Word Meaning
जियो
jiyo
hiverb
Meaning
Live, stay alive, or survive (imperative or subjunctive).
Detailed Meaning
In this couplet, 'जियो' functions alongside 'मरो' ('die or live') to convey the beloved's absolute disregard for the lover's fate. It derives from the verb 'जीना' (to live) in the second-person plural or subjunctive mood. The phrase 'मरो या जियो' encapsulates extreme contrast, reflecting emotional distance and indifference.
Etymology
Sanskrit 'जीवति' (jīvati) / 'जीव' (jīva) through Prakrit to Hindustani 'जीना'.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, it is frequently paired with 'मरो' (maro) to emphasize the beloved's cold detachment toward the lover's life and death.
Examples
Maro ya jiyo, kis ko khabar hai
Tum salamat raho, hazaron saal jiyo
Synonyms
ज़िंदा रहोबचोहयात पाओ
Related Words
जीनाज़िंदगीहयातमरो