This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Hindi
Vocabulary
दुरुस्त

A2 adjective #4,000 most common 8 min read

दुरुस्त

durust Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips दुरुस्त in 30 Seconds

Explanation दुरुस्त in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'durust' as a word for 'fixed' or 'okay.' While 'theek' is easier, knowing 'durust' helps you understand people when they talk about fixing things like toys, bikes, or pens. It is a 'bonus' word that makes you sound very smart. You use it simply: 'Is it durust?' (Is it fixed?). It is mostly used with 'karna' (to do) to mean 'to fix.' Focus on the physical meaning of making something work again. For example, if your pencil breaks and you sharpen it, it is now durust (in a very simple sense). Don't worry about the formal meanings yet.

At the A2 level, you start using 'durust' to mean 'correct' in your studies. If you finish a math problem, you can ask your teacher, 'Kya yeh durust hai?' (Is this correct?). You also learn the common phrase 'Der aaye durust aaye' (Better late than never). You should be able to use it to describe your health after being sick: 'Ab main durust hoon' (Now I am fine/healthy). You are moving from just 'fixing things' to 'correcting information.' You should also notice that the word doesn't change for boys or girls, which makes it easier to use in sentences than words like 'achha' or 'bura'.

At the B1 level, 'durust' becomes a tool for professional and social precision. You use it in the workplace to talk about 'hisaab-kitaab' (accounts) or 'kaagazaat' (documents). You understand that 'durust karna' means 'to rectify an error.' You start to use it for abstract things like logic or opinions. For example, 'Aapka point durust hai' (Your point is valid/correct). You also begin to see it in news headlines about the government 'fixing' roads or systems. You should be able to distinguish between 'sahi' (general right) and 'durust' (functional/verified right) in most common conversations.

At the B2 level, you use 'durust' to show nuance and command of the language. You use it in arguments to validate or invalidate parts of a discussion. You understand the cultural weight of the word in Hindi-Urdu poetry and formal speeches. You can use it sarcastically or firmly, such as 'Main tumhein durust kar dunga' (I'll set you straight). You are comfortable with the noun form 'durusti' (correction/repair) and can use it in sentences like 'Isme durusti ki zaroorat hai' (This needs correction). You also recognize the word in the context of 'tandurusti' (health and fitness) and can discuss lifestyle choices using these terms.

At the C1 level, 'durust' is part of your formal academic and literary vocabulary. You use it to critique texts, legal documents, and historical facts. You understand its Persian etymology and how it contrasts with Sanskrit-derived synonyms like 'shuddh' (pure/correct) or 'uchit' (proper). You can use it to describe the 'durust' meter in a poem or the 'durust' alignment of a complex architectural structure. Your usage is effortless, and you can switch between 'sahi,' 'theek,' and 'durust' to match the social register of your audience perfectly, whether you are at a high-level conference or a local workshop.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like intuition for 'durust.' You use it to convey subtle shades of meaning—perhaps using it to imply that something is not just factually correct but also 'sound' and 'robust' in its foundation. You can analyze the use of 'durust' in classical literature and appreciate its role in the linguistic synthesis of Hindi and Urdu. You might use it to discuss philosophical 'rightness' or the 'rectitude' of a person's character. For you, 'durust' is more than a word; it is a concept of balance, functionality, and truth that you apply across all domains of high-level communication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

दुरुस्त in 30 Seconds

Durust means fixed, accurate, or in good order.
It is a formal alternative to 'theek' or 'sahi'.
It is often used with 'karna' (to fix) and 'hona' (to be fixed).
It is an indeclinable adjective, meaning it never changes form.

The Hindi word दुरुस्त (Durust) is a versatile and sophisticated adjective that primarily translates to 'correct,' 'accurate,' or 'in good order.' Originating from Persian, it carries a sense of precision and functionality that distinguishes it from the more common word 'theek' (okay). When an object is broken and then repaired, it becomes durust. When a mathematical calculation is verified as accurate, it is durust. When a person's health returns to a state of vigor, they are said to be durust. This word bridges the gap between mechanical repair and intellectual accuracy, making it indispensable for learners moving into the A2 and B1 levels of Hindi proficiency.

Mechanical State: Refers to machinery, electronics, or physical objects that have been fixed or are functioning perfectly. For example, a car engine after a service is durust.

