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The Latest Companion to an Urdu Language Proficiency Test

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Imagine you’ve boarded a plane and fastened your seat belt. A few moments before takeoff, an announcement is made that the pilot is extremely good at the theory of flying, but is entirely bad at practical flying with zero flying hours under his belt. 

Yes, you can very well anticipate the subsequent nightmare and the agony of the passengers. And you can probably anticipate where this is going. 

To avoid such chaotic situations, and to assess one’s practical capacity for using a language, one must take a language proficiency test (in this case, an Urdu exam). The sole purpose of any language proficiency test is to evaluate how adept a person is at using the target language in daily life, in a variety of situations and contexts. 

This is, of course, true for Urdu language proficiency tests as well. In addition, passing such a test is often a prerequisite for certain academic and professional ventures. Due to the significance and gravity of the matter, UrduPod101.com is here with the help you need. 

After going through this article and reading our tips for Urdu test preparation, you’ll be ready for your upcoming exam in Urdu when the big day comes. We’ll also share with you some advice on how to pass an Urdu exam with flying colors! 

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Study Strategies in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. General Information About Urdu Proficiency Tests
  2. Introduction to the Listening Section
  3. Introduction to the Reading Section
  4. Introduction to the Writing Section
  5. Introduction to the Speaking Section
  6. Some Additional Tips on Preparing for an Urdu Proficiency Exam
  7. Conclusion

1. General Information About Urdu Proficiency Tests

Language Skills

The content and expectations of an Urdu language proficiency test may vary depending on the nature of the test you’re taking. Nevertheless, there are generally four skills that a given exam will test you on: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. 

Furthermore, before taking an official Urdu proficiency test, we recommend that you practice by taking a mock test. This will give you a much better idea of what you can expect to see on a real Urdu proficiency exam and allow you to be better-prepared. 

A- Who Should Take an Urdu Language Exam?

The reasons for taking an Urdu proficiency test may differ, though there are a few reasons that are very common:  

  • Wanting to pursue a higher education at an Urdu university
  • Seeking a job in an Urdu-speaking country
  • Applying for a visa 
  • Looking for opportunities, asylum, or residence in an Urdu-speaking country

B- Things to Consider

Before you set out to take your Urdu proficiency exam of choice, there are a few things that we think you should consider. We’ll outline each one in the following sections.

1- Keep the Sole Purpose in Mind

Before sitting for your Urdu language proficiency test, don’t forget to revisit your basic purpose for taking the test and reset your priorities. This will reignite your interest and give you more motivation to do well on the exam.

An Asian Man Doing Meditation to Focus and Concentrate

2- Become Familiar with the Structure of the Test in Advance

Becoming familiar with the structure of the test will allow you to know exactly what to expect on the day of the test. In addition, keeping up-to-date with the test’s structure will ensure that you know about any recent changes the test may have undergone, saving you quite a shock! 

As mentioned earlier, an Urdu proficiency test customarily consists of four separate sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each one has a certain time limit and is directed at evaluating the relevant linguistic competence.  

3- Dealing with Anxiety

Exam anxiety is a common experience shared by many aspiring test-takers. Under the bouts of anxiety, one can begin to lack focus and do poorly on their test. Remember to deal with your anxiety in a healthy manner, and come well-prepared by keeping the following factors in mind. 

2. Introduction to the Listening Section

A Man Trying to Listen to Sound Waves by Keeping His Hand Beside His Ear

Since listening is key to effective communication, it generally comes first in any language test. It examines one’s capacity to receive and interpret messages while listening to spoken language. Here’s what to expect in an Urdu listening exam.

A- Duration 

The ideal duration for such a test is thirty minutes. It will generally consist of twenty-five points and contain three questions.

B- Description of the Test

In the listening section, you’ll listen to three pre-recorded files. These files may contain discussions, speeches, conversations, directions, news, commentaries, etc.

At the beginning of the test, you’ll be given one minute to go through the questions. After that, you’ll listen to the first file for two minutes. Remember that you’ll have only a single opportunity to listen to the file, and it will not be repeated under any circumstances. After you’ve heard the audio file, you’ll be given three minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheets provided to you prior to the start of the test.

Before listening to the second file, you’ll have another minute to read the questions. After that, you’ll listen to the second file for six minutes, and you’ll be given three minutes to answer the questions.

In the third stage of this listening test, you’ll hear the third audio file for four minutes. You’ll have one minute to read the questions before listening, and four minutes to answer the questions.

C- Tips to Succeed

A Multitasker Person Busy in Different Task to Manage the Time

Manage your time well. This is essential for doing well on any test. One minute may not seem like enough time to review the questions, but utilizing this time well can give you incredible insight into what you should listen for. 

Wait until the audio is over to answer. Don’t fall victim to hasty judgements; listen until the end before answering. Due to the high standards of the test, the questions are often deceptive. So pay close attention to the entire audio, and don’t jump to conclusions! 

Answer cautiously and clearly. While transferring your answers to the answer sheet, be careful and write your answers clearly. Your answers should be grammatically correct and follow the guidelines. If you’re left with some time, remember to revisit your answers and fix any mistakes you find.

D- Rehearsal Strategies

Of course, the best Urdu listening exam practice is to do a lot of listening! 

UrduPod101.com is a supreme website for brushing up on your Urdu listening skills. In addition, try listening to some other audio/visual Urdu resources such as Radio Pakistan, Pakistan Television, talk shows, etc.

3. Introduction to the Reading Section

A Girl Reading a Book with the Help of a Magnifying Glass to Focus

There’s a common assumption that passing a reading test is easy. But there’s a lot more to it than one may think! 

When reading Urdu for an exam like this, you’re expected to not only showcase your rich vocabulary and decoding skills, but also to see how sentences and embedded ideas relate to each other.

A- Duration

The average duration of an Urdu reading test is sixty minutes. Such a test usually comprises three exercises for a total of twenty-five points.

B- Description of the Test

In order to evaluate your Urdu reading skills, you’ll be tested with questions that are based on three written documents. The first will be an informational document (possibly an essay or similar piece) written in the Urdu language. The second and third documents may vary in their subject matter and be expository and argumentative in nature.

C- Tips to Succeed

Have a strategy. For this section of the test, it’s good to have a strategy in place. For example, you can decide to read either the questions or the text first, depending on what you’re most comfortable with. The most important thing in this regard is to execute your plan flawlessly.

Skim and scan. In addition, use the skimming and scanning techniques to identify the answers quickly. Due to time constraints, you can’t afford to waste it on small details. 

Keep your answers neat. Last but not least, it’s always important to write down the answers in an orderly manner. In the end, it’s a test with a certain format and formalities.

D- Rehearsal

To practice for the reading portion of your Urdu language exam, we recommend that you explore all of the available Urdu language reading resources at UrduPod101.com.

Try to read as much Urdu as you can. These may include Urdu essays, fiction, non-fiction, political writings, the news, blog posts, etc. Whatever interests you! 

4. Introduction to the Writing Section

Some Students Sitting Inside an Examination Hall, Busy Writing

Writing is just as essential a skill as face-to-face communication, and Urdu writing exams are an integral part of any Urdu language proficiency test.  

A- Duration 

The total duration of an Urdu writing test will be sixty minutes, and it will comprise two writing tasks.

B- Description of the Test

For this portion of the test, you’ll need to write about two topics within the allotted time. You may be required to adopt a particular form of writing (narrative, descriptive, discursive, etc.) depending on the topics you write about.

Due to the time constraints, you should ideally spend half an hour on each topic. Each topic should also contain at least two-hundred words.

C- Tips to Succeed

Brainstorm. Don’t start writing right away; spend a little time brainstorming. This will help you craft your response in an organized manner and according to the question’s guidelines.

Keep your answers relevant. Your answers should be question-specific. This is a test of your Urdu writing skills, NOT of your personal opinions, likes, or dislikes.

Use good grammar and syntax. Use the appropriate Urdu writing system to answer the questions.

Revise your work. It’s always advisable to revise your writing after completing it. Take some time to proofread your writing and correct mistakes if there are any.

D- Rehearsal

UrduPod101.com is the number-one place to begin your writing practice, with numerous resources for aspiring language-learners. 

Further, expand your Urdu reading and become a voracious reader. This will enrich your Urdu vocabulary, increase your knowledge of Urdu grammar, and enhance your Urdu sentence formulation skills.

Try to rehearse Urdu dictation, as this will help make your expression in Urdu error-free.

5. Introduction to the Speaking Section

A Man Pronouncing Different Letters

Speaking is the most commonly used communication skill, and thus has a place in any good Urdu proficiency test. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about a typical Urdu speaking exam.

A- Duration 

The total duration of this test is thirty minutes. During this time, you’ll have to jot down certain points to prepare for an oral presentation (worth twenty-five points).

B- Description of the Test

In this section of the Urdu language proficiency test, you’ll be given a topic and asked to give an oral presentation that’s eight to ten minutes long. So you should prepare your presentation within the first twenty minutes, and present it within the remaining ten minutes. After your presentation, there will be a question-answer session too.

C- Tips to Succeed

Know your topic. Put all of your effort into comprehending the topic well; this is the first step in preparing and giving an effective presentation.

Have a clear position and argument. Take a clear line in support of or against the topic. Your position should be substantiated with solid arguments.

Use bullet points. Try to write down your presentation in bullet-list format. The time constraint won’t allow you to write it down in a proper speech format.

Include examples. Add apt illustrations, examples, and anecdotes when and where required. But remember that they should not sound far-fetched or out of context.

D- Rehearsal

You guessed it: UrduPod101.com should be your first resource for improving your Urdu speaking skills.

You should also try to have frequent conversations with native speakers (or good non-native speakers). This will motivate you and make you feel much more confident in your speaking abilities. 

In case you can’t find any good Urdu speakers, start recording your own speech and try to identify and fix your mistakes.

6. Some Additional Tips on Preparing for an Urdu Proficiency Exam

A Man Keeping His Finger on His Wristwatch Emphasizing the Significance of Being on Time

In addition to the tips we’ve given you throughout the article, there are a few more that apply to just about any test you can take: 

  • Always reach the test center well before the time of the test. This allows you to become familiar with the atmosphere and conditions well in advance.
  • Try to manage and utilize your time proportionately. This can have a huge impact on your test score! 
  • Take care of your physical and mental health before the test. Sleep tight, have a proper diet, and try to maintain a positive mindset.

7. Conclusion

You’ve made it to the end of our complete guide to the Urdu language proficiency test. We hope you’re now well-equipped with the tips and tricks you need to ace your upcoming exam! 

Did we miss any information regarding Urdu language proficiency tests? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments; we’ll do our best to answer any questions you have. 

To keep yourself abreast of all the developments in the field of Urdu language learning, become a frequent visitor of UrduPod101.com. A huge resource for all of your Urdu language-learning needs is just a click away.

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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A Smart Kick-Start: 10 Most Useful Urdu Sentence Patterns


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Do you think that the cut-and-dry grammar and complex syntaxes are the only important aspects of learning a language? If so, let us introduce you to an equally effective linguistic approach that will help you start using Urdu faster: learning the most common Urdu language sentence structures and patterns. 

Without undermining the due significance of traditional language-learning methods, it’s important to be flexible and tailor your studies to your personal needs. This is a small step that can have huge results! 

As a smart Urdu student, think outside the box and learn some widely used sentence patterns in English and Urdu for everyday communications. Once you’ve learned these well, you can even start improvising to craft your own unique sentences per situation.

This article will inform you of the ten most productive and easy Urdu sentence patterns that will help you articulate your thoughts into crisp, comprehensible Urdu sentences. Remember that it’s not a shortcut; it’s the smart cut, guaranteeing a better understanding of Urdu sentence formation with pleasing results. 

Let’s begin.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. Linking Two Nouns: A is B
  2. Using Adjectives to Describe: A is [Adjective]
  3. Expressing “Want”: I Want (to)…
  4. Expressing “Need”: I Need (to)… / I Have to …
  5. Expressing “Like”: I Like (to)…
  6. Politely Asking Someone to Do Something: Please…
  7. Asking for Permission: May I…? / Can I…?
  8. Asking for Information About Something: What is…?
  9. Asking About Time: When is…?
  10. Asking About Location or Position: Where is…?
  11. Conclusion

1. Linking Two Nouns: A is B

Sentence Pattern

We’ll start with a simple Urdu sentence pattern for describing a noun by linking it to another noun. Before you look at the examples below, we recommend that you study our articles about Urdu Nouns and Urdu Verbs so you can better understand how they work. In particular, you should familiarize yourself with the verb “to be” in Urdu.

  • عمران میرا بھائی ہے
    Imran mera bhai hai.
    “Imran is my brother.”
  • ہاکی ہمارا قومی کھیل ہے
    Hockey hamara qomi khel hai.
    “Hockey is our national sport.”
  • لاہور میرا شہر ہے
    Lahore mera shehar hai.
    “Lahore is my city.”

2. Using Adjectives to Describe: A is [Adjective]

Now that you know how to use nouns in Urdu sentences, it’s pertinent to step forward and learn how to describe nouns using Urdu adjectives.

  • محمد ایک سچا انسان ہے
    Muhammad aik sacha insaan hai.
    “Muhammad is an honest man.”
  • یہ ایک اہم موقع ہے
    Yeh aik aham moqa hai.
    “It is an important opportunity.”
  • یہ کتاب بالکل نئی ہے
    Yeh kitab bilkul naiye hai.
    “This is a brand-new book.”

UrduPod101.com has a page about high-frequency Urdu adjectives that you should familiarize yourself with. Check it out! 


3. Expressing “Want”: I Want (to)…

A Child Pointing His Finger Towards Something He Wants

Expressing one’s wishes or desires is an extremely important matter in any language. In Urdu, we use the verb چاہنا (chah-na) to express any such feelings. Below are some examples of how to use a proper Urdu sentence pattern with this verb.

  • میں ایک کامیاب بزنس مین بننا چاہتا ہوں
    Mei aik kamyab businessman ban-na chahta hun.
    “I want to become a successful businessman.”
  • میں مزید پڑھنا چاہتا ہوں
    Mei mazeed parhna chahta hun.
    “I want to study further.”
  • تم سب سے آگے نکلنا چاہتے ہو
    Tum sab say aagay nikalna chahtay ho.
    “You want to lead everyone.”

To learn more about how to properly conjugate Urdu verbs, including this one, check out our article about Urdu Conjugations


4. Expressing “Need”: I Need (to)… / I Have to …

Sentence Components

If you want something, it may underlie a luxury; if you need something, it signifies a necessity. Needs are more important than wants, so let’s learn the best Urdu sentence structure for expressing needs.

ضرورت (zaroorat) is the word we use to convey needs in Urdu. 

