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दावत

A2 noun #3,200 most common 9 min read

दावत

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips दावत in 30 Seconds

Explanation दावत in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'daavat' is introduced as a basic noun meaning 'party' or 'dinner'. Learners focus on simple sentences like 'I have a party' or 'Come to my house'. The goal is to recognize the word in the context of food and friends. You will learn it alongside words for food (khana), water (paani), and house (ghar). It's a fun word to start with because it represents a positive social experience. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that it involves eating with others.

At the A2 level, you begin to understand that 'daavat' is a feminine noun. You start using basic adjectives like 'acchi' (good) or 'badi' (big) with it. You also learn the common verb pairing 'daavat dena' (to give a feast/host). You can now describe a simple event: 'Kal mere dost ne mujhe daavat di' (Yesterday my friend gave me a feast). This level emphasizes the social aspect of inviting people and responding to invitations in a polite, simple manner.

At the B1 level, you can use 'daavat' in more complex sentence structures, including past and future tenses. You understand the difference between a 'daavat' and a regular 'khana' (meal). You can describe the atmosphere of a feast, the variety of food served, and the reason for the celebration. You might use phrases like 'daavat ka intezam' (arrangement of the feast). Your vocabulary expands to include related words like 'mezbaan' (host) and 'mehmaan' (guest), allowing you to talk about the experience from both perspectives.

At the B2 level, you use 'daavat' fluently in social and semi-formal contexts. You are aware of the cultural nuances, such as the importance of 'mehmaan-nawaazi' (hospitality). You can use the word metaphorically or in idiomatic expressions. You might discuss the environmental impact of large 'daavats' or the social obligations involved in hosting them. Your grammar is precise, correctly handling plurals ('daavatein') and oblique cases with postpositions (e.g., 'daavat ke liye').

At the C1 level, you appreciate the literary and poetic uses of 'daavat'. You can recognize it in classical Hindi or Urdu poetry where it might signify a 'feast of the senses'. You understand the historical roots of the word and its evolution in Indian society. You can use it in sophisticated arguments about culture and tradition. You are also comfortable with its use in high-level journalism and formal speeches, recognizing the subtle shift in tone when 'daavat' is used instead of 'bhoj'.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'daavat'. You can use it with absolute precision, catching every cultural allusion and subtle irony. You might use it in creative writing to evoke specific moods or historical periods. You understand regional variations in how 'daavats' are conducted and discussed. You can effortlessly switch between the formal, informal, and metaphorical uses of the word, making your speech or writing both rich and authentic.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

दावत in 30 Seconds

A feminine noun meaning feast, party, or meal invitation.
Rooted in Arabic/Persian, emphasizing hospitality and community.
Commonly used with verbs like 'dena' (to host) and 'khana' (to attend).
Distinguished from a simple 'party' by its focus on a substantial meal.

The word दावत (daavat) is a beautiful and culturally rich term in Hindi that translates primarily to 'feast', 'party', or 'invitation' to a meal. Derived from Arabic roots, it carries a sense of hospitality, generosity, and social gathering that goes beyond a simple dinner. When you use the word daavat, you are not just talking about eating food; you are talking about an event where food is the centerpiece of celebration and connection. In the Indian subcontinent, hospitality is considered a sacred duty, and a daavat is the ultimate expression of this sentiment. It is most commonly used in the context of inviting someone over for a meal, often a grand one, to celebrate an occasion like a wedding, a religious festival, or a personal milestone. However, it can also be used for a simple, heartfelt invitation to dinner between close friends.

Primary Meaning: A formal or grand meal provided for many guests; a banquet or feast.
Secondary Meaning: An invitation to participate in a meal or a social gathering centered around food.

Unlike the English word 'party', which can imply dancing, music, or just drinks, a daavat almost always implies a substantial meal. You wouldn't typically call a clubbing event a 'daavat'. It is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of North India and is a staple word in both Hindi and Urdu. When someone says 'Meri taraf se daavat hai' (The treat/feast is on me), it signifies a gesture of celebration where the speaker takes responsibility for hosting and feeding the guests. This word is also frequently heard in Bollywood songs and literature to signify a 'feast for the eyes' or a 'feast for the soul', showing its metaphorical versatility.

आज शाम को हमारे घर पर एक बड़ी दावत है। (There is a big feast at our house this evening.)

