At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe basic actions. 'Jimmedari' might seem like a long word, but you can think of it as 'work' or 'duty'. At this stage, you should focus on the simple present tense: 'I take responsibility.' You might use it when talking about simple chores, like taking care of a pet or a book. Even if you don't use the full phrase perfectly, knowing the word 'Jimmedari' helps you understand when someone is asking you to be careful or to look after something. Remember: 'Jimmedari' is the 'thing' (responsibility) and 'Lena' is the 'action' (to take). Just like you 'take' a glass of water, you 'take' responsibility. It is a very important word for showing that you are a good friend or a helpful person. You can practice by saying 'Main jimmedari leta hoon' for small things like cleaning your room.
At the A2 level, you can begin to use 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' in simple past and future sentences. You are learning that verbs change based on time. For 'Jimmedari lena', the most important thing to learn is that 'Jimmedari' is feminine. So, if you did something yesterday, you say 'Maine jimmedari li' (I took responsibility). If you will do it tomorrow, you say 'Main jimmedari lूँगा' (I will take responsibility). You can use this phrase when talking about your job or your family. For example, 'I take responsibility for the food' (Main khane ki jimmedari leta hoon). At this level, you are starting to connect nouns with the postposition 'ki'. Because 'Jimmedari' is feminine, we use 'ki' before it. 'Galti ki jimmedari' (Responsibility of the mistake). This helps you build longer sentences and express more complex ideas than just basic needs.
As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable using 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' in various social and professional contexts. This is the level where you move beyond literal meanings and start using the phrase to express commitment and accountability. You should understand the 'Ne' construction in the past tense perfectly: 'Usne apni galti ki jimmedari li' (He took responsibility for his mistake). You can also start using modal verbs like 'chahiye' (should) or 'sakta' (can). For example, 'Hamein paryavaran ki jimmedari leni chahiye' (We should take responsibility for the environment). You are also expected to recognize the difference between the noun 'Jimmedari' and the adjective 'Jimmedar' (responsible). A B1 speaker can explain why they are taking responsibility and what the consequences might be. This phrase is essential for workplace conversations and discussing social issues in Hindi.
At the B2 level, you should use 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' with nuance and idiomatic flair. You understand that taking responsibility involves not just the action but the social weight behind it. You can use it in the passive voice or in complex conditional sentences. 'Agar mujhe mauka mila, toh main is project ki puri jimmedari lूँगा' (If I get the chance, I will take full responsibility for this project). You should also be able to use related terms like 'uttardayitv' in formal settings and 'farz' in moral contexts. At this stage, you are expected to handle the gender agreement and the 'ne' particle instinctively without thinking. You can also use the phrase to talk about abstract concepts like 'social responsibility' (samajik jimmedari) or 'moral responsibility' (naitik jimmedari). Your vocabulary is rich enough to explain the nuances of accountability in a debate or a professional presentation.
C1 learners should be able to use 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' in sophisticated, high-level discourse. You can use the phrase to analyze leadership styles, discuss legal liabilities, or explore philosophical themes in literature. You understand the subtle differences between 'Jimmedari lena' and 'Jimma uthana' or 'Uttardayitv swikar karna'. You can use the phrase in complex sentence structures, such as 'Jimmedari lene se inkar karna' (To refuse to take responsibility). You are sensitive to the register of the conversation—knowing when to use the common 'Jimmedari' and when to switch to the formal 'Uttardayitv' to sound more authoritative. You can also discuss the cultural implications of the phrase in Indian society, such as the burden of responsibility in joint families. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, showing a deep grasp of both grammar and cultural context.
At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' and its place in the vast landscape of Hindi vocabulary. You can use it in creative writing, oratory, and complex negotiation. You understand the historical etymology of 'Jimmedari' and how it has evolved in the Indian linguistic landscape. You can use the phrase in all its forms, including archaic or highly poetic variations. You are capable of using it to express irony, sarcasm, or profound emotional depth. For a C2 speaker, 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' is not just a verb but a concept that you can deconstruct and discuss in the context of ethics, governance, and human nature. You can seamlessly integrate it into a discourse on any topic, from corporate governance to existential philosophy, with perfect grammatical precision and native-level fluency.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना in 30 Seconds

  • To own a task or mistake.
  • Essential for leadership in Hindi.
  • Grammatically feminine: 'Jimmedari li'.
  • Used in both home and office.

The Hindi phrase ज़िम्मेदारी लेना (Jimmedari Lena) is a profound expression that transcends simple task management; it encapsulates the moral, social, and professional act of assuming accountability. Derived from the Persian word 'Jimma' (meaning charge or care) and the Hindi verb 'Lena' (to take), it signifies a conscious decision to be the person answerable for an outcome. In Indian culture, where collective identity and family roles are paramount, taking responsibility is often viewed as a rite of passage into adulthood and leadership. When you use this phrase, you aren't just saying you will do a chore; you are declaring that the success or failure of a venture rests upon your shoulders. It is used in high-stakes professional environments, intimate family discussions, and legal contexts to define the boundaries of duty.

