used for interrogation or formal inquiry. Example: 'पुलिस ने उससे कई प्रश्न किए' (The police posed many questions to him).

क्या मैं आपसे एक प्रश्न पूछ सकता हूँ? (Can I ask you a question?)

In the plural form, Prashna remains Prashna in the direct case (e.g., 'दो प्रश्न' - two questions). However, in the oblique case (when followed by a postposition like 'ka', 'se', 'mein'), it changes to 'प्रश्नों' (prashnon). For example, 'प्रश्नों के उत्तर' (answers to the questions). This is a crucial grammatical detail for intermediate learners.

इन प्रश्नों पर ध्यान दें। (Pay attention to these questions.)

When describing the nature of a question, you can use adjectives like 'सरल' (saral - simple), 'कठिन' (kathin - difficult), or 'महत्वपूर्ण' (mahatvapurna - important). These adjectives will always take the masculine form. For example, 'यह एक बहुत ही महत्वपूर्ण प्रश्न है' (This is a very important question). If you are referring to multiple questions, the adjective might change: 'कठिन प्रश्न' (difficult questions - plural masculine remains the same as singular for 'kathin').

वह हमेशा अजीब प्रश्न पूछता है। (He always asks strange questions.)

Negative Usage: To say 'No question', use 'कोई प्रश्न नहीं'. Example: 'मेरे पास कोई प्रश्न नहीं है' (I have no questions).

अब बहस का कोई प्रश्न ही नहीं उठता। (Now the question of debate doesn't even arise.)

In advanced usage, Prashna is used in passive constructions or as the subject of a sentence to discuss abstract concepts. For instance, 'यह प्रश्न विचारणीय है' (This question is worth considering). Here, the word acts as the focal point of a formal discussion. By mastering these patterns, you can move beyond simple inquiries to participating in complex Hindi dialogues.

आपका प्रश्न बिल्कुल सही है। (Your question is absolutely correct.)

You will encounter प्रश्न (Prashna) in almost every formal setting in India. If you are a student in an Indian school or university, this word will be your constant companion. From the 'Prashna-patra' (question paper) handed out during exams to the 'Prashnavali' (set of questions/questionnaire) at the end of a chapter, it is the standard term for academic inquiry. Teachers will often say, 'किसी को कोई प्रश्न है?' (Does anyone have a question?) before ending a lecture.

In the News: News anchors use it to frame political debates. 'विपक्ष ने सरकार से कड़े प्रश्न पूछे हैं' (The opposition has asked tough questions of the government).
In Literature: Novels and essays use 'Prashna' to discuss moral dilemmas or existential themes. It sounds more poetic and profound than 'Sawaal'.

लोकसभा में आज प्रश्न-काल के दौरान हंगामा हुआ। (There was an uproar during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha today.)

In the Indian Parliament, the first hour of every sitting is devoted to 'Prashna-kaal' (Question Hour), where Members of Parliament ask questions about government functioning. This is a highly televised and discussed event, making the word a staple of political vocabulary. Similarly, in legal dramas or real-life court proceedings, a lawyer might say, 'मेरे कुछ प्रश्न हैं' (I have some questions) during cross-examination.

वकील ने गवाह से कई प्रश्न किए। (The lawyer posed several questions to the witness.)

Even in Bollywood movies, while the dialogue is often colloquial, a character might use Prashna in a moment of high drama or when speaking to an elder or authority figure. It adds a layer of respect and seriousness. For example, a son might ask his father, 'क्या मैं आपसे एक व्यक्तिगत प्रश्न पूछ सकता हूँ?' (Can I ask you a personal question?). The use of Prashna here makes the request sound more earnest.

यह देश की सुरक्षा का प्रश्न है। (This is a question of national security.)

On Social Media: You will see hashtags like #PrashnaUttar (Q&A) or polls titled 'आज का प्रश्न' (Question of the day).

इंटरव्यू में मुझसे बहुत ही पेचीदा प्रश्न पूछे गए। (I was asked very tricky questions in the interview.)

Finally, in religious and spiritual discourses (Satsangs), the teacher often invites 'Prashna' from the audience. This tradition of 'Shanka-Samadhan' (clearing of doubts) relies heavily on the word Prashna. It represents the seeker's journey toward knowledge. Whether you are watching a news debate, attending a lecture, or reading a Hindi newspaper, Prashna is the essential term for any inquiry that matters.

