At the A1 level, the word 'ماه' (māh) is introduced as one of the basic nouns for nature and the environment. Students learn that it means 'moon' and 'month'. At this stage, the focus is on simple identification. You will learn to say things like 'The moon is in the sky' (Māh dar āsemān ast) or 'I see the moon' (Man māh rā mibinam). You also learn that 'māh' is used when talking about time, such as 'one month' (yek māh). The grammar is kept simple, usually involving the verb 'to be' (budan) or basic action verbs like 'to see' (didar). Cultural nuances are kept to a minimum, focusing instead on the literal meaning of the celestial body and the basic unit of the calendar. The goal is for the student to recognize the word in speech and script and use it in very basic, survival-level sentences. Pronunciation practice focuses on the long 'ā' sound and the soft 'h' at the end, ensuring it is not confused with other similar-sounding words.
At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'ماه' in more descriptive and varied sentences. You will start to use adjectives with the word, employing the 'ezafe' construction, such as 'māh-e kāmel' (full moon) or 'māh-e zibā' (beautiful moon). You will also learn to use 'māh' in the context of the Iranian calendar, naming specific months like 'Māh-e Farvardin'. This level introduces the idea of 'māh' as a compliment, though in a very basic way. You might learn that calling someone 'māh' means they are a good or beautiful person. Sentences become more complex, involving prepositions: 'The moon is behind the cloud' (Māh posht-e abr ast). You also begin to distinguish between 'māh' as an object and 'mahtāb' as the light it produces. The focus is on expanding the contexts in which the word can be used, moving from simple labeling to describing scenes and expressing basic time durations more accurately.
At the B1 level, the word 'ماه' is used in more abstract and idiomatic ways. You will encounter phrases like 'māh-e asal' (honeymoon) and begin to understand the moon's role in Persian metaphors more deeply. You will be able to talk about the moon's phases in a general sense—using words like 'hilāl' (crescent). In terms of grammar, you will use 'māh' in complex sentence structures, including relative clauses: 'The moon that I saw last night was very red.' You will also learn more about the pluralization rules, specifically that 'māh' remains singular when preceded by a number in time expressions. Cultural context becomes more important; you might learn about the significance of the moon in the Persian New Year (Nowruz) or other festivals. Your ability to distinguish between the formal 'qamar' and the common 'māh' will start to develop, allowing you to choose the right word for the right situation, whether you are reading a news article or a simple story.
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the use of 'ماه' in literature and more sophisticated media. You will encounter the moon as a frequent symbol in classical and modern Persian poetry, representing the face of the beloved or a source of divine reflection. You will learn more advanced idioms and compound words, such as 'māhpāreh' or 'māh-ru' (moon-faced). Your understanding of the word's role in scientific Persian will also expand, allowing you to discuss lunar eclipses (māh gereftegi) or the moon's effect on tides in a more detailed manner. You will be able to engage in discussions about the Iranian calendar system and the differences between solar and lunar months. At this stage, you should be comfortable using 'māh' in various registers—formal, informal, and poetic—and be able to explain the cultural significance of the moon in Iranian traditions to others.
At the C1 level, your command of 'ماه' includes an appreciation of its deep etymological roots and its nuanced use in high literature. You will study poems by Rumi, Hafez, and Khayyam where the moon is used as a complex philosophical symbol. You will understand the historical development of the word from Old Persian and its cognates in other Indo-European languages. In professional or academic settings, you can use 'qamar' and 'māh' with precision, discussing celestial mechanics or historical calendar reforms. You will also be familiar with rare and archaic terms for the moon found in classical texts. Your ability to use 'māh' in subtle social contexts—such as making sophisticated compliments or using it in ironic or humorous ways—will be well-developed. You can analyze how the concept of the 'moon' has shaped Persian aesthetics and identity over centuries.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like or near-native understanding of 'ماه'. You can discern the subtle differences in meaning and tone when a writer chooses 'māh' over 'qamar' or 'badr' in a specific literary context. You are capable of translating complex English texts about the moon into Persian, maintaining the appropriate scientific or poetic register. You understand the most obscure idioms and historical references related to the moon, such as ancient myths or Zoroastrian astronomical concepts. You can participate in high-level academic debates about Persian linguistics or literature where the word 'māh' is a central theme. Your usage is flawless, reflecting a deep internalization of the word's many layers—from a simple light in the sky to a profound symbol of the human soul and the passage of time.

ماه (آسمان) en 30 segundos

  • Māh primarily means the Moon, the celestial body visible at night.
  • It also means 'month', referring to the 30-day unit in the calendar.
  • In Persian culture, it is a common metaphor for extreme beauty and radiance.
  • It is used in various registers, from scientific astronomy to romantic poetry.

