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B2 verb 6 min read

साफ-सुथरा रखना

saaf-suthra rakhna
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips साफ-सुथरा रखना in 30 Seconds
Explanation साफ-सुथरा रखना in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners focus on basic needs and simple descriptions. While 'saaf-suthra rakhna' might be a bit long, an A1 learner can understand 'saaf' (clean) and 'rakhna' (to keep). They use it in very simple contexts like 'Mera ghar saaf hai' (My house is clean). At this stage, the focus is on the object being clean. They might learn 'saaf rakho' as a simple command from a teacher or parent. The concept of 'suthra' is introduced as an extra word that means 'very clean'. Exercises at this level involve matching the word 'saaf' with pictures of a clean room or a clean car. The learner is not expected to conjugate 'rakhna' in complex tenses, but should recognize the imperative 'rakho'. They start to see that Hindi often uses two words together to emphasize a point, which is a foundational concept for later learning. By the end of A1, a student should be able to say 'Main apna kamra saaf rakhta hoon' (I keep my room clean), even if they skip 'suthra' for now.
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At the A2 level, learners begin to handle routine tasks and simple descriptions of their environment. They can now use 'saaf-suthra rakhna' to describe their daily chores. An A2 student can say, 'Mujhe apna ghar saaf-suthra rakhna pasand hai' (I like to keep my house clean and tidy). They start to understand the importance of the hyphenated 'echo-word' structure. They can use the phrase in the present continuous or simple future tense. For example, 'Kal main apna daftar saaf-suthra rakhunga' (Tomorrow I will keep my office clean and tidy). The focus at A2 is on physical spaces—rooms, bags, desks, and clothes. They also learn the opposite, 'ganda' (dirty), and can contrast the two. Grammar exercises will focus on the basic masculine/feminine agreement of the adjective 'saaf-suthra' with common objects like 'ghar' (masculine) or 'gaadi' (feminine). They are introduced to the idea that keeping things clean is a positive habit in Indian culture.
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At the B1 level, learners can talk about more abstract topics and provide reasons and explanations for their actions. They use 'saaf-suthra rakhna' in the context of community and social responsibility. A B1 learner can participate in a discussion about environmental issues and say, 'Hamein apne mohalle ko saaf-suthra rakhna chahiye' (We should keep our neighborhood clean and tidy). They understand the modal 'chahiye' (should) and can pair it with this verb. They also start to use the phrase in the past tense, requiring the 'ne' particle: 'Humne milkar park ko saaf-suthra rakha' (We together kept the park clean and tidy). At this stage, the learner recognizes that 'saaf-suthra' is more expressive than just 'saaf'. They can distinguish between 'safai karna' (the act of cleaning) and 'saaf-suthra rakhna' (the habit of maintenance). Exercises involve longer sentences and situational dialogues, such as talking to a roommate about house rules.
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At the B2 level, which is the target for this word, learners use the phrase with nuance and correct grammatical agreement across various tenses. They can apply it to professional settings and metaphorical contexts. A B2 learner knows that 'saaf-suthra rakhna' can refer to a person's reputation or a company's record. They might say, 'Ek neta ko apni chhavi saaf-suthri rakhni chahiye' (A leader should keep their image clean and tidy/unblemished). They are comfortable with the gender and number agreement: 'usne apni saari kitabein saaf-suthri rakhin' (she kept all her books clean and tidy). They understand the cultural weight of the phrase in the context of national missions like Swachh Bharat. They can use it in conditional sentences: 'Agar hum sab apna shehar saaf-suthra rakhein, to bimariyan kam hongi' (If we all keep our city clean, diseases will be fewer). The focus is on precision, flow, and cultural appropriateness.
At the C1 level, the learner uses 'saaf-suthra rakhna' with stylistic flair. They can use it in formal writing, speeches, or complex debates. They might use it to discuss the 'aesthetic of order' in urban planning or the 'purity of thought' in philosophy. A C1 speaker might say, 'Prashasan ko na keval sadkon ko balki poore tantra ko saaf-suthra rakhne ki zaroorat hai' (The administration needs to keep not just the roads but the entire system clean/transparent). Here, the word takes on a connotation of transparency and lack of corruption. They can use the phrase in passive constructions or complex participial forms. They understand the etymological roots and can compare 'saaf-suthra' with more archaic or poetic synonyms like 'shuddh' or 'pavitra'. Their usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, showing an appreciation for the rhythmic quality of the compound adjective.
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At the C2 level, the learner has complete mastery over the phrase and its myriad implications. They can use it in literary analysis, legal contexts, or high-level political commentary. They might critique a piece of literature by discussing how the author 'keeps the narrative clean and tidy' (saaf-suthra rakhna) avoiding unnecessary subplots. They can use it with irony or sarcasm if the context demands. A C2 speaker understands the subtle difference between keeping something 'saaf-suthra' and keeping it 'sterile' or 'clinical'. They can discuss the socio-economic factors that influence a community's ability to 'keep their surroundings clean and tidy'. They are also aware of regional variations in how the phrase might be uttered or emphasized. At this level, the phrase is just one tool in a vast repertoire of Hindi expressions used to convey complex ideas about order, ethics, and beauty.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

साफ-सुथरा रखना in 30 Seconds

  • A B2-level Hindi verb phrase meaning to maintain cleanliness and order.
  • Combines 'saaf' (clean) and 'suthra' (tidy) for emphasis.
  • Used for physical spaces, hygiene, and metaphorical reputations.
  • Requires subject-object agreement and the 'ne' particle in past tense.