The word is feminine in gender. Therefore, you would say 'acchi daavat' (a good feast) or 'daavat di' (gave a feast). It is often paired with verbs like 'dena' (to give/host) or 'khana' (to eat/attend). In a cultural context, a daavat is often associated with specific dishes like Biryani, Korma, or various types of sweets, depending on the region and the community. Understanding 'daavat' is essential for anyone wanting to navigate the social fabric of Hindi-speaking communities, as it represents the core values of sharing and community bonding through the universal language of food.

Social Nuance: Accepting a daavat is often seen as a sign of respect to the host, while declining one requires a very polite explanation.

उसने मुझे अपनी शादी की दावत में बुलाया है। (He has invited me to his wedding feast.)

Using दावत (daavat) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a feminine noun and its common verbal pairings. In Hindi, nouns often dictate the gender of the verbs and adjectives that follow them. Since 'daavat' is feminine, adjectives like 'badi' (big) or 'shandaar' (grand) will take the feminine form. For example, 'Ek shandaar daavat' (A grand feast). When you are the host, you use the verb 'dena' (to give). For example, 'Main tumhein daavat doonga' (I will give you a feast/treat). If you are the guest, you use 'khana' (to eat) or 'mein jaana' (to go to). For example, 'Hum daavat khane gaye' (We went to eat at the feast).

क्या आप कल की दावत में शामिल होंगे? (Will you join tomorrow's feast?)

Another common construction is using 'daavat' as an invitation. You might say 'Mujhe daavat mili hai' (I have received an invitation/feast). It's important to note that in modern urban Hindi, the English word 'party' is frequently used, but 'daavat' remains the preferred term for traditional, religious, or formal family gatherings. For instance, during the festival of Eid, the term 'Eidi ki daavat' is very common. Similarly, after a wedding, the reception is often referred to as a 'Valima ki daavat' in Urdu-influenced Hindi contexts. The word can also be used metaphorically. If someone sees a beautiful garden, they might say 'Yeh aankhon ke liye ek daavat hai' (This is a feast for the eyes).

Common Verb Pairings: दावत देना (To host a feast), दावत खाना (To attend/eat at a feast), दावत उड़ाना (To enjoy a feast heartily - informal).

In complex sentences, 'daavat' can act as the subject or the object. If you want to describe the quality of the food, you could say 'Daavat bahut swadisht thi' (The feast was very delicious). Notice how 'thi' (was) is feminine to match 'daavat'. If you are talking about multiple parties, the plural form is 'daavatein'. For example, 'Tyoharon ke mausam mein bahut saari daavatein hoti hain' (There are many feasts during the festival season). Mastering these variations will make your Hindi sound more natural and culturally attuned.

गाँव के मुखिया ने पूरे गाँव को दावत पर बुलाया। (The village head invited the whole village to a feast.)

The word दावत (daavat) is ubiquitous in Hindi-speaking environments, ranging from daily conversations to high-brow literature and cinema. One of the most common places you will hear it is in family households. Parents might tell their children, 'Aaj humare ghar daavat hai, jaldi taiyar ho jao' (We have a feast at home today, get ready quickly). It is also the standard word used in invitations sent via phone or card. If you are watching a Bollywood movie, especially a family drama or a historical epic, 'daavat' is used to emphasize the grandeur of a celebration. It evokes images of long tables laden with aromatic dishes, vibrant decorations, and a festive atmosphere.

Cultural Contexts: Weddings (Shaadi), Religious Festivals (Eid, Diwali receptions), Birthdays (Janamdin), and Promotions.

In literature and poetry (Shayari), 'daavat' is often used as a metaphor. A poet might describe a beloved's beauty as a 'daavat' for the eyes. In news reports, you might hear it in the context of political gatherings, often called 'Iftar daavat' during the month of Ramadan. Even in professional settings, if a colleague gets a promotion, others might jokingly demand, 'Ab toh daavat banti hai!' (Now a treat is mandatory!). This colloquial usage bridges the gap between formal 'feast' and informal 'treat'.

फिल्मों में अक्सर शाही दावत के दृश्य दिखाए जाते हैं। (Royal feast scenes are often shown in movies.)

Furthermore, the word is central to the concept of 'Mehmaan-nawaazi' (hospitality). A host's reputation often rests on the quality of the 'daavat' they provide. You will hear guests praising the host by saying, 'Kya shandaar daavat thi!' (What a magnificent feast it was!). In restaurants, you might see special menus labeled as 'Daavat-e-Khaas' (A special feast), indicating a premium dining experience. Whether it's a humble meal shared with neighbors or a lavish banquet in a five-star hotel, 'daavat' is the word that encapsulates the joy of eating together.