Below, you’ll find some sentences in Urdu to emphasize or express your needs. Be sure to focus on the various changes undergone by this word. 

  • میرا آج واپس لوٹنا ضروری ہے
    Mera aaj wapis lotna zaroori hai.
    “I have to return today, definitely.”
  • تمھیں یہ امتحان ہر صورت میں ضرور پاس کرنا ہے
    Tumhain yeh imtihan her surat mein zaroor pass karna hai.
    “You need to pass this exam at any cost.”
  • ہمیں اپنا رویہ بدلنے کی ضرورت ہے
    Hamein apna rawaiyya badalnay ki zaroorat hai.
    “We need to change our attitude.”

5. Expressing “Like”: I Like (to)…

A Woman Posing to Think about the Things She Likes

Now, let’s aim at learning how to express our likes in Urdu. پسند کرنا (pasand karna) is the true translation of “to like” in Urdu. پیار کرنا (pyaar karna) is another verb used to express love, as it’s translated as “to love” in English. However, پسند کرنا also has an implied meaning of loving someone when used in a particular context. 

  • مجھے سینما جانا پسند ہے
    Mujhay cinema jana pasand hai.
    “I like to go to the cinema.”
  • میں پڑھانا پسند کرتا ہوں
    Mei parhana pasand karta hun.
    “I like to teach.”
  • مجھے ٹرین کا سفر اچھا لگتا ہے
    Mujhay train ka safar acha lagta hai.
    “I like to travel by train.”

6. Politely Asking Someone to Do Something: Please…

Courtesy is among the seven pillars of effective communication in Pakistani society, and around the world. In Pakistan, people like to give and receive respect while communicating with each other. In this section of the article, we’ll show you an Urdu sentence pattern used to ask for something (or for a favor).

  • مہربانی فرما کر میری بات سنیں
    Meharbani farma kar meri baat sunein.
    “Please, listen to me.”
  • براہ مہربانی اپنا لہجہ درست کریں
    Barah-e-meharbani apna lehja durust karein.
    “Please, mind your tone.”
  • ازراہ کرم میرے پیسے واپس کر دیں
    Azrah-e-karam meray paisay wapis kar dein.
    “Please, return my money.”
A Person Collecting Money with Both Hands and Another Delivering It to Him

7. Asking for Permission: May I…? / Can I…?

In every culture, asking permission is an essential rule of etiquette. In Urdu, we use modal verbs to ask certain questions and seek permission, along with many other functions. Below, we’ll show you how to incorporate modal verbs in your sentences by following a particular Urdu sentence pattern.   

  • کیا میں اندرآسکتا ہوں؟
    Kia mei ander aa sakta hun?
    “May I come in?”
  • کیا میں آپ کے گھر آ سکتا ہوں؟
    Kia mei aap kay ghar aa sakta hun.
    “May I visit your house?”
  • کیا میں آپ کا تھوڑا سا وقت لے سکتا ہوں؟
    Kia mei aap ka thora sa waqt lay sakta hun.
    “Can I take a little bit of your time?”
A Couple Having Wine and the Man Signaling to a Waiter to Get a Menu

8. Asking for Information About Something: What is…?

When visiting a foreign country, you’re probably going to have some questions for the natives. This makes learning the Urdu sentence patterns for asking questions essential for any Urdu learner.

کیا ہے (kia hai) is a basic phrase used to ask a question in Urdu. In English, it’s translated as “what is.” You can always place کیا ہے at the end of a sentence, preceded by the relevant words. Let’s see some examples:

  • آپ کا ارادہ کیا ہے؟
    Aap ka irada kia hai?
    “What is your plan?”
  • آپ کا سوال کیا ہے؟
    Aap ka sawal kia hai?
    “What is your question?”
  • آپ کے سکول کا نام کیا ہے؟
    Aap kay school ka nam kia hai.
    “What is the name of your school?”

9. Asking About Time: When is…?

Now it’s time to learn “when is,” or کب ہے (kab hai). You can always place کب ہے at the end of a sentence. Let’s see some examples:

  • آپ کی شادی کی اینیورسری کب ہے؟
    Aap ki shadi ki anniversary kab hai?
    “When is your marriage anniversary?”
  • دونوں ٹیموں کے مابین اگلا میچ کب ہے؟
    Dono teemo kay maabain agla match kab hai?
    “When will the next match be played between both teams?”
  • آپ کی منگنی کب ہو رہی ہے؟
    Aap ki mangni kab ho rahi hai?
    “When is your engagement taking place?”
Calendar Pages Showing Different Months and Dates

10. Asking About Location or Position: Where is…?

Asking about someone’s location is another important inquiry. کہاں ہے (kahan is) is the expression used in Urdu to do this. Here are examples of how to use this phrase in an Urdu sentence pattern: 

  • لاہور میں یادگار پاکستان کہاں ہے؟
    Lahore mein Yaadgar-e-Pakistan kahan hai?
    “Where is Yaadgar-e-Pakistan located in Lahore?”
  • آپ کا کالج کہاں واقع ہے؟
    Aap ka college kahan waqia hai?
    “Where is your college situated?”
  • ہماری ذاتی گاڑی کہاں ہے؟
    Hamari zati gari kahan hai?
    “Where is our personal vehicle?”

11. Conclusion

In this article, you learned the basics of how to form sentences in Urdu by focusing on basic Urdu sentence patterns. We recommend that you choose an Urdu sentence pattern to practice, and work until you master it before moving on to another one.

Do you have any questions about a sentence pattern that you want to discuss with us? Are you better prepared to interact with native Urdu-speakers with this handful of language material you learned today with UrduPod101.com?

Be sure to keep exploring UrduPod101, a rich repository of Urdu language-learning resources for students at every level. 

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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The Adverb in Urdu: 100+ Must-Know Urdu Adverbs

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Why learn about the adverb in Urdu?

To expect someone to write or speak without allowing him to use adverbs in his writing is just like asking an astronaut to embark on a space journey without having his oxygen supply on. Adverbs are the life-line of any writer when it comes to the art portraying how something happened. 

Adverbs are economical in that they allow people to express more detail and make clearer statements. Thus, knowing the most important adverbs in Urdu will remove many linguistic constraints from your speech and writing as you learn the language.

a man facing the sky with open arms, celebrating some sense of liberty

In Pakistan, you can’t think of becoming a good conversationalist without using Urdu adverbs from time to time. Adverbs will act as the mouthwatering garnish on the main course of your speech. UrduPod101.com will help you achieve this mandatory Urdu language skill to ensure that you may benefit from adverbs in Urdu language learning for vivid and clear conversations.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Useful Verbs in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. What is an Adverb in Urdu?
  2. Our List of the 100+ Most Useful Urdu Adverbs
  3. Adverbs of Time in Urdu
  4. Adverbs of Frequency in Urdu
  5. Adverbs of Place in Urdu
  6. Adverbs of Manner in Urdu
  7. Adverbs of Degree in Urdu
  8. Conclusion

1. What is an Adverb in Urdu?

Before jumping into our list of Urdu adverbs, it’s important that you know the adverb definition in Urdu. Thus, in the following sections, we’ll go over the basics for you with examples. 

1- Defining the Urdu Adverb

In Urdu, an adverb is called متعلق فعل (mutaliq fail). 

The adverb in Urdu grammar modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb in a sentence. The addition or subtraction of this single word will make a great impact on the meaning of the sentence. It will cause some sort of change in the verb, adjective, or adverb it relates to.

Find below a few sentences illustrating some varying forms and functions of adverbs in the Urdu language.

1.    وہ تیز دوڑتا ہے۔

woh taiz dorta hai.

“He runs fast.”

In this sentence, the word تیز (taiz) modifies the meaning of the verb دوڑتا ہے (dorta hai). Hence, it acts as an adverb in the sentence.

2.    وہ بہت تیز دوڑتا ہے۔

woh bohat taiz dorta hai.

“He runs very fast.”

Here, the word بہت (bohat) modifies the meaning of the adverb تیز (taiz). Therefore, it’s also an adverb.

3.    وہ بہت میٹھا آم کھاتا ہے۔

woh bohat meetha aam khata hai.

“He eats a very sweet mango.”In the sentence above, the word بہت (bohat) modifies the adjective میٹھا (meetha). Thus, here it also functions as an adverb in Urdu.

A list of some English adverbs

2- Syntactic Placement of Adverbs in Urdu

While learning where to place adverbs in Urdu sentences isn’t very easy for beginners, understanding the basics of Urdu syntax can give you a good foundation. 

Till now, you’ve learned that in Urdu syntax, the verb usually goes at the end of a sentence. Keeping this in mind, you can make your job easier by remembering a simple rule: an adverb, generally, precedes a verb, adverb, or adjective in Urdu sentences. 

You may have noticed this tendency in the Urdu adverb examples you saw earlier.

2. Our List of the 100+ Most Useful Urdu Adverbs

Top Verbs

Having learned the basic concepts about the adverb in Urdu, let’s proceed to our list of adverbs with Urdu meanings. To help your comprehension, we’ve divided the Urdu adverbs into a few categories based on their functions. Let’s begin with the adverbs of time in Urdu.

3. Adverbs of Time in Urdu

a transcendental connection between clock arms and the human brain

An adverb of time in Urdu informs someone of how often or how long an action took place or happened. Take a look at this Urdu adverbs list:

1.    تب

tab

“Then”

2.    کب

kab

“When”

3.    جب

jab

“When”

4.    اس وقت

iss waqt

“At this time”

5.    اس وقت

uss waqt

“At that time”

6.    کس وقت

kis waqt

“At what time”

7.    جس وقت

jis waqt

“At the time that”

8.    جلد

jald

“Soon”

9.    دیر سے

dair say

“Late”

10.  آج

aaj

“Today”

11. (کل (آنے والا

kal (aanay wala)

“Tomorrow”

12.   (کل (گزرا ہوا

kal (guzra hua)

“Yesterday”

13.  پہلے

pehaly

“Before”

14.  بعد میں

baad mein

“After”

15.  اب

ab

“Now”

16.  گذشتہ

guzishta

“Previously”

17.  حالیہ

haalia

“Currently”

18.  پہلا

pehla

“First”

19.  آخری

aakhri

“Last”

20.  پچھلے سال

pichlay saal

“Last year”

1- Use in Sentences

 میں کل جاپان جاؤں گا۔

mei kal Japan jaon ga.

“I will go to Japan tomorrow.”

 میں کل یونیورسٹی گیا۔

mei kal university gaya.

“I went to the university yesterday.”

 میں نے اپنا کام پہلے ہی مکمل کر لیا تھا۔

mei nay apna kaam pehlay hi mukammal kar liya tha.

“I had completed my work earlier.”

4. Adverbs of Frequency in Urdu

More essential verbs

The adverb of frequency in Urdu is a word that tells us how frequently something takes place or happens.

Below is a list of some frequently used Urdu adverbs of frequency.

21.  گاہے بگاہے

gahay bagahay

“Occasionally”

22.  وقتاً فوقتاً

waqtan fawaqtan

“Sometimes”

23.  شاید ہی کبھی

sahayad hi kabhi

“Hardly ever”

24.  اکثر

aksar

“Often”

25.  ہمیشہ

hamesha

“Always”

26.  کبھی کبھار

kabhi kabhar

“Seldom”

27.  شاذونادر

shaz-o-nadir

“Rarely”

28.  روزانہ

rozana

“Daily”

29.  بالعموم

bil-amoom

“Usually”

30.  حسب معمول

hasb-e-mamool

“Normally”

31.  کبھی نہیں

kabhi nahi

“Never”

32.  ہر وقت

har waqt

“All the time”

33.  سالانہ

salana

“Annually”

34.  ہفتہ وار

hafta-war

“Weekly”

35.  گھنٹہ وار

ghanta-war

“Hourly”

36.  متواتر

matwatar

“Frequently”

37.  عام طور پر

aam tor per

“Generally”

38.  ماہانہ

mahana

“Monthly”

39.  کبھی کبھی

kabhi kabhi

“Once in a while”

1- Use in Sentences

 وہ روزانہ بس پر سفر کرتا ہے۔

woh rozana bus per safar karta hai.

“He commutes by bus daily.”

 وہ اکثر ورزش کرتی ہے۔

woh aksar warzish karti hai.

“She exercises often.”

 اسے گھنٹہ وار ادائیگی کی جاتی تھی۔

ussay ghanta-war adaigi ki jati thi.

“He was paid hourly.”

 وہ باقاعدگی سے سبق یاد کرتا ہے۔

woh baqaidgi say sabaq yaad karta hai.

“He learns his lesson regularly.”

 وہ کبھی بھی ہار نہیں مانتا۔

woh kabhi bhi haar nahi manta.

“He never accepts defeat.”

 وہ کبھی کبھار بات کرتا ہے۔

woh kabhi kabhar baat karta hai.

“He seldom talks.”

5. Adverbs of Place in Urdu

arrows pointing toward a plus sign

An adverb of place in Urdu gives information about the location where an action took place. It may also give information about distance. Below are some commonly used adverbs of place in the Urdu language.

40.  کہیں بھی

kaheen bhi

“Anywhere”

41.  کہیں اور

kaheen aur

“Elsewhere”

42.  اندرونی

androoni

“Indoor”

43.  تلے

talay

“Below”

44.  عقب میں

aqab mei

“Behind”

45.  بہت قریب

bohat qareeb

“Nearby”

46.  ارد گرد

ird-gird

“Around”

47.  یہاں

yahan

“Here”

48.  وہاں

wahan

“There”

49.  ہر جگہ

har jagha

“Everywhere”

50.  اندر

ander

“Inside”

51.  باہر

bahir

“Outside”

52.  اوپر

ooper

“Up”

53.  نیچے

neechay

“Down”

54.  بالائی منزل

balai manzil

“Upstairs”

55.  نیچے کی منزل

neechay ki manzil

“Downstairs”

56.  دور

dur

“Away”

57.  بیرون ملک

bairoon-e-mulk

“Abroad”

58.  گھر

ghar

“Home”

59.  کی جانب

ki janib

“Towards”

1- Use in Sentences

میرے گھر کے قریب ایک سکول ہے۔

meray ghar kay qareeb aik school hai.

“Nearby my house, there is a school.”

اس کا گھر شہر سے باہر ہے۔

uss ka ghar shehar say bahir hai.

“His house is situated outside the city.”

وہ بالائی منزل پر رہتی ہے۔

woh balai manzil per rehti hai.

“She lives upstairs.”

میرا فلیٹ ہوٹل کے اوپر واقع ہے۔

mera flat hotel kay ooper waqia hai.

“My flat lies above the hotel.”