The Moral Weight
In a philosophical sense, taking responsibility in the Hindi-speaking world is linked to 'Dharma' or duty. While 'Jimmedari' is the common term, the act of 'lena' (taking it) implies a proactive stance. It is the difference between being assigned a task and owning the result of that task. For instance, a leader doesn't just delegate; they take the ultimate 'jimmedari' for the team's performance.
Social Dynamics
In an Indian household, the eldest child is often expected to 'jimmedari lena' for their younger siblings. This phrase is heavy with the expectation of self-sacrifice and guidance. It is less about 'control' and more about 'stewardship'. When someone says 'Main iski jimmedari leta hoon,' they are effectively providing a guarantee of safety or success to others.

'अगर काम बिगड़ गया, तो मैं पूरी ज़िम्मेदारी लूँगा।' (If the work fails, I will take full responsibility.)

- A common assurance in professional Hindi settings.

Furthermore, the phrase is frequently used in political discourse and media. When a crisis occurs, the public demands that someone 'jimmedari le' (take responsibility). In this context, it is synonymous with 'accountability'. It is not just about fixing the problem but acknowledging the fault. This duality—of being both a burden and a badge of honor—makes 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' one of the most significant phrasal verbs for an intermediate learner to master. It moves you beyond basic survival Hindi into the realm of complex human interaction and social ethics.

Using 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' correctly requires an understanding of Hindi's transitive verb structures and gender agreement. Since 'ज़िम्मेदारी' (Jimmedari) is a feminine noun, it dictates the form of the verb in perfective tenses. Mastering this phrase allows you to navigate professional hierarchies and personal commitments with linguistic precision. You will find that this phrase often appears in the 'Ne' construction in the past tense, which is a common stumbling block for English speakers.

Grammar: The 'Ne' Particle
In the past tense, because 'lena' is transitive, the subject takes 'ne'. Example: 'Maine jimmedari li' (I took responsibility). Notice how 'li' is used instead of 'liya' because it agrees with the feminine noun 'jimmedari', not the subject 'main'.
Future Intentions
When making a promise, use the future tense: 'Main is project ki jimmedari lूँगा' (I will take responsibility for this project). For a female speaker, it becomes 'lूँगी' (loongi).

'क्या आप अपने कार्यों की ज़िम्मेदारी लेने के लिए तैयार हैं?' (Are you ready to take responsibility for your actions?)

In complex sentences, you might use the infinitive form 'lene' when it is followed by a postposition or acts as an object. For example, 'Jimmedari lene ka samay' (The time to take responsibility). You can also use it with modal verbs like 'chahiye' (should). 'Hamein apni galti ki jimmedari leni chahiye' (We should take responsibility for our mistake). Here, 'leni' agrees with the feminine 'jimmedari'.

In formal writing, such as an email or a report, 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' is the standard. However, you might also see 'uttardayitv nibhana' (to fulfill accountability), but 'jimmedari lena' remains the most versatile and commonly understood version across all dialects of Hindi, from the streets of Delhi to corporate offices in Mumbai.

'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' is a staple of Hindi cinema (Bollywood), news broadcasts, and daily household negotiations. In movies, you will often hear a protagonist say this during a climactic scene where they decide to protect their family or stand up against injustice. It is a 'heroic' verb that signals a shift in the character's arc from passive to active. In the news, it is used during political debates—reporters often ask, 'Kaun is nakami ki jimmedari lega?' (Who will take responsibility for this failure?).

Workplace Context
In a corporate setting in India, taking responsibility is equated with leadership potential. During appraisals, a manager might say, 'Aapko aur zyada jimmedari leni hogi' (You will have to take more responsibility). It indicates a promotion or an increase in the scope of work.
News and Media
When a sports team loses a match, the captain often appears in a press conference and says, 'Main is haar ki jimmedari leta hoon' (I take responsibility for this defeat). This is a standard phrase for public figures to show integrity.

'बड़ी शक्ति के साथ बड़ी ज़िम्मेदारी आती है।' (With great power comes great responsibility.)

You will also hear this in parental advice. Indian parents frequently use this to encourage their children to be more diligent. 'Ab tum bade ho gaye ho, tumhe ghar ki jimmedari leni chahiye' (Now you are grown up, you should take responsibility for the house). This reflects the cultural transition where the younger generation begins to care for the elders. It is also common in legal dramas on television, where a lawyer might argue about who takes the 'legal jimmedari' for a contract breach.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is regarding the gender of 'ज़िम्मेदारी'. Because 'responsibility' is abstract, learners often default to masculine verb endings. However, in Hindi, abstract nouns ending in 'i' (ई) are usually feminine. Therefore, saying 'Maine jimmedari liya' is a glaring grammatical error; it must be 'Maine jimmedari li'. This gender agreement is the hallmark of a fluent speaker.

Confusing 'Lena' with 'Karna'
Learners often try to say 'Jimmedari karna' (To do responsibility), which is incorrect. You 'take' (lena) responsibility or 'fulfill' (nibhana) it. You never 'do' it. Think of it as an object you pick up and carry.
Postposition Errors
When saying 'responsibility for [something]', use the 'ki' postposition because 'jimmedari' is feminine. 'Galti ki jimmedari' (Responsibility for the mistake), not 'Galti ka jimmedari'.

