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اردو
خود — meaning in English: Himself
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Himself
آنا
تھوڑا
شائستگی
سفرنامہ
خود
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'خود' in everyday conversations when referring to actions taken by oneself, emphasizing personal responsibility or effort. For example, someone might say, 'وہ خود یہ کام کرتا ہے' (He does this work himself) when discussing a task done without help.
Synonyms & nuances
'خود' can be compared to 'اپنے آپ' (apne aap), which also means 'oneself'. While 'خود' emphasizes the subject's independence in action, 'اپنے آپ' can imply a sense of introspection or self-reflection. You might choose 'خود' for more straightforward phrases, while 'اپنے آپ' is useful in philosophical discussions.
Culture
'خود' has roots in Persian, where it also means 'self' or 'oneself'. In Urdu, it reflects a cultural value of self-reliance and independence, which is significant in many social contexts, especially in discussions of personal achievements or responsibilities. It's interesting how this simple word embodies the belief in individual effort in South Asian cultures.
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