Meaning & use
asana
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Meanings
nouncountable
a particular position of the body used in yoga
Grammar: Countable: one asana, two asanas. Often used with 'in': in this asana.
Patterns
- hold an asana
- practice an asana
- in an asana
The teacher showed us how to hold the asana for five breaths.
She practices a different asana every morning to improve her flexibility.
This asana is good for strengthening the back.
noununcountablespecialist
the system or practice of these yoga positions, especially in yoga philosophy
Grammar: Uncountable when referring to the practice in general: Asana is one of the eight limbs of yoga.
Patterns
- the practice of asana
- asana and meditation
In classical yoga, asana is one of the eight limbs.
He studies asana as part of his yoga training.
Word forms
| plural | asanas |
|---|
Common combinations
- hold an asana
- Try to hold the asana steadily without wobbling.
- practice asana
- She practices asana for an hour each day.
- a challenging asana
- The handstand is a challenging asana for beginners.
- yoga asana
- Yoga asana can help reduce stress.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
- yoga noun
- A system of exercises and breathing for health and relaxation.
Commonly confused: asana or Asana (brand)?
asana vs Asana (brand)
Asana is also the name of a project-management software. In everyday writing, context makes clear whether the yoga term or the software is meant.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'asana' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Asana' is a noun meaning a yoga position, so it fits in 'held the asana'. The other options use it as a verb or in unrelated contexts, which is not standard.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “asana”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.