Intellectual Accuracy: Used to validate facts, figures, or logical arguments. If a teacher says your answer is durust, they mean it is precisely correct.

मिस्त्री ने मेरी पुरानी साइकिल को बिल्कुल दुरुस्त कर दिया। (The mechanic made my old bicycle absolutely functional/fixed.)

In a social context, using 'durust' instead of 'sahi' or 'theek' elevates the register of your speech. It suggests a level of education and attention to detail. It is frequently heard in professional settings, such as auditing, engineering, and formal debates. Furthermore, the word appears in the famous Hindi-Urdu idiom 'Der aaye durust aaye' (Better late than never), which literally translates to 'Came late, but came correctly/rightly.' This phrase alone highlights the word's association with a successful or desired outcome, regardless of the time taken to achieve it.

Interestingly, the word is also deeply connected to physical fitness. In the phrase 'Tandurust' (Healthy), the 'durust' part signifies the 'correct' or 'optimal' state of the body ('Tan'). Therefore, when you describe someone as 'durust,' you are often implying they are fit, sturdy, and in a state of well-being. This multi-layered utility makes it a high-frequency word in news broadcasts, literature, and formal conversations across North India and Pakistan.

Etymological Nuance: The Persian root 'durust' implies 'firm' or 'straight.' In Hindi, this evolved to mean something that has been set straight or made firm again.

आपका तर्क बिल्कुल दुरुस्त है, मैं आपसे सहमत हूँ। (Your logic is absolutely correct; I agree with you.)

Using दुरुस्त (Durust) effectively requires understanding its relationship with auxiliary verbs, primarily karna (to do/make) and hona (to be). Unlike some adjectives that stand alone, 'durust' often acts as part of a compound verb to describe the action of fixing or the state of being fixed.

दुरूस्त करना (Durust Karna): To repair, to fix, to rectify, or to correct. Usage: 'Hisaab durust karna' (To correct the accounts).

क्या आप इस मशीन को दुरुस्त कर सकते हैं? (Can you fix this machine?)

When describing a state, we use 'durust hona.' This is common when confirming that a task has been completed or that a situation is now under control. For instance, after a technician visits, you might say, 'Ab line durust hai' (Now the line is fixed/operational). It is important to note that 'durust' is an indeclinable adjective. It does not change its form based on the gender or number of the noun it describes. Whether you are fixing a feminine 'ghadi' (watch) or a masculine 'darvaza' (door), the word remains 'durust.'

दुरुस्त होना (Durust Hona): To be fixed, to be in order, or to be healthy. Usage: 'Sab durust ho jayega' (Everything will be alright/fixed).

In more abstract or figurative sentences, 'durust' can be used to describe someone's behavior or attitude. If someone is acting out of line, a superior might say, 'Main usey durust kar dunga,' which colloquially means 'I will straighten him out' or 'I will teach him a lesson.' This usage is common in movies and informal street Hindi, though it carries a slightly aggressive undertone. In a more positive light, it is used for self-improvement: 'Apni aadatein durust karo' (Correct your habits).

दवा लेने के बाद मेरी तबीयत दुरुस्त हो गई। (After taking medicine, my health became fine/restored.)

You will encounter दुरुस्त (Durust) in a variety of real-world environments, ranging from the gritty atmosphere of a roadside repair shop to the sterile environment of a government office. Understanding these contexts helps in grasping the word's specific 'flavor' compared to its synonyms.

At the Mechanic's (Mistri-khana): This is perhaps the most common place to hear the word. Mechanics use it to reassure customers. 'Chinta mat kijiye, gaadi durust hai' (Don't worry, the car is fixed/in good condition).

इलेक्ट्रिशियन ने सारे तार दुरुस्त कर दिए हैं। (The electrician has fixed all the wires.)

In the world of bureaucracy and administration, 'durust' is the standard term for 'rectification.' If there is an error in your passport or a government document, the official will ask you to get the records 'durust' (corrected). This implies a formal process of verification and correction. Similarly, in legal contexts, a 'durust bayan' is a correct or verified statement. It carries a weight of truth and legal validity that 'sahi' might lack in a courtroom setting.

