Hindi Samas: A Journey into Sanskrit Morphology

Hindi Samas: A Journey into Sanskrit Morphology

Hindi Samas, derived from Sanskrit grammar, refer to specific types of compound words in the Hindi language. In this article, we'll be focusing on three primary subtopics: Tatpurush Samas, Dwand Samas, and Avyayibhav Samas.

1. Tatpurush Samas

Tatpurush Samas represent a type of compound word in which a suffix is added to one of the constituent words to create a new compound word. This suffix can change the meaning or grammatical function of the root word. In Hindi, Tatpurush Samas are significantly more common than the other types of compound words. Some examples of Tatpurush Samas include:

• परिशुरम (Parishuram): परि (around) + शुरम (mountain), meaning a mountain surrounded by something.

• विद्युतकारी (Vidyutkari): विद्युत (electricity) + कारी (maker), meaning an electricity producer.

2. Dwand Samas

Dwand Samas form a compound word by combining two words that are in apposition, meaning they are closely related in meaning or function. In Dwand Samas, both words maintain their distinct identities, providing a richer description of an object or concept. Some examples of Dwand Samas include:

• शतकोटि (Shatkoti): शत (hundred thousand) + कोटि (crore), meaning a very large number.

• विश्वविद्यालय (Viswavidyalaya): विश्व (world) + विद्यालय (university), meaning a globally recognized university.

3. Avyayibhav Samas

Avyayibhav Samas result from the fusion of two words, in which the resulting compound word has a different meaning or function than either of the constituent words. In Avyayibhav Samas, the meaning of the compound word is often metaphorical or figurative. Some examples of Avyayibhav Samas include:

• समाजवादी (Samajwadi): समाज (society) + वादी (promoter), meaning a supporter or promoter of society.

• कामनापूर्वक (Kamanapurvak): कामना (desire) + पूर्वक (oriented), meaning desire-driven or motivated by desire.

These Hindi Samas play a crucial role in the richness and depth of the Hindi language, allowing for the creation of complex, nuanced concepts. Moreover, they highlight the unique and sophisticated linguistic structures that the Hindi language possesses. By studying Hindi Samas, we can gain a more profound understanding of the complexities and intricacies of the Hindi language and its grammar.