The Hindi phrase साफ-सुथरा रखना (saaf-suthra rakhna) is a sophisticated compound verb that goes beyond the simple act of cleaning. While the word 'saaf' means clean, the addition of 'suthra' adds a layer of tidiness, orderliness, and aesthetic purity. It is a B2-level expression because it describes a sustained state of maintenance rather than a one-time action. In Indian culture, maintaining cleanliness is often linked to both hygiene and spiritual well-being, encapsulated in the common saying 'Cleanliness is next to Godliness'. When you use this phrase, you are talking about the discipline of keeping an environment, a physical object, or even a metaphorical concept like a reputation, in a pristine and organized condition.

Literal Breakdown
'Saaf' means clean, 'Suthra' is an echo-word or intensive meaning tidy/pure, and 'Rakhna' means to keep or maintain.

हमें अपने पर्यावरण को साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए। (We must keep our environment clean and tidy.)

This phrase is ubiquitous in household settings, professional environments, and public service announcements. It implies a sense of responsibility. For instance, a mother might tell her child to keep their room 'saaf-suthra', or a manager might emphasize keeping the workspace 'saaf-suthra' to ensure productivity. It is more formal and evocative than simply saying 'safai karna' (to clean). Using this phrase shows a command over the nuances of Hindi adjectives and the 'echo-word' construction common in Indo-Aryan languages.

Social Context
In the context of the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' (Clean India Mission), this phrase is frequently used in slogans to encourage citizens to take pride in their surroundings.

अच्छे नागरिक वही हैं जो अपने शहर को साफ-सुथरा रखते हैं। (Good citizens are those who keep their city clean and tidy.)

Grammatically, 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' functions as a transitive compound verb. The verb 'रखना' (to keep) is the part that conjugates according to the tense, gender, and number of the subject or object depending on the construction. Because it is a compound adjective (saaf-suthra) followed by a verb (rakhna), the adjective part usually remains invariant, although 'saaf-suthra' itself can technically change to 'saaf-suthri' if describing a feminine noun in certain contexts, though in the verbal phrase 'rakhna', it often stays in the masculine default form when used as an adverbial objective.

Imperative Usage
To give a command: 'अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखो!' (Keep your room clean and tidy!)

रसोई को हमेशा साफ-सुथरा रखना मुश्किल होता है। (It is difficult to always keep the kitchen clean and tidy.)

In the past tense with 'ne' construction: 'उसने अपना घर बहुत साफ-सुथरा रखा।' (He/She kept his/her house very clean and tidy). Notice how 'rakha' agrees with 'ghar' (masculine). If the object were 'kitaabein' (books, feminine plural), it would be 'उसने अपनी किताबें साफ-सुथरी रखीं।' Here, the adjective 'saaf-suthri' and the verb 'rakhin' both change to match the feminine plural object. This level of agreement is crucial for B2 learners to master.

Future Tense
'मैं अपना भविष्य साफ-सुथरा रखूँगा।' (I will keep my future clean/tidy - used figuratively for reputation).

क्या आप इस मेज को साफ-सुथरा रख सकते हैं? (Can you keep this table clean and tidy?)

You will hear 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' in various real-world scenarios across India. It is a staple of 'Swachhta' (Cleanliness) campaigns led by the government. Radio announcements, billboards in Delhi or Mumbai, and school assemblies frequently use this phrase to instill a sense of civic duty. It's not just about the absence of dust; it's about the presence of order. In a high-end hotel, the manager might instruct the housekeeping staff to keep the lobby 'bilkul saaf-suthra' (absolutely clean and tidy), emphasizing the premium standard required.

Workplace Etiquette
In offices, coworkers might discuss keeping the shared pantry or desk area clean to maintain a professional atmosphere.

ऑफिस के डेस्क को साफ-सुथरा रखना आपकी जिम्मेदारी है। (It is your responsibility to keep the office desk clean and tidy.)

In literature and journalism, the phrase is often used metaphorically. An investigative journalist might talk about keeping one's 'chhavi' (image/reputation) 'saaf-suthri'. Here, 'saaf-suthra rakhna' means to maintain an unblemished record or to stay away from corruption. This figurative use is common in political discourse, where candidates claim they have kept their political careers 'saaf-suthra'.

Public Service
'कृपया स्टेशन को साफ-सुथरा रखने में हमारी मदद करें।' (Please help us in keeping the station clean and tidy.)

पार्क को साफ-सुथरा रखना हम सबकी ड्यूटी है। (Keeping the park clean and tidy is everyone's duty.)

One of the most common mistakes for English speakers is confusing 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' with 'सफाई करना'. 'Safai karna' is the physical act of sweeping or mopping. 'Saaf-suthra rakhna' is the habit of maintenance. For example, you 'safai karte hain' (do cleaning) on Sunday, but you 'saaf-suthra rakhte hain' (keep it clean) throughout the week by not throwing trash. Another mistake is omitting the hyphenated word 'suthra'. While 'saaf rakhna' is correct, it lacks the rhythmic emphasis and the connotation of 'neatness' that 'suthra' provides.

Gender Agreement Error
Incorrect: उसने अपनी अलमारी साफ-सुथरा रखा। Correct: उसने अपनी अलमारी साफ-सुथरी रखी। (Since 'Almari' is feminine).

गलती: मैं घर साफ-सुथरा किया। (I 'did' clean-tidy). सही: मैंने घर साफ-सुथरा रखा। (I 'kept' the house clean-tidy).