ہوائی جہاز آہستہ سے اوپر بڑھا۔

hawai jahaz aahista say ooper barha

“The plane moved upward slowly.”

6. Adverbs of Manner in Urdu

a lady bowing in Thai manner

An Urdu adverb of manner is a word which provides us with information about how and in what manner the action was executed. To give you a deeper understanding, we’ve arranged a list of some widely used adverbs of manner in the Urdu language.

60.  ایسے

aisay

“This way”

61.  ویسے

waisay

“In the same way”

62.  زور سے

zor say

“Forcefully”

63.  بخوشی

bakhushi

“Gladly”

64.  بالخصوص

bilkhasoos

“Specifically”

65.  مضطربانہ

muztarbana

“Frantically”

66.  ڈرامائی انداز سے

dramai andaz say

“Dramatically”

67.  جوش و خروش سے

josh o kharosh say

“Enthusiastically”

68.  آہستہ آہستہ

aahista aahista

“Slowly”

69.  تیزی سے

taizi say

“Quickly”

70.  احتیاط سے

ehtiat say

“Carefully”

71.  خاموشی سے

khamoshi say

“Quietly”

72.  خوشی سے

khushi say

“Happily”

73.  آسانی سے

aasani say

“Easily”

74.  حقیقت میں

haqeeqat mein

“Really”

75.  حقیقی معنی میں

haqeeqi mani mein

“Literally”

76.  سادگی سے

saadgi say

“Simply”

77.  بری طرح

buri tarha

“Badly”

78.  اچھا

acha

“Well”

79.  نرمی سے

narmi say

“Gently”

 80. خودبخود

Khud-ba-khud

“Automatically”

1- Use in Sentences

وہ غصے سے چلائی۔

woh ghussay say chillai.

“She screamed angrily.”

گاڑی احتیاط سے چلاؤ۔

garri ehtiat say chalao.

“Drive carefully.”

ہمیں  آسانی سے ٹکٹیں مل گئیں۔

hamain aasani say ticktain mil gaien.

“We got the tickets easily.”

وہ جلدی سے باہر گیا۔

woh jaldi say bahir gaya.

“He went out hurriedly.”

 اس نے معصومیت سے جواب دیا۔

uss nay masoomiat say jawab diya.

“He replied innocently.”

یہ پنکھا خودبخود چلتا ہے۔

Yeh pankha khud-ba-khud chalta hai.

This fan runs automatically. 

7. Adverbs of Degree in Urdu

a chart to explain the intensity or degree

Adverbs of degree are those which give information on the degree or intensity of an action. Have a critical look at our Urdu adverbs list below.

81.  تقریباً

taqreeban

“Almost”

82.  حتمی

hatmi

“Absolutely”

83.  مکمل طور پر

mukamal tor per

“Completely”

84.  قطعاً

qat-ann

“Decidedly”

85.  گہرائی میں

gehrai mei

“Deeply”

86.  کافی

kaafi

“Enough”

87.  بے پناہ

be panah

“Enormously”

88.  تمام تر

tamam tar

“Entirely”

89.  جائز طور پر

jaiz tor per

“Fairly”

90.  کھلم کھلا

khulam khula

“Openly”

91.  تھوڑا

thora

“Less”

92.  کسی حد تک

kisi had tak

“Somewhat”

93.  مضبوطی سے

mazbooti say

“Strongly”

94.  درحقیقت

dar haqeeqat

“Indeed”

95.  کم

kam

“Little”

96.  بہت

bohat

“Very”

97.  قدرے

qadray

“Rather”

98.  بالکل

bilkul

“Quite”

99.  یوں

yun

“Like this”

100.  بھی

bhi

“Too”

1- Use in Sentences

میرا کام تقریباً مکمل ہو چکا ہے۔

mera kaam taqreeban mukammal ho chukka hai.

“My job is almost completed.”

وہ مکمل طور پر تباہ ہو چکا ہے۔

woh mukammal tor per tabah ho chuka hai.

“He has been destroyed completely.”

میں اس سے گہرا متاثر ہوا۔

mei uss say gehra mutasir hua.

“I was deeply influenced by him.”

وہ کافی کما لیتا ہے۔

woh kaafi kama leta hai.

“He earns enough.”

میں نے اس کو مضبوطی سے پکڑا۔

mei nay uss ko mazbooti say pakra.

“I held him strongly.”

8. Conclusion

This article has taught you all the basics about Urdu adverbs. It has also removed any misconceptions you may have had about adverbs and provided you with useful examples of how to use them. Is something lacking still? Is there something else that you need to learn about adverbs in Urdu? Feel free to reach out in the comments with questions or feedback for us!

a paper clip chain showing connectivity

In addition, UrduPod101.com provides numerous Urdu learning resources to enhance your Urdu vocabulary and grammar! In this way, you’ll be able to make an Urdu adverbs list of your own to surprise native Urdu speakers with your language skills in Pakistan.

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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Urdu Keyboard: How to Install and Type in Urdu

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You asked, so we provided—easy-to-follow instructions on how to set up your electronic devices to write in Urdu! We’ll also give you a few excellent tips on how to use this keyboard, as well as some online and app alternatives if you prefer not to set up a Urdu keyboard.

Log in to Download Your Free Urdu Alphabet Worksheet Table of Contents
  1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Urdu
  2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Urdu
  3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer
  4. How to Change the Language Settings to Urdu on Your Computer
  5. Activating the Urdu Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet
  6. Urdu Keyboard Typing Tips
  7. How to Practice Typing Urdu

1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Urdu

A keyboard

Learning a new language is made so much easier when you’re able to read and write/type it. This way, you will:

  • Get the most out of any dictionary and Urdu language apps on your devices
  • Expand your ability to find Urdu websites and use the various search engines
  • Be able to communicate much better online with your Urdu teachers and friends, and look super cool in the process! 

2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Urdu

A phone charging on a dock

It takes only a few steps to set up any of your devices to read and type in Urdu. It’s super-easy on your mobile phone and tablet, and a simple process on your computer.

On your computer, you’ll first activate the onscreen keyboard to work with. You’ll only be using your mouse or touchpad/pointer for this keyboard. Then, you’ll need to change the language setting to Urdu, so all text will appear in Urdu. You could also opt to use online keyboards instead. Read on for the links!

On your mobile devices, it’s even easier—you only have to change the keyboard. We also provide a few alternatives in the form of online keyboards and downloadable apps.

3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer

1- Mac

1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Check the option “Show Keyboard & Character Viewers in Menu Bar.”

3. You’ll see a new icon on the right side of the main bar; click on it and select “Show Keyboard Viewer.”

A screenshot of the keyboard viewer screen

2- Windows

1. Go to Start > Settings > Easy Access > Keyboard.

2. Turn on the option for “Onscreen Keyboard.”

3- Online Keyboards

If you don’t want to activate your computer’s onscreen keyboard, you also have the option to use online keyboards. Here are some good options:

4- Add-ons of Extensions for Browsers

Instead of an online keyboard, you could also choose to download a Google extension to your browser for a language input tool. The Google Input Tools extension allows users to use input tools in Chrome web pages, for example.

4. How to Change the Language Settings to Urdu on Your Computer

Man looking at his computer

Now that you’re all set to work with an onscreen keyboard on your computer, it’s time to download the Urdu language pack for your operating system of choice:

  • Windows 8 (and higher)
  • Windows 7
  • Mac (OS X and higher)

1- Windows 8 (and higher)

  1. Go to “Settings” > “Change PC Settings” > “Time & Language” > “Region & Language.”
  2. Click on “Add a Language” and select “Urdu.” This will add it to your list of languages. It will appear as اردو with the note “language pack available.”
  3. Click on اردو > “Options” > “Download.” It’ll take a few minutes to download and install the language pack.
  4. As a keyboard layout, you’ll only need the one marked as “Urdu – اردو.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts.

2- Windows 7

1. Go to Start > Control Panel > Clock, Language, and Region.

2. On the “Region and Language” option, click on “Change Keyboards or Other Input Methods.”

3. On the “Keyboards and Languages” tab, click on “Change Keyboards” > “Add” > “Urdu.”

4. Expand the option of “Urdu” and then expand the option “Keyboard.” Select the keyboard layout marked as “Urdu.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts. Click “OK” and then “Apply.”

3- Mac (OS X and higher)

If you can’t see the language listed, please make sure to select the right option from System Preferences > Language and Region

1. From the Apple Menu (top left corner of the screen) go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Click the Input Sources tab and a list of available keyboards and input methods will appear.

3. Click on the plus button, select “Urdu,” and add the “Urdu” keyboard.

Adding a system language

5. Activating the Urdu Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet

Texting and searching in Urdu will greatly help you master the language! Adding a Urdu keyboard on your mobile phone and/or tablet is super-easy.

You could also opt to download an app instead of adding a keyboard. Read on for our suggestions.

Below are the instructions for both iOS and Android mobile phones and tablets.

1- iOS

1. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard.

2. Tap “Keyboards” and then “Add New Keyboard.”

3. Select “Urdu” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by tapping and holding on the icon to reveal the keyboard language menu.

2- Android

1. Go to Settings > General Management > Language and Input > On-screen Keyboard (or “Virtual Keyboard” on some devices) > Samsung Keyboard.

2. Tap “Language and Types” or “ + Select Input Languages” depending on the device and then “MANAGE INPUT LANGUAGES” if available.

3. Select اردو from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by swiping the space bar.

3- Applications for Mobile Phones

If you don’t want to add a keyboard on your mobile phone or tablet, this is a good app to consider:

6. Urdu Keyboard Typing Tips

Typing in Urdu can be very challenging at first! Therefore, we added here a few useful tips to make it easier to use your Urdu keyboard.

A man typing on a computer

1- Computer

How you type Urdu depends on the Urdu keyboard you’re using. If the Urdu keyboard displays all the characters, it’s easiest to use. 

However, if all the characters are not displayed at once, then you can always use the Shift button to use the characters that aren’t being displayed. 

2- Mobile Phones

If you’re using the QWERTY keyboard, then it’s identical to any other computer keyboard. Writing Urdu on this keyboard is relatively easy as compared to the shortened version of the keyboard.

7. How to Practice Typing Urdu

As you probably know by now, learning Urdu is all about practice, practice, and more practice! Strengthen your Urdu typing skills by writing comments on any of our lesson pages, and our teacher will answer. If you’re a UrduPod101 Premium PLUS member, you can directly text our teacher via the My Teacher app—use your Urdu keyboard to do this!

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Urdu Verb Conjugation: A Beginner’s Companion

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In this article, we’re going to cover one of the most crucial topics in Urdu language learning: Urdu verb conjugation. Having learned the basics of Urdu verbs, you may be able to hold basic conversations; however, in order to become a non-native advanced Urdu expert, you need to strengthen your grip on verb conjugation in Urdu. You should also become familiar with Urdu grammar tenses. 
 

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Useful Verbs in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. Why is it Important to Study Urdu Verb Conjugation?
  2. What is Conjugation?
  3. Verb Groups
  4. Bonus for the Ambitious Learners
  5. Some Rare Irregular Urdu Verbs
  6. Rehearse with Us
  7. Conclusion

1. Why is it Important to Study Urdu Verb Conjugation?

Thought Communication between Two People

To learn about conjugation in Urdu is a Herculean task. Nevertheless, with enough motivation, you really can gain a strong understanding of this important topic. But why should you?

If you want to master the Urdu language, you absolutely need to understand Urdu verb conjugation. This is especially important when trying to converse with someone in an Urdu-speaking country like Pakistan. If you don’t know anything about Urdu verb conjugation, you’ll have a miserable time trying to communicate.

Finally, when you learn about conjugation, you’re able to study many other aspects of Urdu grammar at the same time. This includes things like tenses, moods, and persons.

A Girl with Headphones on with the Pakistani Flag in the Background

2. What is Conjugation?

Top Verbs

When you conjugate a verb in Urdu, you’re changing that verb to show tense, person, number, and mood. In Urdu, the word for “conjugation” is  فعل کی گردان کرنا  (fail ki girdaan kerna).   

Now, let’s look through each of the different things that affect conjugation in Urdu, starting with the person.

1- Person

In Urdu, we have six different persons:

  •         واحد متکلم (wahid mutkalim) — first person singular
  •         جمع متکلم (jama mutkalim) — first person plural
  •       واحد حاضر (wahid hazir) — second person singular
  •         جمع حاضر (jama hazir) — second person plural
  •        واحد غائب (wahid ghaeb) — third person singular
  •         جمع غائب (jama ghaeb) — third person plural

Study the Urdu conjugation chart below to better understand how the person affects conjugation.

First person singular
 واحد متکلم
میں
(mei)
“I”
 Second person singular
 واحد حاضر
تم / آپ
(tum) / (aap)
“you” (informal) / “you” (formal)
Third person singular
 واحد غائب
وہ / اس نے
(woh) / (uss nay)
“he” or “she”
First person plural
 جمع متکلم
ہم
(hum)
“we”
Second person plural
 جمع حاضر
آپ
(aap)
“you”
Third person plural
 جمع غائب
وہ / انھوں نے
(who) / (unho nay)
“they” for both male and female

In the Urdu language, a verb almost always conjugates according to the person. Here’s an example of what this looks like:

  •         میں کھاتا ہوں
    mei khata hun.
    “I eat.”
  •         ہم کھاتے ہیں۔
    hum khatay hain.
    “We eat.”
  •         تم کھاتے ہو۔
    tum khatay ho.
    “You eat.”
  •         وہ کھاتے ہیں۔
    woh khatay hain.
    “They eat.”

2- Mood

Grammatical mood depicts the intention or feeling of a specific action. Below you’ll find what the verb “play” looks like in each mood.

I- Indicative

  •         میں کھلیتا ہوں
    mei khelta hun.
    “I play.”

II- Subjunctive

  •         کاش میں کھیلتا۔
    kaash mei khelta.
    “I wish that I could play.”

III- Conditional

  •         اگر تم نہ اٹھاتے تو بچہ کھیلتا رہتا۔
    agar tum na uthatay to bacha khelta rehta.
    “The baby might play if you do not pick him up.”

IV- Imperative

  •         روزانہ فٹبال کھیلو۔
    rozana football khelo.
    “Play football daily.”

“Play football daily.”

V- Infinitive

  •         کھیلنا
    Khelna
    “To play”

3- Voice

Grammatical voice is another aspect that affects Urdu verb conjugation. The two voices are active and passive, which we’re sure you’re familiar with. Here’s an example:

I- Active Voice

  •         وہ فٹبال کھیلے۔
    woh football khelay.
    “They played football.”

II- Passive Voice

  •         انھوں نے فٹبال کھیلا۔
    unho nay football khela.
    “Football was played by them.”

