At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn family words like 'mother', 'father', and 'daughter'. 'Dokhtar-khānde' might seem a bit long, but it is made of two simple parts: 'Dokhtar' (girl/daughter) and 'khānde' (called). At this stage, you should just recognize that this word means a daughter who is not biological, like a stepdaughter or an adopted daughter. You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet. Just remember: Dokhtar = Daughter. If you see 'Dokhtar-khānde', think 'Stepdaughter'. In a simple family tree, if a man marries a woman who already has a girl, that girl is his 'Dokhtar-khānde'. You can practice by saying: 'In (this) dokhtar-khānde-ye man ast' (This is my stepdaughter). It's a useful word for describing diverse families.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'Dokhtar-khānde' in basic sentences about your family or friends. You should know how to add possessive endings to it, like 'dokhtar-khānde-am' (my stepdaughter) or 'dokhtar-khānde-ash' (his/her stepdaughter). You should also understand that it is a polite and formal way to talk about a stepdaughter or an adopted daughter. At this level, you might use it with simple verbs like 'dāshtan' (to have) or 'budan' (to be). For example: 'Man yek dokhtar-khānde dāram' (I have a stepdaughter). You should also be able to distinguish it from 'Dokhtar-e tani' (biological daughter). This word helps you describe more than just the basic nuclear family, which is important for everyday conversations about people's lives.
At the B1 level, you should understand the social and emotional nuances of the word 'Dokhtar-khānde'. You should be able to use it in stories or when explaining family relationships in more detail. You will notice that 'khānde' comes from the verb 'khāndan' (to call), and you can start to see how Persian uses compound words to create specific meanings. You should also be comfortable using the word with the object marker 'rā' and prepositions. For example: 'Man bā dokhtar-khānde-am be bāzār raftam' (I went to the bazaar with my stepdaughter). You can also start to compare it with 'nā-dokhtari' and understand that 'dokhtar-khānde' is often more respectful. This level requires you to use the word in the context of routines and family history.
At the B2 level, you can use 'Dokhtar-khānde' in discussions about social issues, legal rights, or complex family dynamics. You should be able to explain the difference between adoption (sarparasti) and step-parenting using this term. You will encounter this word in news articles or more advanced literature. You should be able to use it in the passive voice or with complex tenses. For example: 'U be onvān-e dokhtar-khānde-ye khānevāde pazirofte shod' (She was accepted as the family's stepdaughter/adopted daughter). You should also understand the cultural implications—how modern Iranian society views 'dokhtar-khānde' compared to traditional biological views. Your vocabulary should now include related terms like 'farzand-khāndegi' (adoption).
At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the legal and literary uses of 'Dokhtar-khānde'. You might encounter it in classical-style modern prose or in legal texts regarding inheritance (ers) and family law. You should be able to discuss the nuances between 'dokhtar-khānde' and the Arabic-derived legal term 'rabibe'. You should also be able to use the word metaphorically or in formal speeches. Your understanding should include the historical evolution of the word and how it reflects changes in Persian social structures. You can analyze how the word is used in Iranian cinema to portray the 'outsider' within the family. At this level, you should be able to use the word with perfect grammatical precision, including complex ezafe constructions.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 'Dokhtar-khānde' and all its connotations. You can use it in academic writing about sociology or law. You understand the subtle shift in meaning depending on whether the context is legal adoption or a blended family through remarriage. You can appreciate the word's use in high literature and poetry, where the 'called' daughter might represent themes of choice, love over blood, or social belonging. You are capable of debating the merits of different family terminologies in Persian and can explain the linguistic history of the '-khānde' suffix in other compounds like 'pesar-khānde' or 'barādar-khānde'. Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, capturing every emotional and formal nuance.

دخترخوانده en 30 secondes

  • A formal Persian term for a stepdaughter or an adopted daughter, emphasizing the social bond.
  • Composed of 'daughter' and 'called', signifying a child accepted into the family by choice.
  • More polite and respectful than the literal term 'nā-dokhtari' in many social contexts.
  • Commonly used in legal, literary, and formal daily Persian to describe non-biological family ties.