Geographic Usage: Extremely common in North India (Delhi, UP, Bihar) and Pakistan, where Persian-Arabic vocabulary is deeply integrated.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with दावत (daavat) is confusing its gender. Many beginners treat it as masculine because it doesn't end in the typical feminine 'ee' sound. However, 'daavat' is feminine. Using masculine adjectives or verbs (like 'bada daavat' instead of 'badi daavat') is a frequent error. Always remember to pair it with feminine grammar. Another mistake is using 'daavat' for every single social interaction. While it can mean 'party', it specifically implies a focus on food. If you are inviting someone over just to watch a movie or play games without a meal, 'daavat' might sound a bit misplaced; 'party' or 'milna' (meeting) would be more appropriate.

गलत: वह एक बड़ा दावत है। सही: वह एक बड़ी दावत है। (Incorrect: It is a big feast - masculine. Correct: It is a big feast - feminine.)

Another nuance to be careful with is the verb choice. While 'daavat dena' means to host, 'daavat karna' is also used but is slightly less common in formal contexts. Some learners also confuse 'daavat' with 'nimantran' or 'aamantran'. While all involve invitations, 'nimantran' is a general invitation (can be for a wedding, a talk, or a ceremony), whereas 'daavat' specifically refers to the feast aspect. If you are invited to a wedding, the 'nimantran' is for the whole ceremony, but the 'daavat' is specifically for the dinner part.

Mistake: Over-formalization: Using 'daavat' for a quick snack or a tea-break. Use 'chai-paani' or 'nashta' for those instead.

Lastly, learners sometimes struggle with the pluralization. The plural is 'daavatein' (दावतें). In casual speech, people might just say 'bahut saari daavat', but 'daavatein' is the grammatically correct plural. Also, ensure you don't use it as a verb directly. You cannot say 'Main tumhe daavatunga'. You must use a supporting verb like 'dena'. These small details distinguish a beginner from an intermediate speaker.

Pronunciation Error: Ensure the 'v' sound is soft, almost like a mix between 'v' and 'w', which is typical for Hindi.

While दावत (daavat) is a very versatile word, Hindi offers several synonyms and alternatives depending on the register (formal vs. informal) and the specific nature of the event. Understanding these will help you choose the most appropriate word for the situation. The most common informal alternative used today is simply the English loanword 'Party'. It is used for birthdays, promotions, or just hanging out. However, 'party' lacks the specific 'food-centric' and 'hospitable' connotation that 'daavat' carries.

भोज (Bhoj): A more Sanskritized/formal word for feast. Often used in official contexts or traditional Hindu ceremonies (e.g., 'Preeti-bhoj' for a wedding reception).
जेवनार (Jevnaar): A traditional, somewhat archaic term for a feast, mostly heard in rural areas or old literature.

If you are focusing on the 'invitation' aspect of 'daavat', you can use 'Nimantran' (निमंत्रण) or 'Aamantran' (आमंत्रण). 'Nimantran' is commonly used for formal invitations like weddings, while 'Aamantran' is slightly more formal and often used for official or public events. If the gathering is more about a celebration or a festival, words like 'Utsav' (celebration) or 'Samaroh' (ceremony) might be used, though these don't specifically imply a meal as strongly as 'daavat' does.

आज रात का प्रीति-भोज बहुत भव्य था। (Tonight's wedding feast/reception was very grand.)

In slang or very casual conversation, you might hear 'Treat' (English) or 'Khaana-peena' (literally 'eating-drinking'). For example, 'Chalo, aaj meri taraf se treat hai!' (Come on, today's treat is on me!). If the feast is specifically for a religious purpose, such as food distributed at a temple, the word 'Prasad' or 'Bhandara' is used. 'Bhandara' specifically refers to a large-scale community feast where food is served for free. Understanding these distinctions ensures you don't use 'daavat' when a more specific religious or formal term is required.

Summary Comparison: Daavat: General/Warm/Food-focused. Party: Modern/Casual/General. Bhoj: Formal/Traditional. Bhandara: Religious/Community/Free.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"हमें आपकी दावत का निमंत्रण पाकर अत्यंत प्रसन्नता हुई।"

Neutral

"अगले हफ्ते मेरे घर पर एक दावत है।"

Informal

"भाई, दावत कब दे रहे हो?"

