gazab

Gazab is a word used in Hindustani languages, particularly Hindi and Urdu, to express astonishment or admiration. As an adjective, noun, or interjection, it conveys meanings such as amazing, incredible, wonderful, or extraordinary. The term is common in everyday speech as well as in literature, film, music, and media across South Asia and among diaspora communities.

Etymology and usage notes: Gazab is widely regarded as a loanword from Persian, integrated into Hindustani vocabulary over time. In contemporary use, it functions flexibly: as an adjective in phrases like gazab ki cheez (something amazing) or gazab ki baat (an incredible thing), and as an interjection such as Gazab! or Gazab hai, expressing surprise or emphasis.

Common phrases and examples: Gazab ki baat hai is a typical expression meaning “that is something remarkable.” In informal conversation, speakers might exclaim Gazab! or use it in sentences like Woh aadmi gazab ka hai (That person is amazing). The term can carry enthusiastic or hyperbolic tone, and while it is widely understood, it remains more colloquial than formal.

In modern usage, gazab appears frequently in popular culture, including songs, dialogues, and social media, where it serves to heighten emotional impact. It is generally appropriate in casual contexts but may sound out of place in formal writing or official discourse.