Incorrect: उसने काम का ज़िम्मेदारी लिया। (Usne kaam ka jimmedari liya.)

Correct: उसने काम की ज़िम्मेदारी ली। (Usne kaam ki jimmedari li.)

Another common mistake is failing to use the 'ne' particle in the past tense. Since 'lena' is a transitive verb, you must say 'Maine jimmedari li' instead of 'Main jimmedari li'. Also, be careful with the word 'Jimmedar' (Responsible - Adjective) versus 'Jimmedari' (Responsibility - Noun). You 'are' jimmedar, but you 'take' jimmedari. Mixing these up—like saying 'I take responsible'—is a common slip-up for beginners.

While 'ज़िम्मेदारी लेना' is the most common way to express taking responsibility, Hindi offers several synonyms that vary in formality and nuance. Understanding these alternatives will help you tailor your speech to the context, whether you are in a boardroom or at a casual dinner. The most formal alternative is 'उत्तरदायित्व लेना' (Uttardayitv lena), which is purely Sanskrit-derived and used in official government documents or highly academic settings.

उत्तरदायित्व (Uttardayitv)
This is the formal 'Accountability'. It is used when the stakes are legal or administrative. Example: 'Sarkar ko is ghatna ka uttardayitv lena chahiye' (The government should take accountability for this incident).
फ़र्ज़ (Farz)
Meaning 'Duty', this word has a more emotional or moral connotation. You don't 'take' a farz, you 'nibhaate' (fulfill) it. It is often used in the context of one's duty toward parents or country.
भार (Bhaar)
Literally meaning 'Weight' or 'Burden', it is used metaphorically. 'Usne saari jimmedari ka bhaar apne upar le liya' (He took the weight of all responsibility upon himself).

In casual Urdu-influenced Hindi, you might also hear 'Zimma uthana' (ज़िम्मा उठाना). 'Uthana' means 'to lift', suggesting that responsibility is a heavy object being picked up. This is very common in poetic or dramatic contexts. On the other hand, 'Karta-dharta' is a colloquial term for the person who 'takes all responsibility' for a household or organization, effectively the 'all-in-all'.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Zimma' in medieval times referred to the legal protection offered by a state to non-Muslim citizens (Dhimmis). Over time, it evolved into the general word for responsibility in Urdu and Hindi.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /zɪm.meː.d̪aː.riː leː.naː/
US /zɪm.meɪ.dɑː.riː leɪ.nɑː/
Primary stress on the second syllable of 'Jim-me-da-ri' and the first syllable of 'Le-na'.
Rhymes With
Samaajdari (Social sense) Samajhdari (Wisdom) Dukaandari (Shopkeeping) Imandaari (Honesty) Wafadari (Loyalty) Hissedari (Partnership) Pahredari (Guarding) Kiraayedaari (Tenancy)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'z' as 'j' (Jimmedari instead of Zimmedari).
  • Using a retroflex 'd' instead of a dental 'd' in 'dari'.
  • Shortening the final 'i' in 'Jimmedari'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is long but follows standard phonetic rules. Recognition is easy once the 'z' sound is mastered.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of the 'ne' particle and feminine verb agreement in the past tense.

Speaking 4/5

The 'z' sound (nuqta) can be tricky for native Hindi speakers from some regions and for learners.

Listening 3/5

Clearly audible in news and movies; usually emphasized.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

काम (Work) लेना (To take) गलती (Mistake) अपना (Own) करना (To do)

Learn Next

उत्तरदायित्व (Accountability) कर्तव्य (Duty) निभाना (To fulfill) जवाबदेह (Accountable) साहस (Courage)

Advanced

नैतिकता (Morality) नेतृत्व (Leadership) प्रतिबद्धता (Commitment) प्रामाणिकता (Authenticity) विरासत (Legacy)

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs in Past Tense

Subject + ने + Object + Verb (agrees with Object). 'Maine jimmedari li.'

Feminine Noun Agreement

'Jimmedari' is feminine, so adjectives must be feminine: 'Badi jimmedari'.

Infinitive as Noun

'Jimmedari lena (Taking responsibility) mushkil hai.'

Postposition 'Ki'

Responsibility 'of' something uses 'ki': 'Kaam ki jimmedari'.

Compound Verbs

'Le lena' (to take up completely) is a common intensive form: 'Usne jimmedari le li.'

Examples by Level

1

मैं अपनी किताब की ज़िम्मेदारी लेता हूँ।

I take responsibility for my book.

Simple present tense. 'Leta' is masculine singular.

2

क्या आप ज़िम्मेदारी लेंगे?

Will you take responsibility?

Future tense, polite 'aap' form.

3

वह घर की ज़िम्मेदारी लेती है।

She takes responsibility for the house.

Feminine subject 'voh', verb becomes 'leti'.

4

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना अच्छा है।

Taking responsibility is good.

Gerund use of the infinitive.