The Persian word دخترخوانده (Dokhtar-khānde) is a compound noun that occupies a unique and sensitive space within the Persian language and Iranian family dynamics. At its core, it describes a relationship that is not biological but is established through social, legal, or marital bonds. While the prompt identifies it as 'stepdaughter' (the daughter of one's spouse from a previous relationship), it is crucial for an English speaker to understand that in contemporary Persian, this word is most frequently associated with an adopted daughter. The term for a stepdaughter specifically is often نادختری (Nā-dokhtari), yet دخترخوانده is sometimes used as a more formal or polite euphemism to avoid the potentially negative connotations associated with the prefix 'nā-' (which can imply 'un-' or 'pseudo-').

Etymology and Structure
The word is composed of 'Dokhtar' (daughter) and 'Khānde' (the past participle of 'khāndan', meaning to call or read). Literally, it translates to 'the called daughter'—someone who is called or named a daughter despite the absence of a blood relation. This linguistic structure emphasizes the social act of naming and accepting a child into the family circle.

او تمام دارایی خود را به دخترخوانده‌اش بخشید.
He left all his wealth to his adopted daughter/stepdaughter.

In terms of usage, you will encounter this word in legal documents, formal literature, and respectful daily conversation. When a person marries someone who already has a daughter, the relationship between the new parent and the child can be described using this term to emphasize the 'chosen' nature of the bond. In a culture where family lineage and 'blood' (خون) are traditionally held in high regard, the use of دخترخوانده represents a modern and compassionate approach to family building. It moves away from the 'wicked step-parent' tropes found in older folklore and focuses on the commitment made by the adult to the child.

رابطه او با دخترخوانده‌اش بسیار صمیمی است.
Her relationship with her stepdaughter is very close.

Register and Nuance
This is a formal to semi-formal word. In very casual street slang, people might just say 'دخترش' (his/her daughter) to avoid the technicality of the relationship altogether, especially if the bond is strong. Using the full word 'دخترخوانده' acknowledges the specific family structure while maintaining a high level of decorum.

Historically, the concept of 'khāndegi' (being called/adopted) was a way to ensure inheritance and family continuity. In the modern era, as blended families become more common in urban Iranian centers, the word has seen a resurgence. It is frequently used in TV dramas (Serials) to describe the complex emotional landscapes of modern households. Whether the child was legally adopted from an orphanage or entered the family through a second marriage, this word serves as the linguistic bridge connecting the parent to the child.

آن‌ها سال گذشته یک دخترخوانده به فرزندی پذیرفتند.
They took in an adopted daughter last year.

Using دخترخوانده correctly requires an understanding of Persian possessive suffixes and sentence structure. Because it is a compound noun ending in 'e' (the silent 'he'), when you add possessive endings or the 'ezafe' (the linking 'e' sound), certain rules apply. For example, to say 'my stepdaughter', you would say دخترخوانده‌ام (Dokhtar-khānde-am). Notice the use of the 'half-space' (zwnj) before the suffix to keep the word visually distinct.

Subject of the Sentence
When the stepdaughter is the one performing the action, the word comes at the beginning of the phrase. Example: 'My stepdaughter studies medicine' becomes 'دخترخوانده‌ام پزشکی می‌خواند'.

دخترخوانده من در مدرسه شاگرد اول شد.
My stepdaughter became the top student in school.

When the word is the object of a verb, you must use the object marker 'rā' (را) if it is a specific stepdaughter. For instance, 'I saw my stepdaughter' is 'من دخترخوانده‌ام را دیدم'. The placement of 'rā' after the possessive suffix is a key grammatical point for A2 learners. It is also common to see this word used with prepositions like 'be' (to) or 'bā' (with). 'I talked with my stepdaughter' is 'با دخترخوانده‌ام صحبت کردم'.

او برای دخترخوانده‌اش یک هدیه خرید.
He bought a gift for his stepdaughter.

Pluralization
To pluralize, you add '-hā' (ها). Because the word ends in a silent 'he', you use a half-space: 'دخترخوانده‌ها' (Dokhtar-khānde-hā). Using 'ān' (ان) is rare and very poetic/archaic for this specific word.

In complex sentences, you might use 'dokhtar-khānde' alongside verbs of adoption or legal recognition. The verb به فرزندی پذیرفتن (to accept as a child) is the most natural pairing. 'They accepted her as their stepdaughter/adopted daughter' is 'او را به عنوان دخترخوانده پذیرفتند'. This demonstrates the transition from a legal status to a family role. Understanding these patterns helps the learner move from simple identification to describing complex social interactions.