Learners also often forget that 'rakhna' is a 'ne' verb in the perfective tenses. You must say 'Maine... rakha' instead of 'Main... rakha'. Additionally, avoid overusing this phrase for things that are naturally clean. It implies an effort of maintenance. You wouldn't say you keep a glass of water 'saaf-suthra' unless you are talking about the container's long-term state. Finally, ensure the pronunciation of 'suthra' uses the dental 'th' (as in 'thought') rather than a retroflex 'th'.

Confusion with 'Banaaye Rakhna'
'Banaaye rakhna' means to maintain a state. While similar, 'saaf-suthra rakhna' is the specific phrase for cleanliness.

Depending on the level of formality and the specific context, you might want to use alternatives to 'साफ-सुथरा रखना'. If you are in a very formal or scientific setting, 'स्वच्छ' (Swachh) is the preferred adjective. In a very casual setting, just 'saaf' might suffice. Understanding these nuances helps in achieving B2-C1 fluency. Below are some comparisons to help you choose the right word for the right situation.

स्वच्छ बनाए रखना (Swachh Banaaye Rakhna)
More formal. Used in official documents and speeches. It translates to 'maintaining cleanliness'.
व्यवस्थित रखना (Vyavasthit Rakhna)
Focuses specifically on 'order' and 'organization' (keeping things in their place) rather than just removing dirt.
चमका कर रखना (Chamka Kar Rakhna)
Colloquial. Means 'to keep something sparkling/shining'. Used for cars, jewelry, or floors.

किताबों को व्यवस्थित रखना भी जरूरी है। (It is also important to keep books organized/tidy.)

In some dialects, you might hear 'saaf-safai rakhna', which uses the noun form 'safai' (cleaning) with 'rakhna'. This is slightly more focused on the activity of cleaning being kept up. However, 'saaf-suthra' remains the most balanced and common way to describe a well-maintained, pleasingly clean environment. For a B2 learner, using 'saaf-suthra' shows you understand 'pair-words' (yugm shabd) in Hindi, which are essential for sounding native.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The use of echo-words like 'saaf-suthra' is a hallmark of South Asian languages. Often, the second word (suthra) reinforces the meaning of the first, creating a rhythmic and more emphatic expression.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sɑːf sʊt̪.rɑː rəkʰ.nɑː/
US /sɑf sʊt̪.rɑ rək.nɑ/
Stress is evenly distributed across the syllables, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable 'Saaf' and the first syllable of the verb 'Rakh-'.
Rhymes With
बेदाग रखना (Bedaag rakhna) पास रखना (Paas rakhna) याद रखना (Yaad rakhna) संभाल रखना (Sambhaal rakhna) बनाए रखना (Banaaye rakhna) सजाए रखना (Sajaaye rakhna) छिपाए रखना (Chipaye rakhna) जगाए रखना (Jagaye rakhna)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'f' in 'saaf' as 'p' (saap).
  • Pronouncing 'th' in 'suthra' as a retroflex 'th' (like in 'truck').
  • Misplacing the hyphen or treating it as three separate words without the compound flow.
  • Forgetting the aspiration in 'kh' of 'rakhna'.
  • Incorrectly shortening the 'aa' in 'saaf'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to read as the words are common, but the hyphenated structure requires recognition.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct spelling of 'suthra' and proper verb agreement with the object.

Speaking 4/5

Requires mastering the dental 'th' and the natural rhythm of the compound phrase.

Listening 3/5

Commonly heard in public announcements and daily life, making it recognizable.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

साफ (Clean) रखना (To keep) घर (House) सफाई (Cleaning) कमरा (Room)

Learn Next

स्वच्छता (Sanitation) रखरखाव (Maintenance) प्रदूषण (Pollution) अनुशासन (Discipline) पारदर्शिता (Transparency)

Advanced

शुचिता (Sanctity/Purity) अक्षुण्ण (Intact/Unbroken) परिष्कृत (Refined) निर्मलता (Clarity/Purity) सुव्यवस्थित (Well-organized)

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verb Agreement

In 'Maine almari saaf-suthri rakhi', the verb 'rakhi' agrees with 'almari' (feminine).

Ergative 'Ne' Construction

In the past tense: 'Usne (He/She) ghar saaf-suthra rakha'.

Compound Adjectives

The adjective 'saaf-suthra' modifies the noun and agrees in gender/number: 'saaf-suthre kamre' (clean rooms).

Subjunctive for Suggestions

'Hamein chahiye ki hum shehar saaf-suthra rakhein' (We should keep the city clean).

Habitual Aspect

'Main apna daftar saaf-suthra rakhta hoon' (I keep my office clean habitually).

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Examples by Level

1

अपना हाथ साफ-सुथरा रखो।

Keep your hand clean and tidy.

Imperative 'rakho' used for 'you' (informal).

2

यह घर साफ-सुथरा है।

This house is clean and tidy.

Simple present tense with 'hai'.

3

क्या आपका कमरा साफ-सुथरा है?

Is your room clean and tidy?

Interrogative sentence.

4

मैं अपनी मेज साफ-सुथरी रखता हूँ।

I keep my table clean and tidy.

Present habitual tense; 'rakhta hoon'.

5

साफ-सुथरा रहना अच्छा है।

Staying clean and tidy is good.

Gerundial use of 'rahna'.

6

वह अपनी गुड़िया साफ-सुथरी रखती है।

She keeps her doll clean and tidy.

Feminine agreement: 'suthri' and 'rakhti'.

7

हमें स्कूल साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए।

We should keep the school clean and tidy.

Use of 'chahiye' for 'should'.