4- Gender

Male and Female Signs on a Door

In Urdu verb conjugation, grammatical gender also plays an important role. The two genders in Urdu are masculine and feminine. For example:

I- Masculine

  •         میں کالج جاتا ہوں۔
    mei college jata hun.
    “I go to college.”

II- Feminine

  •         میں کالج جاتی ہوں۔
    mei college jati hun.
    “I go to college.”

In the example sentences, the base form of the verb جانا (jana) changed based on gender. In the first sentence, جاتا ہوں (jata hun) is used to denote the masculinity of the subject; in the second sentence, جاتی ہوں (jati hun) is used to denote the femininity of the subject.

5- Tenses

Finally, the tenses also affect conjugation in Urdu. Let’s take a look:

  •         فعل حال مطلق (fail haal mutliq) — Present Indefinite
  •         فعل ماضی مطلق (fail maazi mutliq) — Past Indefinite
  •         فعل مستقبل مطلق (fail mustaqbil mutliq) — Future Indefinite
  •         فعل حال جاری (fail haal jari) — Present Continuous
  •         فعل ماضی جاری (fail maazi jari) — Past Continuous
  •         فعل مستقبل جاری (fail mustaqbil jari) — Future Continuous
  •         فعل حال مکمل (fail haal mukammal) — Present Perfect
  •         فعل ماضی مکمل (fail maazi muakaaml) — Past Perfect
  •         فعل مستقبل مکمل (fail mustaqbil mukammal) — Future Perfect
  •         فعل حال مکمل جاری (fail haal mukammal jari) — Present Perfect Continuous
  •         فعل ماضی مکمل جاری (fail maazi muakammal jari) — Past Perfect Continuous
  •         فعل مستقبل مکمل جاری (fail mustaqbil mukammal jari) — Future Perfect Continuous

Don’t worry too much about memorizing all of the tenses above. You can get along just fine by simply grouping verbs into three main tenses:

  •  زمانہ ماضی (zamana maazi) — Past Tense
  •  زمانہ حال (zamana haal) — Present Tense
  •  زمانہ مستقبل (zamana mustaqbil) — Future Tense

3. Verb Groups

More Essential Verbs

Okay, now we’re going to look at Urdu verb groups based on verb endings. In the following sections, we’ll provide you with several Urdu verb conjugation charts to help you better understand how conjugation works within each group.

For your convenience, in the following examples, we’ll use a single Urdu verb: لکھنا (likhna), meaning “to write.” This will help you understand the formation of different Urdu verb conjugations more easily. 

1- Verbs with تا ہے / تی ہے / تے ہیں / تاہوں / تی ہو (ta hai / ti hai / tay hain / ta hun / ti ho) at the end

First, we’ll look at an Urdu verb conjugation chart explaining the ending words of the present simple tense. In this case, the sentence in Urdu will always end with a verb having تا ہے / تی ہے / تے ہیں (ta hai / ti hai / tay hain) at the end.

Gender1st person singular
 
 واحد متکلم
1st person plural
 جمع متکلم
2nd person singular
 
 واحد حاضر
2nd person plural
 جمع حاضر
3rd person singular
 
 واحد غائب
3rd person plural
 جمع غائب
Masculineمیں لکھتا ہوں۔
 
mei likhta hun.

“I write.”
ہم لکھتے ہیں۔
 
hum likhtay hain.
 
“We write.”
تم لکھتے ہو۔
 
tum likhtay ho.

“You write.”
آپ لکھتے ہیں۔
 
aap likhtay hain.

“You write.”
وہ لکھتا ہے۔
 
woh likhta hai.

“He writes.”
وہ لکھتے ہیں۔
 
woh likhtay hain.

“They write.”
Feminineمیں لکھتی ہوں۔
 
mei likhti hun.
 
“I write.”
ہم لکھتی ہیں۔
 
hum likhti hain.
 
“We write.”
تم لکھتی ہو۔
 
tum likhti ho.
 
“You write.”
آپ لکھتی ہیں۔
 
aap likhti hain.
 
“You write.”
وہ لکھتی ہے۔
 
who likhti hai.
 
“She writes.”
وہ لکھتی ہیں۔
 
woh likhti hain.
 
“They write.”

2- Verbs ending with ا / یا (alif / ya)

Below is another Urdu verb conjugation chart that shows the Urdu verb in the past simple tense. The ending words of the verb, in this case, are ا /یا  (alif / ya).

Gender1st person singular
 
 واحد متکلم
1st person plural
 جمع متکلم
2nd person singular
 
 واحد حاضر
2nd person plural
 جمع حاضر
3rd person singular
 
 واحد غائب
3rd person plural
 جمع غائب
Masculineمیں نے لکھا۔
 
mei nay likha.
 
“I wrote.”
ہم نے لکھا۔
 
hum nay likha.
 
“We wrote.”
تم نے لکھا۔
 
tum nay likha.
 
“You wrote.”
آپ نے لکھا۔
 
aap nay likha.
 
“You wrote.”
اس نے لکھا۔
 
uss nay likha.
 
“He wrote”.
انھوں نے لکھا۔
 
unho nay likha.
 
“They wrote.”
Feminineمیں نے لکھا۔
 
mei nay likha.
 
“I wrote.”
ہم نے لکھا۔
 
hum nay likha.
 
“We wrote.”
تم نے لکھا۔
 
tum nay likha.
 
“You wrote.”
آپ نے لکھا۔
 
aap nay likha.
 
“You wrote.”
اس نے لکھا۔
 
uss nay likha.
 
“She wrote.”
انھوں نے لکھا۔
 
unho nay likha.
 
“They wrote.”

3- Verbs ending with ے گا / گے (ye ga/gay)

By removing the نا from the end of the infinitive and replacing it with ے گا/گے (ye ga/gay), you’ll get the future simple tense in the Urdu language. This verb group will help you to talk about future plans with others. Study the chart below to see how this works.

Gender1st person singular
 
 واحد متکلم
1st person plural
 جمع متکلم
2nd person singular
 
 واحد حاضر
2nd person plural
 جمع حاضر
3rd person singular
 
 واحد غائب
3rd person plural
 جمع غائب
Masculineمیں لکھوں گا۔
 
mei likhon ga.
 
 
 
“I will write.”
ہم لکھیں گے۔
 
hum likhain gay.
 
“We will write.”
تم لکھو گے۔
 
tum likho gay.
 
 
“You will write.”
آپ لکھیں گے۔
 
aap likhain gay.
 
 
“You will write.”
وہ لکھے گا۔
 
woh likhay ga.
 
 
“He will write.”
وہ لکھیں گے۔
 
woh likhain gay.
 
 
“They will write.”
Feminineمیں لکھوں گی۔
 
mei likhon gi.
 
“I will write.”
ہم لکھیں گی۔
 
hum likhain gay.

“We will write.”
تم لکھو گی۔
 
tum likho gi.
 
“You will write.”
آپ لکھیں گی۔
 
aap likhain gi.

“You will write.”
وہ لکھےگی۔
 
woh likhay gi.

“She will write.”
وہ لکھیں گی۔
 
woh likhain gi.

“They will write.”

As explained earlier, the basic purpose of using the single infinitive لکھنا (likhna), or “to write,” is to show you how the different conjugations work on the same verb. If you successfully learn the basic rules and groups of Urdu conjugations, you’ll be able to utilize them effectively in your Urdu reading, writing, and conversations.

4. Bonus for the Ambitious Learners

Negative Verbs

In order to bring clarity and depth to the topic of Urdu verb conjugation, study the Urdu verb conjugation chart below. It shows the conjugation of لکھنا (likhna) for all tenses. This is for the learners who are ready and willing to go a step further.

Simple PresentSimple PastSimple Future
لکھتا ہے
likhta hai
“Writes”
لکھا
likha
“Wrote”
لکھے گا
likhay ga
“Will write”
Present ContinuousPast ContinuousFuture Continuous
لکھ رہا ہے
likh raha hai
“Is writing”
لکھ رہا تھا
likh raha tha
“Was writing”
لکھ رہا ہو گا
likh raha ho ga
“Will be writing”
Present PerfectPast PerfectFuture Perfect
لکھ چکا ہے
likh chuka hai
“Has written”
لکھ چکا تھا
likh chuka tha
“Had written”
لکھ چکا ہو گا
likh chuka ho ga
“Will have written”
Present Perfect ContinuousPast Perfect ContinuousFuture Perfect Continuous
لکھ رہا ہے
likh raha hai
“Has been writing”
لکھ رہا تھا
likh raha tha
“Had been writing”
لکھ رہا ہو گا
likh raha ho ga
“Will have been writing”

5. Some Rare Irregular Urdu Verbs

Verb List Illustrating Conjugation of Irregular Verbs

Like all languages, Urdu has a few irregular verbs of its own. Fortunately, there aren’t very many of these for you to learn. Below, we’ll cover two verbs that have odd conjugations in the past tense.

  •         جانا
    Jana
    “To go”

The verb جانا (jana) conjugates normally, except in the past case. You can see this change in the table below.

Gender1st person singular
 واحد متکلم
1st person plural
 جمع متکلم
2nd person singular
 واحد حاضر
2nd person plural
 جمع حاضر
3rd person singular 
 واحد غائب
3rd person plural
 جمع غائب
Masculineمیں گیا۔
 
mei gaya.
 
“I went.”
ہم گئے۔
 
hum gaye.
 
“We went.”
تم گئے۔
 
tum gaye.
 
“You went.”
آپ گئے۔
 
aap gaye.
 
“You went.”
وہ گیا۔
 
woh gaya.
 
“He went.”
وہ گئے۔
 
woh gaye.
 
“They went.”
Feminineمیں گئی ۔
 
mei gayi.
 
“I went.”
ہم گئیں۔
 
hum gayein.

“We went.”
تم گئی۔
 
tum gayi.
 
“You went.”
 آپ گئیں۔
 
aap gayein.
 
“You went.”
وہ گئی۔
 
woh gayi.

“She went.”
وہ گئیں۔
 
woh gayein.

“They went.”
  •   کرنا
    Kerna
    “To do”

Similarly, the verb کرنا (kerna) will conjugate normally except in the past case. You can see this change in the table below.

Gender1st person singular 
 واحد متکلم
1st person plural
 جمع متکلم
2nd person singular 
 واحد حاضر
2nd person plural
 جمع حاضر
3rd person singular 
 واحد غائب
3rd person plural
 جمع غائب
Masculineمیں نے کیا۔
 
mei nay kiya.
 
“I did.”
ہم نے کیا۔
 
hum nay kiya.
 
“We did.”
تم نے کیا۔
 
tum nay kiya.
 
“You did.”
آپ نے کیا۔
 
aap nay kiya.
 
“You did.”
اس نے کیا۔
 
uss nay kiya.

“He did.”
انھوں نے کیا۔
 
unho nay kiya.

“They did.”
Feminineمیں نے کیا۔
 
mei nay kiya.
 
“I did.”
ہم نے کیا۔
 
hum nay kiya.
 
“We did.”
تم نے کیا۔
 
tum nay kiya.
 
“You did.”
آپ نے کیا۔
 
aap nay kiya.
 
“You did.”
اس نے کیا۔
 
uss nay kiya.

“She did.”
انھوں نے کیا۔
 
unho nay kiya.

“They did.”

6. Rehearse with Us

Having learned the basics of Urdu verb conjugation, it’s crucial that you practice your skills and test your knowledge. 

1- Conduct Multiple Practice Sessions Yourself

Become the master of your own destiny by practicing Urdu verb conjugation yourself. The best way to start is to pick up a few Urdu verbs from different resources available on UrduPod101.com and use them by imagining several day-to-day situations. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes, because every mistake will take you one step closer to your destination.

2- Quiz

Now, here’s a quiz on Urdu verb conjugation! Give the correct conjugation of each verb for the examples below. 

Some Students Sitting Inside an Examination Hall Taking a Test

1.       وہ اچھا گانا ـــــــــــــــــ ۔ 
woh acha gana ________ .
“She sings well.”

The verb to be used in the sentence above is گانا.

2.        جلد ہی تم ایک اچھی خبر ــــــــــــــــ۔ ۔
jald he tum aik achi khabar _____________ .
“You will listen to the good news soon.” (when addressing a man)

The verb to be used in the sentence above is سننا.

  3.    تم ایک غلطی ــــــــــــــــــــــــــ ۔
tum ek ghalti ____________ .
“You were repeating a mistake.” (male speaker)

The verb to be used in the sentence above is دوہرانا.

4.         میں جاپان ــــــــــــــــــ ۔
mei Japan _________.
“I went to Japan.” (male speaker)

The verb to be used in the sentence above is جانا.

5.         وہ مدد ـــــــــــــــــ ۔
woh madad mang raha hai.
“He is asking for help.”

The verb to be used in the sentence above is مانگنا.

If you’ve hit the bull’s eye, congratulations! If you’re confused about the correct answers, though, follow the quiz key below.

3- Key to Quiz

1.         وہ اچھا گانا گاتی ہے۔

(Present Simple Tense)

2.         جلد ہی تم ایک اچھی خبر سنو گے۔

(Future Simple Tense)

3.         تم ایک غلطی دوہرا رہے تھے۔

(Past Continuous Tense)

4.         میں جاپان گیا۔

(Past Simple Tense)

5.         وہ مدد مانگ رہاہے۔

(Present Continuous Tense)

If you’re still a bit confused, feel free to consult the charts and tables from this article. These will empower you to find out the logic behind each answer. You can also reach out to us in the comments if you still have questions! 

7. Conclusion

In this article, you’ve learned about Urdu verb conjugation with various illustrations and examples. Hopefully, you found all the details that you wished for. Nonetheless, if we missed anything, let us know! We’ll give you that information as soon as possible.

In addition, visiting UrduPod101.com is a must. We have tons of Urdu language learning resources, so if you haven’t explored it thoroughly yet, be sure to do so soon. You’ll get access to sumptuous knowledge and information pertaining to the Urdu language.

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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Urdu Verbs List: 100+ Must-Know Urdu Verbs

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You don’t have to be a practicing grammarian in order to know the significance of the Urdu verb in a sentence or to realize the need to learn English verb tenses in Urdu. As is the case in many other major languages, learning the proper usage of verbs in different sentences or phrases is a huge step toward excellence in the Urdu language. Here, in this article, we’ll wade through a simple Urdu verbs list and give you some information on Urdu verbs conjugation (though we’ll soon have a separate article on the latter).