The Persian word ماه (māh) is a cornerstone of the Persian language, primarily referring to the Earth's natural satellite, the Moon. However, its usage extends far beyond mere astronomy. In the Iranian consciousness, the moon is not just a celestial object; it is the ultimate yardstick for beauty, a central figure in poetic metaphor, and a fundamental unit of time. When you use the word māh in the context of the sky, you are often evoking a sense of wonder or romanticism that has been cultivated over thousands of years of Persian literature.

Literal Meaning
The physical moon that orbits the Earth, reflecting sunlight at night. This is the primary definition used in science and daily observation.
Metaphorical Meaning
In Persian culture, calling someone a 'moon' (māh) is one of the highest compliments. It signifies that the person is exceptionally beautiful, radiant, and pure. You might hear a mother call her child 'māh-e man' (my moon).
Temporal Meaning
Because the lunar cycle was historically used to measure time, the word māh also means 'month' in Persian. This dual meaning is essential to understand, though context usually makes the intended meaning clear.

امشب ماه در آسمان بسیار درخشان است. (Tonight the moon is very bright in the sky.)

Historically, Persian astronomers like Al-Biruni studied the moon's phases with great precision. This scientific heritage blends with the mystical traditions of Sufism, where the moon often represents the reflection of divine light. When a Persian speaker looks at a full moon, they might quote a line from Hafez or Saadi, illustrating how deeply the word is woven into the artistic fabric of the culture. It is not uncommon to hear people say 'Māh shodi!' (You've become a moon!) to someone who has dressed up or looks particularly radiant.

صورت او مثل ماه می‌درخشد. (Her face shines like the moon.)

نور ماه روی آب دریا افتاده است. (The moonlight has fallen on the sea water.)

In modern daily life, you will encounter māh in weather reports, children's stories, and romantic songs. It is a 'soft' word, often associated with peace, nighttime, and reflection. Unlike the sun (khorshid), which is seen as powerful and intense, the moon is viewed as gentle and comforting. This distinction is vital for learners to grasp the emotional weight of the word in different contexts.

بچه‌ها به ماه در آسمان نگاه می‌کردند. (The children were looking at the moon in the sky.)

اولین انسانی که روی ماه قدم گذاشت، نیل آرمسترانگ بود. (The first human who stepped on the moon was Neil Armstrong.)

Whether you are describing a beautiful night, discussing the calendar, or complimenting a friend, māh is an indispensable part of your Persian vocabulary. Its simplicity in pronunciation belies its depth in meaning, making it a perfect word for A2 learners to master and expand upon.

Using the word ماه (māh) correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement and its role in various sentence structures. In Persian, nouns like māh can function as subjects, objects, or parts of prepositional phrases. Because it is a concrete noun when referring to the sky, it often takes adjectives that describe light, shape, or position.

As a Subject
When the moon is performing an action, such as rising or shining. Example: 'Māh tulu' kard' (The moon rose).
With Adjectives (Ezafe)
To describe the moon, use the ezafe (the short 'e' sound). Example: 'Māh-e kāmel' (Full moon) or 'Māh-e tābān' (Glowing moon).
In Comparisons
Using 'mesl-e' (like) or 'mānand-e' (resembling). Example: 'Mesl-e māh zibā' (Beautiful like the moon).

ماه پشت ابرها پنهان شده است. (The moon is hidden behind the clouds.)

One of the most common ways to use māh is with verbs related to vision and light. Verbs like didar (to see), derakhshidan (to shine), and tulu' kardan (to rise) are frequently paired with it. For learners, practicing these combinations helps in building natural-sounding sentences. Additionally, pay attention to the plural form māhhā (moons/months). While Earth only has one moon, you might use the plural when talking about other planets or when 'māh' means months.

ما دیشب ماه را از پشت تلسکوپ دیدیم. (We saw the moon through the telescope last night.)

نور نقره‌ای ماه کوه‌ها را روشن کرده بود. (The silvery light of the moon had illuminated the mountains.)

In poetic or high-register Persian, you might encounter the word Mahtāb. While māh is the object itself, mahtāb specifically refers to the moonlight or a moonlit night. Learning when to switch between these two can add a layer of sophistication to your speaking. For instance, 'Zir-e mahtāb ghadam zadim' (We walked under the moonlight) sounds much more evocative than just using 'māh'.

آیا می‌توانی ماه را در آسمان روز ببینی؟ (Can you see the moon in the daytime sky?)

Finally, remember the compound verbs and phrases. 'Māh gereftegi' (Lunar eclipse) is a common term used in news and science. By learning how māh interacts with other words, you move from simple identification to complex communication.

The word ماه (māh) is ubiquitous in Persian-speaking environments, appearing in contexts ranging from the highly scientific to the deeply personal and emotional. Understanding where you will hear it helps you prepare for real-world interactions in Iran, Tajikistan, or Afghanistan.