News and Media: News anchors often use this word when reporting on infrastructure. 'Sarkar ne sadkon ko durust karne ka vaada kiya hai' (The government has promised to repair the roads).

Finally, you will hear it in classical music and poetry (Shayari). A poet might talk about 'durust lehja' (correct accent/tone) or 'durust nishana' (accurate aim). In these artistic contexts, the word evokes a sense of perfection and mastery. If a singer's pitch is perfect, a connoisseur might remark that their 'sur' (note) is 'durust.' This demonstrates the word's transition from the physical world of fixing things to the aesthetic world of perfect execution.

देर आए, दुरुस्त आए। (Better late than never / Arrived late, but arrived right.)

While दुरुस्त (Durust) is a powerful word, learners often stumble by using it in contexts where 'theek' or 'sahi' would be more natural. The most common mistake is using it as a generic response to 'How are you?' While grammatically possible, saying 'Main durust hoon' sounds overly formal, almost as if you are saying 'I am in a state of repair.'

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Durust' with 'Achha': Don't use durust to mean 'good' in a moral or qualitative sense. A 'good boy' is 'achha ladka,' not 'durust ladka.' 'Durust' is about correctness and functionality, not general goodness.

Incorrect: यह खाना बहुत दुरुस्त है। (This food is very repaired/correct.)
Correct: यह खाना बहुत अच्छा है। (This food is very good.)

Another error involves subject-verb agreement in complex sentences. Since 'durust' is Persian in origin, it doesn't follow the 'a' to 'e/i' ending changes common in Sanskrit-derived Hindi adjectives. Some learners try to say 'durusti' for feminine nouns, which is incorrect. The noun form is indeed 'durusti' (repair/correction), but the adjective remains 'durust.' For example, 'uski halat durust hai' (his condition is fine) – 'durust' stays the same regardless of 'halat' being feminine.

Mistake 2: Over-formalizing Informal Situations: Using 'durust' when hanging out with friends might make you sound like a textbook or a 19th-century poet. Stick to 'sahi' or 'theek' for 'okay/right' in casual chats.

Lastly, learners often forget that 'durust' implies a process. If you say a machine is 'durust,' it implies it might have been broken before. If a machine is simply 'new' and working, 'durust' is less appropriate than 'nayi' or 'chalu' (running). Use 'durust' specifically when the restoration of order is the focus of the conversation.

गलत: क्या आपकी घड़ी दुरुस्त समय बताती है? (Does your watch tell 'repaired' time?)
सही: क्या आपकी घड़ी सही समय बताती है? (Does your watch tell the 'correct' time? - though durust is sometimes used here, 'sahi' is more natural for time.)

Hindi has a rich vocabulary for 'correctness.' Understanding where दुरुस्त (Durust) fits among its peers will help you sound like a native speaker. The most common alternatives are Sahi, Theek, and Uchit.

दुरुस्त (Durust) vs. सही (Sahi): 'Sahi' is the general word for 'right' or 'correct.' 'Durust' is more specific to being 'in order' or 'fixed.' You say 'Sahi rasta' (Right path), but 'Rasta durust karna' (To repair the road).

दुरुस्त (Durust) vs. ठीक (Theek): 'Theek' is 'okay' or 'fine.' It is casual. 'Durust' is more formal and implies a higher degree of perfection or restoration. If a doctor says you are 'theek,' you are okay. If they say you are 'durust,' you are fit and robust.

Another word often confused with durust is Uchit. 'Uchit' means 'appropriate' or 'proper' in a moral or social sense. For instance, 'Uchit vyavahar' (Appropriate behavior). 'Durust' would not be used there because behavior isn't 'repaired' or 'accurate' in the same way a machine or a sum is. 'Durust' is about the 'is-ness' of a fact or the 'working-ness' of a tool.

उचित: यह कहना उचित होगा। (It would be appropriate to say.)
दुरुस्त: यह जानकारी बिल्कुल दुरुस्त है। (This information is absolutely accurate.)

When dealing with repairs specifically, you might also hear Marammat-shuda (repaired). However, this is a heavy, formal adjective. 'Durust' is the more common way to describe the result of 'marammat' (repair). Think of 'marammat' as the process and 'durust' as the successful state after the process.