Are you ready to learn Urdu verbs and enhance your language skills? Let’s get started!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Useful Verbs in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. Why is it Important to Study 100+ Common Verbs?
  2. Verb Grouping According to Ending Syllables
  3. Placement and Usage of Verbs in Urdu
  4. Action Verbs in Urdu
  5. Mental Verbs in Urdu
  6. Urdu Helping Verbs
  7. A List of Some Unavoidable Verbs in Urdu
  8. Conclusion

1. Why is it Important to Study 100+ Common Verbs?

Top Verbs

UrduPod101.com has already introduced you to Urdu nouns, Urdu pronouns, and Urdu adjectives. Having learned these, it’s now imperative to master the Urdu verb—فعل (fail)—so that you can form complete thoughts and ideas in your sentences. 

Knowing different verbs in Urdu and how they work will give you the ability to understand and formulate various Urdu phrases and sentences. Consequently, your skills in every aspect of the language will see great improvement. 

2. Verb Grouping According to Ending Syllables

More Essential Verbs

For a beginner, some Urdu verb forms and variants may prove to be quite intricate, and the learner may become confused. Keeping this in view, the best strategy to avoid this confusion is to know the basic form of Urdu verbs: the infinitive.

A. The Basic Form of Urdu Verbs 

Urdu infinitive verbs always possess the ending syllables نا (na). For instance:

  • چلنا (chalna) — to walk
  • رکنا (rukna) — to stop
  • کھانا (khana) — to eat
  • پینا (peena) — to drink

All such verbs in their basic forms function to mean/represent an act of doing, happening, or being in a state. This is the most basic definition of a verb in Urdu.  

B. Variations Based on Urdu Verb Tenses

Keeping the base form of Urdu verbs in mind, let’s discuss how Urdu verb forms vary based on changing tenses.

Here, it’s appropriate to discuss only three forms of Urdu verbs, which signify three general tenses: present simple, past simple, and future simple.

While the Urdu infinitive verbs end with the syllables نا (na), the ending syllables change according to the tenses: 

  • Present Simple Tense: تا ہے/تی ہے (ta hai) / (ti hai)
  • Past Simple Tense: یا/یی (ya)/(yi) or یا تھا/یی تھی (ya tha) / (yi thi)
  • Future Simple Tense: گا/گی (ga) / (gi)

This also implies that the Urdu language has no irregular verbs! Additionally, as there’s not an extensive use of the intransitive verb in Urdu, you don’t need to bother learning the details about transitive and intransitive verbs in Urdu.

Below is an example illustrating how an Urdu verb conjugates in all of the above-mentioned forms.

  • کرنا (karna) — do [base form]
  • کرتا ہے (karta hai) — does [present simple]
  • کیا (kiya) — did [past simple]
  • کرے گا (karay ga) — will do [future simple]
List of Words in Alphabetical Order

C. How Grammatical Gender Impacts Verbs in Urdu

In Urdu grammar, verbs must match the gender of other words around them. 

While learning about grammatical gender’s impact on Urdu verbs is not the topic of this article, it’s still important to have a general idea of how this works. After reading our explanation, you can look again at the examples above to see the changes for yourself! 

Masculine Ending Syllables:

  • تا ہے (ta hai)
  • یا / یا تھا (ya) / (ya tha)
  • کرے گا (karay ga)

Feminine Ending Syllables:

  • تی ہے (ti hai)
  • یی/یی تھی (yi) / (yi thi)
  • کرے گی (karay gi)

3. Placement and Usage of Verbs in Urdu 

Negative Verbs

Urdu grammar has its own idiosyncrasies when it comes to the placement of a verb in a sentence. For this reason, it’s vital that we go over this topic before proceeding further. 

Basic Urdu Syntax

In English, the Subject + Verb + Object (SVO) sentence pattern is typically used. However, Urdu uses a different sentence pattern structure. Take a look:

وہ کھانا کھاتا ہے۔

V + O + S

(Woh khana khata hai.)

This is the basic Urdu syntax. Note that in Urdu syntax, the subject is followed by the object, and the verb is at the end.

4. Action Verbs in Urdu

A Man Skiing in the Snow

Action verbs are those words that simply express an action, and sometimes possession. Below is a list of the most common Urdu verbs used for this purpose.

  • دوڑنا (dorna) — to run
  • لڑنا (larna) — to fight
  • رونا (rona) — to cry
  • ہنسنا (hansna) — to laugh
  • گانا (gana) — to sing
  • کھیلنا (khelna) — to play
  • پڑھنا (parhna) — to read
  • کھڑے ہونا (kharay hona) — to stand up
  • بیٹھ جانا (baith jana) — to sit down
  • سوار ہونا (swar hona) — to ride
  • سننا (sun-na) — to listen
  • بند کرنا (band karna) — to close
  • کھولنا (kholna) — to open
  • چلانا (chalana) — to turn on
  • بند کرنا (band karna) — to switch off
  • جیتنا (jeetna) — to win
  • ہارنا (harna) — to lose
  • لکھنا (likhna) — to write
  • پکانا (pakana) — to cook
  • دھونا (dhona) — to wash
  • دینا (dena) — to give
  • لینا (lena) — to take
  • انتظار کرنا (intizar karna) — to wait
  • کودنا (kodna) — to jump
  • بات کرنا (baat karna) — to talk
  • چومنا (choomna) — to kiss
  • گلے ملنا (galay milna) — to hug
  • نہانا (nahana) — to bathe
  • خریدنا (khareedna) — to buy
  • بیچنا (bechna) — to sell
  • سونگھنا (soonghna) — to smell
  • تالی بجانا (tali bajana) — to clap
  • بننا (bun-na) — to knit
  • سینا (seena) — to sew
  • دھکیلنا (dhakelna) — to push
  • کھینچنا (khenchna) — to pull
  • چڑھنا (charhna) — to climb
  • کھودنا (khodna) — to dig
  • جھکنا (jhukna) — to bow
  • غوطہ لگانا (ghota lagana) — to dive

Example Sentences 

  • وہ روزانہ پارک میں دوڑتی ہے۔

woh rozana park mei dorti hai.

She runs in the park daily.

  • اس نے دریا میں غوطہ لگایا۔

uss nay darya mein ghota lagaya.

He dived into the river.

  • میں کلاس لوں گا۔

mei class loon ga.

I will take my class.

  • تم نے اس کو کتاب کیوں دی؟

tum nay uss ko kitab kyu di?

Why did you give him the book?

  • میں ایک کار خریدنا چاہتا ہوں۔

mei aik car khareedna chahta hun.

I want to buy a car.

5. Mental Verbs in Urdu

A Woman indulged in a Thinking Activity

Mental verbs show different mental actions. Below you’ll find some examples of common mental verbs in Urdu.

  • سوچنا (sochna) — to think
  • فیصلہ کرنا (faisla karna) — to decide
  • جاننا (jan-na) — to know
  • یقین کرنا (yaqeen karna) — to believe
  • شک کرنا (shak karna) — to doubt
  • فرض کرنا (farz karna) — to suppose
  • پہچاننا (pehchan-na) — to recognize
  • بھولنا (bhoolna) — to forget
  • یاد رکھنا (yaad rakhna) — to remember
  • رد کرنا (rad karna) — to deny
  • وعدہ کرنا (waada karna) — to promise
  • مطمئن کرنا (mutmain karna) — to satisfy
  • احساس کرنا (ahsaas karna) — to realize
  • اتفاق نہ کرنا (itefaq na karna) — to disagree
  • حیران کرنا (hairan karna) — to astonish

Example Sentences

  • میں آپ سے اتفاق نہیں کرتا۔

mei aap say ittefaq nahi karta.

I disagree with you.

  • تم اس کی غلطی بھول گئے۔

tum uss ki ghalati bhool gaye.

You forgot his mistake.

  • کیا تم نے فیصلہ کر لیا ہے؟

kya tum nay faisla kar liya hai?

Have you decided?

6. Urdu Helping Verbs

Helping verbs are significant in that they’re sometimes required to structure a sentence. They’re used to assist the main verb, and can be further divided into two main categories: modal verbs and auxiliary verbs. The exact translation of these verbs in Urdu is امدادی فعل (imdadi fael).

A. Modal Verbs in Urdu with Examples

Modal verbs serve to describe possibility, necessity, or obligation. They also help to modify specific tasks. Following are some Urdu modal verbs, followed by a few examples.

  • سکتا ہے (sakta hai) — can
  • سکا (saka) — could
  • سکتا ہے (sakta hai) — may
  • سکا (saka) — might
  • کرے گا (karay ga) — will
  • کیا (kiya) — would
  • کرے گا (karay ga) — shall
  • چاہئے (chahiye) — should / must / ought to

Example Sentences

  • وہ تیر سکتا ہے۔

woh tair sakta hai.

He can swim.

  • انٹرویو کے بعد آپ جا سکتے ہیں۔

interview kay baad aap ja saktay hain.

You may leave after the interview.

  • وہ آپ کی مدد کرے گا۔

woh aap ki madad karay ga.

He will help you.

  • آپ کو ائیرپورٹ پر وقت پر پہنچنا چاہئے۔

aap ko airport per waqt per pohanchna chahiye.

You should reach the airport on time.

  • اسے یہ کتاب لازمی پڑھنی چاہئے۔

ussay yeh kitab lazmi parhni chahiye.

He must read this book.

B. Auxiliary Verbs in Urdu with Examples

The words “auxiliary” and “helping” are often used interchangeably. However, auxiliary verbs function to articulate the tense or to emphasize something. There are three main Urdu auxiliary verbs which have multiple variants. We’ll introduce them to you below.

 ہونا (hona) — to be

  • ہوں (hun) — am
  • ہے (hai) — is
  • ہیں (hain) — are
  • تھا/تھی (tha/thi) — was
  • تھے (thay) — were

رکھنا/چکنا (rakhna/chukna) — to have

  • چکا ہے/چکی ہے (chuka hai/chuki hai) — has
  • چکے ہیں (chukay hain) — have
  • چکے تھے (chukay thay) — had

کرنا (karna) — to do

  • کرتا ہے/کرتی ہے (karta hai/karti hai) — does
  • کرتے ہیں (karty hain) — do
  • کیا/کیاتھا (kiya/kiya tha) — did
Example Sentences
  • میں خوش ہوں۔

mei khush hun.

I am happy.

  • وہ میرے ساتھ ناراض تھی۔

woh meray saath naraz thi.

She was angry with me.

  • وہ ہاکی کھیل چکے ہیں۔

woh hockey khail chukay hain.

They have played hockey.

  • ہم کیک کاٹ چکے تھے۔

hum cake kaat chukay thay.

We had cut the cake.

  • اس نے جھگڑے کا آغاز کیا۔

uss nay jhaghray ka aaghaz kiya.

He started the fight.

A Brief List Containing Some Modal and Helping Verbs

7. A List of Some Unavoidable Verbs in Urdu

To continue our list and further expand your Urdu verbs vocabulary, let’s look at a few more must-know verbs in Urdu that will make your life more convenient in an Urdu-speaking country. 

  • پیار کرنا (pyar karna) — to love
  • نفرت کرنا (nafrat karna) — to hate
  • کہنا (kehna) — to say
  • بتانا (batana) — to tell
  • ستانا (satana) — to tease
  • عزت کرنا (izat karna) — to respect
  • بے عزت کرنا (bayizat karna) — to humiliate
  • ملنا (milna) — to meet
  • اکٹھا کرنا (ikatha karna) — to collect
  • جدا کرنا (juda karna) — to separate
  • سونا (sona) — to sleep
  • جاگنا (jagna) — to wake up
  • زندہ رہنا (zinda rehna) — to live
  • مرنا (marna) — to die
  • آنا (aana) — to come
  • جانا (jana) — to go
  • مزہ لینا (maza lena) — to enjoy
  • دوڑنا (dorna) — to run
  • مسکرانا (muskurana) — to smile
  • معاف کرنا (maaf karna) — to forgive
  • معافی مانگنا (maafi mangna) — to apologize
  • کھانسنا (khansna) — to cough
  • گرنا (girna) — to fall
  • اٹھنا (uthna) — to get up
  • پڑھانا (parhana) — to teach
  • دبانا (dabana) — to press
  • مارنا (marna) — to beat
  • قتل کرنا (qatl karna) — to kill
  • بچانا (bachana) — to save
  • بولنا (bolna) — to speak
  • شور کرنا (shor karna) — to make a noise
  • پوچھنا (poochna) — to ask
  • سوال کرنا (sawal karna) — to question
  • جواب دینا (jawab dena) — to reply
  • داخل ہونا (dakhil hona) — to enter
  • حاصل کرنا (hasil karna) — to get

Example Sentences

  • اس نے بے گناہ لوگوں کو قتل کیا۔

uss nay baygunah logon ko qatl kiya.

He killed innocent people.

  • آپ نے ایک اچھا سوال پوچھا ہے۔

aap nay aik acha sawal pucha hai.

You have asked a good question.

  • آپ میٹنگ میں کب آؤ گے؟

aap meeting mein kab aao gay?

When will you come to the meeting?

  • وہ بہت اچھا پڑھاتا ہے۔

woh bohat acha parhata hai.

He teaches very well.

  • میں آج ہوٹل میں نہیں جاؤں گا۔

mei aaj hotel mein nahi jaon ga.

I will not go to the hotel today.

8. Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed learning about Urdu verbs with us! Are there any verbs we didn’t cover that you still want to know? Let us know in the comments! 

After reading this article carefully, you should have a better understanding of Urdu verbs and how they work. This will allow you to properly use them in sentences for more effective communication. Practice them well and you’re sure to get desired results! 

At UrduPod101.com, we always do our best to ensure that our content is informative, up-to-date, and easy to understand. For this reason, we always look forward to hearing your feedback and other comments so that we can continually improve. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have—we’ll do our best to help! 

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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The Pronoun in Urdu: A Comprehensive Guide to Urdu Pronouns

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Learning the must-know pronouns in Urdu is essential because they substitute nouns to avoid unnecessary repetition and increase overall clarity in writing and speaking. As a non-native, being able to correctly use pronouns in Urdu conversations will allow you to sound more natural and reasonable.

In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about this important grammar point. Let’s get started!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. What is a Pronoun in Urdu?
  2. Urdu Personal Pronouns
  3. Urdu Demonstrative Pronouns
  4. Urdu Interrogative Pronouns
  5. Urdu Indefinite Pronouns
  6. Urdu Relative Pronouns
  7. A Few Socio-Cultural Restraints
  8. Conclusion

1. What is a Pronoun in Urdu?

A pronoun is a word which can be used instead of a noun. In Urdu, a pronoun is called: اسم ضمیر  (Ism-e-zameer). You may notice that the definition of a pronoun in Urdu, as well as its use, is the same as in English. If you struggle with the construction of Urdu pronouns and their appropriate uses, walk with us through this article and you’ll get a pronoun list in Urdu to get you started.