आपके प्रश्न का समाधान यहाँ है। (The solution to your question is here.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using प्रश्न (Prashna) is confusing its gender. In Hindi, every noun has a gender, and Prashna is masculine. Beginners often mistakenly treat it as feminine because 'baat' (talk) or 'shanka' (doubt) are feminine. Saying 'यह अच्छी प्रश्न है' is incorrect; it must be 'यह अच्छा प्रश्न है'. Always remember: masculine adjectives and masculine verb endings.

The 'Sawaal' vs 'Prashna' Trap: Using 'Prashna' in very casual settings can sound overly stiff or robotic. If you're asking a friend what they want for lunch, 'Sawaal' is better. 'Prashna' is for the 'big' things.
Pluralization Errors: Forgetting the oblique form 'प्रश्नों' (prashnon) when using postpositions. You cannot say 'प्रश्नों का उत्तर' as 'प्रश्न का उत्तर' if you mean multiple questions.

गलत: मेरी प्रश्न सुनो। (Wrong: Listen to my question - feminine)
सही: मेरा प्रश्न सुनो। (Right: Listen to my question - masculine)

Another common error is the pronunciation of the 'shna' (श्न) cluster. English speakers often add a vowel sound between the 'sh' and 'n', making it sound like 'prash-ana'. In Hindi, it is a conjunct consonant; the 'sh' sound should flow directly into the 'n' sound without a break. Practicing the transition from the palatal 'sh' to the dental 'n' is key to sounding like a native speaker.

गलत: उसने मुझसे एक प्रश्न पूछी। (Wrong: He asked me a question - feminine verb)
सही: उसने मुझसे एक प्रश्न पूछा। (Right: He asked me a question - masculine verb)

Learners also struggle with the postposition 'se' (से) when asking a question. In English, we ask 'to' someone or just ask someone. In Hindi, you ask 'from' someone: 'मुझसे प्रश्न पूछो' (Ask a question from me). Using 'को' (ko) here is a very common mistake that stems from direct translation from English. Always pair 'puchhna' with 'se'.

गलत: राम को प्रश्न पूछो। (Wrong: Ask Ram a question)
सही: राम से प्रश्न पूछो। (Right: Ask Ram a question)

Contextual Misuse: Don't use 'Prashna' when you mean 'problem' in the sense of a malfunction. For a broken car, use 'samashya' (problem), not 'prashna'.

यह एक जटिल प्रश्न है। (This is a complex question.)

Lastly, be careful with the spelling. The 'pra' (प्र) has a subscript 'r'. Some learners forget this and write 'पर्शन' (parshan) or 'पशन' (pashan), which are entirely different or non-existent words. The visual structure of 'प्र' and 'श्न' is distinct and requires careful writing practice. By avoiding these common errors, your Hindi will sound much more professional and accurate.

क्या आपने सभी प्रश्नों के उत्तर दिए? (Did you answer all the questions?)

While प्रश्न (Prashna) is the standard word for 'question', Hindi offers several synonyms and related terms that carry different shades of meaning. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right context, whether you're in a casual chat or a formal debate.

सवाल (Sawaal): The most common alternative. It is of Persian/Urdu origin. It is used in 90% of daily conversations. 'Sawaal' can also mean 'a mathematical problem'.
जिज्ञासा (Jigyasa): This means 'curiosity' or 'the desire to know'. While a 'Prashna' is the query itself, 'Jigyasa' is the feeling that prompts the question.
शंका (Shanka): This means 'doubt' or 'suspicion'. If you have a question because you don't believe something or are confused, you have a 'Shanka'.

मेरे मन में एक शंका है। (I have a doubt in my mind.)

When comparing Prashna and Sawaal, think of the difference between 'Inquiry' and 'Question' in English. 'Prashna' is the inquiry. In a formal letter to a principal, you would write 'मेरे कुछ प्रश्न हैं'. In a Bollywood song, you would hear 'एक सवाल मैं करूँ'. The choice of word immediately sets the register of the conversation.

गणित का यह सवाल बहुत मुश्किल है। (This math problem is very difficult.)