8

मेरी माँ रसोई साफ-सुथरी रखती हैं।

My mother keeps the kitchen clean and tidy.

Respectful plural 'rakhti hain'.

1

आपको अपना बैग साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए।

You should keep your bag clean and tidy.

Modal 'chahiye' with object 'bag'.

2

वे अपना बगीचा हमेशा साफ-सुथरा रखते हैं।

They always keep their garden clean and tidy.

Present habitual plural 'rakhte hain'.

3

मैंने कल अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखा।

I kept my room clean and tidy yesterday.

Past tense with 'ne' (implied) and 'rakha'.

4

क्या तुम अपनी कार साफ-सुथरी रखोगे?

Will you keep your car clean and tidy?

Future tense 'rakhoge'.

5

साफ-सुथरा रखना एक अच्छी आदत है।

Keeping (things) clean and tidy is a good habit.

Infinitive phrase as a subject.

6

वह अपनी किताबें साफ-सुथरी रखना चाहती है।

She wants to keep her books clean and tidy.

Infinitive 'rakhna' with 'chahti hai'.

7

हमें पार्क को साफ-सुथरा रखना होगा।

We will have to keep the park clean and tidy.

Future obligation 'rakhna hoga'.

8

क्या आप इसे साफ-सुथरा रख सकते हैं?

Can you keep this clean and tidy?

Ability with 'sakte hain'.

1

गाँव के लोगों ने तालाब को साफ-सुथरा रखा है।

The villagers have kept the pond clean and tidy.

Present perfect with 'ne' and 'rakha hai'.

2

यदि हम अपना शहर साफ-सुथरा रखें, तो पर्यटक आएंगे।

If we keep our city clean and tidy, tourists will come.

Conditional sentence using subjunctive 'rakhein'.

3

आपको अपनी फाइलों को साफ-सुथरा रखना सीखना होगा।

You will have to learn to keep your files clean and tidy.

Compound verb 'rakhna seekhna'.

4

सफाई कर्मचारी अस्पताल को साफ-सुथरा रखते हैं।

The cleaning staff keep the hospital clean and tidy.

Professional context usage.

5

उसने अपनी अलमारी इतनी साफ-सुथरी रखी कि सब हैरान रह गए।

She kept her wardrobe so clean and tidy that everyone was surprised.

Result clause with 'itni... ki'.

6

बच्चों को अपना परिवेश साफ-सुथरा रखना सिखाया जाता है।

Children are taught to keep their surroundings clean and tidy.

Passive construction 'sikhaya jata hai'.

7

वह अपने विचारों को भी साफ-सुथरा रखने की कोशिश करता है।

He also tries to keep his thoughts clean and tidy.

Figurative use with 'vichar' (thoughts).

8

त्योहारों के दौरान हम पूरे घर को साफ-सुथरा रखते हैं।

During festivals, we keep the whole house clean and tidy.

Contextual usage for cultural events.

1

एक जिम्मेदार नागरिक का कर्तव्य है कि वह सार्वजनिक स्थानों को साफ-सुथरा रखे।

It is the duty of a responsible citizen to keep public places clean and tidy.

Complex sentence with 'kartavya hai ki'.

2

कंपनी अपनी छवि को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए भारी निवेश कर रही है।

The company is investing heavily to keep its image clean and tidy.

Metaphorical use for 'reputation'.

3

पुस्तकालय में शांति बनाए रखना और उसे साफ-सुथरा रखना अनिवार्य है।

It is mandatory to maintain silence and keep the library clean and tidy.

Coordinated infinitives as subjects.

4

हमें अपनी नदियों को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए कड़े कानून चाहिए।

We need strict laws to keep our rivers clean and tidy.

Environmental policy context.

5

उसने अपने रिकॉर्ड को हमेशा साफ-सुथरा रखा है, इसलिए उसे पदोन्नति मिली।

He has always kept his record clean and tidy, which is why he got a promotion.

Use in professional evaluation context.

6

होटल प्रबंधन ने कमरों को साफ-सुथरा रखने के नए मानक निर्धारित किए हैं।

The hotel management has set new standards for keeping the rooms clean and tidy.

Formal business Hindi.

7

क्या आपको लगता है कि इस पुरानी इमारत को साफ-सुथरा रखना संभव है?

Do you think it is possible to keep this old building clean and tidy?

Interrogative about feasibility.

8

साफ-सुथरा रखना केवल बाहरी दिखावा नहीं, बल्कि एक जीवनशैली है।

Keeping (things) clean and tidy is not just an outward show, but a lifestyle.

Philosophical/Lifestyle context.

1

लोकतंत्र की शुचिता बनाए रखने के लिए चुनावी प्रक्रिया को साफ-सुथरा रखना आवश्यक है।

To maintain the sanctity of democracy, it is essential to keep the electoral process clean and tidy (transparent).

High-level political/legal register.

2

लेखक ने अपनी भाषा को बहुत साफ-सुथरा रखा है, जिससे जटिल विषय भी सरल लगते हैं।

The author has kept his language very clean and tidy (lucid), making complex subjects seem simple.

Literary criticism context.

3

वैज्ञानिकों का तर्क है कि प्रयोगशाला को साफ-सुथरा रखना प्रयोग की सफलता की पहली शर्त है।

Scientists argue that keeping the laboratory clean and tidy is the first condition for the success of an experiment.

Academic/Scientific register.

4

न्यायपालिका को अपनी निष्पक्षता और साख को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए निरंतर प्रयास करने चाहिए।

The judiciary must make continuous efforts to keep its impartiality and credibility clean and tidy (untainted).