In the Family Home
Parents often use 'māh' as a term of endearment. You might hear a grandmother say, 'Ghorbun-e oon māh-et beram' (I'd sacrifice myself for that moon of yours), meaning she finds the child's face beautiful and dear.
In Music and Pop Culture
Persian songs are filled with references to the moon. It's often used to describe a beloved who is far away or unreachable. If you listen to traditional or modern Persian pop, 'māh' is likely one of the most frequent nouns you'll encounter.
In Religious Contexts
The sighting of the new moon (hilāl-e māh) is a major event in the Islamic world. News broadcasts will feature experts discussing whether the 'māh' has been spotted to announce the end of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr).

رادیو اعلام کرد که امشب ماه کامل است. (The radio announced that the moon is full tonight.)

In academic and news settings, you'll hear māh in discussions about space exploration or astronomical phenomena. Iran has its own space agency, and news about satellite launches or lunar observations frequently uses this term. Even in these technical settings, the word retains its classic Persian form, though it may be paired with more complex Arabic-derived adjectives.

او مثل ماه شب چهارده زیباست. (She is as beautiful as the moon on the fourteenth night [a full moon].)

در ادبیات فارسی، ماه نماد معشوق است. (In Persian literature, the moon is a symbol of the beloved.)

You will also hear this word in the context of the 'Honeymoon' (Māh-e Asal). This is a direct translation of the English concept but is widely used in modern Iran. If you ask a newlywed couple where they went for their honeymoon, you would use this phrase. Furthermore, the popular TV show 'Māh-e Asal' was a staple of Iranian television for years, making the phrase part of the collective cultural vocabulary.

آنها برای ماه عسل به شمال رفتند. (They went to the North for their honeymoon.)

In summary, whether you are looking at the sky, reading a poem, or just talking to a friend, māh is a word that connects the physical world with the emotional and cultural world of Persian speakers. Paying attention to its various contexts will greatly enhance your comprehension and cultural fluency.

While ماه (māh) seems like a simple word, its dual meaning and cultural nuances can lead to several common mistakes for English-speaking learners. Recognizing these pitfalls early on will help you communicate more accurately and naturally.

Confusing 'Moon' and 'Month'
Because both are translated as 'māh', learners often forget to look for context. For example, 'do māh' usually means 'two months', not 'two moons', unless you are discussing astronomy or science fiction.
Pluralization Errors
As mentioned before, when counting months (two months, three months), the word 'māh' stays singular in Persian: 'panj māh'. Using 'panj māhhā' is a common error that sounds unnatural to native speakers.
Using 'Māh' instead of 'Mahtāb'
When talking about the light coming from the moon, 'mahtāb' is often more appropriate. Saying 'Nure māh' is correct, but 'mahtāb' is a single word that captures the essence of moonlight more poetically.

غلط: من دو ماه‌ها در ایران بودم. (Wrong: I was in Iran for two moons/months - plural error.)

Another subtle mistake is the pronunciation of the final 'h'. In English, 'h' at the end of a word is often silent (like in 'Sarah'), but in Persian, it is a soft breathy sound. If you omit it, 'māh' can sound like 'mā' (we), which can lead to confusion in certain sentences. Practice making that light aspiration at the end of the word.

درست: من دو ماه در ایران بودم. (Correct: I was in Iran for two months.)

اشتباه: ماه را در بشقاب گذاشتم. (Mistake: I put the moon on the plate - probably meant 'māhi'/fish.)

Learners also sometimes struggle with the word order when using adjectives. Remember the Ezafe: it's always 'māh-e' followed by the adjective. For example, 'māh-e zibā' (beautiful moon). Forgetting the 'e' sound makes the phrase sound disjointed and grammatically incorrect.

غلط: ماه کامل (Missing the Ezafe 'e' sound in speech: māh-e kāmel).

By being mindful of these common errors—contextual meaning, pluralization rules, the 'h' sound, and the ezafe—you will develop a much more accurate and sophisticated command of this essential Persian word.

While ماه (māh) is the most common word for the moon, Persian offers a rich variety of synonyms and related terms that vary based on the moon's phase, the register of speech, and the poetic intent. Understanding these alternatives will help you appreciate the depth of Persian literature and scientific writing.

Qamar (قمر)
This is an Arabic loanword. In modern Persian, it is used primarily in scientific, astronomical, or formal contexts. For instance, 'moon' as a generic term for a satellite of any planet is 'qamar'. It is also used in religious titles (like 'Qamar-e Bani Hashim').
Hilāl (هلال)
Refers specifically to the crescent moon. This is a crucial word for religious observations, such as the 'Red Crescent' (Helal-e Ahmar), the Islamic equivalent of the Red Cross.
Badr (بدر)
Refers specifically to the full moon. While 'māh-e kāmel' is common in daily speech, 'badr' is often found in older literature and formal religious texts.

هلال ماه نو در آسمان دیده شد. (The new moon crescent was seen in the sky.)

There are also terms like Mahtāb (moonlight) and Māhpāreh (a piece of the moon, used as a compliment for a beautiful person). Using these instead of the simple 'māh' can show a higher level of fluency. For instance, calling a child 'māhpāreh' is much more affectionate and traditional than just saying they are 'māh'.