Another related term is 'पूछताछ' (Poochtach), which means 'inquiry' or 'investigation'. This is used when a series of questions are asked, like at an information desk or a police station. While a single 'Prashna' is one query, 'Poochtach' is the whole process. Then there is 'सवाल-जवाब' (Sawaal-Jawab), which refers to a Q&A session or a back-and-forth dialogue.

पुलिस स्टेशन में पूछताछ चल रही है। (Interrogation is going on at the police station.)

Advanced Alternatives: Anveshan (Research/Investigation), Pariprashna (Detailed questioning), Jirah (Cross-examination in court).

यह प्रश्न विवादस्पद है। (This question is controversial.)

In summary, while 'Prashna' is your go-to word for 'question' in any serious or academic context, being aware of 'Sawaal' for daily life and 'Shanka' for doubts will make your Hindi more natural. As you progress, using words like 'Jigyasa' will show that you understand the emotional intent behind the inquiry. Choosing the right word is not just about meaning; it's about matching the vibe of the situation.

उसकी जिज्ञासा शांत करने के लिए मैंने उत्तर दिया। (I answered to satisfy his curiosity.)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"कृपया अपने प्रश्न संक्षेप में पूछें।"

Neutral

"मेरे पास एक प्रश्न है।"

Informal

"भाई, एक सवाल (प्रश्न) था।"

Child friendly

"बच्चों, क्या आपको कोई प्रश्न पूछना है?"

Slang

"इतने प्रश्न मत दाग! (Don't fire so many questions!)"

Fun Fact

In ancient Indian philosophy, the 'Prashna Upanishad' is a sacred text consisting entirely of six questions asked by seekers to a sage.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈpɾʌʃ.nə/

US /ˈpɾʌʃ.nə/

Stress is on the first syllable 'Prash'.

Rhymes With

जश्न (Jashn - celebration) नग्न (Nagn - naked) मग्न (Magn - absorbed) विघ्न (Vighn - obstacle) लग्न (Lagn - attached) प्रसन्न (Prasann - happy - near rhyme) अन्न (Ann - grain - near rhyme) धन (Dhan - wealth - near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'Prash-ana' with a vowel between sh and n.
Pronouncing 'sh' as 's' (Prasna).
Adding a heavy 'a' at the end (Prash-naa).
Confusing the 'pra' with 'par' (Parshan).
Missing the 'r' entirely (Pashna).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize but the conjunct 'shna' can be tricky for absolute beginners.

Writing 3/5

Requires practice to write the conjunct 'श्न' correctly.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the 'shna' cluster is mastered.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick up in formal speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

क्या (What) पूछना (To ask) मैं (I) है (Is) शिक्षक (Teacher)

Learn Next

उत्तर (Answer) समाधान (Solution) विषय (Subject) परीक्षा (Exam) पाठ (Lesson)

Advanced

जिज्ञासा (Curiosity) विवेचना (Analysis) तर्क (Logic) संशय (Doubt) विवाद (Dispute)

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Agreement

Bada prashna (Big question), not Badi prashna.

Oblique Pluralization

Prashnon ka (Of the questions), not Prashna ka (if plural).

Postposition 'Se' with 'Puchhna'

Ram se prashna pucho (Ask Ram a question).

Compound Noun Formation

Prashna + Patra = Prashna-patra (Question paper).

Interrogative Sentence Structure

Kya + Subject + Prashna + Verb? (Is [Subject] [Question]?)

Examples by Level

यह एक प्रश्न है।

This is a question.

'Prashna' is a masculine noun.

मेरे पास एक प्रश्न है।

I have a question.

Uses 'Mere paas' for possession.

आपका प्रश्न क्या है?

What is your question?

'Aapka' agrees with masculine 'Prashna'.

यह प्रश्न सरल है।

This question is simple.

'Saral' is an adjective modifying 'Prashna'.

एक प्रश्न पूछो।

Ask a question.

Imperative form of 'puchhna'.

क्या यह आपका प्रश्न है?

Is this your question?

Interrogative sentence structure.

वह प्रश्न पूछ रहा है।

He is asking a question.

Present continuous tense.

छोटा प्रश्न।

Small question.

'Chhota' is the masculine singular adjective.

शिक्षक से प्रश्न पूछो।

Ask the teacher a question.

Use 'se' with the person being asked.

यह प्रश्न बहुत कठिन है।

This question is very difficult.