With this in mind, let’s have a look at the most popular kinds of pronouns in Urdu, starting with the personal pronoun.

2. Urdu Personal Pronouns

Basic Questions

There are two words for Urdu personal pronouns: ذاتی اسم ضمیر (zaati ism-e-zameer) / شخصی اسم ضمیر (shakhsi ism-e-zameer). A pronoun which is used to replace a proper noun, such as a person’s name, tends to be a personal pronoun. To illustrate the proper usage of personal pronouns in Urdu, we’ll discuss them one by one, according to their form in particular.

Initially, personal pronouns can be compartmentalized into three types:

  •  ضمیر متکلم  (zameer mutkalam) — First-person
  • ضمیر حاضر (zameer hazir) — Second-person
  • غائب ضمیر  (zameer ghaib) — Third-person

1. 1st-, 2nd-, 3rd-person singular: I, you, he, she, it

1- 1st-Person

To begin, let’s discuss the واحد متکلم (wahid mutkalam) singular first-person. 

میں (mei) is the word that’s used for the first-person pronoun “I” in Urdu. Contrary to how this pronoun is used in English for both male and female speakers, in Urdu, the verb determines the gender of the pronoun. In order to represent a masculine pronoun, the phrase تا ہوں  (ta hun) is used; to represent a feminine pronoun, the phrase تی ہوں  (ti hun) is used. For example:

میں سکول جاتا ہوں۔

mei school jata hun.

I go to school.

میں کھانا کھاتی ہوں۔

mei khana khati hun.

I eat my meal.

A Woman Pointing towards Herself

In the above sentences, the first one refers to a masculine pronoun case and the second one a feminine pronoun case.

2- 2nd-Person

It’s important to keep in mind that there are two Urdu words for the second-person pronoun: تم (tum) and آپ (aap). Both of these words mean the same thing: “you.” 

The former is used in an informal sense, whereas the latter is used in formal conversations. Being a non-native speaker, it’s recommended that you stick to the latter, as it will bring civility and courtesy to your conversations.

Informal usage

تم کہاں ہو؟

tum kahan ho?

Where are you?

Formal usage

آپ کہاں ہو؟

aap kahan ho?

Where are you?

3- 3rd-Person

Talking about the third-person singular pronoun, Urdu speakers simply use the word وہ (woh). However, as discussed above, the appropriate use of تا ہے (ta hai) and تی ہے (ti hai) will determine the gender of the subject in a sentence. Here are a few examples to explain:

وہ فٹبال کھیلتا ہے۔

woh football khelta hai.

He plays football.

وہ کھانا پکاتی ہے۔

woh khana pakati hai.

She cooks food.

So, just remember that the Urdu pronoun وہ (woh) is used for the second-person pronouns in Urdu, irrespective of their genders. 

2. 1st-, 2nd-, 3rd-person plural: we, they, you

Now that you’ve learned how to use the singular pronouns in Urdu, let’s move onto the plural personal pronouns in Urdu. 

1- 1st-Person

We’ll begin with ہم (hum). There’s a little bit of variation in regard to gender-determining words here in comparison to those for singular personal pronouns. That is to say, instead of تا ہے  (ta hai) and تی ہے (ti hai), the phrases تے ہیں (tay hain) and تی ہیں (ti hain) are used. These establish the gender of the masculine and feminine pronouns respectively. Below are a few examples of pronouns in Urdu to better explain.

ہم اردو بولتے ہیں۔

hum urdu boltay hain.

We speak Urdu.

ہم اردو سیکھتی ہیں۔

hum urdu seekhti hain.

We learn Urdu.

The first sentence informs that the first-person plural pronoun is used for masculine subjects, while the second one speaks of the feminine subjects.

2- 2nd-Person

Similarly, the following two sentences will elaborate on the use of the second-person plural in Urdu.

آپ کتنے بجے ریلوے سٹیشن پر پہنچتے ہیں؟

aap kitnay bajay railway station per pohanchtay hain?

At what time do you reach the railway station?

آپ کون سے ملک میں رہتی ہیں؟

aap kon say mulk mein rehti hain?

In which country do you live?

Once again, the former sentence tells about the masculine gender, and the latter about the feminine gender.

3- 3rd-Person

وہ کرکٹ کھیلتے ہیں۔

who cricket khailtay hain.

They play cricket.

Above is an example of the appropriate use of “they” in Urdu.

3. Object forms: me, us, you, his, her, them

Under certain circumstances, Urdu pronouns are also used in the object form. However, they’re used a little differently than they are in English. Nonetheless, you’ll find below a few examples of how best to use the Urdu object forms. 

1- “Me” and “us” / مجھ سے، ہم سے

انھوں نے یہ کام مجھ سے کروایا۔

unhon nay yeh kam mujh say karwaya.

They forced me to do this job.

 ہم سے قتل نہیں ہوا۔

hum say qatl nahi hua.

The murder has not been done by us.

2- “You” / تم سے

 یہ پیپرتم سے پاس کیوں نہیں ہوا۔

yeh paper tum say pass kyu nahin hua.

Why has this paper not been passed by you?

3- “His,” “her,” “them” / اس سے، ان سے

انھوں نے اس کا پیچھا کیا۔

Unhon nay uss ka peecha kiya.

They chased him.

یہ کپڑے اس نے دھوئے۔

yeh kapray uss nay dhoay.

These clothes were washed by her.

اچھے برتاؤ کی ان سے توقع کی جا سکتی ہے۔

achay bartao ki un say tawaqqo ki ja sakti hai.

Good behavior is expected from them.

It’s worth noting that the positioning of the object case or accusative case in Urdu is not in accordance with English grammar; it varies from sentence to sentence. However, the sense and treatment of these forms are similar to those in English.

4. Urdu possessive pronouns: my, our, your, his, her, their, its

Since the role of possessive pronouns in Urdu can’t be underestimated, let’s have a look at them. The possessive pronoun definition in Urdu isn’t much different from the English definition. Below, we’ll list the possessive cases of Urdu pronouns along with an explanation of the possessive pronoun’s meaning in Urdu.

  • میرا (mera) — my / mine
  • آپ کا (aap ka) — your (formal)
  • تمھارا (tumhara) — your (informal)
  • اس کا (uss ka) — his / her
  • ان کا (un ka) — their
  • اس کا (iss ka) — its

Some Illustrations:

یہ میری کار ہے۔

yeh meri car hai.

This is my car.

آپ کا نام کیا ہے؟

aap ka nam kya hai?

What is your name?

تمھارا گھر کہاں واقع ہے؟

tumhara ghar kahan waqia hai?

Where is your house situated?

احمد اس کا بھائی ہے۔

ahmad uss ka bhai hai.

Ahmad is his brother.

ان کا حوصلہ بلند ہے۔

un ka hosla buland hai.

Their morale is high.

Three Children, Two with a Book in Hand and the Third Pointing towards Them

5. Reflexive forms: myself, himself, themselves

Reflexive pronouns refer to the subject. As the suffixes “-self” or -“selves” emphasize the subject in English, in Urdu the phrase بذات خود  (bazat-e-khud) tends to execute the same function. Following are a few varied forms of Urdu reflexive pronouns, along with some sentences to illustrate how they’re used.

  • میں بذات خود (mei bazat-e-khud) — I / myself
  • ہم  بذات خود (hum bazat-e-khud) — we / ourselves
  • آپ بذات خود (aap bazat-e-khud) — you / yourself
  • وہ بذات خود (woh bazat-e-khud) — he / himself

Sentences:

میں بذات خود یہ کلاس پڑھاتا ہوں۔

mei bazat-e-khud yeh class parhata hun.

I myself teach this class.

ہم بذات خود اس اچھے کام کے لئے چندہ اکٹھا کریں گے۔

hum bazat-khud iss achay kam kay liay chanda ikatha karein gay.

We ourselves will raise the fund for this noble cause.

3. Urdu Demonstrative Pronouns

Introducing Yourself

Demonstrative pronouns point toward a recently replaced noun with respect to time, space, and distance. The following examples will help you understand the functionality and positioning of demonstrative pronouns in Urdu sentences.

1- Singular Case

یہ، وہ (this, that)

یہ میری بہن کی کتاب ہے۔

yeh meri behan ki kitab hai.

This is my sister’s book.

وہ میری بائیک سے ملتی جلتی ہے۔

woh meri bike say milti julti hai.

That bike resembles mine.

2- Plural Case

یہ،وہ (these, those)

یہ اچھے اور آرام دہ جوتے ہیں۔

yeh achay aur aaram deh jootay hain.

These shoes are nice and comfortable.

وہ پہاڑ خوبصورت ہیں۔

woh pahar khubsurat hain.

Those mountains are beautiful.

4. Urdu Interrogative Pronouns

Some Question Words in English

Urdu uses interrogative pronouns the same way English does: they’re used to ask questions. The interrogative pronouns in Urdu can be used in a variety of scenarios and situations. Now, let’s practice how to use these Urdu interrogative pronouns in daily conversations.

  • کیا (kya) — what
  • کون سا (kon sa) — which
  • کون (kon) — who
  • کہاں (kahan) — where
  • کیوں (kyun) — why
  • کب (kab) — when
  •  جسے/جس کو (jisay/jis ko) — whom 
  • جس کا/جن کا (jis ka/jin ka) — whose

Sentences:

آپ ناشتے میں کیا پسند کریں گے؟

aap nashtay mein kya pasand karein gay?

What would you like to have for breakfast?

آپ کون سا کھیل پسند کرتے ہیں؟

aap kon sa khel pasand kartay hain?

Which sport do you like?

وہ لڑکا کون ہے؟

woh larka kon hai?

Who is that boy?

5. Urdu Indefinite Pronouns

An indefinite pronoun is used for something that’s not definite or specific. Below, we’ll tell you about some Urdu indefinite pronouns and how to use them under certain circumstances.

1- Everyone / everybody / everywhere / everything

ہرکوئی، ہرجگہ، ہرچیز وغیرہ

  • ہر کوئی (her koi) — everybody / everyone
  • ہر جگہ (her jagah) — everywhere
  • ہر چیز (her cheez) — everything

Sentence:

میٹنگ میں ہر کوئی موجود ہونا چاہئے۔

meeting mein her koi mojood hona chahiye.

Everybody should be present at the meeting.

2- Someone / somebody / somewhere / something

 کوئی شخص، کسی جگہ، کوئی چیز

  • کوئی شخص (koi shakhs) — someone / somebody
  • کسی جگہ (kisi jagah) — somewhere
  • کوئی چیز (koi cheez) — something

Sentence:

اس کو کسی نے زخمی کیا ہے۔

uss ko kisi nay zakhmi kiya hai.

Somebody has wounded him.

3- No one / nobody / nowhere / nothing

کوئی نہیں، کہیں نہیں، کچھ نہیں

کوئی نہیں (koi nahi) — no one / nobody

کہیں نہیں (kahin nahi) — nowhere

کچھ نہیں (kuch nahi) — nothing

Sentence:

میں نے دستک دی لیکن کوئی بھی دروازہ کھولنے نہیں آیا۔

mei nay dastak di lekin koi bhi darwaza kholnay nahi aya.

I knocked on the door, but nobody opened the door.

4- Anyone / anybody / anywhere / anything

کوئی بھی، کہیں بھی، کچھ بھی

کوئی بھی (koi bhi) — anyone / anybody

کہیں بھی (kahin bhi) — anywhere

کچھ بھی (kuch bhi) — anything

Sentence:

کوئی بھی سوال پوچھ سکتا ہے۔

koi bhi sawal pooch sakta hai.

Anyone may ask the question.

6. Urdu Relative Pronouns

Improve Listening

Relative pronouns relate to a previously introduced relative clause. Basically, there are five relative pronouns in Urdu. For deeper insight into relative pronouns in Urdu, have a look at the following examples.

  • جو / جس نے (jo / jis nay) — which / that
  • جس نے (jis nay) — who
  • جسے (jisy) — whom
  • جس کا (jis ka) — whose

Sentences:

میں نے جو کار خریدی وہ نیلی تھی۔

mei nay jo car kharedi woh neeli thi.

The car that I bought was blue.

جس شخص نے مجھے خط لکھا وہ میرا دوست ہے۔

jis shakhs nay mujhe khat likha woh mera dost hai.

The person who wrote me the letter is my friend.

جس شخص کو میں نے کال کی وہ میرا شاگرد تھا۔

jis shakhs ko mei nay call ki woh mera shagird tha.

The person whom I called was my student. 

یہ وہ زمین ہے جو کہ تم نے نہیں خریدی۔

yeh woh zameen hai jo kay tum nay nahi khareedi.

This is the land which you did not purchase.

یہ وہ پہلوان ہے جس کی کِک مشہور ہے۔

Yeh woh pehlwan hai jis ki kick mash-hoor hai.

This is the wrestler whose kick is famous.

7. A Few Socio-Cultural Restraints

The Pakistan Flag

When cruising about the territory of Pakistan, you should use the second-person pronoun with a great deal of care. First, always try to use the formal version, i.e. آپ (aap) instead of the informal تم (tum). Secondly, if you intend to have a conversation with a woman, never ever try to take the liberty of being informal. This has some objectionable cultural connotations and can have serious repercussions.

8. Conclusion

We hope that you had a simple but fruitful learning experience today. Urdu pronouns are essential in learning the language, so be sure to keep working at it! 

This and many other lessons at UrduPod101.com will not only enhance your knowledge of Urdu language pronouns, but also your knowledge about the correct use of Urdu nouns, Urdu adjectives, and many other aspects of the language.

Having learned the most common pronouns in Urdu, it’s now up to you to practice these Urdu pronouns. Once you’re well-versed in this field, you’ll see how much more convenient conversing in Urdu will be!

Do you feel that all the questions you had on Urdu pronouns have been covered? Please let us know in the comments, and we’ll do our best to answer any questions you may still have. 
Very Happy Urdu Learning!

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Practice Speaking with the Voice Recording Tool!

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Pronunciation is an essential ingredient in language-learning. Proper pronunciation prompts clear understanding during conversations with native speakers.

Prior to learning full Korean sentences, my online Korean language tutor assigned the “Hana Hana Hangul” pathway to me. It demonstrated the writing and pronunciation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Throughout this pathway, I submitted recordings of my Hangul character pronunciations to my language teacher for review.

I was given a similar task on JapanesePod101.com with the “Ultimate Japanese Pronunciation Guide” pathway. My Japanese language teacher tested my pronunciation of the Japanese characters kana. My completion of the two pathways boosted my confidence in speaking.

Speaking is one of the more challenging components of learning a language. The voice recording tool in particular was a great way for me to improve my speaking skills. Further, because the lesson dialogues are spoken by native speakers, I’m able to practice speaking naturally.