Summary Table: Sahi = Correct/Right | Theek = Okay | Durust = Accurate/Fixed | Uchit = Proper/Appropriate

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Durust' shares a very distant ancestral root with the English word 'True' and 'Durable,' reflecting the Proto-Indo-European concept of something being 'firm' or 'wooden' (like a tree).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /d̪ʊ.ɾʊst̪/

US /duˈrust/

Primary stress is on the second syllable 'rust'.

Rhymes With

Chust (tight/active) Sust (lazy) Must (drunk/joyful) Prashast (praised) Trast (troubled) Dhvast (destroyed) Ast (sunset) Mast (carefree)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'd' as an alveolar English 'd' (it should be dental).
Missing the 'u' sound in the first syllable.
Over-emphasizing the 't' at the end.
Confusing it with 'dust' (English word).
Treating it as three syllables (du-ru-sat) instead of two (du-rust).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the 'st' cluster is learned.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'u' vowels and the 's-t' conjunct.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward for most learners.

Listening 2/5

Commonly used in media and daily life.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ठीक सही काम करना होना

Learn Next

मरम्मत सुधार शुद्ध उचित यथार्थ

Advanced

तंदुरुस्ती विसंगति निवारण संशोधन पुनर्स्थापना

Grammar to Know

Light Verb Construction

Durust + Karna (Action of fixing).

Indeclinable Adjectives

Durust stays 'Durust' for all genders.

Persian Loanword Phonology

Uses the 'st' cluster which is rare in pure Sanskrit words.

Abstract vs Concrete

Can modify both physical objects and thoughts.

Adjective as Predicate

Often appears at the end before 'hai'.

Examples by Level

यह खिलौना अब दुरुस्त है।

This toy is now fixed.

Simple subject + adjective + verb 'hai'.

क्या सब दुरुस्त है?

Is everything okay?

Interrogative sentence using 'sab' (everything).

साइकिल दुरुस्त करो।

Fix the bicycle.

Imperative sentence with 'karo' (do/fix).

मेरा पेन दुरुस्त नहीं है।

My pen is not working/fixed.

Negative sentence with 'nahi'.

मशीन दुरुस्त हो गई।

The machine got fixed.

Past tense 'ho gayi' (became/happened).

पापा रेडियो दुरुस्त करते हैं।

Father fixes the radio.

Present habitual 'karte hain'.

यह दुरुस्त काम है।

This is correct work.

Adjective modifying the noun 'kaam'.

दुरुस्त रास्ता कौन सा है?

Which is the correct path?

Question word 'kaun sa' (which one).

आपका जवाब बिल्कुल दुरुस्त है।

Your answer is absolutely correct.

Use of 'bilkul' (absolutely) for emphasis.

देर आए, दुरुस्त आए।

Better late than never.

Common idiomatic expression.

क्या आप मेरा फोन दुरुस्त कर सकते हैं?

Can you fix my phone?

Modal verb 'sakte hain' (can).

अब मेरी तबीयत दुरुस्त है।

Now my health is fine.

'Tabyat' (health/condition) is feminine but durust doesn't change.

हमें अपनी गलतियां दुरुस्त करनी चाहिए।

We should correct our mistakes.

Use of 'chahiye' (should).

मिस्त्री ने कार दुरुस्त कर दी।

The mechanic fixed the car.

Perfective tense 'kar di'.

यह जानकारी दुरुस्त नहीं लग रही।

This information doesn't seem correct.

Verb 'lag rahi' (seems/feels).

सब कुछ दुरुस्त हो जाएगा, चिंता मत करो।

Everything will be fixed/alright, don't worry.

Future tense 'ho jayega'.

बैंक का सारा हिसाब दुरुस्त है।

All the bank accounts/calculations are accurate.

'Hisaab' is masculine singular.

सड़कें दुरुस्त होने में समय लगेगा।

It will take time for the roads to be repaired.

Infinitival phrase 'durust hone mein'.

आपका तर्क काफी दुरुस्त जान पड़ता है।

Your logic seems quite sound/correct.

Formal verb 'jaan padta hai' (seems/appears).

क्या आपने सभी दस्तावेज़ दुरुस्त कर लिए हैं?

Have you corrected all the documents?

Compound verb 'kar liye hain'.

उसकी नीयत दुरुस्त नहीं है।

His intentions are not right/good.

