Informal Hindi Commands: The "-

This grammar point transforms a basic verb into a command. In English, we just say "Go" or "Eat." In Hindi, the ending tells you who you are talking to. The -o ending specifically targets the tum (informal 'you') group. It is incredibly consistent. You take the root of the verb and slap on an -o. It is like adding a friendly nudge to the action. Even native speakers rely on this for almost everything. If you are at a cafe, you use this. If you are at home, you use this. It is the 'Goldilocks' of Hindi grammar. Not too hot, not too cold. Just perfectly informal.

1. 1Creating these commands is easier than making instant noodles. Just follow these three simple steps:
2. 2Start with the infinitive verb. These always end in -nā (like karnā or khānā).
3. 3Chop off the -nā ending. Now you have the verb root (like kar or khā).
4. 4Add the magic suffix -o to the root.
5. 5Let's see it in action: bolnā (to speak) becomes bolo (speak!). baiṭhnā (to sit) becomes baiṭho (sit!).
6. 6Wait, there are a few rebels! A few verbs don't like the standard rules.
7. 7denā (to give) becomes do (not deo).
8. 8lenā (to take) becomes lo (not leo).
9. 9pīnā (to drink) becomes piyo (we add a 'y' to make it smooth).
10. 10karnā (to do) becomes karo (regular, but worth noting).
11. 11honā (to be) becomes ho.
12. 12Think of these irregulars like the 'black sheep' of the family. There are only a few, so they are easy to remember.

Context is king in Hindi. Use the -o command when you are in the 'Comfort Zone.'

• With Friends: Use it when telling a buddy to "check this out" (dekho).
• With Siblings: Perfect for telling your brother to "shut up" (chup raho).
• In Casual Shops: When ordering a quick chai, ek chai do (give one chai) is perfectly fine.
• With Younger People: If you are talking to a kid or someone much younger, this is standard.
• In Stressful Moments: If you need someone to "stop!" (ruko), this is the fastest way to say it.

It signals that you are close to the person. It says, "We are equals, and I'm comfortable with you." It’s like a grammar hug.

Using the wrong level of respect is like wearing a swimsuit to a funeral. Avoid the -o command in these spots:

• Job Interviews: Stick to the formal āp commands here. Using -o will make you look arrogant.
• With Elders: Never use this with your grandmother or a teacher. They deserve the āp (formal) treatment.
• With Strangers (Formal): If you are talking to a policeman or a high-ranking official, stay away from -o.
• First Dates: Unless the vibe is very casual, start with āp to be safe. You can switch to tum later!

Using -o with a boss is a great way to get a very long, unpaid vacation. Use it wisely!

Even the best learners trip up sometimes. Here are the classic 'oops' moments:

1. 1Mixing Pronouns: People often say āp khāo. This is a grammar car crash! If you use āp, you must use the -iye ending. If you use tum, use -o.
2. 2The 'Deo' Trap: Beginners often try to say deo for 'give.' It sounds like you're talking about deodorant. Remember, it's just do.
3. 3Over-using it: Some learners get so comfortable they use it with everyone. Remember to read the room. If someone looks important, don't -o them.
4. 4Forgetting the 'Y' in Piyo: Saying pīo sounds a bit choppy. Adding that tiny 'y' makes you sound like a pro.

Let's look at the three levels of commands to see the difference:

• Level 1 (Intimate/Tū): The root only. tū kar (You do - very raw/close). Use this for your dog or when you're very angry.
• Level 2 (Informal/Tum): The -o ending. tum karo (You do - friendly). This is our focus today.
• Level 3 (Formal/Āp): The -iye ending. āp kariye (You do - respectful). Use this for your boss or elders.

Think of it like a volume knob. Tū is 100% volume (loud/intimate), Tum is 50% (normal conversation), and Āp is 10% (whispered respect).