5

मेरी ज़िम्मेदारी क्या है?

What is my responsibility?

'Meri' is feminine to match 'Jimmedari'.

6

छोटा काम, बड़ी ज़िम्मेदारी।

Small work, big responsibility.

Adjective agreement: 'Badi' (feminine).

7

मैं ज़िम्मेदारी लेना चाहता हूँ।

I want to take responsibility.

'Chahata' (want) + infinitive.

8

आप ज़िम्मेदारी मत लीजिए।

Please do not take responsibility.

Imperative negative with 'mat'.

1

कल मैंने सफ़ाई की ज़िम्मेदारी ली।

Yesterday I took responsibility for the cleaning.

Past tense with 'ne'. Verb 'li' matches 'jimmedari'.

2

आपको अपने काम की ज़िम्मेदारी लेनी चाहिए।

You should take responsibility for your work.

'Chahiye' (should) construction. 'Leni' matches 'jimmedari'.

3

वह ज़िम्मेदारी लेने से डरता है।

He is afraid of taking responsibility.

'Se darta hai' (is afraid of).

4

क्या तुमने अपनी गलती की ज़िम्मेदारी ली?

Did you take responsibility for your mistake?

Interrogative past tense.

5

हम सब मिलकर ज़िम्मेदारी लेंगे।

We all will take responsibility together.

Plural future tense 'lenge'.

6

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना मुश्किल नहीं है।

Taking responsibility is not difficult.

Negative sentence with 'nahi'.

7

उसने बहुत सारी ज़िम्मेदारियाँ लीं।

He/She took many responsibilities.

Plural 'Jimmedariyan' makes the verb 'leen'.

8

माँ ने रसोई की ज़िम्मेदारी ली है।

Mother has taken responsibility for the kitchen.

Present perfect tense.

1

एक अच्छा नेता हमेशा ज़िम्मेदारी लेता है।

A good leader always takes responsibility.

General truth in simple present.

2

क्या आप इस प्रोजेक्ट की ज़िम्मेदारी लेने के लिए तैयार हैं?

Are you ready to take responsibility for this project?

'Ke liye taiyar' (ready for).

3

मैनेजर ने अपनी टीम की हार की ज़िम्मेदारी ली।

The manager took responsibility for his team's defeat.

Complex past tense with 'ki' possessive.

4

ज़िम्मेदारी लेने से इंसान बड़ा बनता है।

One becomes great by taking responsibility.

Abstract concept with 'se' (by).

5

आपको अपनी सेहत की ज़िम्मेदारी खुद लेनी होगी।

You will have to take responsibility for your health yourself.

'Hogi' (will have to) - compulsion.

6

बिना ज़िम्मेदारी लिए आप सफल नहीं हो सकते।

You cannot be successful without taking responsibility.

'Bina ... liye' (without taking).

7

उसने अपनी पुरानी गलतियों की ज़िम्मेदारी लेना शुरू कर दिया है।

He has started taking responsibility for his past mistakes.

'Shuru kar diya' (started doing).

8

क्या समाज को अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी नहीं लेनी चाहिए?

Shouldn't society take its responsibility?

Rhetorical question with 'chahiye'.

1

जब तक आप ज़िम्मेदारी नहीं लेंगे, कोई आपकी मदद नहीं करेगा।

Until you take responsibility, no one will help you.

Conditional 'Jab tak ... tab tak'.

2

कंपनी ने पर्यावरण को हुए नुकसान की पूरी ज़िम्मेदारी ली है।

The company has taken full responsibility for the damage to the environment.

Formal corporate context.

3

वह अपनी सफलता का श्रेय दूसरों को देता है, लेकिन हार की ज़िम्मेदारी खुद लेता है।

He gives credit for his success to others, but takes responsibility for defeat himself.

Contrast using 'lekin' (but).

4

ज़िम्मेदारी लेने की क्षमता ही असली नेतृत्व है।

The ability to take responsibility is true leadership.

'Lene ki kshamta' (ability to take).

5

सरकार को बढ़ती महंगाई की ज़िम्मेदारी लेनी पड़ेगी।

The government will have to take responsibility for the rising inflation.

'Padegi' (will have to - external pressure).

6

अगर उसने पहले ही ज़िम्मेदारी ले ली होती, तो यह नौबत न आती।

If he had taken responsibility earlier, this situation wouldn't have arisen.

Past conditional (Irrealis).

7

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना केवल शब्दों का खेल नहीं, बल्कि कर्मों का प्रमाण है।

Taking responsibility is not just a play of words, but a proof of actions.

'Keval ... balki' (not only ... but).

8

उसने हँसते-हँसते इस भारी ज़िम्मेदारी को स्वीकार कर लिया।

He accepted this heavy responsibility with a smile.

Adverbial phrase 'haste-haste'.

1

नैतिक दृष्टिकोण से, हमें आने वाली पीढ़ियों की ज़िम्मेदारी लेनी होगी।

From a moral standpoint, we must take responsibility for future generations.

Formal 'Naitik drishtikon' (moral standpoint).

