Word Meaning
कहने
kahne
Meaning
Saying, speaking, or expressing; here used with a postposition meaning to be said.
Detailed Meaning
In grammar, it is the oblique infinitive form of the verb 'kahna' (to say or utter). In this couplet, it functions within the archaic postpositional phrase 'kahne ke ta'iñ' (meaning 'for the sake of saying' or 'merely to state'). The poet reflects that the beloved's soft-heartedness is genuine and not just an empty statement or nominal claim.
Etymology
Sanskrit कथ् (kath, to narrate/tell) via Prakrit कहइ (kahai) to Hindustani कहना (kahnā).
Usage
In classical ghazal, the oblique form 'kahne' frequently forms idioms like 'kahne sunne' or links with postpositions to convey the act of confession or poetic recital.
Examples
Kuchh kahne kī tamannā dil hī meñ rah ga'ī.
Bāt un ke na kahne se bhī ahl-e-nazar par khul ga'ī.