Abstract institutional context.

5

शहरी नियोजन में सार्वजनिक पार्कों को साफ-सुथरा रखने की चुनौती बढ़ती जा रही है।

The challenge of keeping public parks clean and tidy is increasing in urban planning.

Technical urban planning context.

6

उन्होंने अपने अतीत को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए कई सच्चाइयों को छिपाया।

They hid many truths to keep their past clean and tidy (unblemished).

Nuanced narrative usage.

7

डिजिटल युग में अपने डेटा को साफ-सुथरा रखना और सुरक्षित रखना एक बड़ी चुनौती है।

In the digital age, keeping one's data clean and tidy (organized) and secure is a major challenge.

Modern technological context.

8

भ्रष्टाचार मुक्त समाज के लिए प्रशासनिक तंत्र को साफ-सुथरा रखना अनिवार्य है।

To have a corruption-free society, it is mandatory to keep the administrative machinery clean and tidy (transparent).

Socio-political discourse.

1

दार्शनिक दृष्टिकोण से, मन को साफ-सुथरा रखना ही मोक्ष का मार्ग है।

From a philosophical perspective, keeping the mind clean and tidy (pure) is the path to salvation.

Metaphysical usage.

2

इस शोध पत्र की कार्यप्रणाली को इतना साफ-सुथरा रखा गया है कि इसमें त्रुटि की कोई गुंजाइश नहीं है।

The methodology of this research paper has been kept so clean and tidy (rigorous) that there is no room for error.

Advanced academic critique.

3

इतिहासकारों ने अक्सर शासकों द्वारा अपने इतिहास को साफ-सुथरा रखने के प्रयासों का विश्लेषण किया है।

Historians have often analyzed the efforts of rulers to keep their history clean and tidy (whitewashed/sanitized).

Historiographical analysis.

4

पारिस्थितिक संतुलन के लिए जैव विविधता को साफ-सुथरा और अक्षुण्ण रखना वैश्विक प्राथमिकता है।

Keeping biodiversity clean and tidy (pristine) and intact for ecological balance is a global priority.

Global policy/Environmental science.

5

कलाकार ने कैनवस पर रंगों के मेल को बहुत साफ-सुथरा रखा है, जो उसकी परिपक्वता दर्शाता है।

The artist has kept the blend of colors on the canvas very clean and tidy (crisp), showing his maturity.

Artistic criticism.

6

कूटनीति में, संबंधों को साफ-सुथरा रखना हमेशा संभव नहीं होता, क्योंकि इसमें स्वार्थ निहित होते हैं।

In diplomacy, keeping relations clean and tidy (transparent/straightforward) is not always possible, as self-interests are involved.

Geopolitical discourse.

7

संविधान की मूल भावना को साफ-सुथरा रखने की जिम्मेदारी सर्वोच्च न्यायालय की है।

The responsibility of keeping the basic spirit of the Constitution clean and tidy (unadulterated) lies with the Supreme Court.

Constitutional law context.

8

आधुनिक वास्तुकला में न्यूनतमवाद का अर्थ ही स्थान को साफ-सुथरा रखना है।

In modern architecture, minimalism itself means keeping the space clean and tidy (uncluttered).

Architectural theory.

Synonyms

स्वच्छ रखना व्यवस्थित रखना सफाई बनाए रखना चमका कर रखना पवित्र रखना सुसज्जित रखना निखार कर रखना साफ करना

Antonyms

गंदा रखना अव्यवस्थित रखना मैला करना प्रदूषित करना

Common Collocations

घर को साफ-सुथरा रखना
कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखना
शहर को साफ-सुथरा रखना
छवि साफ-सुथरी रखना
रसोई साफ-सुथरी रखना
वातावरण साफ-सुथरा रखना
रिकॉर्ड साफ-सुथरा रखना
सड़कें साफ-सुथरी रखना
बगीचा साफ-सुथरा रखना
दिमाग साफ-सुथरा रखना

Common Phrases

साफ-सुथरा माहौल

— A clean and tidy atmosphere. Used to describe workplaces or homes.

मुझे साफ-सुथरा माहौल पसंद है।

साफ-सुथरी छवि

— A clean image or reputation. Often used in politics and business.

उनकी छवि बहुत साफ-सुथरी है।

साफ-सुथरा काम

— Neat and precise work. Used for crafts, writing, or chores.

तुम्हारा काम बहुत साफ-सुथरा है।

साफ-सुथरा शहर

— A clean city. Used in the context of urban rankings.

इंदौर भारत का सबसे साफ-सुथरा शहर है।

साफ-सुथरा घर

— A tidy home. A common compliment.

उनका घर हमेशा साफ-सुथरा रहता है।

साफ-सुथरा व्यवहार

— Clean/Honest behavior. Less common but used for integrity.

व्यापार में साफ-सुथरा व्यवहार जरूरी है।

साफ-सुथरी सड़क

— A clean road.

साफ-सुथरी सड़क पर चलना अच्छा लगता है।

साफ-सुथरा कोना

— A clean corner. Often used in interior design.

घर का हर कोना साफ-सुथरा होना चाहिए।

साफ-सुथरी लिखावट

— Neat handwriting.

उसकी लिखावट बहुत साफ-सुथरी है।

साफ-सुथरा समाज

— A clean/ideal society. Used in social reform contexts.

साफ-सुथरा समाज ही उन्नति करता है।

Often Confused With

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs सफाई करना

Confused with the action of cleaning vs. the maintenance of cleanliness. 'Safai karna' is the verb for the act of sweeping/cleaning.