مشتری چندین قمر دارد. (Jupiter has several moons/satellites.)

شب‌های کویر با نور مهتاب جادویی می‌شوند. (Desert nights become magical with moonlight.)

In some poetic contexts, you might even see the word Lown or Nayyer, though these are much rarer and usually refer to luminous bodies in general. As a learner, focusing on the distinction between 'māh' and 'qamar' is the most practical step for advancing your vocabulary.

ماه شب چهارده همان بدر است. (The moon of the fourteenth night is the same as the full moon.)

By mastering these synonyms, you gain a deeper understanding of how Persian speakers categorize the world around them—balancing the scientific, the religious, and the poetic in their everyday language.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The word is a cognate with the English words 'moon' and 'month', as well as the Latin 'mensis' and Greek 'mēn'. You can hear the structural similarity across these distant languages.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /mɑːh/
US /mɑh/
The stress is on the single syllable of the word.
Rima con
راه (rāh - way) شاه (shāh - king) چاه (chāh - well) آه (āh - sigh) گاه (gāh - time/place) پگاه (pegāh - dawn) گناه (gonāh - sin) پناه (panāh - shelter)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing it like 'ma' (we) by dropping the final 'h'.
  • Pronouncing the 'ā' too short, like the 'a' in 'cat'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'h' so it sounds like a guttural 'kh'.
  • Confusing the vowel with the 'o' in 'more'.
  • Not sustaining the long 'ā' vowel long enough.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 1/5

The word is short and easy to recognize in its basic form.

Escritura 2/5

Writing the 'h' at the end requires attention to the final form of the letter 'he'.

Expresión oral 2/5

The long 'ā' and the soft final 'h' must be pronounced correctly to avoid confusion.

Escucha 2/5

Can be confused with 'mā' (we) or 'māhi' (fish) in fast speech.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

آسمان (Sky) شب (Night) نور (Light) ستاره (Star) بزرگ (Big)

Aprende después

خورشید (Sun) زمین (Earth) فضا (Space) تقویم (Calendar) زیبایی (Beauty)

Avanzado

منجم (Astronomer) کسوف (Solar eclipse) خسوف (Lunar eclipse) سیارات (Planets) کهکشان (Galaxy)

Gramática que debes saber

Ezafe Construction

ماه زیبا (māh-e zibā) - The beautiful moon.

Numbers with Nouns

دو ماه (do māh) - Two months (noun stays singular).

Indefinite 'i'

ماهی (māhi) - A moon or a month.

Direct Object Marker 'rā'

من ماه را دیدم (Man māh rā didam).

Pluralization with '-hā'

ماه‌ها (māhhā) - Moons or months (indefinite plural).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

ماه در آسمان است.

The moon is in the sky.

Basic subject-preposition-noun structure.

2

من ماه را می‌بینم.

I see the moon.

Uses the direct object marker 'rā'.

3

ماه بزرگ است.

The moon is big.

Simple adjective use with 'ast'.

4

یک ماه چند روز است؟

How many days is one month?

Demonstrates 'māh' as a unit of time.

5

ماه سفید است.

The moon is white.

Color adjective usage.

6

شب ماه می‌درخشد.

The moon shines at night.

Basic verb 'derakhshidan' (to shine).

7

خورشید و ماه.

The sun and the moon.

Simple conjunction 'va'.

8

ماه کجاست؟

Where is the moon?

Question word 'kojā' (where).

1

امشب ماه کامل است.

Tonight the moon is full.

Adjective 'kāmel' (full) describing 'māh'.

2

او مثل ماه زیباست.

She is beautiful like the moon.

Comparison using 'mesl-e'.

3

ماه پشت ابرها رفت.

The moon went behind the clouds.

Prepositional phrase 'posht-e abr'.

4

ما در ماه ژانویه هستیم.

We are in the month of January.

Using 'māh' to specify a month name.

5

نور ماه خیلی قشنگ است.

The moonlight is very pretty.

Ezafe construction 'nur-e māh'.

6

بچه‌ها به ماه نگاه می‌کنند.

The children are looking at the moon.

Compound verb 'negāh kardan'.

7

ماه هر شب تغییر می‌کند.

The moon changes every night.

Frequency adverb 'har shab'.

8

اسم این ماه چیست؟

What is the name of this month?

Demonstrative 'in' (this).

1

آنها برای ماه عسل به پاریس رفتند.

They went to Paris for their honeymoon.

Compound term 'māh-e asal'.

2

هلال ماه نو را دیدی؟

Did you see the new moon crescent?

Specific term 'hilāl' for crescent.

3

سه ماه طول کشید تا کتاب را تمام کنم.

It took three months to finish the book.

Duration with singular 'māh'.

4

ماه بر جزر و مد دریا اثر می‌گذارد.

The moon affects the tides of the sea.

Scientific verb 'asar gozāshtan'.

5

او یک ماه تمام کار کرد.

