The idiom “Flesh and blood” refers to: A human being, especially a family member (एक मानव प्राणी, खासकर परिवार का सदस्य)
The natural, physical qualities of a person (किसी व्यक्ति के प्राकृतिक, शारीरिक गुण)
Refers to someone who is a close relative, especially a parent, sibling, or child (किसी करीबी रिश्तेदार, विशेष रूप से माता-पिता, भाई-बहन, या संतान को संदर्भित करता है)
The idea of human nature and emotional bonds (मानवीय स्वभाव और भावनात्मक संबंधों का विचार)
This phrase is often used to express the deep, emotional connection that exists between close family members or to emphasize human nature in general. It highlights the idea of being made of the same physical substance and having emotional ties.
Hindi Equivalent:
“परिवार का सदस्य” (A family member)
“मानवीय स्वभाव” (Human nature)
“खून और मांस” (Flesh and blood)
Detailed Explanation
This idiom is used when: Referring to close family relationships, typically implying the strong connection shared between relatives
Talking about the human qualities that connect people emotionally, beyond just physical or material attributes
Describing someone’s humanity, such as the emotions, strengths, and weaknesses they share with others
Common contexts: Family ties, relationships, human emotions, close connections
Real-Life Examples
Family Bond
English: “I’d do anything for my son; he’s my flesh and blood.”
Hindi: “मैं अपने बेटे के लिए कुछ भी कर सकता हूँ; वह मेरा परिवार का सदस्य है।”
Human Nature
English: “He’s just flesh and blood like the rest of us; he can’t always be perfect.”
Hindi: “वह हमारे जैसे ही खून और मांस है; वह हमेशा परफेक्ट नहीं हो सकता।”
Emotional Support
English: “She’s been my flesh and blood through all these difficult times.”
Hindi: “वह इन सभी कठिन समयों में मेरा साथ देने वाली परिवार की सदस्य रही है।”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why This Phrase Matters:
✓ It emphasizes the emotional and familial bonds that define human relationships
✓ It speaks to the vulnerability and shared experiences inherent in being human
✓ It helps to reinforce the importance of close, personal connections and the compassion that comes with them
When to Use This Phrase: To refer to someone who is a close family member, such as a parent, sibling, or child
When emphasizing the shared human experience and acknowledging human flaws
To express deep emotional connections, whether in a positive or challenging situation
Usage Tips This idiom is best used when talking about close, familial relationships or to show empathy towards someone who might be going through a tough time
It is often used in a sentimental, affectionate, or serious tone
Avoid using it in situations where the emotional connection is weak or when discussing less significant relationships
Similar Expressions
English | Hindi |
---|---|
“Blood is thicker than water” | “खून पानी से गहरा होता है” |
“A chip off the old block” | “बाप का लड़का” |
“Bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh” | “हड्डी की हड्डी, मांस का मांस” |
Cultural Perspectives
Western View: In Western cultures, the phrase “flesh and blood” is commonly used to emphasize deep familial connections or the inherent humanity that makes people fallible. It can refer to a blood relative or the idea of being human with all its imperfections.
Indian Context: In India, the idiom is closely aligned with expressions such as “खून और मांस,” which are often used to describe the strong emotional and physical bond shared between close family members, especially in the context of familial loyalty and duty.
Global Relevance: Across different cultures, the idea of “flesh and blood” has universal significance, emphasizing both the physical connection (family) and the emotional connection (human nature). This idiom resonates with the idea that, despite differences, we share a common human experience.
Reflection Questions:
- Who in your family do you consider to be your “flesh and blood”?
- Have you ever felt the strong emotional bond of being part of someone’s flesh and blood?
- What do you think the phrase teaches us about the human connection?