Abstract use for 'intentions'.

गाँव का स्कूल अब दुरुस्त हालत में है।

The village school is now in a good/repaired condition.

Phrase 'durust haalat mein'.

हमें सिस्टम को दुरुस्त करने की ज़रूरत है।

We need to fix the system.

Noun 'zaroorat' (need).

वह हमेशा दुरुस्त कपड़े पहनता है।

He always wears well-fitted/proper clothes.

Use for 'proper/well-ordered'.

प्रशासन ने सुरक्षा व्यवस्था दुरुस्त कर दी है।

The administration has tightened/fixed the security arrangements.

Formal term 'vyavastha' (arrangement).

अगर तुम अपनी भाषा दुरुस्त नहीं करोगे, तो पछताओगे।

If you don't correct your language, you will regret it.

Conditional 'agar... toh'.

यह मशीन केवल विशेषज्ञ ही दुरुस्त कर सकता है।

Only an expert can fix this machine.

Particle 'hi' for emphasis.

इतिहास की किताबों में कई तथ्य दुरुस्त करने की आवश्यकता है।

Many facts in history books need to be corrected.

Passive-like construction with 'avashyakta' (necessity).

उसका निशाना बहुत दुरुस्त है।

His aim is very accurate.

Focus on precision.

समय रहते अपनी आदतें दुरुस्त कर लो।

Correct your habits while there is still time.

Idiomatic 'samay rehte'.

अदालत ने पुलिस की रिपोर्ट को दुरुस्त नहीं पाया।

The court did not find the police report to be accurate.

Formal legal context.

भोजन के बाद टहलना पाचन दुरुस्त रखता है।

Walking after meals keeps digestion in order/healthy.

Verb 'rakhta hai' (keeps).

लेखक ने अपनी पांडुलिपि को अंततः दुरुस्त कर लिया।

The author finally rectified his manuscript.

Sophisticated word 'pandulipi' (manuscript).

आर्थिक नीतियों को दुरुस्त किए बिना विकास संभव नहीं है।

Development is not possible without fixing economic policies.

Complex 'kiye bina' (without doing) structure.

उनकी आवाज़ का उतार-चढ़ाव बिल्कुल दुरुस्त था।

The modulation of his voice was absolutely perfect/accurate.

Technical musical/oratory context.

इस शोध पत्र के आंकड़े पूरी तरह दुरुस्त हैं।

The data in this research paper are entirely accurate.

Academic context.

संविधान के इस अनुच्छेद को दुरुस्त करने की मांग उठ रही है।

Demands are rising to rectify this article of the constitution.

Political/Legal terminology.

पुराने दस्तावेजों की दुरुस्ती में महीनों लग गए।

It took months for the correction/repair of old documents.

Use of noun form 'durusti'.

दार्शनिक का मानना है कि केवल सत्य ही दुरुस्त मार्ग है।

The philosopher believes that only truth is the right/correct path.

Abstract philosophical usage.

वैज्ञानिकों ने टेलिस्कोप के लेंस को दुरुस्त किया।

Scientists fixed/aligned the telescope's lens.

Scientific precision.

सभ्यता के विकास के लिए सामाजिक ढाँचे को दुरुस्त करना अनिवार्य है।

Correcting the social structure is mandatory for the development of civilization.

High-level sociological vocabulary.

उनकी तर्कशक्ति इतनी दुरुस्त है कि उन्हें हराना असंभव है।

His reasoning power is so accurate/sound that it is impossible to defeat him.

Abstract noun 'tarkshakti'.

काव्य की बारीकियों को दुरुस्त करना एक साधना है।

Rectifying the nuances of poetry is a spiritual practice/discipline.

Metaphorical use of 'sadhana'.

न्यायिक प्रणाली में व्याप्त विसंगतियों को दुरुस्त करना वर्तमान समय की मांग है।

Rectifying the anomalies prevalent in the judicial system is the need of the hour.

Highly formal bureaucratic Hindi.

ब्रह्मांड की उत्पत्ति के सिद्धांतों को दुरुस्त करने के लिए नए प्रमाण चाहिए।

New evidence is needed to refine/correct the theories of the origin of the universe.

Scientific theory context.