He worked for an entire month.

Adjective 'tamām' (whole/entire).

6

در شب‌های مهتابی پیاده‌روی می‌چسبد.

Walking on moonlit nights is enjoyable.

Adjective 'mahtābi' (moonlit).

7

ماه گرفتگی فردا شب اتفاق می‌افتد.

A lunar eclipse will happen tomorrow night.

Compound noun 'māh gereftegi'.

8

صورتش مثل ماه می‌درخشید.

Her face was shining like the moon.

Poetic past continuous verb.

1

شاعران فارسی زبان ماه را نماد زیبایی می‌دانند.

Persian poets consider the moon a symbol of beauty.

Complex object complement structure.

2

نور خورشید توسط ماه منعکس می‌شود.

Sunlight is reflected by the moon.

Passive voice 'mon'akes mishavad'.

3

او مثل ماه شب چهارده می‌ماند.

She looks like the full moon of the fourteenth night.

Cultural idiom for perfection.

4

تقویم هجری قمری بر اساس چرخش ماه است.

The Hijri Lunar calendar is based on the moon's rotation.

Technical term 'qamari' (lunar).

5

در این ماه، هزینه‌های ما افزایش یافت.

In this month, our expenses increased.

Financial context.

6

سفر به ماه یکی از بزرگترین دستاوردهای بشر است.

Traveling to the moon is one of humanity's greatest achievements.

Superlative 'bozorgtarin'.

7

او ماه‌ها منتظر این لحظه بود.

He had been waiting for months for this moment.

Plural 'māhhā' for indefinite 'months'.

8

مهتاب نقره‌ای بر دشت سایه انداخته بود.

The silvery moonlight had cast shadows on the plain.

Literary compound verb 'sāye andākhtan'.

1

رخسار چون ماهش در میان جمعیت می‌درخشید.

Her moon-like face shone among the crowd.

Poetic suffix '-ash' and 'chun' (like).

2

تحولات اقلیمی ممکن است بر رویت ماه اثر بگذارد.

Climate changes might affect the visibility of the moon.

Formal vocabulary 'tahavolāt' and 'ro'yat'.

3

در ادبیات عرفانی، ماه مظهر تجلی حق است.

In mystical literature, the moon is the manifestation of Truth.

Philosophical register.

4

پدیده ابرماه زمانی رخ می‌دهد که ماه در نزدیکترین فاصله به زمین باشد.

The supermoon phenomenon occurs when the moon is at its closest distance to Earth.

Scientific term 'abrmāh' (supermoon).

5

او با لحنی ستایش‌آمیز از ماه رویان سخن می‌گفت.

He spoke of moon-faced beauties in an admiring tone.

Archaic plural 'māh-ruyān'.

6

محاسبات دقیق نجومی برای تعیین دقیق اول ماه الزامی است.

Precise astronomical calculations are mandatory for determining the exact start of the month.

Formal administrative Persian.

7

ماه، این مونس شب‌های تنهایی، دوباره طلوع کرد.

The moon, this companion of lonely nights, rose once again.

Appositive phrase 'munes-e shabhā'.

8

تلالو ماه بر پهنه اقیانوس منظره‌ای بی‌بدیل خلق کرده بود.

The sparkle of the moon on the ocean's expanse had created an unparalleled view.

High-level vocabulary 'talālo' and 'bi-badil'.

1

در قصاید خاقانی، ماه غالباً با استعارات پیچیده نجومی همراه است.

In Khaqani's qasidas, the moon is often accompanied by complex astronomical metaphors.

Literary criticism register.

2

ماه منسوخ گشت چون رخ تو جلوه کرد.

The moon became obsolete when your face revealed its glory.

Classical Persian syntax and vocabulary.

3

تبیین نسبت میان قمر و زمین از منظر فیزیک کوانتوم چالش‌برانگیز است.

Explaining the relationship between the moon and the Earth from the perspective of quantum physics is challenging.

Academic/Scientific jargon.

4

مفهوم 'ماه' در اساطیر آریایی پیوندی ناگسستنی با ایزد گیاهان دارد.

The concept of 'moon' in Aryan mythology has an unbreakable bond with the deity of plants.

Historical/Mythological register.

5

او در نقد خود، استعاره ماه را در اشعار معاصر به چالش کشید.

In his critique, he challenged the moon metaphor in contemporary poetry.

Critical analysis register.

6

پرتو افشانی ماه در شب‌های دیجور، راهنمای کاروانیان بود.

The moon's radiance in pitch-black nights was a guide for caravanners.

Archaic adjective 'deyjur'.

7

انعکاس ماه در جام می، مضمونی مکرر در ادبیات غنایی است.

The reflection of the moon in a wine cup is a recurring theme in lyric literature.

Literary motif analysis.

8

ماه، با آن سکوت ازلی‌اش، شاهد زوال تمدن‌های بسیاری بوده است.

The moon, with its eternal silence, has witnessed the decline of many civilizations.