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs साफ होना

Confused with 'to be clean'. 'Saaf hona' is a state, 'saaf-suthra rakhna' is an intentional action to maintain that state.

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs सजाना

Confused with 'to decorate'. While decoration makes things look nice, 'saaf-suthra rakhna' is specifically about hygiene and order.

Idioms & Expressions

"दूध का धुला होना"

— To be as clean as washed in milk. Often used sarcastically for someone claiming to be innocent.

वह कोई दूध का धुला नहीं है, उसने भी गलतियाँ की हैं।

Informal/Sarcastic
"आईने की तरह साफ"

— Clear as a mirror. Used for honesty or a very clean surface.

उसका मन आईने की तरह साफ है।

Poetic/Neutral
"साफ दामन"

— A clean hem (skirt). Refers to having an unblemished reputation.

राजनीति में साफ दामन वाले लोग कम ही मिलते हैं।

Literary/Formal
"सफाचट करना"

— To clean out completely (often used for eating everything or clearing a space).

उसने सारा खाना सफाचट कर दिया।

Informal
"मैला ढोना"

— To carry filth. Historically refers to manual scavenging; now used for doing 'dirty work'.

वह दूसरों के पापों का मैला नहीं ढोएगा।

Social/Political
"दाल में कुछ काला होना"

— Something is fishy (not clean/transparent).

उसकी बातों से लगता है कि दाल में कुछ काला है।

Common Idiom
"हाथ साफ करना"

— To steal something (literally 'to clean one's hands' on something).

चोर ने गहनों पर हाथ साफ कर दिया।

Colloquial
"मन साफ करना"

— To clear one's heart/mind of grudges.

दोस्ती के लिए मन साफ करना जरूरी है।

Emotional/Personal
"मैदान साफ करना"

— To clear the field (to remove obstacles or opponents).

भारतीय टीम ने जीत के लिए मैदान साफ कर दिया।

Sports/Competitive
"साफ मुकर जाना"

— To deny something flatly/completely.

वह अपनी बात से साफ मुकर गया।

Neutral

Easily Confused

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs स्वच्छ

Both mean clean.

'Swachh' is more formal and often used in official/sanitation contexts. 'Saaf-suthra' is more common in daily life and implies tidiness.

स्वच्छ भारत (Official) vs साफ-सुथरा घर (Daily life).

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs निर्मल

Both mean pure/clean.

'Nirmal' is usually reserved for water, the sky, or the heart/soul. It has a poetic or spiritual quality.

गंगा का निर्मल जल।

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs शुद्ध

Both mean clean/pure.

'Shuddh' means unadulterated or pure (like pure ghee or pure gold). 'Saaf-suthra' means free of dirt and clutter.

शुद्ध दूध (Pure milk) vs साफ-सुथरी रसोई (Tidy kitchen).

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs स्पष्ट

Both can mean 'clear'.

'Spasht' means clear in terms of understanding or visibility (clear voice, clear view). 'Saaf' can mean this too, but 'suthra' is only for cleanliness/order.

स्पष्ट आवाज (Clear voice).

साफ-सुथरा रखना vs व्यवस्थित

Both imply order.

'Vyavasthit' focuses strictly on organization (everything in its place). 'Saaf-suthra' includes both hygiene and organization.

पुस्तकालय व्यवस्थित है।

Sentence Patterns

A1

Object + साफ-सुथरा + है।

मेरा घर साफ-सुथरा है।

A2

Subject + Object + साफ-सुथरा + रखता/रखती + है/हूँ।

मैं अपनी मेज साफ-सुथरी रखता हूँ।

B1

Subject + को + Object + साफ-सुथरा + रखना + चाहिए।

हमें अपना स्कूल साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए।

B2

Subject + ने + Object + साफ-सुथरा + रखा।

उसने अपना रिकॉर्ड साफ-सुथरा रखा।

C1

Abstract Noun + को + साफ-सुथरा + रखना + अनिवार्य/आवश्यक + है।

प्रशासनिक तंत्र को साफ-सुथरा रखना अनिवार्य है।

C2

Gerund + से + ही + Result + संभव + है।

परिवेश को साफ-सुथरा रखने से ही स्वास्थ्य संभव है।

B1

यदि + Subject + Object + साफ-सुथरा + रखें + तो...

यदि हम पार्क साफ-सुथरा रखें तो बच्चे खुश होंगे।

A2

क्या + Subject + Object + साफ-सुथरा + रख + सकते + हैं?

क्या आप अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रख सकते हैं?

Word Family

Nouns

सफाई (Safai) - Cleaning/Cleanliness
स्वच्छता (Swachhta) - Purity/Sanitation
शुद्धता (Shuddhata) - Purity

Verbs

साफ करना (Saaf karna) - To clean
सुलझाना (Suljhana) - To tidy up/resolve
सजाना (Sajana) - To decorate

Adjectives

साफ (Saaf) - Clean
सुथरा (Suthra) - Tidy
स्वच्छ (Swachh) - Pure/Clean
निर्मल (Nirmal) - Pure/Clear

Related

कूड़ा-करकट (Kuda-karkat) - Trash
झाड़ू-पोछा (Jhadu-pochha) - Sweeping and mopping
रखरखाव (Rakhrkhav) - Maintenance
अनुशासन (Anushasan) - Discipline
व्यवस्था (Vyavastha) - Arrangement/Order
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How to Use It

frequency

Common in daily speech and very common in public service media.

