Word Meaning
इलतिफ़ातें
iltifātēn
Meaning
Acts of attention, favors, gestures of kindness, or affectionate regards.
Detailed Meaning
This is the Hindustani feminine plural form of 'iltifāt', denoting gestures of affectionate regard, attention, or favor shown by the beloved. In Mir's couplet, it refers to the early tokens of warmth and interest displayed by the beloved, which proved to be illusory deceit. The word evokes the painful realization of how sweet gestures of courtesy can mislead a lover into heartbreak.
Etymology
Derived from Arabic 'iltifāt' (verbal noun of form VIII from the root l-f-t, meaning 'to turn towards' or 'pay attention'), pluralized with the Hindustani suffix -eñ.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, 'iltifāt' is conventionally juxtaposed with 'taghāful' (indifference) to depict the unpredictable demeanor of the beloved.
Examples
Those initial favors were merely a fleeting illusion.
Do not be swayed by the beloved's brief moments of attention.