Child friendly

"चलो बच्चों, आज हम एक बड़ी दावत करेंगे!"

Slang

"आज तो फुल दावत चलेगी!"

Fun Fact

The word 'Da'wah' in Arabic is also used for missionary work, but in Hindi, it has lost its religious missionary connotation and is purely social.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈdɑː.vʌt̪/

US /ˈdɑ.vət/

Stress is on the first syllable 'Daa'.

Rhymes With

आवत (Aavat - coming) कहावत (Kahavat - proverb) बनावट (Banavat - structure) सजावट (Sajavat - decoration) थकावट (Thakavat - tiredness) रुकावट (Rukavat - obstacle) बहावत (Bahavat - flow) लिखावट (Likhavat - handwriting)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'd' as a hard English 'd' (it should be dental).
Pronouncing 'v' as a hard English 'v' (it's closer to a soft 'w/v' blend).
Making the 't' aspirated like in 'table' (it should be soft).
Shortening the long 'aa' sound.
Confusing it with 'Davaat' (inkpot).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read once you know the 'v' and 't' sounds.

Writing 2/5

Simple characters, no complex conjuncts.

Speaking 3/5

Requires soft dental 'd' and 't' sounds which can be tricky for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Distinct sound, usually clear in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

खाना (Food) घर (House) दोस्त (Friend) देना (To give) बुलाना (To invite/call)

Learn Next

मेज़बान (Host) मेहमान (Guest) पकवान (Dishes) ज़ियाफ़त (Banquet) तैयारी (Preparation)

Advanced

मेहमान-नवाज़ी (Hospitality) आओ-भगत (Welcome/Service) तवाज़ो (Hospitality/Respect) दस्तरख़्वान (Tablecloth/Dining spread)

Grammar to Know

Feminine Noun Agreement

दावत 'बड़ी' थी (not 'बड़ा').

Oblique Case Plural

दावतों में (In the feasts) - 'daavat' becomes 'daavaton'.

Transitive Verb with 'Ne'

मैंने दावत दी (I gave a feast).

Possessive Adjectives

मेरी दावत (My feast) - 'meri' is feminine.

Compound Verbs

दावत कर देना (To finish organizing/giving a feast).

Examples by Level

आज दावत है।

Today is a feast.

Simple subject + verb 'hai'.

मेरी दावत में आओ।

Come to my feast.

Imperative sentence using 'aao'.

यह एक अच्छी दावत है।

This is a good feast.

Feminine adjective 'acchi' matches 'daavat'.

क्या तुम दावत दोगे?

Will you give a feast?

Future tense question.

दावत में बहुत खाना है।

There is a lot of food in the feast.

Use of postposition 'mein' (in).

मुझे दावत पसंद है।

I like feasts.

Standard 'mujhe ... pasand hai' structure.

वह दावत खा रहा है।

He is eating (at) the feast.

Present continuous tense.

कल दावत थी।

Yesterday was a feast.

Past tense feminine 'thi'.

मेरे जन्मदिन पर एक बड़ी दावत होगी।

There will be a big feast on my birthday.

Future tense feminine 'hogi'.

हमने कल रात दावत दी।

We gave a feast last night.

Past tense with 'ne' and 'di'.

क्या आप हमारी दावत में आएँगे?

Will you come to our feast?

Formal future tense 'aayenge'.

दावत का खाना बहुत स्वादिष्ट था।

The feast's food was very tasty.

Possessive 'ka' matches 'khana' (masculine).

वह अपनी बहन की शादी की दावत में गया है।

He has gone to his sister's wedding feast.

Use of 'ki' for possession of feminine 'daavat'.

मुझे दावत का निमंत्रण मिला।

I received an invitation for the feast.

Compound noun 'daavat ka nimantran'.

चलो, आज बाहर दावत करते हैं।

Come on, let's have a feast outside today.

Casual 'chalo' + 'karte hain'.

दावत के लिए धन्यवाद।

Thank you for the feast.

Postposition 'ke liye' (for).

मेज़बान ने मेहमानों के लिए शानदार दावत तैयार की।

The host prepared a magnificent feast for the guests.

Transitive verb in past tense with 'ne'.

अगर तुम परीक्षा में पास हो गए, तो मैं दावत दूँगा।

If you pass the exam, I will give a feast.

