dhamma: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized/Technical, Religious
Quick answer
What does “dhamma” mean?
The teachings of the Buddha.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The teachings of the Buddha; the universal truth or law underlying reality in Buddhism.
In Theravada Buddhism, the term refers specifically to the Buddha's doctrine, the ultimate truth of existence (suffering, impermanence, non-self), and the individual phenomena that constitute reality. It is often used interchangeably with 'dharma' (Sanskrit), though 'dhamma' is the Pali form.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The spelling 'dhamma' (Pali) is standard in both regions for Theravada contexts, while 'dharma' (Sanskrit) is more common in Mahayana and general discourse.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes deep religious/philosophical study, associated with meditation, monastic life, and Southeast Asian Buddhist traditions.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general English. Slightly higher frequency in academic religious studies, comparative philosophy, and communities practicing Theravada Buddhism.
Grammar
How to Use “dhamma” in a Sentence
to practise [the] dhammato teach [the] dhammato realise [the] dhammathe dhamma of [impermanence]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dhamma” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A – not used as a verb.
American English
- N/A – not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- N/A – not used as an adverb.
American English
- N/A – not used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- N/A – not used as a standard adjective. The related adjective is 'dhammic'.
American English
- N/A – not used as a standard adjective. The related adjective is 'dhammic'.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, philosophy, and Asian studies departments when discussing Theravada Buddhism.
Everyday
Only used by practicing Buddhists, particularly in Theravada communities, or in mindfulness contexts derived from them.
Technical
Core technical term in Buddhist philosophy and psychology (Abhidhamma), referring to ultimate realities or mental/physical phenomena.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dhamma”
- Misspelling as 'dharma' when specifically referring to the Pali canon.
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a dhamma') incorrectly; it is often treated as uncountable.
- Pronouncing the 'dh' as /ð/; it is /d/ with aspiration.
- Capitalising it inconsistently; often capitalised when referring to the Buddha's teaching as a proper noun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Dhamma' is the Pali language form used primarily in Theravada Buddhism (Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, etc.). 'Dharma' is the Sanskrit form used in Hinduism, Mahayana Buddhism, and general English. They refer to similar concepts but within different linguistic and sometimes doctrinal contexts.
Typically, 'dhamma' as the teaching is uncountable. However, in the technical Abhidhamma context, 'dhammas' (plural) refers to the ultimate mental and physical phenomena that constitute reality.
No. While monks are dedicated to studying and teaching it, the dhamma is considered relevant and accessible to all lay followers for guidance in ethical living and mental development.
Meditation (bhavana) is the practical means of directly experiencing and understanding the dhamma. Insight meditation (vipassana) aims at seeing the true nature of dhammas: impermanent, unsatisfactory, and not-self.
The teachings of the Buddha.
Dhamma is usually specialized/technical, religious in register.
Dhamma: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdʌmə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɑːmə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to set the wheel of dhamma in motion”
- “to take refuge in the dhamma”
- “the taste of the dhamma (dhammarasa)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DHAMMA is the DEEPER HARMONY And Moral Map for Awakening.' (Uses the first letters of the word).
Conceptual Metaphor
DHAMMA IS A PATH (to walk on), DHAMMA IS A LAW (to follow), DHAMMA IS A MEDICINE (that cures suffering), DHAMMA IS A LIGHT (that illuminates reality).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary linguistic origin of the English word 'dhamma'?