आत्म-निरीक्षण के माध्यम से ही मनुष्य अपने चरित्र को दुरुस्त कर सकता है।

Only through self-introspection can a human rectify their character.

Moral/Ethical usage.

प्राचीन मूर्तियों की दुरुस्ती के लिए विशेष रसायनों का उपयोग किया गया।

Special chemicals were used for the restoration of ancient statues.

Art restoration context.

राजनीतिक विमर्श को दुरुस्त करने की तत्काल आवश्यकता है।

There is an immediate need to rectify political discourse.

Sociopolitical commentary.

Common Collocations

दुरुस्त करना

दुरुस्त होना

सेहत दुरुस्त

हसाब दुरुस्त

निशाना दुरुस्त

रास्ता दुरुस्त

आचरण दुरुस्त

तथ्य दुरुस्त

दिमाग दुरुस्त

व्यवस्था दुरुस्त

Common Phrases

देर आए दुरुस्त आए

— Better late than never. It suggests that arriving late with the right result is better than not arriving at all.

उसने ३० साल की उम्र में पढ़ाई शुरू की, पर चलो, देर आए दुरुस्त आए।

सब कुछ दुरुस्त है

— Everything is in order. Used to give a status update.

निरीक्षण के बाद पाया गया कि सब कुछ दुरुस्त है।

अक्ल दुरुस्त करना

— To teach someone a lesson. Literally 'to fix someone's brain'.

ज्यादा मत बोलो वरना मैं तुम्हारी अक्ल दुरुस्त कर दूँगा।

हालत दुरुस्त होना

— Condition becoming better. Used for health or finances.

इलाज के बाद उसकी हालत दुरुस्त है।

रिकॉर्ड दुरुस्त करना

— To correct records. Common in government offices.

आपको दफ्तर जाकर अपना रिकॉर्ड दुरुस्त करना होगा।

नियत दुरुस्त रखना

— To keep one's intentions pure/right.

कामयाबी के लिए नियत दुरुस्त रखना ज़रूरी है।

समय दुरुस्त करना

— To set the time correctly.

अपनी घड़ी का समय दुरुस्त कर लो।

मामला दुरुस्त होना

— The matter being resolved/fixed.

पुलिस के आने पर मामला दुरुस्त हो गया।

दुरुस्त पैमाना

— A correct/accurate scale or measure.

सफलता का कोई दुरुस्त पैमाना नहीं होता।

दुरुस्त जानकारी

— Accurate information.

क्या आपके पास दुरुस्त जानकारी है?

Often Confused With

दुरुस्त vs दूर (Door)

Means 'far'. Sounds similar but has a long 'oo' and no 'st'.

दुरुस्त vs दोस्त (Dost)

Means 'friend'. Ends in 'st' but the start is different.

दुरुस्त vs दृष्ट (Drisht)

Means 'seen' (Sanskrit). Rarely used but sounds slightly similar.

Idioms & Expressions

"देर आए दुरुस्त आए"

— It is better to do something late than not to do it at all, or to do it correctly late than wrongly early.

उसने अंत में अपनी गलती मान ली, देर आए दुरुस्त आए।

Common

"अक्ल दुरुस्त करना"

— To bring someone to their senses or to punish them so they behave correctly.

पुलिस ने चोर की अक्ल दुरुस्त कर दी।

Informal/Slang

"दिमाग दुरुस्त करना"

— Similar to 'aql durust karna', focusing on fixing someone's attitude.

वह बहुत घमंडी हो गया है, उसका दिमाग दुरुस्त करना पड़ेगा।

Informal

"लाइन दुरुस्त करना"

— To set someone on the right path or to fix a physical line (like phone/power).

मैनेजर ने आलसी कर्मचारियों की लाइन दुरुस्त कर दी।

Colloquial

"हिसाब दुरुस्त करना"

— To settle a score or to literally fix accounts.

मैं कल उससे अपना पुराना हिसाब दुरुस्त करूँगा।

Neutral/Metaphorical

"निशाना दुरुस्त बैठना"

— For an aim to be perfectly accurate or for a plan to work perfectly.

उसका हर दांव दुरुस्त बैठता है।

Literary

"तबीयत दुरुस्त होना"

— To recover from an illness or a bad mood.