'Kathin' means difficult.

क्या आप मेरा प्रश्न समझ गए?

Did you understand my question?

Past tense of 'samajhna'.

किताब में दस प्रश्न हैं।

There are ten questions in the book.

Plural 'hain' used with 'das prashna'.

मैंने कल एक प्रश्न पूछा था।

I asked a question yesterday.

Past perfect tense.

अगला प्रश्न क्या है?

What is the next question?

'Agla' means next.

उसके पास कोई प्रश्न नहीं है।

He has no questions.

Negative possession.

यह प्रश्न गलत है।

This question is wrong.

'Galat' means wrong.

प्रश्नों के उत्तर लिखो।

Write the answers to the questions.

Oblique plural 'prashnon' before 'ke'.

परीक्षा का प्रश्न-पत्र कठिन था।

The exam question paper was difficult.

Compound noun 'prashna-patra'.

वाक्य के अंत में प्रश्न-चिल्ह लगाओ।

Put a question mark at the end of the sentence.

'Prashna-chinh' means question mark.

वह हमेशा फालतू प्रश्न पूछता है।

He always asks useless questions.

'Faaltu' means useless/extra.

इस प्रश्न पर विचार करें।

Consider this question.

Formal imperative 'karen'.

प्रश्नों की सूची लंबी है।

The list of questions is long.

Oblique plural 'prashnon' before 'ki'.

क्या आपके मन में कोई प्रश्न उठा?

Did any question arise in your mind?

Intransitive verb 'uthna'.

इंटरव्यू में मुझसे कई प्रश्न पूछे गए।

Many questions were asked of me in the interview.

Passive construction.

विपक्ष ने सरकार पर प्रश्न उठाए हैं।

The opposition has raised questions against the government.

Idiom 'prashna uthana' (to raise questions).

यह उसकी ईमानदारी का प्रश्न है।

This is a question of his honesty.

Abstract usage meaning 'matter'.

सफलता का प्रश्न मेहनत से जुड़ा है।

The question of success is linked to hard work.

Linking abstract concepts.

उसने मेरे अस्तित्व पर प्रश्न खड़ा कर दिया।

He raised a question about my very existence.

Idiom 'prashna khada karna'.

हमें इन बुनियादी प्रश्नों का सामना करना होगा।

We will have to face these fundamental questions.

'Buniyadi' means fundamental.

यह प्रश्न अभी भी अनुत्तरित है।

This question is still unanswered.

'Anuttarit' means unanswered.

वकील ने गवाह से तीखे प्रश्न किए।

The lawyer asked sharp questions to the witness.

'Teekhe' (sharp) used metaphorically.

क्या आप इस प्रश्न का समाधान जानते हैं?

Do you know the solution to this question?

'Samadhan' means solution.

यह एक गंभीर नैतिक प्रश्न है।

This is a serious ethical question.

Formal academic register.

लेखक ने समाज की कुरीतियों पर प्रश्नचिह्न लगाया है।

The author has questioned the evils of society.

Metaphorical use of 'prashnachinh lagana'.

दार्शनिकों ने सदियों से इस प्रश्न पर बहस की है।

Philosophers have debated this question for centuries.

Historical/Academic context.

यह प्रश्न हमारी सभ्यता के भविष्य से जुड़ा है।

This question is linked to the future of our civilization.

High-level discourse.

उसकी बातों ने कई नए प्रश्न जन्म दिए।

His words gave birth to many new questions.

Literary expression.

न्यायालय ने इस कानूनी प्रश्न पर अपना निर्णय सुरक्षित रखा है।

The court has reserved its judgment on this legal question.

Legal terminology.

यह केवल आर्थिक प्रश्न नहीं, बल्कि मानवीय प्रश्न भी है।

This is not just an economic question, but a human one too.

Complex contrast.

वैज्ञानिक इस प्रश्न की तह तक जाने की कोशिश कर रहे हैं।

Scientists are trying to get to the bottom of this question.

Idiom 'tah tak jaana' (get to the bottom).

अस्तित्ववाद का मूल प्रश्न 'होना' या 'न होना' है।

The fundamental question of existentialism is 'to be' or 'not to be'.

Philosophical definition.

उसकी कविताएँ सत्ता से असहज प्रश्न पूछती हैं।

His poems ask uncomfortable questions of power.

