به یک کرشمه، کارها درست نمیشود
bh yk krshmh karha drst nmyshod
Things don't get fixed with one charm
Signification
Significant problems require real effort and strategy, not just superficial attempts.
Contexte culturel
The concept of 'Kereshme' is deeply tied to the 'Beloved' in Persian Sufi poetry. In that context, a 'Kereshme' is divine. Using it in a proverb about mundane work shows the pragmatic side of Persian culture. Similar proverbs exist in Dari, emphasizing that 'effort' (koushesh) is the only way to progress in a land with a history of hardship. In Tajik Persian, the word 'kereshme' is still used, but sometimes 'ishva' is substituted, though the meaning remains the same. Young Iranians use this on Twitter/X to mock influencers who think 'aesthetic' photos are a substitute for real expertise or activism.
Use it to show depth
Using this phrase in a business meeting shows you have a deep understanding of Persian culture and a serious work ethic.
Don't sound arrogant
Be careful not to use this to dismiss someone's genuine attempt at being friendly. Use it only when the 'charm' is clearly a substitute for 'work'.
Signification
Significant problems require real effort and strategy, not just superficial attempts.
Use it to show depth
Using this phrase in a business meeting shows you have a deep understanding of Persian culture and a serious work ethic.
Don't sound arrogant
Be careful not to use this to dismiss someone's genuine attempt at being friendly. Use it only when the 'charm' is clearly a substitute for 'work'.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
به یک _______، کارها درست نمیشود.
While other words might make sense logically, 'کرشمه' is the traditional and canonical word used in this proverb.
In which situation is this proverb most appropriate?
A student thinks they can pass a math exam by just being polite to the teacher.
While all are relevant, 'به یک کرشمه...' specifically targets the idea that 'politeness/charm' (the student's behavior) isn't enough for 'work' (the exam).
Complete the dialogue.
علی: 'فکر میکنی با این لباسهای قشنگ در مصاحبه قبول میشوی؟' سارا: 'میدانم که _________________.'
Sara acknowledges that her nice clothes (appearance/charm) aren't enough to get the job.
Match the proverb to the meaning.
به یک کرشمه کارها درست نمیشود
The proverb is a warning against relying on superficiality.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesبه یک _______، کارها درست نمیشود.
While other words might make sense logically, 'کرشمه' is the traditional and canonical word used in this proverb.
A student thinks they can pass a math exam by just being polite to the teacher.
While all are relevant, 'به یک کرشمه...' specifically targets the idea that 'politeness/charm' (the student's behavior) isn't enough for 'work' (the exam).
علی: 'فکر میکنی با این لباسهای قشنگ در مصاحبه قبول میشوی؟' سارا: 'میدانم که _________________.'
Sara acknowledges that her nice clothes (appearance/charm) aren't enough to get the job.
به یک کرشمه کارها درست نمیشود
The proverb is a warning against relying on superficiality.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsIt is common in literature and proverbs, but you won't hear it often in daily conversation unless someone is being poetic or using this specific proverb.
Yes, if you are discussing a difficult project and want to emphasize that it needs more resources or time. It sounds professional.
There isn't a direct 'opposite' proverb, but the idea of 'shans' (luck) or 'mo'jeze' (miracle) is the conceptual opposite.
Expressions liées
نابرده رنج، گنج میسر نمیشود
similarNo pain, no gain.
با حلوا حلوا گفتن دهن شیرین نمیشود
similarJust saying 'sweet' won't make your mouth sweet.
کار را که کرد؟ آن که تمام کرد
builds onWho did the work? The one who finished it.