Existential/Philosophical tone.

Colocaciones comunes

ماه کامل
نور ماه
طلوع ماه
غروب ماه
ماه عسل
ماه نو
ماه گرفتگی
سفر به ماه
قرص ماه
نیمه ماه

Frases Comunes

ماه من

— My moon. A term of endearment for a loved one or child.

کجایی ماه من؟

یک ماه بعد

— One month later. Used to indicate the passage of time.

یک ماه بعد به خانه برگشت.

سر ماه

— The beginning of the month. Often used regarding salaries or bills.

سر ماه حقوق می‌گیرم.

آخر ماه

— The end of the month.

آخر ماه خیلی شلوغ است.

ماه شب چهارده

— The moon of the 14th night. Refers to a perfect full moon or a very beautiful person.

او مثل ماه شب چهارده است.

ماه به ماه

— Month by month. Indicating a recurring monthly event.

ماه به ماه اجاره می‌دهم.

مثل ماه

— Like the moon. Used to describe something clean, bright, or beautiful.

اتاق را مثل ماه تمیز کرد.

هلال ماه

— The crescent moon.

هلال ماه در آسمان شامگاهی پیدا شد.

پرتو ماه

— The ray/beam of the moon.

پرتو ماه از پنجره به داخل می‌تابید.

ماه بانو

— Moon lady. A traditional respectful and poetic name for a woman.

ماه بانو، خوش آمدید.

Se confunde a menudo con

ماه (آسمان) vs ما (Mā)

Means 'we'. The only difference is the final 'h' in 'māh'.

ماه (آسمان) vs ماهی (Māhi)

Means 'fish'. It sounds like 'māh' with an 'i' at the end.

ماه (آسمان) vs مه (Meh)

Means 'fog'. It has a short 'e' instead of the long 'ā'.

Modismos y expresiones

"ماه در آمدن"

— For the moon to come out. Also used when someone beautiful appears.

بالاخره ماه در آمد!

Neutral
"ماه را با انگشت نشان دادن"

— To point at the moon with a finger. Often implies missing the big picture or pointing out the obvious.

او فقط ماه را با انگشت نشان می‌دهد.

Literary
"ماه عسل"

— Honeymoon. The first month of marriage.

ماه عسل خوش گذشت؟

Common
"مثل ماه تابان"

— Like the glowing moon. Used for someone with a very bright and happy face.

چهره‌اش مثل ماه تابان بود.

Poetic
"ماه زیر ابر نماندن"

— The moon doesn't stay behind the clouds. Meaning the truth will eventually come out.

نگران نباش، ماه زیر ابر نمی‌ماند.

Proverbial
"ماه شدن"

— To become a moon. To look exceptionally beautiful or to behave very well.

امروز واقعاً ماه شدی!

Informal
"از ماه افتادن"

— To fall from the moon. To be completely unaware of what's happening (similar to 'living under a rock').

مگر از ماه افتادی که این را نمی‌دانی؟

Informal
"ماه پیشونی"

— Moon-forehead. A character in Persian folklore representing a beautiful and kind girl.

او مثل ماه پیشونی مهربان است.

Folklore
"ماه را در آب دیدن"

— To see the moon in the water. Chasing an illusion or a reflection of the truth.

تو فقط داری ماه را در آب می‌بینی.

Philosophical
"یک پا ماه"

— A 'foot' of a moon. Used to describe someone who is partially or very beautiful/good.

بچه‌اش یک پا ماه است.

Colloquial

Fácil de confundir

ماه (آسمان) vs قمر (Qamar)

Both mean moon.

Qamar is Arabic-derived and used in scientific or religious contexts, while Māh is native Persian and used everywhere.

قمرهای مشتری (Jupiter's moons).

ماه (آسمان) vs مهتاب (Mahtāb)

Both refer to the moon.

Mahtāb is specifically the light of the moon or the moonlit environment.

زیر نور مهتاب.

ماه (آسمان) vs برج (Borj)

Both relate to the calendar.

Borj refers to the zodiac signs or 'months' in an older/astrological sense, while Māh is the standard word for month.

برج حمل (Aries).

ماه (آسمان) vs خورشید (Khorshid)

Both are celestial bodies.

Khorshid is the sun.

خورشید می‌درخشد.

ماه (آسمان) vs ستاره (Setāreh)

Both are in the night sky.

Setāreh is a star.

ستاره‌های بی‌شمار.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

[Subject] [Preposition] [Place] [Verb].

ماه در آسمان است.

A2

[Subject] [Adjective] [Verb].

ماه کامل است.

B1

[Number] [Māh] [Verb].

سه ماه گذشت.

B2

[Subject] مثل ماه [Adjective] است.

او مثل ماه زیباست.

C1

[Compound Noun] [Verb].

ماه گرفتگی شروع شد.

C2

[Archaic Subject] [Verb].

بدر بر آسمان تافت.

Any

نور ماه [Preposition] [Noun] [Verb].