Political/Literary nuance.

यह प्रश्न मानव चेतना की सीमाओं को चुनौती देता है।

This question challenges the boundaries of human consciousness.

Abstract metaphysical usage.

इतिहासकार अभी भी इस प्रश्न पर एकमत नहीं हैं।

Historians are still not in agreement on this question.

'Ekmat' means in agreement.

इस प्रश्न की जटिलता को शब्दों में बयान करना कठिन है।

It is difficult to describe the complexity of this question in words.

Sophisticated descriptive style.

क्या विकास का प्रश्न पर्यावरण की बलि पर आधारित होना चाहिए?

Should the question of development be based on the sacrifice of the environment?

Rhetorical question in formal debate.

उसने बड़ी चतुरता से मुख्य प्रश्न को टाल दिया।

He very cleverly evaded the main question.

'Taal dena' means to evade/postpone.

यह प्रश्न सदियों की सांस्कृतिक विरासत का परिणाम है।

This question is the result of centuries of cultural heritage.

Deep cultural analysis.

Synonyms

सवाल जिज्ञासा पूछताछ शंका पृच्छा

Antonyms

उत्तर जवाब

Common Collocations

प्रश्न पूछना

प्रश्न करना

प्रश्न उठाना

प्रश्न-पत्र

प्रश्न-काल

कठिन प्रश्न

महत्वपूर्ण प्रश्न

प्रश्न-उत्तर

प्रश्नचिह्न लगाना

बुनियादी प्रश्न

Common Phrases

कोई प्रश्न?

— Any questions? Used by speakers at the end of a talk.

आज के लिए इतना ही, कोई प्रश्न?

प्रश्न ही नहीं उठता

— The question doesn't even arise; it's impossible.

वहाँ जाने का तो प्रश्न ही नहीं उठता।

मुख्य प्रश्न यह है

— The main question is this; used to focus on the core issue.

मुख्य प्रश्न यह है कि पैसा कहाँ है?

एक छोटा सा प्रश्न

— A small question; used to politely interrupt.

मेरा एक छोटा सा प्रश्न है।

प्रश्नों की बौछार

— A barrage of questions; being asked many things at once.

पत्रकारों ने प्रश्नों की बौछार कर दी।

यक्ष प्रश्न

— A very difficult or fundamental question.

यह हमारे लिए एक यक्ष प्रश्न है।

प्रश्नवाचक वाक्य

— An interrogative sentence in grammar.

यह एक प्रश्नवाचक वाक्य है।

प्रश्न का घेरा

— Under a cloud of suspicion/questioning.

वह अब प्रश्नों के घेरे में है।

उत्तर के बिना प्रश्न

— A question without an answer.

यह उत्तर के बिना एक प्रश्न है।

प्रश्न खड़ा करना

— To raise or create a question/issue.

उसने मेरी बात पर प्रश्न खड़ा कर दिया।

Often Confused With

प्रश्न vs प्रसन्न (Prasann)

Means 'happy'. Sounds similar but has an extra 'n' and no 'sh'.

प्रश्न vs परेशान (Pareshan)

Means 'worried/troubled'. Often confused by beginners due to the 'p' and 'sh' sounds.

प्रश्न vs प्रकाशन (Prakashan)

Means 'publication'. Longer word but shares the 'pra' and 'sh' sounds.

Idioms & Expressions

"प्रश्नचिह्न खड़ा करना"

— To cast doubt on something's validity or integrity.

उसकी डिग्री पर प्रश्नचिह्न खड़ा हो गया है।

Formal

"यक्ष प्रश्न होना"

— To be a riddle or a seemingly unanswerable problem.

गरीबी हटाना एक यक्ष प्रश्न है।

Literary

"प्रश्न की तह तक जाना"

— To investigate a matter thoroughly.

हमें इस प्रश्न की तह तक जाना होगा।

Neutral

"प्रश्नों के घेरे में होना"

— To be under suspicion or being interrogated.

मंत्री जी अब प्रश्नों के घेरे में हैं।

Journalistic

"प्रश्न उठाना"

— To challenge something or bring up a concern.

उसने सुरक्षा पर प्रश्न उठाया।

Neutral

"प्रश्न ही नहीं पैदा होता"

— Absolutely out of the question; impossible.