2

संपादक ने लेख में हुई तथ्यात्मक त्रुटियों की नैतिक ज़िम्मेदारी लेते हुए इस्तीफा दे दिया।

The editor resigned, taking moral responsibility for the factual errors in the article.

Participle 'lete hue' (while taking).

3

किसी भी बड़े बदलाव के लिए व्यक्तिगत ज़िम्मेदारी लेना अनिवार्य है।

Taking personal responsibility is mandatory for any big change.

Formal 'Anivarya' (mandatory).

4

क्या आप इस कानूनी ज़िम्मेदारी को निभाने के लिए कानूनी रूप से बाध्य हैं?

Are you legally bound to fulfill this legal responsibility?

Legal terminology: 'Badhya' (bound).

5

इतिहास गवाह है कि जिन्होंने ज़िम्मेदारी लेने से मुँह मोड़ा, वे पतन का शिकार हुए।

History is witness that those who turned away from taking responsibility fell.

Literary 'Muh modna' (turning away).

6

कॉर्पोरेट जगत में, ज़िम्मेदारी लेना अक्सर जोखिम उठाने के बराबर होता है।

In the corporate world, taking responsibility is often equivalent to taking risks.

'Ke barabar' (equivalent to).

7

उसने अपनी चुप्पी तोड़ते हुए अंततः पूरी ज़िम्मेदारी ली।

Breaking his silence, he finally took full responsibility.

'Chuppi todte hue' (breaking silence).

8

ज़िम्मेदारी लेने का साहस हर किसी में नहीं होता।

Not everyone has the courage to take responsibility.

'Lene ka saahas' (courage to take).

1

दार्शनिक रूप से, ज़िम्मेदारी लेना अस्तित्ववादी स्वतंत्रता का एक अनिवार्य हिस्सा है।

Philosophically, taking responsibility is an essential part of existential freedom.

Academic/Philosophical register.

2

सत्ता के गलियारों में, ज़िम्मेदारी लेना अक्सर एक राजनीतिक चाल मात्र होती है।

In the corridors of power, taking responsibility is often merely a political move.

Metaphorical 'Satta ke galiyare'.

3

उसने अपने पूर्वजों की विरासत और उनकी ज़िम्मेदारियों को पूरी निष्ठा से स्वीकार किया।

He accepted the legacy of his ancestors and their responsibilities with full devotion.

High literary style.

4

प्रणालीगत विफलताओं की व्यक्तिगत ज़िम्मेदारी लेना एक जटिल नैतिक दुविधा है।

Taking personal responsibility for systemic failures is a complex moral dilemma.

Advanced vocabulary: 'Pranaligat' (systemic).

5

जब न्यायपालिका स्वयं की ज़िम्मेदारी लेने में विफल हो जाए, तो लोकतंत्र खतरे में पड़ जाता है।

When the judiciary fails to take its own responsibility, democracy is endangered.

Political analysis.

6

उसने अपने कृत्यों के परिणामों की पूर्ण ज़िम्मेदारी लेते हुए आत्म-साक्षात्कार किया।

Taking full responsibility for the consequences of his actions, he achieved self-realization.

Spiritual/Self-help context.

7

ज़िम्मेदारी लेने की यह प्रक्रिया केवल व्यक्तिगत नहीं, बल्कि एक सामूहिक चेतना का हिस्सा है।

This process of taking responsibility is not just individual, but part of a collective consciousness.

Sociological terminology.

8

इतिहास की धारा को मोड़ने के लिए किसी एक व्यक्ति का ज़िम्मेदारी लेना ही पर्याप्त होता है।

To turn the tide of history, it is enough for one individual to take responsibility.

Epic/Historical register.

Synonyms

उत्तरदायित्व लेना ज़िम्मा उठाना भार संभालना जवाबदेही स्वीकार करना फ़र्ज़ निभाना कमान संभालना बीड़ा उठाना दायित्व लेना

Antonyms

ज़िम्मेदारी से भागना पल्ला झाड़ना टालमटोल करना लापरवाही बरतना

Common Collocations

पूरी ज़िम्मेदारी
नैतिक ज़िम्मेदारी
कानूनी ज़िम्मेदारी
व्यक्तिगत ज़िम्मेदारी
सामाजिक ज़िम्मेदारी
सामूहिक ज़िम्मेदारी
ज़िम्मेदारी का अहसास
ज़िम्मेदारी का बोझ
ज़िम्मेदारी सौंपना
ज़िम्मेदारी से बचना

Common Phrases

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना सीखो

— Learn to take responsibility. Common advice for youngsters.

अब तुम बड़े हो गए हो, ज़िम्मेदारी लेना सीखो।

अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी समझना

— To realize one's duty.

हर नागरिक को अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी समझनी चाहिए।

ज़िम्मेदारी का पद

— A position of responsibility.

वह एक बड़े ज़िम्मेदारी के पद पर है।

ज़िम्मेदारी से मुँह मोड़ना

— To turn away from responsibility.