छुट्टियों के बाद मेरी तबीयत दुरुस्त हो गई।

Neutral

"सब्र का फल दुरुस्त होता है"

— A variation of 'sabr ka phal meetha hota hai', implying patience leads to a correct/sound result.

जल्दबाजी मत करो, सब्र का फल दुरुस्त होता है।

Old-fashioned

"जुबान दुरुस्त करना"

— To watch one's language or correct one's speech.

बड़ों से बात करते समय अपनी जुबान दुरुस्त रखो।

Formal/Stern

"क़दम दुरुस्त रखना"

— To walk carefully or to live a righteous life.

इस दुनिया में अपने क़दम दुरुस्त रखना मुश्किल है।

Poetic

Easily Confused

दुरुस्त vs Sahi

Both mean 'correct'.

Sahi is general; Durust implies 'fixed' or 'in order'.

Sahi rasta (Right path) vs Rasta durust hai (Road is repaired).

दुरुस्त vs Theek

Both mean 'okay'.

Theek is casual; Durust is precise/formal.

Theek hai (Okay) vs Durust hai (Correct/Fixed).

दुरुस्त vs Uchit

Both mean 'right'.

Uchit is 'appropriate' (socially); Durust is 'accurate' (factually).

Uchit samay (Proper time) vs Durust samay (Correct time).

दुरुस्त vs Shuddh

Both mean 'correct'.

Shuddh is 'pure/grammatically perfect'; Durust is 'functional'.

Shuddh doodh (Pure milk) vs Machine durust hai (Machine is fixed).

दुरुस्त vs Sateek

Both mean 'accurate'.

Sateek is 'pinpoint/precise'; Durust is 'in good order'.

Sateek nishana (Precise aim) vs Hisaab durust hai (Account is correct).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] दुरुस्त है।

रेडियो दुरुस्त है।

[Noun] को दुरुस्त करो।

साइकिल को दुरुस्त करो।

क्या [Abstract Noun] दुरुस्त है?

क्या आपका हिसाब दुरुस्त है?

[Noun] दुरुस्त होने में [Time] लगेगा।

सड़क दुरुस्त होने में दो दिन लगेंगे।

[Noun] को दुरुस्त करना अनिवार्य है।

नियमों को दुरुस्त करना अनिवार्य है।

[Gerund] के माध्यम से [Noun] दुरुस्त करना।

अभ्यास के माध्यम से उच्चारण दुरुस्त करना।

All

देर आए, दुरुस्त आए।

सब कुछ दुरुस्त हो जाएगा।

Word Family

Nouns

दुरुस्ती (Durusti - Correction/Repair)

तंदुरुस्ती (Tandurusti - Health)

Verbs

दुरुस्त करना (Durust karna - To fix)

दुरुस्त होना (Durust hona - To be fixed)

Adjectives

ना-दुरुस्त (Na-durust - Incorrect)

तंदुरुस्त (Tandurust - Healthy)

सही

ठीक

मरम्मत

सुधार

शुद्ध

How to Use It

frequency

Common in daily speech and very high in technical/administrative contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'durusta' for masculine nouns. → दुरुस्त (Durust)
It is indeclinable; do not add an 'a' at the end.
Saying 'durust khana' for 'good food'. → अच्छा खाना (Achha khana)
'Durust' is for accuracy/repair, not for taste or general quality.
Confusing 'durusti' (noun) with 'durust' (adj). → काम दुरुस्त है।
Use 'durust' for 'is fixed'. Use 'durusti' for 'the correction'.
Using 'durust' for 'far' (door). → वह दूर है।
'Door' means far; 'Durust' means correct. Watch the vowel length.
Using 'durust' for moral goodness. → नेक इंसान (Nek insaan)
'Durust' is technical/factual, not moral.

Tips

Mechanical Context

Always use 'durust' when a repair is involved. It shows you understand the nuance of restoration.

No Gender Change

Don't say 'durusti' as an adjective for feminine nouns. 'Durust' is always stable.

Better Late

Memorize 'Der aaye durust aaye'. It’s a great way to apologize for being late while showing off your Hindi.

Politeness

Use 'durust' when talking to elders about their health; it sounds more respectful than 'theek'.

Workplace

Use 'durust karna' for fixing bugs in code or errors in reports.