झूठ बोलने का तो प्रश्न ही नहीं पैदा होता।

Informal

"सवालों के घेरे में"

— Similar to 'prashnon ke ghere mein', often used in news.

पुलिस की कार्यप्रणाली सवालों के घेरे में है।

Journalistic

"प्रश्न करना"

— To interrogate or challenge someone.

मुझसे प्रश्न मत करो, बस काम करो।

Neutral

"प्रश्नवाचक चिह्न बन जाना"

— To become a mystery or a source of doubt.

उसका गायब होना एक प्रश्नवाचक चिह्न बन गया।

Literary

"प्रश्नों की झड़ी लगा देना"

— To ask a rapid succession of questions.

बच्चे ने प्रश्नों की झड़ी लगा दी।

Informal

Easily Confused

प्रश्न vs सवाल (Sawaal)

Both mean 'question'.

'Prashna' is formal/Sanskrit-based; 'Sawaal' is casual/Urdu-based.

Exam: Prashna. Friends: Sawaal.

प्रश्न vs शंका (Shanka)

Both involve not knowing something.

'Prashna' is a query for info; 'Shanka' is a doubt or suspicion.

I have a question (Prashna). I doubt his story (Shanka).

प्रश्न vs जिज्ञासा (Jigyasa)

Both relate to asking.

'Prashna' is the sentence asked; 'Jigyasa' is the inner curiosity.

His curiosity (Jigyasa) led to many questions (Prashna).

प्रश्न vs समस्या (Samasya)

English 'problem' can mean both.

'Prashna' is a query; 'Samasya' is a trouble or difficulty.

Math question (Prashna). Car trouble (Samasya).

प्रश्न vs उत्तर (Uttar)

They are always used together.

'Prashna' is the question; 'Uttar' is the answer.

Prashna aur Uttar.

Sentence Patterns

यह [Adjective] प्रश्न है।

यह सरल प्रश्न है।

मेरे पास एक प्रश्न है।

[Person] से प्रश्न पूछो।

पापा से प्रश्न पूछो।

[Noun] का प्रश्न।

समय का प्रश्न।

प्रश्नों के [Noun]।

प्रश्नों के उत्तर।

प्रश्न उठाना।

उसने प्रश्न उठाया।

यह [Abstract Noun] का प्रश्न है।

यह नैतिकता का प्रश्न है।

[Topic] पर प्रश्नचिह्न लगाना।

उसने व्यवस्था पर प्रश्नचिह्न लगाया।

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely common in formal and educational Hindi.

Common Mistakes

Using 'ko' instead of 'se'. → Ram se prashna pucho.
In Hindi, the verb 'puchhna' (to ask) always takes the postposition 'se' (from) for the person being asked.
Treating 'Prashna' as feminine. → Yeh achha prashna hai.
'Prashna' is a masculine noun, so adjectives and verbs must agree with its masculine gender.
Saying 'Prashna ka uttar' for multiple questions. → Prashnon ke uttar.
When referring to multiple questions followed by a postposition, use the oblique plural form 'prashnon'.
Pronouncing it as 'Parshan'. → Prashna.
The 'r' is a subscript to the 'p' (प्र), not a separate syllable after the 'p'.
Using 'Prashna' for a broken object. → Car mein samasya hai.
'Prashna' is a query. For a physical problem or trouble, 'samasya' is the correct word.

Tips

Gender Check

Always treat 'Prashna' as masculine. 'Mera prashna' is correct, 'Meri prashna' is wrong.

Formal vs Informal

Use 'Prashna' in your Hindi homework and 'Sawaal' when talking to your Hindi-speaking friends.

The 'Shn' Cluster

Practice saying 'sh' and 'n' together quickly. Avoid saying 'sh-uh-na'.

Conjunct Practice

The 'श्न' is a common conjunct. Practice writing it to make your handwriting look native.

Professionalism

Using 'Prashna' in a job interview in India will make you sound more professional and educated.

Yaksha Prashna

Read the story of Yaksha Prashna to understand the deep cultural value of asking the right questions.

News Watching

Watch Hindi news to hear 'Prashna' used in political and social contexts.

P for Professor

Remember: Professors ask Prashnas. Both start with P!

