# Dharma

/ˈdɑɹmə/ (US) · /dˈɑːmɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dharma
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the natural laws or duties that people follow to live a good and balanced life. It is an important idea in religions like Hinduism and Buddhism.

For teachers: the cosmic law and order that governs the universe, or the individual duty and moral conduct required to maintain that order. Often refers to the essential nature of a person or thing.

## Examples

- He believes that helping others is his dharma.
- In many ancient texts, a king's dharma was to protect his people and ensure justice throughout the land.
- The protagonist struggles to reconcile his personal desires with his social dharma, a conflict that drives the narrative toward its tragic conclusion.

## Usage notes

- Often used without an article when referring to the abstract concept of cosmic law.

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