نور ماه بر زمین می‌تابد.

Any

اول ماه [Subject] [Verb].

اول ماه حقوق می‌گیرم.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

مهتاب (Mahtāb - Moonlight)
ماهتاب (Māhtāb - Moonlight)
ماهیانه (Māhiyāneh - Monthly allowance/salary)
ماهیت (Māhiyat - Essence/Nature - though etymologically different, often confused)
ماهرو (Māhru - Moon-faced beauty)

Adjetivos

مهتابی (Mahtābi - Moonlit)
ماهانه (Māhāneh - Monthly)
ماهی (Māhi - Lunar - e.g., sāl-e māhi)
ماه‌وش (Māhvash - Like the moon)
ماه‌سان (Māhsān - Resembling the moon)

Relacionado

ستاره (Setāreh - Star)
آسمان (Āsemān - Sky)
شب (Shab - Night)
نجوم (Nojum - Astronomy)
سیاره (Sayyāreh - Planet)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Persian.

Errores comunes
  • Using 'māhhā' with numbers. panj māh (five months).

    In Persian, nouns following a number are always singular.

  • Dropping the final 'h' in speech. māh (with audible breath).

    Dropping the 'h' makes it sound like 'mā' (we).

  • Confusing 'māh' and 'māhi'. māh (moon), māhi (fish).

    These are distinct words. Don't let the similar sounds confuse you.

  • Missing the Ezafe in 'māh-e kāmel'. māh-e kāmel.

    The 'e' sound is necessary to link the noun to its adjective.

  • Using 'māh' for scientific satellites of other planets. qamar.

    While 'māh' is understood, 'qamar' is the technically correct term in science.

Consejos

Singular after numbers

Always remember: when counting months, use the singular 'māh'. Example: 'shesh māh' (six months).

The final H

Don't ignore the 'h' at the end. It should be a soft breath, like the end of the word 'ah' in English.

Complimenting

If someone does something nice for you, you can say 'خیلی ماهی' (kheyli māhi) to mean 'You are wonderful'.

Mahtāb vs Māh

Use 'mahtāb' for the glow and 'māh' for the ball in the sky. It makes your Persian sound more natural.

Final 'He'

In the word ماه, the final letter is 'he'. Make sure it's written as a distinct loop at the end of the word.

Context Clues

If you hear 'māh' in a sentence about dates or calendars, it means 'month'. If you hear it with 'sky' or 'shining', it means 'moon'.

Lunar Eclipse

The term for lunar eclipse is 'māh-gereftegi'. Literally, 'moon-catching' or 'moon-taking'.

Moon behind clouds

Use the proverb 'māh zir-e abr nemimune' to say that the truth will always be revealed.

M-M connection

Moon, Month, Māh. All three start with 'M'. This is an easy way to remember the meaning.

Scientific Qamar

If you are reading a textbook about space, look for 'qamar' instead of 'māh'.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of the 'M' in Moon and 'M' in Month. The 'āh' sound is like the 'ah!' of wonder you make when you see a beautiful full moon.

Asociación visual

Imagine a giant silver 'M' sitting on top of a full moon in the night sky.

Word Web

Moon Month Beauty Night Silver Calendar Star Sky

Desafío

Try to use 'māh' in three different ways today: once for the sky, once for a time period, and once as a compliment.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from Middle Persian 'māh', which comes from Old Persian 'māha-'. It is rooted in the Proto-Indo-European root '*mḗh₁n̥s', which meant both 'moon' and 'month'.

Significado original: The measurer of time (related to the root *meh- 'to measure').

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Iranian -> Persian.

Contexto cultural

Calling someone 'māh' is always positive. However, in very formal or scientific settings, ensure you don't use it too poetically if you are discussing hard data.

While English uses 'moon' and 'month' as separate words, Persian uses the same word. This reflects a more direct historical connection between the celestial body and the measurement of time.

The poem 'Mahtāb' by Nima Yushij (the father of modern Persian poetry). Numerous ghazals by Hafez where he compares the beloved's face to the moon. The 'Māh-e Asal' (Honeymoon) television program.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Talking about the weather/night sky

  • ماه پیدا نیست.
  • ماه پشت ابر است.
  • نور ماه عالی است.
  • امشب ماه نداریم.

Planning and Dates

  • کدام ماه؟
  • ماه آینده.
  • ماه گذشته.
  • سر ماه می‌بینمت.

Giving Compliments

  • مثل ماه می‌مونی.
  • ماه منی.
  • صورتت مثل ماهه.
  • چه ماه شدی!

Astronomy and Science

  • فازهای ماه.
  • سطح ماه.
  • جاذبه ماه.
  • مدار ماه.

Literature and Poetry

  • ای ماه من.
  • پرتو ماهتاب.
  • روی ماه معشوق.
  • ماه شب‌افروز.

Inicios de conversación

"آیا دیشب ماه کامل را در آسمان دیدی؟ (Did you see the full moon in the sky last night?)"