Conditional sentence structure.

गाँव की दावत में पूरा मोहल्ला शामिल हुआ।

The whole neighborhood joined the village feast.

Reflexive/Passive structure 'shamil hua'.

उसने बिना किसी कारण के हमें दावत पर बुलाया।

He invited us to a feast without any reason.

Adverbial phrase 'bina kisi kaaran ke'.

दावत का इंतज़ाम बहुत अच्छी तरह से किया गया था।

The feast arrangements were done very well.

Passive voice 'kiya gaya tha'.

हम कई दिनों से इस दावत का इंतज़ार कर रहे थे।

We had been waiting for this feast for many days.

Past perfect continuous tense.

दावत शुरू होने से पहले सबने दुआ की।

Everyone prayed before the feast began.

Conjunction 'se pehle' (before).

इतनी बड़ी दावत का खर्च उठाना आसान नहीं है।

It is not easy to bear the expense of such a big feast.

Gerundial use 'kharch uthana'.

त्योहारों के दौरान हमें कई दावतों में जाना पड़ता है।

During festivals, we have to go to many feasts.

Compulsion 'padta hai' with plural 'daavaton'.

उनकी मेहमान-नवाज़ी और दावत की चर्चा पूरे शहर में है।

Their hospitality and feast are discussed throughout the city.

Abstract nouns and possessive structure.

दावत इतनी भव्य थी कि लोग उँगलियाँ चाटते रह गए।

The feast was so grand that people were left licking their fingers.

Result clause 'itni... ki' + idiom.

राजनीतिक दलों द्वारा इफ्तार दावत का आयोजन किया गया।

An Iftar feast was organized by political parties.

Formal passive voice with 'dwara'.

बिना दावत के कोई भी भारतीय शादी अधूरी मानी जाती है।

Without a feast, any Indian wedding is considered incomplete.

Negative condition 'bina... ke'.

उसने अपनी सफलता का जश्न एक छोटी सी दावत के साथ मनाया।

He celebrated his success with a small feast.

Instrumental 'ke saath' (with).

दावत में खाने की बर्बादी देख कर मुझे दुख हुआ।

I felt sad seeing the wastage of food at the feast.

Participial phrase 'dekh kar' (having seen).

क्या आप इस दावत के पीछे का असली मकसद जानते हैं?

Do you know the real motive behind this feast?

Complex possessive 'ke peeche ka'.

प्रकृति का सौंदर्य आँखों के लिए एक अनुपम दावत है।

The beauty of nature is an unparalleled feast for the eyes.

Metaphorical use of 'daavat'.

प्राचीन काल में राजा-महाराजा हफ़्तों तक दावतें देते थे।

In ancient times, kings and emperors used to give feasts for weeks.

Habitual past 'dete the'.

उनकी दावत में साहित्य और कला का अद्भुत संगम देखने को मिला।

A wonderful confluence of literature and art was seen in their feast.

Abstract subject 'sangam'.

लेखक ने अपनी पुस्तक में एक शाही दावत का जीवंत वर्णन किया है।

The author has given a vivid description of a royal feast in his book.

Perfective aspect 'kiya hai'.

गरीबों को दावत खिलाना सबसे बड़ा पुण्य का काम है।

Feeding a feast to the poor is the greatest act of merit.

Causative sense 'khilana'.

इस दावत ने पुरानी कड़वाहट को भुलाकर रिश्तों में मिठास भर दी।

This feast filled the relationships with sweetness, forgetting old bitterness.

Figurative language.

भले ही दावत साधारण थी, पर मेज़बान का प्यार असाधारण था।

Even though the feast was simple, the host's love was extraordinary.

Concessive clause 'bhale hi... par'.

दावत के शोर-शराबे में वह अपनी तन्हाई को भूल गया।

In the noise and bustle of the feast, he forgot his loneliness.

Compound noun 'shor-sharaba'.

यह उपन्यास बौद्धिक विमर्श की एक समृद्ध दावत प्रस्तुत करता है।

This novel presents a rich feast of intellectual discourse.

Highly formal academic Hindi.

ग़ालिब की शायरी दिल और दिमाग के लिए एक शाश्वत दावत है।

Ghalib's poetry is an eternal feast for the heart and mind.

Honorific 'ki' + abstract concepts.

कूटनीतिक दावतों के पीछे अक्सर बड़े राजनीतिक समझौते होते हैं।

Behind diplomatic feasts, there are often major political agreements.