Common Mistakes
  • मैं घर साफ-सुथरा किया। → मैंने घर साफ-सुथरा रखा।

    You 'keep' (rakhna) something clean and tidy; you don't 'do' (karna) 'clean and tidy' in this specific phrase structure.

  • उसने अपनी किताबें साफ-सुथरा रखीं। → उसने अपनी किताबें साफ-सुथरी रखीं।

    The adjective 'suthra' must change to 'suthri' to agree with the feminine plural object 'kitabein'.

  • साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए पानी को। → पानी को साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए।

    While Hindi word order is flexible, the object usually comes before the verb phrase in standard sentences.

  • वह अपनी कमरे साफ-सुथरा रखता है। → वह अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखता है।

    'Kamra' is masculine singular; use 'apna' instead of 'apni'.

  • मैं साफ-सुथरा सफाई करता हूँ। → मैं साफ-सुथरा रखता हूँ।

    Combining 'saaf-suthra' with 'safai karna' is redundant. Use one or the other.

Tips

Object Agreement

Always match the gender of 'suthra' and 'rakhna' with the object. Almari (f) -> Saaf-suthri rakhi. Ghar (m) -> Saaf-suthra rakha.

Festival Deep Cleaning

In India, the weeks before Diwali are all about 'saaf-suthra rakhna'. Use this context to practice the word with native speakers.

Echo-Words

Notice how 'suthra' doesn't have a strong independent meaning but adds flavor. This is common in Hindi (e.g., khana-vana, chai-vai).

Resume Language

You can use this to describe your work style: 'मैं अपना काम साफ-सुथरा और व्यवस्थित रखता हूँ' (I keep my work clean and organized).

Natural Flow

Don't pause at the hyphen. Treat 'saaf-suthra' as one long adjective.

Public Announcements

Listen for this phrase at metro stations or airports; it's almost always part of the 'do not litter' messages.

Hyphen Use

In formal Hindi writing, always include the hyphen between 'saaf' and 'suthra'.

Double S

Remember: Saaf (Spotless) + Suthra (Structured). Keeping things SS.

Environmental Use

When talking about climate change or pollution, use this phrase to discuss 'keeping the earth clean'.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use it for things that are just 'clean'. Use it when there is a sense of 'tidiness' or 'maintenance' involved.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Saaf' as 'Safe' (from germs) and 'Suthra' as 'Super-Tidy'. To 'Rakhna' is to 'Rock' the maintenance. Safe-Super-Rock!

Visual Association

Imagine a perfectly white room where every book is aligned by height and there isn't a speck of dust. That total state is 'saaf-suthra'.

Word Web

Hygiene Order Discipline Beauty Responsibility Purity Maintenance Habit

Challenge

Try to describe your morning routine using 'saaf-suthra rakhna' three times. For example: 'I keep my bed clean, I keep my desk tidy, and I keep my mind clear.'

Word Origin

The word 'Saaf' comes from Persian 'sāf', meaning clear or pure. 'Suthra' is of Indo-Aryan origin, likely derived from the Sanskrit 'su-stha' (well-situated) or 'shubhra' (radiant/white). 'Rakhna' comes from the Sanskrit root 'raksh' meaning to protect or keep.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant to keep something in a state of radiant purity or well-protected order.

Indo-Aryan (Hindi-Urdu) with Persian influence.

Cultural Context

Be aware that discussions about cleanliness in India can sometimes touch upon historical caste issues related to sanitation work; use the phrase with a focus on personal and collective responsibility.

Similar to the English phrase 'spick and span' or 'shipshape', but with a stronger emphasis on the ongoing habit of maintenance.

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Government Mission) Diwali Safai (The traditional pre-festival deep cleaning) Mahatma Gandhi's quotes on cleanliness

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Home Management

  • रसोई को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • मेहमानों के लिए घर साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • बर्तनों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • बिस्तर साफ-सुथरा रखना

Environmentalism

  • नदियों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • जंगलों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • हवा को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • समुद्र तट को साफ-सुथरा रखना

Professionalism

  • ऑफिस डेस्क को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • फाइलों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • अपनी छवि साफ-सुथरी रखना
  • काम को साफ-सुथरा रखना

Public Health

  • अस्पताल को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • हाथों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • सार्वजनिक शौचालय साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • पानी को साफ-सुथरा रखना

Personal Discipline

  • अपनी डायरी साफ-सुथरी रखना
  • अपने कपड़ों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • अपने जूतों को साफ-सुथरा रखना
  • अपने विचारों को साफ-सुथरा रखना

Conversation Starters

"आप अपने घर को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए क्या करते हैं?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि हमारे शहर को साफ-सुथरा रखना केवल सरकार की जिम्मेदारी है?"

"साफ-सुथरा रखना और सफाई करना, इन दोनों में आपको क्या अंतर लगता है?"

"बच्चों को बचपन से ही अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखना क्यों सिखाना चाहिए?"

"क्या आप किसी ऐसे व्यक्ति को जानते हैं जो हर चीज बहुत साफ-सुथरी रखता है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने अपने कार्यक्षेत्र को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए कौन से तीन कदम उठाए?

एक साफ-सुथरा कमरा मेरे मानसिक स्वास्थ्य को कैसे प्रभावित करता है? विस्तार से लिखें।

अपने शहर को साफ-सुथरा रखने के लिए मैं एक नागरिक के रूप में क्या योगदान दे सकता हूँ?

क्या 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' केवल बाहरी सफाई है या इसका कोई गहरा अर्थ भी है?