मुसीबत में ज़िम्मेदारी से मुँह नहीं मोड़ना चाहिए।

ज़िम्मेदारी का निर्वाह करना

— To fulfill or carry out responsibility.

उसने अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी का कुशलता से निर्वाह किया।

बड़ी ज़िम्मेदारी

— Big responsibility.

नया बच्चा होना एक बड़ी ज़िम्मेदारी है।

ज़िम्मेदारी का हस्तांतरण

— Transfer of responsibility.

पुराने मैनेजर ने नए को ज़िम्मेदारी का हस्तांतरण किया।

ज़िम्मेदारी की भावना

— Sense of responsibility.

बच्चों में ज़िम्मेदारी की भावना पैदा करनी चाहिए।

ज़िम्मेदारी के साथ

— With responsibility.

अपनी शक्ति का प्रयोग ज़िम्मेदारी के साथ करें।

ज़िम्मेदारी उठाना

— To bear or lift responsibility.

गरीब परिवार की ज़िम्मेदारी उसने उठाई।

Often Confused With

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs ज़िम्मेदार (Jimmedar)

This is an adjective (responsible). You 'are' jimmedar, but you 'take' (lena) jimmedari.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs कर्तव्य (Kartavya)

This is 'duty' in a more ritualistic or inherent sense, whereas jimmedari is often situational.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs काम (Kaam)

'Kaam' is just work. 'Jimmedari' is the accountability for that work.

Idioms & Expressions

"ज़िम्मेदारी अपने कंधों पर लेना"

— To take responsibility on one's own shoulders.

उसने पूरे गाँव की सुरक्षा की ज़िम्मेदारी अपने कंधों पर ले ली।

Literary
"पल्ला झाड़ लेना"

— To avoid responsibility by claiming one has nothing to do with it.

काम बिगड़ने पर उसने पल्ला झाड़ लिया।

Colloquial
"सिर मढ़ना"

— To force responsibility onto someone else.

उसने अपनी गलती मेरे सिर मढ़ दी।

Informal
"बीड़ा उठाना"

— To take a vow to complete a difficult task.

गाँधी जी ने देश को आज़ाद कराने का बीड़ा उठाया।

Formal/Historical
"कमर कसना"

— To prepare oneself for a big responsibility/task.

परीक्षा के लिए उसने कमर कस ली है।

Neutral
"हाथ खींच लेना"

— To withdraw support or responsibility.

मुसीबत आने पर उसने अपना हाथ खींच लिया।

Informal
"आँखें फेर लेना"

— To ignore one's responsibility.

उसने अपने बूढ़े माता-पिता से आँखें फेर लीं।

Emotional
"ज़िम्मेदार ठहराना"

— To hold someone responsible.

पुलिस ने उसे चोरी के लिए ज़िम्मेदार ठहराया।

Legal/Neutral
"दायित्व निभाना"

— To fulfill one's obligation.

उसने एक पिता का दायित्व बखूबी निभाया।

Formal
"ज़िम्मे का काम"

— A task that is one's responsibility.

यह मेरे ज़िम्मे का काम है, आप फिक्र न करें।

Regional/Urdu-mixed

Easily Confused

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs ज़िम्मेदार (Jimmedar)

Both share the same root.

Jimmedar is a quality (He is responsible). Jimmedari is a thing you have (He has responsibility).

Voh ek jimmedar (adj) ladka hai, isliye usne jimmedari (noun) li.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs फ़र्ज़ (Farz)

Both mean things you must do.

Farz is a moral/religious duty. Jimmedari is a general accountability.

Desh ki raksha mera farz hai.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs भार (Bhaar)

Both imply something heavy to carry.

Bhaar is literally weight; Jimmedari is metaphorical.

Usne saara bhaar (weight) uthaya.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs अधिकार (Adhikar)

People often talk about rights and responsibilities together.

Adhikar is 'Right' (power). Jimmedari is 'Responsibility' (duty).

Adhikar ke saath jimmedari aati hai.

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना vs लेना (Lena) vs करना (Karna)

English uses 'do' for many tasks.

In Hindi, you 'take' responsibility, you don't 'do' it.

Maine jimmedari li (Correct). Maine jimmedari ki (Incorrect).

Sentence Patterns

A1

Main [Noun] ki jimmedari leta hoon.

Main ghar ki jimmedari leta hoon.

A2

Maine [Noun] ki jimmedari li.

Maine party ki jimmedari li.

B1

Hamein [Noun] ki jimmedari leni chahiye.

Hamein safai ki jimmedari leni chahiye.

B2

[Subject] ko [Noun] ki jimmedari leni padegi.

Sarkar ko iski jimmedari leni padegi.

C1

[Participle] hue, usne jimmedari li.

Naitikta dikhate hue, usne jimmedari li.

C1

[Noun] lene ka saahas...

Jimmedari lene ka saahas dikhao.

C2

Jimmedari lene ki prakriya...

Jimmedari lene ki prakriya jatil hai.

C2

[Abstract Noun] ki jimmedari...

Astitv ki jimmedari lena swadhinta hai.