Plural oblique 'daavaton' with postposition.

उसकी आवाज़ का जादू श्रोताओं के कानों के लिए किसी दावत से कम नहीं।

The magic of her voice is nothing less than a feast for the listeners' ears.

Comparative 'se kam nahi'.

इतिहास के पन्नों में इस दावत को उसकी फिजूलखर्ची के प्रतीक के रूप में दर्ज किया गया है।

In the pages of history, this feast is recorded as a symbol of his extravagance.

Passive construction 'darj kiya gaya hai'.

दावत की चकाचौंध में समाज की कड़वी सच्चाइयाँ छुप गईं।

In the dazzle of the feast, the bitter realities of society were hidden.

Metaphorical 'chakachaundh'.

उसने अपनी पूरी जागीर एक ही दावत के जश्न में उड़ा दी।

He blew his entire estate in the celebration of a single feast.

Intensive verb 'uda di'.

यह दृश्य किसी भी कलाकार की कल्पना के लिए एक भरपूर दावत है।

This scene is a plentiful feast for any artist's imagination.

Possessive 'ki' + 'ke liye'.

Common Collocations

दावत देना

दावत खाना

शानदार दावत

शादी की दावत

दावत उड़ाना

इफ्तार दावत

दावत का निमंत्रण

शाही दावत

दावत का मज़ा

दावत नामा

Common Phrases

दावत पर बुलाना

— To invite someone for a feast.

मैंने उसे दावत पर बुलाया है।

दावत का इंतज़ाम

— Arrangements for a feast.

दावत का इंतज़ाम कौन कर रहा है?

दावत में शरीक होना

— To participate/join in a feast.

क्या आप दावत में शरीक होंगे?

दावत कुबूल करना

— To accept an invitation to a feast.

कृपया मेरी दावत कुबूल करें।

दावत का लुत्फ़ उठाना

— To enjoy the feast.

मेहमानों ने दावत का लुत्फ़ उठाया।

दावत का वक्त

— The time of the feast.

दावत का वक्त शाम सात बजे है।

दावत की तैयारी

— Preparation for the feast.

दावत की तैयारी ज़ोरों पर है।

दावत का शौकीन

— Someone who loves feasts/parties.

वह दावत का बहुत शौकीन है।

दावत रद्द करना

— To cancel a feast.

बारिश की वजह से दावत रद्द कर दी गई।

दावत का माहौल

— The atmosphere of a feast.

घर में दावत का माहौल है।

Often Confused With

दावत vs दवात (Davaat)

Davaat means 'inkpot'. The only difference is the 'v' vs 'w' sound in some dialects, but in writing, the middle consonant is different (v/w vs v). Pronouncing the 'v' too hard can make it sound like inkpot.

दावत vs दवा (Dava)

Dava means 'medicine'. A learner might mishear 'daavat' as 'dava' if they miss the last 't' sound.

दावत vs दावत (Urdu vs Hindi)

In Urdu, 'daavat' can also mean a 'call' to Islam, whereas in Hindi, it almost exclusively means a feast.

Idioms & Expressions

"आँखों की दावत"

— A feast for the eyes; something beautiful to look at.

हिमालय के पहाड़ आँखों की दावत हैं।

Poetic

"दावत उड़ाना"

— To feast heartily or greedily; to enjoy food a lot.

शादी में सबने जमकर दावत उड़ाई।

Informal

"दावत देना (Metaphorical)"

— To invite trouble or a specific situation.

मुसीबत को दावत मत दो। (Don't invite trouble.)

Neutral

"बगैर बुलाए दावत में जाना"

— To be an uninvited guest (gatecrasher).

वह हमेशा बगैर बुलाए दावत में पहुँच जाता है।

Neutral

"दावत-ए-आम"

— A general/open invitation to everyone.

आज मंदिर में दावत-ए-आम है।

Formal

"दावत-ए-इश्क"

— An invitation to love (often used in movies/songs).

यह फिल्म दावत-ए-इश्क की कहानी है।

Literary/Romantic

"दावत-ए-ग़ज़ल"

— An evening dedicated to Ghazals (poetry).

कल शहर में दावत-ए-ग़ज़ल है।

Cultural

"दिमाग की दावत"

— Something that stimulates the mind (intellectual feast).