مریم همیشه می‌گفت که دخترخوانده‌اش مثل دختر واقعی اوست.
Maryam always said that her stepdaughter is like her real daughter.

You are likely to encounter دخترخوانده in several distinct environments. First and foremost is in the realm of legal and administrative Persian. If you are reading a will (وصیت‌نامه), a custody agreement, or a family law document in Iran or Afghanistan, this term is the standard legal designation for a female child brought into the family through marriage or adoption. It defines rights and responsibilities clearly, distinguishing the child from biological offspring while granting them a recognized status.

Media and Storytelling
Iranian cinema and television frequently explore themes of family secrets and non-traditional households. In these stories, the 'dokhtar-khānde' is often a central character whose presence challenges the status quo. You will hear the word used in dramatic dialogue to emphasize the emotional distance or, conversely, the deep bond between characters.

در این فیلم، قهرمان داستان به دنبال دخترخوانده گمشده‌اش می‌گردد.
In this movie, the protagonist is looking for his lost stepdaughter.

Another common place to hear this word is in social work and psychological contexts. Professionals discussing family dynamics will use 'dokhtar-khānde' to maintain a clinical yet respectful tone. It is considered much more professional than 'nā-dokhtari', which carries a historical weight of fairy-tale antagonism. In a doctor's office or a school meeting, a parent might introduce their child as their 'dokhtar-khānde' to provide necessary context about their legal relationship while affirming their parental role.

روزنامه‌ها درباره موفقیت علمی آن دخترخوانده نوشتند.
The newspapers wrote about the academic success of that adopted/stepdaughter.

Finally, you will find this word in translations of Western literature and news. When translating stories about Cinderella or modern blended families from English or French into Persian, 'dokhtar-khānde' is the preferred choice for 'stepdaughter' in high-quality translations. It provides the necessary clarity without the baggage of older, more pejorative terms. Whether you are listening to a podcast about family psychology or reading a news report about adoption laws, this word is the key to understanding the nuances of non-biological female kinship in the Persian world.

Learning the word دخترخوانده involves navigating several common pitfalls, both linguistic and cultural. The most frequent error for English speakers is confusing it with نادختری. While both can translate to 'stepdaughter', they are not interchangeable in terms of 'feeling'. Using 'nā-dokhtari' in a warm, loving context can sound accidentally cold or clinical, as 'nā-' often implies a lack of something. Conversely, using 'dokhtar-khānde' in a situation where you want to emphasize the legal friction of a step-parent relationship might sound too formal.

Spelling and Pronunciation
Mistake: Writing it as two separate words without a connection. Correct: It is a compound. While you might see it with a space, the standard is either joined or with a half-space (zwnj). Mistake: Pronouncing the 'h' at the end of 'khānde'. Correct: The 'h' (ه) is silent and acts as a vowel marker for 'e'. It is 'khān-de', not 'khān-deh'.

اشتباه: او دختر خوانده من است. (Incorrect spacing)
درست: او دخترخوانده من است. (Correct compound)

Another common mistake is related to gender agreement. While Persian doesn't have grammatical gender for most nouns, family terms are specific. Beginners sometimes confuse دخترخوانده (stepdaughter) with پسرخوانده (stepson). Remember that 'Dokhtar' always refers to a female. Additionally, learners often forget the 'y' sound that appears when adding the ezafe to words ending in 'e'. It is 'Dokhtar-khānde-ye man' (my stepdaughter), not just 'Dokhtar-khānde man'.

اشتباه: من دخترخوانده‌ام دیدم. (Missing 'rā')
درست: من دخترخوانده‌ام را دیدم. (Correct object marking)

Finally, be careful with the verb 'khāndan'. Because 'khānde' comes from 'to read/call', some students think the word means 'a daughter who reads'. This is a literalism trap. In this context, 'khānde' is a fossilized grammatical form meaning 'the one who has been named'. Avoid trying to use it as an adjective in other contexts (e.g., 'a read book' is 'ketāb-e khānde-shode', not just 'khānde'). Stick to the family context for this specific compound noun.