Word Family

Nouns

ज़िम्मेदारी (Responsibility)
ज़िम्मेदार (Responsible person)
ज़िम्मा (Charge/Task)

Verbs

ज़िम्मेदारी लेना (To take responsibility)
ज़िम्मेदारी सौंपना (To assign responsibility)
ज़िम्मेदारी निभाना (To fulfill responsibility)

Adjectives

ज़िम्मेदार (Responsible)
गैर-ज़िम्मेदार (Irresponsible)

Related

फ़र्ज़ (Duty)
कर्तव्य (Obligation)
उत्तरदायित्व (Accountability)
जवाबदेही (Answerability)
भार (Burden)

How to Use It

frequency

Used daily in various contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Maine jimmedari liya. Maine jimmedari li.

    'Jimmedari' is feminine, so the past tense verb must be 'li'.

  • Main jimmedari kiya. Maine jimmedari li.

    You 'take' responsibility, you don't 'do' it. Also, 'ne' is required.

  • Voh bahut jimmedari aadmi hai. Voh bahut jimmedar aadmi hai.

    Use the adjective 'Jimmedar' to describe a person, not the noun 'Jimmedari'.

  • Kaam ka jimmedari. Kaam ki jimmedari.

    Use the feminine postposition 'ki' because 'Jimmedari' is feminine.

  • Usne jimmedari se bhaga. Voh jimmedari se bhaga.

    'Bhagna' (to run) is intransitive, so 'ne' should not be used.

Tips

Gender Check

Always remember 'Jimmedari' is feminine. Your verbs and adjectives must end in 'i' or 'e' accordingly.

Family First

In India, taking responsibility for your family is considered the highest virtue. Mentioning this in conversation shows cultural depth.

Nuqta Matters

Try to pronounce the 'z' in Zimmedari. It sounds more sophisticated and accurate than the 'j' sound.

Formal vs Informal

Use 'Jimmedari' for friends and 'Uttardayitv' for your boss or in a formal report.

Synonym Swap

To sound more poetic, use 'Jimma uthana' instead of 'Jimmedari lena'.

The 'Dare'

Remember: It is a 'Dare' to 'Me' to take the task. Jim-Me-Dari.

No 'Karna'

Never say 'Jimmedari karna'. It's like saying 'to do a responsibility' in English. It sounds wrong.

Press Conferences

Watch Hindi news press conferences; you will hear this phrase every time a politician or captain speaks.

Office Power

In a Hindi-speaking office, saying 'Main iski jimmedari leta hoon' is the fastest way to gain respect.

Daily Task

Every morning, say one thing you will take responsibility for: 'Aaj main [task] ki jimmedari leta hoon'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'Jim' is a 'me-dari' (dare-me). Jim dares me to take the responsibility of the gym!

Visual Association

Imagine a person picking up a heavy golden key (Jimmedari) and putting it in their pocket (Lena).

Word Web

Duty Accountability Work Leader Mistake Care Ownership Action

Challenge

Try to use 'Jimmedari lena' in three different tenses (Past, Present, Future) while talking about your household chores today.

Word Origin

'Jimmedari' is derived from Persian 'Zimma' (charge/protection) + the suffix '-dari' (holding/having). 'Lena' is a native Indo-Aryan verb from Sanskrit 'Labhate'.

Original meaning: To hold a charge or to keep someone/something under one's protection.

Indo-Iranian (Persian) mixed with Indo-Aryan (Hindi).

Cultural Context

Avoid using 'Jimmedari' in a way that sounds like you are forcing a burden on someone unless intended. It is a respected word.

In English, we often 'take responsibility' mostly for mistakes. In Hindi, 'Jimmedari lena' is just as often about taking on a positive new role or duty.

Spider-Man (Hindi Dub): 'Badi shakti ke saath badi jimmedari aati hai'. Bhagavad Gita: Concepts of 'Karma' and 'Dharma' are the philosophical roots of taking responsibility. Bollywood movie 'Lakshya': A story about a boy learning to take responsibility.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Office

  • मैं इस टास्क की ज़िम्मेदारी लेता हूँ।
  • किसकी ज़िम्मेदारी है?
  • ज़िम्मेदारी बाँटना (To share responsibility)
  • ज़िम्मेदारी से पीछे हटना (To back out)

Family

  • घर की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • बच्चों की ज़िम्मेदारी लेना
  • ज़िम्मेदार बेटा/बेटी
  • अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी निभाओ

Legal/News

  • नैतिक ज़िम्मेदारी लेते हुए इस्तीफा
  • हादसे की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • कानूनी ज़िम्मेदारी
  • ज़िम्मेदार कौन?

Social

  • समाज की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • पर्यावरण की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • नागरिक की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • मदद करने की ज़िम्मेदारी

Personal Growth

  • खुद की ज़िम्मेदारी लेना
  • अपनी खुशी की ज़िम्मेदारी
  • गलतियों से सीखना
  • ज़िम्मेदार इंसान

Conversation Starters

"क्या आप मानते हैं कि आज की पीढ़ी ज़िम्मेदारी लेना जानती है?"

"आपके जीवन की सबसे बड़ी ज़िम्मेदारी क्या रही है?"