Rhyme Time

Remember: Chust (Active), Sust (Lazy), Durust (Fixed). They all rhyme and describe a state.

News Clues

When you hear 'durust' on the news, it's usually about roads, electricity, or laws.

Spelling

Make sure to put the 'u' (chhoti u) on the 'd' and 'r'. No long 'oo' sounds here.

Aql Durust

Use 'Aql durust karna' only with friends or in a joking way; it can be very rude otherwise.

Beyond Sahi

Try to replace 'sahi' with 'durust' once a day to get used to the formal register.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'DO-RUST'. If a machine has rust, it's broken. To fix it, you 'DO' something to the 'RUST'. Now it is 'Durust'!

Visual Association

Imagine a mechanic tightening a bolt with a wrench. As the bolt clicks into place, he says, 'Durust!'

Word Web

Repair Correct Accurate Healthy Fixed Right Straight Functional

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that are NOT durust. Then, describe how you would make them durust using the phrase 'Main [...] durust karunga'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Persian word 'durust' (درست), which translates to 'right,' 'true,' or 'correct.' It entered Hindi through the influence of the Mughal court and Persian literature.

Original meaning: Firm, straight, or solid.

Indo-European (Indo-Iranian branch).

Cultural Context

The word is neutral but can be used aggressively in 'Aql durust karna' (I'll fix you). Use with caution in arguments.

English speakers might find it similar to 'robust' or 'correct,' but it specifically covers the 'repaired' aspect that 'correct' does not.

The proverb 'Der aaye durust aaye'. Bollywood songs mentioning 'Tandurusti'. News reports on 'Sadak durusti' (Road repair).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Mechanic

गाड़ी दुरुस्त करो
क्या यह दुरुस्त है?
दुरुस्त करने में कितना लगेगा?
सब दुरुस्त है।

In the Classroom

जवाब दुरुस्त है
गलती दुरुस्त करो
दुरुस्त जानकारी
क्या मेरा तर्क दुरुस्त है?

At the Doctor

अब मैं दुरुस्त हूँ
सेहत दुरुस्त रखना
पाचन दुरुस्त करना
हालत दुरुस्त है।

In the Office

रिकॉर्ड दुरुस्त करें
हिसाब दुरुस्त है
फाइल दुरुस्त करो
डाटा दुरुस्त होना चाहिए।

Daily Wisdom

देर आए दुरुस्त आए
नियत दुरुस्त रखो
अपनी आदतें दुरुस्त करो
सब दुरुस्त हो जाएगा।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको लगता है कि यह जानकारी दुरुस्त है?"

"मैं अपनी हिंदी कैसे दुरुस्त कर सकता हूँ?"

"क्या आपके शहर की सड़कें दुरुस्त हैं?"

"आप अपनी सेहत दुरुस्त रखने के लिए क्या करते हैं?"

"क्या यह पुरानी घड़ी दुरुस्त हो सकती है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने अपनी कौन सी गलती दुरुस्त की?

मेरे जीवन में ऐसी कौन सी चीज़ है जिसे दुरुस्त करने की ज़रूरत है?

क्या 'देर आए दुरुस्त आए' आपके जीवन पर लागू होता है? कैसे?

एक ऐसी मशीन के बारे में लिखें जिसे आपने खुद दुरुस्त किया हो।

दुरुस्त स्वास्थ्य के लिए आपकी क्या योजना है?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is both. It is a Persian loanword used commonly in both languages, though it appears slightly more in Urdu-influenced speech.

Yes, but usually to describe their health (tandurust) or to say they are 'straightened out' (aql durust karna).

No, it is an indeclinable adjective. You say 'durust ghadi' (fixed watch) and 'durust radio' (fixed radio).

The noun form is 'durusti', meaning 'correction' or 'repair'.

Yes, it is very common in legal and administrative Hindi to mean 'rectified' or 'accurate'.

Use the compound verb 'durust karna'.

Yes, it means 'I am healthy/fine,' but 'main theek hoon' is more common in casual talk.

Yes, 'marammat' is the noun for 'repair' (the process). 'Durust' is the adjective for the result.

The most direct antonym is 'na-durust' or simply 'galat' (wrong) or 'kharaab' (broken).

Absolutely. It sounds more formal and precise than 'sahi'.