This feature is also available for vocabulary words and sample sentences. Being able to hear these recordings improves my pronunciation skills for languages like Japanese, where intonation can change the meaning of a word entirely. The voice recorder examines my speed and tone. I also follow up by sending a recording to my online language tutor for feedback.

A great way to boost one’s speaking confidence is to shadow native speakers. During the vocabulary reviews, it’s helpful for me to hear the breakdown of each word; doing so makes a word that was originally difficult to even read a breeze to say!

Some lessons create opportunities to speak your own sentences. For example, the “Top 25 Korean Questions You Need to Know” pathway presents opportunities to answer questions personally. This helps you gain the ability to give answers as the unique individual you are.

Example Scenario:

The host asks the following question:

어디에 살고 있습니까?

eodieseo salgo isseumnikka

“Where do you live?”

If you live in Tokyo, you would readily say the following:

도쿄에 살고 있습니다.

Tokyo-e salgo isseumnida.

“I live in Tokyo.”

Increase Your Vocab with Spaced-Repetition Flashcards and More!

A child learning words with flashcards

Imagine having a conversation with a native speaker and hesitating because you lack a solid vocabulary base.

Premium PLUS offers various features to expand learners’ vocabulary, including Free Gifts of the Month. UrduPod101’s free gifts for April 2020 included an e-book with “400 Everyday Phrases for Beginners,” and the content is updated every month. When I download free resources like this, I find opportunities to use them with co-teachers, friends, or my language tutors.

An effective way to learn vocabulary is with SRS flashcards. SRS is a system designed for learning a new word and reviewing it in varying time intervals.

You can create and study flashcard decks, whether it’s your Word Bank or a certain vocabulary list. For example, if you need to visit a post office, the “Post Office” vocabulary list for your target language would be beneficial to study prior to your visit.

In addition to the SRS flashcards, each lesson has a vocabulary slideshow and quiz to review the lesson’s vocabulary.

There’s also the 2000 Core Word List, which includes the most commonly used words in your target language. Starting from the 100 Core Word List, you’ll gradually build up your knowledge of useful vocabulary. These lists can be studied with SRS flashcards, too.

With the SRS flashcards, you can change the settings to your liking. The settings range from different card types to number of new cards per deck. Personally, I give myself vocabulary tests by changing the settings.

After studying a number of flashcards, I change the card types to listening comprehension and/or production. Then I test myself by writing the translation of the word or the spoken word or phrase.

The change in settings allow me to remember vocabulary and learn how to identify the words. This is especially helpful with Japanese kanji!

Complete Homework Assignments!

A woman studying at home

Homework assignments are advantageous to my language studies. There are homework assignments auto-generated weekly. They range from multiple-choice quizzes to writing assignments.

Language tutors are readily available for homework help. Some writing assignments, for instance, require use of unfamiliar vocabulary. In such cases, my language teachers assist me by forwarding related lessons or vocabulary lists.

In addition to these auto-generated homework tasks, language tutors customize daily assignments. My daily homework assignments include submitting three written sentences that apply the target grammar point of that lesson, and then blindly audio-recording those sentences. My personal language tutor follows up with feedback and corrections, if needed.

Your language tutors also provide assignments upon requests. When I wanted to review grammar, my Korean teacher sent related quizzes and assignments. Thus, you are not only limited to the auto-generated assignments.

Every weekend, I review by re-reading those written sentences. It helps me remember sentence structures, grammar points, and vocabulary to apply in real-world contexts.

Furthermore, I can track my progress with language portfolios every trimester. It’s like a midterm exam that tests my listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.

Get Your Own Personal Language Teacher!

A woman teaching pronunciation in a classroom

My language teachers cater to my goals with personalized and achievable learning programs. The tangible support of my online language teachers makes it evident that we share common goals.

Once I share a short-term or long-term goal with my teacher, we establish a plan or pathway that will ultimately result in success. I coordinate with my teachers regularly to ensure the personalized learning programs are prosperous. For example, during my JLPT studies, my Japanese language tutor assigned me practice tests.

Your language tutor is available for outside help as well. When I bought drama CDs in Japan, I had difficulty transliterating the dialogue. My Japanese teacher forwarded me the script to read along as I listened.

Additionally, I often practice Korean and Japanese with music. I memorize one line of the lyrics daily. Every time, I learn a new grammar point and new vocabulary. I add the vocabulary to my SRS flashcards, locate the grammar in the Grammar Bank, and study the associated lessons online.

I send my teachers the name of the songs, making them aware of my new goal. One time, my song for Korean was “If You Do” by GOT7. My Korean teacher revealed that she was a huge fan of GOT7 like me! For Japanese, it was “CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LA,” also known as the Dragonball Z theme song. My Japanese teacher excitedly told me that she sang the song a lot as a kid!

A remarkable thing happened to me in South Korea. I was stressed about opening a bank account with limited Korean. I sought help from my Korean teacher. She forwarded me a script of a bank conversation.

After two days, I visited the local bank. It all started with my opening sentence:

은행 계좌를 만들고 싶어요

eunhaeng gyejwaleul mandeulgo sip-eoyo.

I want to open a bank account.

Everything went smoothly, and I exited the bank with a new account!

The MyTeacher Messenger allows me to share visuals with my teachers for regular interaction, including videos to critique my pronunciation mechanisms. I improve my listening and speaking skills by exchanging audio with my teachers. In addition to my written homework assignments, I exchange messages with my language teachers in my target language. This connection with my teachers enables me to experience the culture as well as the language.

Why You Should Subscribe to Premium PLUS

It’s impossible for me to imagine my continuous progress with Japanese and Korean without Premium PLUS. Everything—from the SRS flashcards to my language teachers—makes learning languages enjoyable and clear-cut.

You’re assured to undergo the same experience with Premium PLUS. You’ll gain access to the aforementioned features as well as all of the Premium features.

Complete lessons and assignments to advance in your target language. Increase your vocabulary with the “2000 Core Word List” for that language and SRS flashcards. Learn on-the-go with the Innovative Language app and/or Podcasts app for iOS users.

Learning a new language takes dedication and commitment. The Premium PLUS features make learning irresistibly exciting. You’ll look forward to learning daily with your language tutor.

As of right now, your challenge is to subscribe to Premium PLUS! Complete your assessment, and meet your new Urdu teacher.

Have fun learning your target language in the fastest and easiest way!

Subscribe to Posted by UrduPod101.com in Feature Spotlight, Learn Urdu, Site Features, Team UrduPod101, Urdu Language, Urdu Online

Urdu Sentence Structure & Word Order: An Ultimate Companion

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Can you imagine a car driving over long distances without having all of its crucial components in place? Of course not! In a similar way, you can never expect to master a language unless and until you achieve excellence in all major aspects of that language.

Like in all other languages, it’s necessitous to learn about Urdu sentence structure and the word order in Urdu grammar, because it will help you construct and comprehend Urdu sentences. While this may sound like a naïve matter, its significance can’t be undermined. This is the starting point for building simple Urdu sentences, and the topic culminates, over time, in the formulation of complex Urdu sentences.

In this article, we’ll elaborate on everything you need to learn about word order in the Urdu language. Whether you’re a new Urdu learner, or you’ve been learning Urdu for quite a while, you’ll likely find something useful here to enhance your language skills.

Let’s begin.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. The Basic Sentence Structure in Urdu
  2. Basic Word Order in Urdu Sentences
  3. Building Complex Sentences in Urdu
  4. Forming Questions in Urdu
  5. Making Negative Sentences
  6. Practice Session
  7. Conclusion

1. The Basic Sentence Structure in Urdu

Improve Pronunciation

Unlike most languages, such as English, Urdu does not follow the SVO (Subject + Verb + Object) order in the construction of sentences. Instead, Urdu word order follows the SOV (Subject + Object + Verb) sequence. Below is an explanation of Urdu syntactic formation.  

1- SOV

Subject + Object + Verb is the standard syntactic word order in the Urdu language. To illustrate this fact, let’s discuss the sentence below.

وہ فٹبال کھیلتا ہے۔

V    O   S

As Urdu is written from right to left, you’ll read it likewise to identify the SOV formation. For additional clarity, we’ve included the transliteration of the same sentence, along with the proper word-place tagging.

woh football khelta hai.

S     O      V

“He plays football.”

S  V      O

2- The Subject (فاعل کی اہمیت)

فاعل (fael) is the exact translation of “subject” in Urdu. If you intend to become a proficient Urdu learner and speaker, remember to never omit the subject from sentences. Always using the subject will keep the matter clear, thus helping you and your interlocutor avoid miscommunication. 

Have a look at the following sentences:

  • وہ کار چلاتا ہے۔

woh car chalata hai.

“He drives the car.”

  • کار چلاتا ہے۔

car chalata hai.

“Drives the car.”

The former sentence has a subject, which is وہ (woh), and creates a complete sentence. On the other hand, the deletion of the subject in the second sentence makes the situation unclear. It also reduces the sentence to the status of a phrase, for it doesn’t convey a complete thought.

2. Basic Word Order in Urdu Sentences

Improve Listening

Having discussed the basic syntactic features of an Urdu sentence, let’s take a closer look at each of the components within a sentence.

1- SOV (فاعل، مفعول، فعل)

فاعل (fael), فعل (fail), and مفعول (mafool) are the most appropriate words in Urdu for “subject,” “verb,” and “object,” respectively. فاعل – مفعول – فعل (Subject + Object + Verb), as discussed earlier, is the most desirable word order in Urdu sentences.

2- Subject-Verb Agreement in the Urdu Language

Two People Shaking Hands in Agreement

فعل (fail), or the “verb,” is another important component of an Urdu sentence. Urdu verbs are always preceded by the subject and object in grammatically correct sentences. Like English sentences, the subject in Urdu will determine the form of the verb. Let’s compare English and Urdu sentences in terms of their word order with the help of the following example.

“He reads a book.”

S  V  O

If we want to translate this sentence into Urdu, we’ll have to change the word order to SOV. The Urdu version of this sentence will be:

وہ ایک کتاب پڑھتا ہے۔

woh aik kitaab parhta hai.

S    O        V

3- Urdu Verb Conjugation

As a curious Urdu learner, you surely want to know more about verb conjugation, which allows you to properly use verbs in any situation. The most important thing to remember is that Urdu verbs conjugate according to the person, number, gender, and so on of the subject. 

If you want to learn more about conjugation, UrduPod101 has prepared a detailed article regarding Urdu verb conjugation. The article will answer all of your questions about conjugation in Urdu, and provide you with appropriate examples.

3. Building Complex Sentences in Urdu

A Complex Railroad Track

So far, we’ve learned how to properly arrange the basic components of an Urdu sentence. Now, it’s time to proceed further and add more linguistic features to the sentence. 

1- Placing Pronouns in Urdu Sentences

Pronouns are useful elements in the formation of Urdu sentences. But because the gender of Urdu pronouns causes verbs to conjugate, you’ll have to be careful when using them.

When dealing with subject pronouns, note that they don’t change their position in the sentence:

  • وہ سکول جاتا ہے۔

woh school jata hai.

“He goes to school.”

  • ہم سکول جاتے ہیں۔

hum school jatay hain.

“We go to school.”

Come what may, the word order in Urdu will always remain the same in sentences. That is to say, no matter what kind of pronouns you’re using, the Urdu word order will not change. 

For deeper insight into Urdu pronouns, you can visit our comprehensive guide to Urdu pronouns. 

2- Placing Adjectives in Urdu Sentences

Adjectives can make a sentence pithy and charming by modifying the nouns in that sentence. Let’s learn how and where to place them in Urdu sentences.

Adjectives are always placed before nouns in Urdu sentences.

  • میٹھا آم

meetha aam

“Sweet mango”

  • کڑوی گولی

karwi goli

“Bitter pill”

  • وہ ایک نیلی شرٹ پہنتا ہے۔

woh aik neeli shirt pehanta hai.

“He wears a blue shirt.”

To learn more about the placement of adjectives in Urdu sentences, go through our guide to using Urdu adjectives at UrduPod101.com.

3- Placing Adverbs in Urdu Sentences

In the Urdu language, adverbs modify the meaning of verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, and impart clarity to a sentence. Let’s discuss these cases one by one.

  • میں اچھا کام کرتا ہوں۔

mein acha kaam karta hun.

“I work well.”

  • میں بہت اچھا کام کرتا ہوں۔

mein bohat acha kaam karta hun.

“I work very well.”

  • وہ بہت میٹھا آم کھاتا ہے۔

woh bohat meetha aam khata hai.

“He eats very sweet mango.”

In the first sentence, اچھا (acha) modifies the verb. In the second, بہت (bohat) modifies another adverb. In the third, بہت (bohat) modifies an adjective. You must have noticed that in each sentence, the adverbs are always placed before the verb, adjective, or adverb.

If you still want to dig deeper into adverbs in the Urdu language, our article on Urdu adverbs is a must-read.

4- Placing Prepositions in Urdu Sentences

Urdu prepositions tend to express a relationship between a noun or pronoun and another feature of a sentence. Generally, the prepositions answer questions like “When?” “Where?” and “How?” Let’s consider a few examples:

  • وہ شام کے بعد گھر جاتا ہے۔

woh shaam kay baad ghar jata hai.

“He goes home after evening.” 

  • گائے کھیت میں چر رہی ہے۔

gaye khet mein char rahi hai.

“The cow is grazing in the field.” 

  • وہ گھر ٹیکسی سے جاتا ہے۔

woh ghar taxi say jata hai.

“He goes home by taxi.” 

  • موٹا لڑکا باغ میں تیزی سے چل رہا تھا۔

Mota larrka bagh mei tezi say chal raha tha.

“The fat boy was briskly walking in the garden.” 

  • وہ امتحان میں بے احتیاطی سے لکھتی جارہی تھی۔

Woh imtehan mei be ihtiati say likhti jaa rahi thi.

“She was writing carelessly in the examination.”

In the sentences above, the Urdu prepositions کے بعد (ky baad), میں (mei), and سے (say) are placed between the object and the verb. This is how you use prepositions in terms of Urdu word order.

4. Forming Questions in Urdu

An Outline of a Head Drawn on a Blackboard and Filled with Question Marks

کیا (kia), کیوں (kiun), کب (kab), کہاں (kahan), and کیسے (kaisay) are the usual words to start questions in the Urdu language. In the English language, they can be translated as “what,” “why,” “when,” “where,” and “how,” respectively. 

The Urdu word order remains the same when these words are introduced to a sentence. However, the question word will usually appear either at the beginning of the sentence or after the subject.  

Here are some examples:

  • کیا وہ سکول جاتاہے؟

kia woh school jata hai?