यह किताब दिमाग की दावत है।

Metaphorical

"दावत का निवाला"

— A morsel of a feast (something small from a big event).

कम से कम दावत का एक निवाला तो लो।

Idiomatic

"मुफ़्त की दावत"

— A free feast/meal.

मुफ़्त की दावत किसे पसंद नहीं?

Colloquial

Easily Confused

दावत vs भोज (Bhoj)

Both mean feast.

'Bhoj' is Sanskrit-based and used in Hindu rituals. 'Daavat' is Persian-based and used generally or in Muslim contexts.

शादी का प्रीति-भोज (Wedding reception feast).

दावत vs निमंत्रण (Nimantran)

Both involve invitations.

'Nimantran' is the invitation itself. 'Daavat' is the feast you are invited to.

मुझे निमंत्रण मिला, पर मैं दावत में नहीं गया।

दावत vs पार्टी (Party)

Both are social gatherings.

'Party' is modern and may not include a full meal. 'Daavat' always implies a meal.

चाय पार्टी (Tea party) vs दावत (Feast).

दावत vs नाश्ता (Nashta)

Both involve food.

'Nashta' is breakfast or snacks. 'Daavat' is a large, celebratory meal.

सुबह का नाश्ता (Morning breakfast).

दावत vs लंगर (Langar)

Both are community meals.

'Langar' is specifically a free community meal served in a Gurudwara (Sikh temple).

गुरुद्वारे में लंगर चल रहा है।

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] [Noun] hai.

आज दावत है।

[Subject] ne [Adjective] दावत दी।

उसने अच्छी दावत दी।

[Subject] [Noun] के लिए [Verb] रहा है।

वह दावत के लिए खाना बना रहा है।

अगर [Condition], तो [Subject] दावत देगा।

अगर मैं जीता, तो मैं दावत दूँगा।

[Noun] आँखों के लिए एक [Adjective] दावत है।

यह नज़ारा आँखों के लिए एक शानदार दावत है।

दावत की [Noun] में [Noun] छुप गया।

दावत की चमक में दुख छुप गया।

क्या आप [Noun] में आएँगे?

क्या आप दावत में आएँगे?

[Noun] का इंतज़ाम [Adverb] है।

दावत का इंतज़ाम बढ़िया है।

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Hindi.

Common Mistakes

Using 'bada' instead of 'badi'. → Badi daavat.
Since 'daavat' is feminine, the adjective must agree in gender.
Confusing 'daavat' with 'davaat'. → Daavat (Feast) vs Davaat (Inkpot).
Though they sound similar, they are spelled differently and have totally different meanings.
Using 'daavat' for a non-food gathering. → Use 'party' or 'milna'.
'Daavat' specifically implies that a meal will be served.
Saying 'Main daavat hoon'. → Main daavat mein hoon (I am at the feast).
Without the postposition 'mein', you are saying 'I am a feast'.
Using 'daavat' as a verb directly. → Daavat dena.
'Daavat' is a noun and needs a supporting verb like 'dena' or 'khana'.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Always remember 'daavat' is feminine. Say 'daavat acchi thi' not 'daavat accha tha'.

The 'Treat' Culture

If you get a new job or buy a car, friends will ask for a 'daavat'. It's a social expectation to share your joy.

Beyond Food

Use 'aankhon ki daavat' to describe a beautiful view. It makes your Hindi sound very sophisticated.

Soft 'T'

The 't' at the end of 'daavat' is soft and dental. Don't let it sound like the 't' in 'top'.

Invitation Verb

Use 'daavat par bulana' to say 'to invite to a feast'. Example: 'Usne mujhe daavat par bulaya'.

Arabic Roots

Knowing it comes from 'Da'wah' (invitation) helps you remember that it's not just about the food, but the act of inviting.

Guest Etiquette

When attending a daavat, always praise the food. It's the best way to show appreciation to the host.

Invitation Cards

On a card, you might see 'Daavat-nama'. This is just a formal way of saying 'Invitation card'.

Contextual Clues

If you hear 'party' and 'daavat' in the same conversation, 'daavat' usually refers to the more traditional meal part.

Daily Practice

Try calling your dinner tonight a 'daavat' to practice the word in a low-stakes environment.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Daa' as 'Dinner' and 'Vat' as a 'Vat' (large container) of food. A Daavat is a Dinner with a Vat of food!

Visual Association

Imagine a long table (Daa...) with a giant silver lid (vat) being lifted to reveal a feast.