"अगर कोई अपनी ज़िम्मेदारी न ले, तो क्या करना चाहिए?"

"क्या ऑफिस में ज़िम्मेदारी लेना तनावपूर्ण होता है?"

"बच्चों को किस उम्र से ज़िम्मेदारी लेना सिखाना चाहिए?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने किस चीज़ की ज़िम्मेदारी ली और मुझे कैसा लगा?

मेरे लिए 'ज़िम्मेदारी' शब्द का क्या अर्थ है?

एक समय के बारे में लिखें जब आपने अपनी गलती की ज़िम्मेदारी ली।

क्या मैं अपनी सेहत की पूरी ज़िम्मेदारी ले रहा हूँ?

भविष्य में मैं कौन सी नई ज़िम्मेदारियाँ लेना चाहता हूँ?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is feminine. This is very important for verb agreement. You must say 'Jimmedari li' or 'Jimmedari leni chahiye'.

No, that is incorrect. You should always use 'Jimmedari lena' (to take) or 'Jimmedari nibhana' (to fulfill).

'Jimmedari' is common and used in daily life. 'Uttardayitv' is very formal and usually found in law, politics, or formal writing.

You say 'Main puri (full) jimmedari leta hoon.'

Use the 'ne' particle: 'Maine jimmedari li' (I took responsibility).

It is officially 'Zimmedari' (with a nuqta/dot under the 'j'), but many native speakers colloquially pronounce it as 'Jimmedari'.

It means 'to run away from responsibility' or to avoid your duties.

Yes, the plural is 'Jimmedariyan'. Example: 'Usne bahut saari jimmedariyan li hain.'

You say 'Jimmedar kaun hai?' (using the adjective) or 'Iski jimmedari kiski hai?' (whose responsibility is this?).

Yes, it is exactly the same in Urdu, as it comes from Persian roots.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Hindi: 'I will take responsibility for the food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate: 'He took responsibility for his mistake.'

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writing

Use 'Jimmedari lena' in a sentence about your job.

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writing

Write a formal sentence using 'Uttardayitv'.

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writing

Translate: 'Taking responsibility is the first step to success.'

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writing

Write a sentence about moral responsibility.

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writing

Translate: 'Who will take responsibility for this accident?'

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writing

Write a short dialogue (2 lines) between a boss and employee using the word.

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writing

Translate: 'I am afraid of taking responsibility.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Jimmedariyan' (plural).

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writing

Translate: 'We should take responsibility for our environment.'

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writing

Use 'Jimma uthana' in a dramatic sentence.

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writing

Translate: 'He is a very responsible person.'

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writing

Write a sentence about personal growth and responsibility.

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writing

Translate: 'She accepted the responsibility with a smile.'

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writing

Translate: 'Don't run away from your responsibilities.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Kanooni Jimmedari'.

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writing

Translate: 'With great power comes great responsibility.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Samuhik Jimmedari'.

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writing

Translate: 'I have taken full responsibility.'

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speaking

Pronounce: ज़िम्मेदारी लेना

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I take responsibility' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'She took responsibility' in Hindi.

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speaking

Ask someone 'Will you take responsibility?' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'It is my responsibility' in Hindi.

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speaking

Explain in one sentence why taking responsibility is important.

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speaking

Say 'I am a responsible person' in Hindi.

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speaking

Tell your boss you will handle a project.

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speaking

Say 'Don't be irresponsible' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'We must take responsibility for our children.'

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speaking

Pronounce carefully: उत्तरदायित्व

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speaking

Say 'I take full responsibility for the mistake.'

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speaking

Say 'Who will take the responsibility?'

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speaking

Say 'This is a big responsibility.'

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speaking

Say 'I am ready to take responsibility.'

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speaking

Explain 'Moral Responsibility' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'He ran away from his responsibility.'

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speaking

Say 'You should take your own responsibility.'

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speaking

Say 'It's a matter of responsibility.'

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speaking

Say 'I accept my responsibility.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Maine jimmedari li.'

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listening

Identify the word: 'Jimmedari' or 'Jimmedar'? (Audio: Jimmedari)

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listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Sarkar ko jimmedari leni padegi.' What must the government do?

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listening

Which tense is used: 'Main jimmedari lूँगा'?

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listening

Listen: 'Usne palla jhad liya.' Does he take responsibility?

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listening

Listen and translate: 'Badi jimmedari'.

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listening

Listen: 'Hamein apni galti ki jimmedari leni chahiye.' What should we do?

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listening

Identify the speaker's gender: 'Main jimmedari leti hoon.'

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listening

Listen: 'Kaun jimmedar hai?' What is the question?

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listening

Listen: 'Naitik jimmedari'. What kind of responsibility?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'Maine _____ li.' (Audio: Jimmedari)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Voh jimmedari se darta hai.' What is he afraid of?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Jimmedariyan badh gayi hain.' Have responsibilities increased or decreased?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Kanooni karwai'. Is this related to responsibility?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Main iski puri jimmedari leta hoon.' Is it partial or full?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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