भविष्य में, तकनीक हमें अपने पर्यावरण को साफ-सुथरा रखने में कैसे मदद करेगी?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Rarely. It is almost always paired with 'saaf' as an echo-word or intensive. Using it alone might sound incomplete in modern Hindi.

Yes, but usually metaphorically for their reputation or character. If you mean a person's physical hygiene, you'd say they 'keep themselves clean'.

The feminine form is 'साफ-सुथरी' (saaf-suthri). You use it when the object being kept clean is feminine, like 'gaadi' (car) or 'almari' (wardrobe).

Yes, because 'rakhna' is a transitive verb. For example: 'Maine ghar saaf-suthra rakha' (I kept the house clean).

'Saaf-suthra' is an adjective phrase (clean and tidy). 'Saaf-safai' is a noun phrase referring to the overall activity of cleaning and maintenance.

The most common slogan is 'शहर को साफ-सुथरा रखें' (Keep the city clean) or 'स्वच्छ शहर, सुंदर शहर'.

Yes, it is increasingly common to say 'अपनी डेस्कटॉप स्क्रीन को साफ-सुथरा रखें' (Keep your desktop screen clean/uncluttered).

Thematically yes, but etymologically it is closer to Sanskrit 'su-stha' or influenced by regional Prakrit forms of 'shubhra'.

The most direct opposite is 'गंदा-मंदा' (ganda-manda) or simply 'अव्यवस्थित और गंदा' (disorganized and dirty).

Yes, 'saaf-suthra' is very common in Urdu, though the script used is different. The meaning and usage remain identical.

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Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Hindi about keeping your room clean using 'साफ-सुथरा रखना'.

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writing

Translate: 'We should keep our city clean and tidy.'

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writing

How would a mother tell her child to keep their hands clean?

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writing

Write a formal sentence about why a company should keep its image clean.

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writing

Use 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' in the past tense with 'ne'.

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writing

Write a slogan for an environmental campaign using this phrase.

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writing

Describe the state of a library using this phrase.

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writing

Translate: 'It is difficult to keep the kitchen clean.'

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writing

Write a sentence about a politician's record.

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writing

Explain in one Hindi sentence why cleanliness is important.

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writing

Translate: 'Will you keep my car clean?'

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writing

Write a short dialogue (2 lines) between two roommates about cleaning.

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writing

Use the phrase in a conditional sentence (If... then...).

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writing

Write a sentence about keeping one's 'mind' clean.

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writing

Translate: 'The villagers kept the pond clean.'

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writing

Write a sentence using the feminine plural form 'साफ-सुथरीं'.

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writing

Describe a professional work environment.

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writing

Translate: 'Keep your shoes tidy.'

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writing

Write a sentence about urban planning and parks.

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writing

Explain the difference between 'safai karna' and 'saaf-suthra rakhna' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'Keep your room clean' in Hindi.

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speaking

Pronounce 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' focusing on the dental 'th'.

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speaking

Explain why you like a clean house in Hindi.

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speaking

Tell your friend to keep the park clean.

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speaking

Describe your morning routine using the word.

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speaking

Ask a question: 'Do you keep your desk tidy?'

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speaking

Say: 'Cleanliness is a good habit.'

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speaking

Pronounce the feminine plural: 'साफ-सुथरीं'.

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speaking

Make a sentence about the city of Indore.

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speaking

Give a short speech (3 sentences) on 'Swachh Bharat'.

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speaking

Translate and say: 'I will keep my car clean.'

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speaking

Talk about a person with a clean image.

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speaking

Say: 'We kept the school tidy yesterday.'

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speaking

Ask: 'How do you keep your kitchen so clean?'

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speaking

Say: 'Please help us keep the metro clean.'

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speaking

Discuss the importance of clean water.

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speaking

Translate: 'Keep your thoughts positive and clean.'

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speaking

Say: 'The hospital ward is kept very clean.'

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speaking

Express obligation: 'We must keep our nature clean.'

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speaking

Say: 'Tidiness brings happiness.'

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listening

Listen to the sentence: 'हमें अपना घर साफ-सुथरा रखना चाहिए।' What should we keep clean?

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listening

Identify the verb in the audio: 'उसने अपना काम साफ-सुथरा रखा।'

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listening

Is the speaker giving a command: 'अपना कमरा साफ-सुथरा रखो!'?

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listening

Translate the heard phrase: 'साफ-सुथरी छवि'

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listening

What tense is used: 'मैं अपना शहर साफ-सुथरा रखूँगा'?

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listening

Listen: 'गाँव वालों ने तालाब साफ-सुथरा रखा।' Who did the action?

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listening

Identify the object: 'अपनी किताबें साफ-सुथरी रखो।'

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listening

Does the speaker sound formal or informal: 'सार्वजनिक स्थलों को साफ-सुथरा रखना अनिवार्य है'?

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listening

Listen for the adjective: 'यह एक साफ-सुथरा कोना है।'

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listening

Translate: 'साफ-सुथरा माहौल'

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listening

What is being discussed: 'नदियों को साफ-सुथरा रखना बहुत जरूरी है'?

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listening

Listen: 'उसकी लिखावट साफ-सुथरी है।' What is the person's quality?

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listening

Identify the subject-verb agreement: 'वे पार्क साफ-सुथरा रखते हैं।'

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listening

Listen: 'अपना रिकॉर्ड साफ-सुथरा रखें।' Is this advice or a fact?

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listening

Translate: 'स्वच्छता ही सेवा है, इसे साफ-सुथरा रखें।'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'साफ-सुथरा रखना' in the future tense for 'we'.

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speaking

Say: 'I keep my office desk tidy.'

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/ 180 correct

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