Time is a concept that has always fascinated humanity. We measure it in various units to understand its passage and make sense of our existence within its framework. One such unit is a decade, representing a period of 10 years. While the concept of a decade is universal, its linguistic expression varies across languages and cultures. In this blog post, we’ll explore the meaning of “decade” in Bengali, delving into its translation, pronunciation, and usage. We’ll also examine its cultural significance and explore how this seemingly simple word can hold different meanings in different contexts.
Decade Meaning in Bengali
In Bengali, the word for “decade” is দশক (doshok). This word is derived from the Sanskrit word “dashkam,” which also means a group of ten. In Bengali culture, the concept of a decade is often associated with significant milestones in personal life, social changes, and historical events. For example, Bengalis may use “doshok” to refer to a particular period of artistic flourishing, a decade of political upheaval, or even a personal journey of growth and transformation over ten years.
Decade অর্থ কী?
“Decade” শব্দটির বাংলা অর্থ হলো দশক (doshok)। এটি দশ বছরের একটি সময়কাল নির্দেশ করে। উচ্চারণ: “ডেকেড” (deked)
Examples
Here are some examples of how the word “decade” is used in English sentences:
- The first decade of the 21st century witnessed significant technological advancements, including the rise of the internet and the widespread adoption of smartphones.
- The bridge was built a decade ago, and it has since become a vital transportation link for the community.
- Air traffic has increased 30% in the last decade, reflecting the growing demand for air travel and globalization.
- Scientists predict that a large earthquake will strike the east coast before the end of the decade, urging residents to be prepared.
- I have been living in this house for almost a decade, and it holds countless memories of family gatherings and personal milestones.
- Many who grew up in the area weren’t told about the environmental risks for decades, leading to health concerns and community activism.
- The motor industry is placing huge bets on electric cars becoming mainstream over the next decade, investing heavily in research and development.
Synonyms
Some common synonyms for “decade” include:
- Decennium
- Decennary
These synonyms are often used in more formal or academic contexts.
Antonyms
While “decade” specifically refers to a period of 10 years, there aren’t direct antonyms with an opposite meaning. However, words that represent different time periods could be considered in contrast, such as:
- Year
- Century
- Millennium
These words highlight the relative scale of a decade within the broader context of time measurement.
Phrases and Idioms
Although “decade” itself is not commonly used in idioms, it can be found in phrases like:
- “The past decade” – This phrase often refers to the ten years immediately preceding the present, used to discuss recent events or changes.
- “The last decade of the century” – This phrase specifically refers to the final ten years of any century, often marking a period of transition and reflection.
- “Over the next decade” – This phrase is used to discuss future projections, plans, or expected developments within the upcoming ten years.
Uses
The word “decade” has various applications in the English language:
- Time Measurement: Its primary use is to denote a period of 10 years. This is particularly common when discussing historical events, social changes, or personal milestones. For example, historians might analyze the social and political changes that occurred during a specific decade, while individuals might reflect on their personal growth and achievements over the past decade.
- Calendar Systems: In some contexts, “decade” can refer to a group of 10 within a larger system. For instance, in Roman Catholicism, the rosary is divided into decades, each consisting of 10 Hail Marys.
- Mathematics: “Decade” can also represent a ratio of 10 to 1, indicating an order of magnitude. This usage is more common in scientific or technical contexts.
- Social Commentary: “Decade” can be used to describe and analyze social trends, cultural shifts, and generational experiences. For example, sociologists might study the defining characteristics of a particular decade, such as the “Roaring Twenties” or the “Digital Age” of the 2010s.
- Personal Narratives: Individuals often use “decade” to frame their personal experiences and life stories. They might talk about a decade of their childhood, a decade of their career, or a decade marked by significant life events like marriage, parenthood, or personal loss.
Conclusion
The word “decade,” with its Bengali equivalent “doshok,” serves as a fundamental unit in our understanding of time’s passage. While seemingly simple, it carries cultural and contextual nuances that enrich its meaning. Whether discussing historical events, personal experiences, or mathematical concepts, “decade” plays a crucial role in how we perceive and articulate the flow of time. This exploration of “decade” in Bengali has not only highlighted the linguistic diversity in expressing this unit of time but also emphasized its significance in shaping our understanding of the world around us.