Ask 'From'

In Hindi, you ask a question 'from' (se) someone. 'Teacher se pucho'.

Doubt vs Question

If you are confused, say 'Shanka'. If you just want info, say 'Prashna'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'PRofessor' asking a 'SHarp' 'NAg' (question). PR-SH-NA.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant question mark (?) standing in front of a school (Prashna is formal/school word).

Word Web

Question Exam Teacher Answer Doubt Inquiry Sawaal Paper

Challenge

Try to use 'Prashna' instead of 'Sawaal' three times today in a formal context.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'प्रश्न' (praśna). It comes from the root 'prach' (प्रच्छ्) which means 'to ask' or 'to inquire'.

Original meaning: An inquiry, a task, or a problem set for solution.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but avoid 'interrogating' (prashna karna) elders; 'puchhna' is more polite.

While English uses 'question' for everything, Hindi speakers switch to 'Sawaal' for casual life. Using 'Prashna' at a party might sound weirdly formal.

Yaksha Prashna (Mahabharata) Prashna Upanishad Prashna-kaal (Indian Parliament)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Classroom

सर, एक प्रश्न है।
प्रश्न संख्या दो।
प्रश्नों के उत्तर लिखो।
क्या कोई प्रश्न है?

Exam Hall

प्रश्न-पत्र मिल गया?
सभी प्रश्न अनिवार्य हैं।
प्रश्न बहुत कठिन था।
समय कम है, प्रश्न ज्यादा।

Office/Meeting

मेरा एक प्रश्न है।
क्या मैं एक प्रश्न पूछ सकता हूँ?
इस प्रश्न पर चर्चा करें।
अगला प्रश्न।

News/Politics

जनता का प्रश्न।
सरकार से प्रश्न।
प्रश्न-काल शुरू हुआ।
तीखे प्रश्न।

Daily Life (Formal)

एक व्यक्तिगत प्रश्न।
सुरक्षा का प्रश्न।
ईमानदारी का प्रश्न।
यह प्रश्न विचारणीय है।

Conversation Starters

"क्या मैं आपसे एक प्रश्न पूछ सकता हूँ? (Can I ask you a question?)"

"इस विषय पर आपका क्या प्रश्न है? (What is your question on this topic?)"

"क्या आपके मन में कोई प्रश्न है? (Is there any question in your mind?)"

"मेरे पास एक छोटा सा प्रश्न है। (I have a small question.)"

"क्या आप इस प्रश्न का उत्तर जानते हैं? (Do you know the answer to this question?)"

Journal Prompts

आज आपने कौन सा सबसे महत्वपूर्ण प्रश्न पूछा? (What was the most important question you asked today?)

जीवन का वह कौन सा प्रश्न है जिसका उत्तर आप अभी भी ढूंढ रहे हैं? (What is that question of life whose answer you are still seeking?)

अगर आप भगवान से एक प्रश्न पूछ सकते, तो वह क्या होता? (If you could ask God one question, what would it be?)

क्या आपको प्रश्न पूछना पसंद है या उत्तर देना? क्यों? (Do you like asking questions or answering them? Why?)

एक ऐसे प्रश्न के बारे में लिखें जिसने आपकी सोच बदल दी। (Write about a question that changed your thinking.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a masculine noun. You should use masculine adjectives like 'bada' and masculine verb forms like 'pucha'.

Use 'Prashna' in formal settings like school, office, or when writing. Use 'Sawaal' in daily casual conversations with friends and family.

You say 'Mere paas ek prashna hai' (मेरे पास एक प्रश्न है).

In the direct case, it remains 'Prashna' (e.g., 'do prashna'). In the oblique case (with postpositions), it becomes 'Prashnon' (e.g., 'prashnon ka').

In an academic sense (like a math problem), yes. But for a general life problem or trouble, use 'Samasya'.

It means 'Question Paper', usually referring to the sheet given during an examination.

It is a conjunct. The 'sh' (as in sheep) blends directly into the 'n' (dental n) without any vowel sound in between.

No, it is a noun. To use it as an action, you must add a verb like 'karna' (to do) or 'puchhna' (to ask).

It means 'Question Mark' (?). Metaphorically, it can also mean a state of doubt.

Rarely. Songwriters usually prefer 'Sawaal' because it sounds more melodic and fits the colloquial style of most songs.