"ماه مورد علاقه تو در سال کدام است؟ (Which is your favorite month of the year?)"

"به نظر تو زندگی روی ماه ممکن است؟ (Do you think life on the moon is possible?)"

"در فرهنگ شما، ماه نماد چیست؟ (In your culture, what is the moon a symbol of?)"

"آخرین بار کی برای پیاده‌روی زیر نور ماه رفتی؟ (When was the last time you went for a walk under moonlight?)"

Temas para diario

توصیف کنید که ماه در یک شب سرد زمستانی چگونه به نظر می‌رسد. (Describe how the moon looks on a cold winter night.)

اگر می‌توانستید یک ماه را در یک جای دیگر زندگی کنید، کجا می‌رفتید؟ (If you could live for one month somewhere else, where would you go?)

درباره یک خاطره که با نور ماه پیوند دارد بنویسید. (Write about a memory linked with moonlight.)

آیا ترجیح می‌دهید به ماه سفر کنید یا در اعماق اقیانوس کاوش کنید؟ چرا؟ (Would you prefer to travel to the moon or explore the deep ocean? Why?)

نقش ماه در تقویم و زندگی روزمره خود را توضیح دهید. (Explain the role of the moon in your calendar and daily life.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, it also means 'month'. In fact, in daily conversation, it is used just as frequently to mean 'month' as it is to mean 'moon'. Context is key: 'do māh' means two months, while 'māh dar āsemān' means the moon in the sky.

You say 'māh-e kāmel'. In poetic contexts, you might hear 'māh-e shab-e chahārdah' (the moon of the 14th night).

Persian does not have grammatical gender. So 'māh' is neutral, although poetically it is often associated with feminine beauty.

Māh is the physical object (the moon). Mahtāb is the moonlight. You see the 'māh', but you walk in the 'mahtāb'.

It is a very common compliment. It means the person is beautiful, kind, or has a radiant personality. It's like calling someone 'a gem' or 'lovely' in English.

The plural is 'māhhā' (ماه‌ها). Note that for counting months, we use the singular form after the number.

In casual speech, yes. In scientific speech, 'qamar' is preferred for the satellites of other planets.

Yes, 'hilāl' (هلال). It is very important for the lunar calendar and religious events.

No, they are etymologically unrelated, even though they look and sound somewhat similar.

It means 'honeymoon'. It is a direct translation of the English term and is used widely in modern Persian.

Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Describe the moon in the sky using three Persian adjectives.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about your favorite month.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a short poem (2 lines) about the moon.

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writing

Explain how the moon affects the sea in Persian.

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writing

Write a compliment to a friend using the word 'māh'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a lunar eclipse you have seen.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Compare the sun and the moon in four sentences.

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writing

Write about a trip to the moon in the future.

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writing

Explain the difference between 'māh' and 'qamar'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'māh-e asal'.

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writing

What is the cultural significance of the moon in Iran?

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writing

Describe a moonlit night in a village.

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writing

Write a dialogue between two people looking at the moon.

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writing

How do people determine the start of a lunar month?

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writing

Write a sentence with 'māh-e shab-e chahārdah'.

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writing

Translate: 'The moon is the only satellite of Earth.'

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writing

Use 'mahtābi' in a sentence about a dream.

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writing

Write about your plans for the next month.

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writing

Describe the phases of the moon in Persian.

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writing

Write a letter to the moon.

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speaking

Describe the moon's appearance tonight.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a story about a night you saw a beautiful moon.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain why the moon is important for the calendar.

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speaking

Give a compliment to someone using 'māh'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the possibility of humans living on the moon.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Recite a Persian poem or song that mentions 'māh'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe the difference between moonlight and sunlight.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about your plans for the next three months.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain a 'māh-gereftegi' to a child.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Debate: Is space exploration to the moon worth the cost?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe your favorite 'māh' (month) and why.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you feel when you look at a full moon?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about a 'māh-e asal' destination.

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speaking

Discuss the moon metaphors in Persian literature.

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speaking

Pronounce 'māh', 'mā', and 'māhi' correctly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a 'shab-e mahtābi' in the desert.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain the phrase 'māh zir-e abr nemimune'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What are the names of the Persian months?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How does the moon change its shape?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell someone they look 'māh' today.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a weather report and identify the moon's phase.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a song and count how many times 'māh' is used.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a child's story and identify the moon character.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to an astronomical explanation of tides.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a conversation about wedding plans and 'māh-e asal'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a poem being read and identify the tone.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a news clip about a satellite orbiting the moon.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a person giving a compliment and explain what they meant.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to the pronunciation of 'māh' vs 'mā' and choose the right one.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a history lesson about the lunar calendar.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a dialogue about paying rent 'sar-e māh'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a description of a 'shab-e mahtābi'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to the names of months and put them in order.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a scientific podcast about the moon's origin.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a proverb and explain its meaning.

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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