Word Web

Food Celebration Guests Host Invitation Grandeur Biryani Hospitality

Challenge

Try to use 'daavat' in three different sentences today: one about a past party, one about a future invitation, and one describing delicious food.

Word Origin

The word originates from the Arabic word 'da'wah' (دَعْوَة), which means 'call' or 'invitation'. It entered Hindi through Persian during the medieval period.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant an invitation to join a cause or a religion, but it evolved to mean an invitation to a meal.

Afro-Asiatic (Arabic) -> Indo-European (Persian) -> Indo-Aryan (Hindi/Urdu).

Cultural Context

When invited to a daavat, it is polite to bring a small gift (like sweets) and never arrive empty-handed. Also, be mindful of dietary restrictions (veg vs non-veg) which are very important in Indian daavats.

In English-speaking cultures, 'party' is more general. In Hindi, 'daavat' specifically promises a full, often heavy, meal.

Movie: 'Daawat-e-Ishq' (2014) - A Bollywood film centered around food and romance. Song: 'Jashn-e-Bahara' often evokes the feeling of a royal daavat. Book: 'Pather Panchali' describes humble village feasts.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Wedding

शादी की दावत लाजवाब है।
दावत में कितने लोग आए हैं?
खाने की दावत कब शुरू होगी?
मेहमान दावत का आनंद ले रहे हैं।

Among Friends

यार, दावत तो बनती है!
आज की दावत मेरी तरफ से।
दावत में क्या-क्या है?
चलो दावत उड़ाते हैं!

At Home

आज घर पर दावत है।
दावत की तैयारी में मदद करो।
सबको दावत पर बुला लो।
दावत का खाना ठंडा हो रहा है।

Formal Invitation

आपको दावत का निमंत्रण है।
कृपया दावत में ज़रूर आएँ।
दावत का स्थान यहाँ है।
आपकी उपस्थिति दावत की शोभा बढ़ाएगी।

Religious Festival

ईद की दावत मुबारक हो।
इफ्तार दावत का समय हो गया।
त्योहार की दावत बहुत खास होती है।
दावत में सबको प्रसाद मिलेगा।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप आज रात की दावत में आ रहे हैं?"

"पिछली बार आपने इतनी शानदार दावत कहाँ खाई थी?"

"अगर आपको एक दावत देनी हो, तो आप खाने में क्या बनाएंगे?"

"क्या आपको बड़ी दावतें पसंद हैं या छोटी पार्टियाँ?"

"दावत में आपका सबसे पसंदीदा पकवान कौन सा है?"

Journal Prompts

अपने जीवन की सबसे यादगार दावत के बारे में लिखें।

अगर आप एक शाही दावत का आयोजन करें, तो मेहमानों की सूची में कौन होगा?

भारतीय दावतों और अपने देश की दावतों के बीच अंतर स्पष्ट करें।

एक अच्छी दावत के लिए सबसे ज़रूरी चीज़ क्या है - खाना या लोग?

क्या आपने कभी किसी को दावत पर बुलाया है? अपना अनुभव साझा करें।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a feminine noun. You should use feminine adjectives (badi, acchi) and verbs (di, thi) with it. For example, 'Ek badi daavat' (A big feast).

Yes, you can, especially if there is a big dinner involved. However, for a casual party with just cake and snacks, the word 'party' is more common.

'Daavat' comes from Persian/Arabic and is used in everyday language. 'Bhoj' comes from Sanskrit and is more formal or used in religious Hindu contexts.

You would say 'Main daavat de raha hoon' (if male) or 'Main daavat de rahi hoon' (if female). The verb 'dena' (to give) is used for hosting.

It literally means 'a feast of love' or 'an invitation to love'. It is a poetic and romantic expression often used in Bollywood.

Yes, it is very common in formal invitations for weddings and receptions, often as 'daavat-e-valima' or 'shaadi ki daavat'.

Yes, it can refer to a feast at any time of day—lunch (dopahar ki daavat) or dinner (raat ki daavat).

The plural is 'daavatein' (दावतें). For example, 'Bahut saari daavatein' (Many feasts).

Usually, yes. A 'daavat' is something given by a host to guests. If you are going to a restaurant and everyone pays, it's not typically called a 'daavat' unless one person is treating everyone else.

Yes, it is extremely common in Urdu in Pakistan and carries the exact same meaning of a feast or invitation.