“Does he go to school?” 

  • وہ سکول کیوں جاتا ہے؟

woh school kiun jata hai?

“Why does he go to school?” 

  • وہ کب سکول جاتا ہے؟

woh kab school jata hai?

“When does he go to school?”

  • وہ کہاں سکول جاتا ہے؟

woh kahan school jata hai?

“Where does he go to school?” 

  • وہ کیسے سکول جاتا ہے؟

woh kaisay school jata hai?

“How does he go to school?”

5. Making Negative Sentences 

A Young Asian Woman Making an X with Her Arms to Signify

Negative sentences are a large part of speech and conversation in daily life, so we’re going to cover how to form this type of sentence in Urdu. Words of negation are often placed between the object and the verb, while the rest of the syntactic formation remains the same. نہیں (nahi) and نہ (nah) are the main words of negation in the Urdu language.

Let’s see how these words affect sentence formation and the Urdu word order:

  • وہ سکول نہیں جاتا ہے۔

woh school nahi jata hai.

“He does not go to school.” 

  • وہ سکول نہیں گیا۔

woh school nahi gaya.

“He did not go to school.” 

  • وہ سکول نہیں جائے گا۔

woh school nahi jaye ga.

“He will not go to school.”

In all three sentences, you can see that the word نہیں (nahi) has been added between the object and the verb to highlight the negation.

Now let’s have a look at some sentences in which the word نہ (nah) is used:

  • تم سکول نہ جاؤ۔

tum school nah jao.

“Do not go to school.” 

  • تم پانی نہ لاؤ۔

tum pani nah lao.

“Do not bring water.”

While translating these two sentences into English, the subjects of both sentences have been omitted. Nonetheless, as discussed earlier, we don’t recommend omitting the subject in Urdu sentences; they must always be used in their proper places.

6. Practice Session

Jumbled Words Placed Haphazardly

Now it’s time to be reminiscent of your childhood school memories, for you’re about to enter a practice session. You’ll be asked to rearrange some jumbled words to make a proper meaningful sentence. (Don’t worry, we won’t be grading you on this!) 

Here are the sentences you need to unscramble:

  • کھانا وہ کھاتا ہے نہیں

khana woh khata hai nahi

  • تم جاتے ہو ہوٹل کیسے

tum jatay ho hotel kaisay 

  • پارک گئے میں ہم

park gaye mei hum 

  • ہو جانتے تم مجھے

ho jantay tum mujhay 

  • دوبارہ کیا گے ہم ملیں

dobara kia gay hum milain

Do you need some extra vocabulary to help? UrduPod101 has you covered with our vocabulary list section and dictionary

1- Key to the Test

  • وہ کھانا نہیں کھاتا ہے۔

woh khana nahi khata hai.

“He does not eat food.”

  • تم ہوٹل کیسے جاتے ہو؟

tum hotel kaisay jatay ho?

“How do you go to the hotel?”

  • ہم پارک میں گئے۔

hum park mei gaye.

“We went to the park.”

  • تم مجھے جانتے ہو۔

tum mujhay jantay ho.

“You know me.”

  • کیا ہم دوبارہ ملیں گے۔

kia hum dobara milain gay.

“Will we meet again?”

7. Conclusion

In this article, you’ve learned the art of Urdu sentence building by keeping the basic structure of Urdu sentences in its accurate form. This lesson has helped you in understanding sentence structure in Urdu as it relates to various parts of speech.

Did we skip anything that you wanted to learn about word order in Urdu? Let us know in the comments section, and we’ll do our best to answer your questions! 

Don’t forget to visit and explore UrduPod101.com. Our website is a repository of plentiful resources about the Urdu language. We always look forward to helping you on your language-learning journey.

Very Happy Urdu Learning!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Urdu

The Ultimate Guide to Urdu Time: How to Tell Time in Urdu

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It’s a universally acknowledged truth that time and tide wait for none. Yes, if you want to enjoy a good productive stay in an Urdu-speaking country, knowing how to effectively communicate time will be your vantage point. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about Urdu time so you can be prepared and on time, all the time!

P.S.: Once you’ve gotten the hang of telling the time in Urdu, be sure to check out our vocabulary list Talking about Days for more useful words and phrases.

A Collection of Clocks Showing Different Times
Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Time Phrases in Urdu Table of Contents
  1. Why is it Important to Study How to Tell the Time in Urdu?
  2. How to Ask the Time in Urdu
  3. The Hours in Urdu
  4. Understanding How to Use Minutes in Urdu
  5. General Time Reference of the Day
  6. Adverbs of Time in Urdu
  7. Time Proverbs and Sayings
  8. Conclusion

1. Why is it Important to Study How to Tell the Time in Urdu?

Time

Depending on your personal needs or inclinations, your reasons for learning Urdu may differ. But the essentiality of learning the art of asking or telling the time correctly remains the same. Whether you want to set up a business appointment or need to coordinate with someone about a recreational tour, you’ll always have to ask or tell the time. Here, in this article, we’ll guide you through how to ask/tell the time in Urdu immaculately and with ease. 

2. How to Ask the Time in Urdu

Multitasking Businessman Holding Clock, Laptop, Briefcase, etc.

While staying in Pakistan, it’s quite normal to need to ask the time from someone. If you haven’t learned how to ask the time in Urdu, below are a few simple sentences which will enable you to easily ask the time from someone in Urdu.

  • وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟

waqt kia hua hai?

What time is it?

  • آپ کی گھڑی پر کیا بجا ہے؟

aap ki gharri per kia baja hai?

What is the time on your watch?

  •  کیا آپ مجھے وقت بتا سکتے ہیں؟

kia aap mujhay waqt bata saktay hain?

Could you please tell me the time?

1- Cultural Tip about the Usage of “You” in Urdu

Always remember that in Urdu, there are two words used for the second person pronoun “you.” The two words are تم (tum) and آپ (aap). Both of them mean the same thing: “you.” People use the first one in an informal sense, whereas they use the second one in formal conversations. We suggest that you use the second word, as it sounds more polite and courteous compared to the first word.

2- A Must-Know List about Periods of Time in Urdu

Before proceeding further, boost your knowledge with a practical and useful list of must-know Urdu words about periods of time! 

  • ایک سیکنڈ

ek second

One second

  • ایک منٹ

ek minute

One minute

  • ایک گھنٹہ

ek ghanta

One hour

  • ایک دن

ek din

One day

  • ایک ہفتہ

ek hafta

One week

  • ایک مہینہ

ek mahina

One month

  • ایک سال

ek saal

One year

  • ایک دہائی

ek dihai

One decade

  • ایک صدی

ek saddi

One century

3. The Hours in Urdu

Improve Listening

1- Understanding the Use of Hours in Urdu:

You can’t afford to wait until the eleventh hour to learn the exact word for “hour” in Urdu, which is گھنٹہ (Ghanta). If you look at the clock, you can easily see that it contains twelve hours. Without sound knowledge about these hours and their corresponding Urdu numbers, you really can’t move forward with learning how to ask or give the time in Urdu.

2- گھنٹہ (ghanta) — “hour”

In Pakistan, the usual format people use for telling the time is the twelve-hour format. Thus, you need to familiarize yourself with the idea of a.m. and p.m. in Urdu. 

For the first twelve hours—from twelve o’clock midnight to twelve at noon—the words قبل دوپہر (qabal dopehar) or صبح (subah) are used. These equate with the term a.m. in Urdu. 

The exact word synonymous with p.m. in Urdu is بعد دوپہر (baad dopehar). You can’t use a single word like subah for this. 

If you want to give a time reference instead, you’ll have to use words like “afternoon,” “evening,” or “night” accordingly. We’ll discuss these time references later on in this article.

3- How to properly use hours in Urdu

First, let’s learn how to say “o’clock” in Urdu. The Urdu word بجے (bajay) is the nearest translation available for this word. You’ll see later in this article how significant learning about, and using, “o’clock” in Urdu is. 

Below is a list which will introduce you to telling the time in Urdu vocabulary efficiently. 

ایک بجے     (aik bajay)         One o’clock

دو بجے       (dou bajay)        Two o’clock      

تین بجے      (teen bajay)      Three o’clock

چار بجے     (char bajay)       Four o’clock

پانچ نجے    (panch bajay)    Five o’clock

چھ بجے      (chay bajay)       Six o’clock

سات بجے    (saat bajay)        Seven o’clock

آٹھ بجے      (aath bajay)        Eight o’clock

نو بجے      (nou bajay)         Nine o’clock

دس بجے    (das bajay)          Ten o’clock

گیارہ بجے  (gayarah bajay)   Eleven o’clock

بارہ بجے   (barah bajay)       Twelve o’clock

After having a look at the twelve hours in Urdu, let’s learn a few valuable sentences to see how they’re used.

  •  اس وقت نو بجے ہیں۔

iss waqt nou bajay hain.

It is nine o’clock right now.

  •   کرکٹ میچ صبح دس بجے شروع ہو گا۔

 cricket match subah das bajay shuru ho ga.

The cricket match will start at ten o’clock in the morning.

A Business Professional Looking at the Wristwatch

 

4. Understanding How to Use Minutes in Urdu

1- منٹ (minute) — “minute”

In the hunt for the translation of the English word “minute” in Urdu, you require no extra effort—the pronunciation of the word is exactly the same as in English. To master telling the time in Urdu using minutes, you must also achieve proficiency in Urdu numbers as suggested earlier.

One of the simplest ways of telling the time in Urdu is to say the numbers you see on a clock or watch. Here are some examples:

A Digital Clock Displaying the Time of 5 A.M.

3:18

تین بج کر اٹھارہ منٹ    (teen baj kar athara minute)          Three eighteen

12:45

بارہ بج کر پنتالیس منٹ  (barah baj kar pantalees minute)   Twelve forty-five

03:28

تین بج کر اٹھائیس منٹ  (teen baj kar athaees minute)        Three twenty-eight 

Sentence:

لیکچر دس بج کر تیس منٹ پر شروع ہو گا۔

lecture das baj kar tees minute per shiru ho ga.

The lecture will start at ten-thirty.

2- Hours Divided into Minutes

Now let’s expand our knowledge and concentrate on the division of hours into minutes before proceeding further. A very basic division of the clock reading is given below. It will also introduce you to the art of how to read time in Urdu.

  • سوا (sawa) Quarter past
  • ساڑھے (sarrhay) Half past
  • پونے (ponay) Quarter to

Here are some sentences to show you how these words are actually used:

  • میٹنگ سوا ایک بجے شروع ہو گی۔

meeting sawa aik bajay shuru ho gi.

The meeting will start at a quarter past one.

  • لنچ ساڑھے تین بجے دیا جائے گا۔

lunch sarrhay teen bajay diya jaye ga.

The lunch will be served at half past three.

  • وہ پونے دو بجے روانہ ہوں گے۔

woh ponay dou bajay rawana hon gay.

They will leave at a quarter to two.

5. General Time Reference of the Day

Basic Questions

Now that you have a better idea of how to say the time in Urdu and answer questions like “What time is it there?” in Urdu, we’ll acquaint you with some words and phrases about the general time of day. 

  •          وقت (waqt) — Time
  •          صبح (subah) — Morning
  •          دوپہر (dopehar) — Noon
  •          سہ پہر (seh pehar) — Afternoon
  •          شام (shaam) — Evening
  •          رات (raat) — Night
  •          صبح سویرے (subah saweray) — Early morning
  •          طلوع آفتاب (tuloo-e-aaftaab) — Sunrise
  •           ( آدھا دن (نصف النہار) (aadha din [nisaf-un-nihaar]) — Midday
  •          غروب آفتاب (ghuroob-e-aaftaab) — Sunset
  •          آدھی رات (adhi raat) — Midnight

Sentence:

  • سورج مشرق سے نکلتا ہے اور مغرب میں غروب ہوتا ہے۔

suraj mashriq say nikalta hai aur maghrib mei gharoob hota hai.

The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

6. Adverbs of Time in Urdu

To talk about time more fluently, you need to know some adverbs about time in Urdu. Adverbs in Urdu, like those in English, modify the meaning of a verb, adjective, or another adverb. 

The following list introduces a handy list of adverbs that will always be helpful when asking or telling time in Urdu. Knowing these words will also improve your skills at reading time in Urdu .

  •          بالکل ابھی (bilkul abhi) — Right now
  •          حال ہی میں (haal hi mein) — Recently
  •          اسی دوران (issi doraan) — In the meanwhile
  •          پہلے (pehlay) — Before
  •          بعد میں (baad mei) — After
  •          جلد ہی (jald he) — Soon
  •          تقریباً (taqreeban) — Almost
  •          تھوڑی دیر میں (thori der mein) — In a little while
  •          لمبے عرصے کے لئے (lambay arsay kay liye) — For a long time
  •          کسی بھی وقت (kisi bhi waqt) — Anytime
  •          جلد از جلد (jald az jald) — As soon as possible

Sentence:

  • اسی دوران اس نے کہا کہ وہ کسی بھی وقت آ سکتے ہیں۔

issi doraan uss nay kaha kay woh kisi bhi waqt aa saktay hain.

In the meanwhile, he said that they could come anytime.

A Signpost Having Some Arrows about Adverbs

Is there an adverb of time in Urdu that we missed? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll do our best to help! 

7. Time Proverbs and Sayings

To emphasize the significance of time, myriads of proverbs are frequently used in every culture. Now, we’ll discuss a few widely used Urdu proverbs in this category. The importance of time in Urdu-speaking countries is clearly shown through these proverbs, sayings, and quotes about time in Urdu. Let’s take a look! 

A Wallet Having Some Currency In It Placed on a Clock
  • وقت ایک دولت ہے۔

waqt aik dolat hai.

Time is money.

  • وقت سب سے بڑا مرہم ہے۔

waqt sab say bara marham hai.

Time heals all wounds.

  • وقت کسی کا انتظار نہیں کرتا۔

waqt kisi ka intizaar nahi kerta.

Time and tide wait for none.

  • وقت پر ایک ٹانکا نو کا کام کر دیتا ہے۔

waqt per aik tanka nau ka kam kar deta hai.

A stitch in time saves nine.

8. Conclusion

UrduPod101.com has made an effort to introduce you to everything you should know about time in Urdu. By now, you should have a clearer idea of how to tell time in Urdu using a variety of words and methods. 

Procrastination is the mother of all disasters. You can definitely avoid the disaster by following the videos and lessons about how to tell the time in Urdu on UrduPod101.com. Be the pilot of your learning journey, and stand distinguished from the others by consulting our sources.

Have all of your questions regarding the time in Urdu been addressed here? What’s your satisfaction level after going through this article? Don’t forget to leave your feedback, as it will let us prioritize your needs.

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