Understanding دخترخوانده is easier when you compare it to its linguistic neighbors. Persian has a rich vocabulary for family relations, reflecting the historical importance of the extended family unit. By looking at synonyms and related terms, you can choose the most appropriate word for any social situation.

Comparison: دخترخوانده vs. نادختری
دخترخوانده: More formal, emphasizes the act of adoption or 'calling' someone a daughter. Often used for adopted children.
نادختری: More literal for 'stepdaughter' (daughter of a spouse). Can sometimes carry a slightly negative or distant tone in older literature, similar to 'step-' in older English fairy tales.

او دخترخوانده مهربانی است. (Sounds very respectful)
او نادختری اوست. (Sounds like a factual, slightly distant biological description)

Another important alternative is فرزندخوانده (Farzand-khānde). This is the gender-neutral version, meaning 'adopted child' or 'stepchild'. If the gender is not important or if you are speaking generally about the status of children in a blended family, this is the most professional term to use. For a male equivalent, you would use پسرخوانده (Pesar-khānde).

Opposite Terms
دختر تنی (Dokhtar-e tani): Biological daughter (literally 'daughter of the body').
دختر صلبی (Dokhtar-e solbi): A very formal, legal/religious term for biological daughter.

When describing the parent in this relationship, you would use نامادری (Nāmādari - stepmother) or ناپدری (Nāpedari - stepfather). Interestingly, while 'dokhtar-khānde' is a preferred 'soft' term for the child, the terms for step-parents remain fairly standard with the 'nā-' prefix. Understanding these pairings—how a 'nāmādari' relates to her 'dokhtar-khānde'—is essential for describing family trees and social structures in Persian-speaking societies.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The suffix '-khānde' is used in Persian to create various non-biological family terms. It reflects a traditional social contract where naming someone as kin was as powerful as being born as kin. It's linguistically related to the concept of 'reading' because to read is to 'call out' the words.

Guide de prononciation

UK /dox.tæɾ.xɒːn.de/
US /dok.tær.xɑn.de/
The primary stress is on the last syllable: 'khān-DE'.
Rime avec
درمانده (Darmānde - helpless) جامانده (Jāmānde - left behind) نخوانده (Nakhānde - unread/uninvited) رانده (Rānde - driven/expelled) فرمانده (Farmānde - commander) تابانده (Tābānde - shone) سوزانده (Soozānde - burnt) رسانده (Resānde - delivered)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the final 'h' in خوانده. It should be a short 'e' sound.
  • Mispronouncing the 'kh' (خ) as a hard 'k'. It should be a raspy sound from the throat.
  • Putting the stress on the first syllable 'DOKH-tar'. In Persian, stress usually falls on the end of nouns.
  • Mixing up the 'ā' (آ) and 'a' (َ) sounds in 'dokhtar' and 'khānde'.
  • Merging the two words into one fast sound without recognizing the compound structure.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'Dokhtar', but the compound suffix needs attention.

Écriture 4/5

Requires knowledge of the half-space (zwnj) and suffix rules for words ending in 'e'.

Expression orale 3/5

The 'kh' sound and the silent 'h' at the end are the main challenges.

Écoute 3/5

Can be confused with 'Dokhtar-e khānde' (a daughter who reads) if not careful with context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

دختر (Daughter) خواندن (To read/call) پدر (Father) مادر (Mother) خانواده (Family)

Apprends ensuite

پسرخوانده (Stepson) فرزندخوانده (Stepchild) ناپدری (Stepfather) نامادری (Stepmother) سرپرستی (Adoption/Guardianship)

Avancé

ولایت (Guardianship) ارث (Inheritance) صلبی (Biological/Paternal) ربیبه (Stepdaughter - Arabic/Legal) حضانت (Custody)

Grammaire à connaître

Compound Noun Formation

دختر + خوانده = دخترخوانده

Ezafe with words ending in 'e'

دخترخوانده‌ی من (The 'y' sound is added)

Possessive Suffixes with half-space

دخترخوانده‌ام (Use ZWNJ before 'am')

Object marker 'rā' with possessives

دخترخوانده‌ام را دیدم.

Pluralization of words ending in silent 'he'

دخترخوانده‌ها (Add 'hā' with half-space)

Exemples par niveau

1

این دخترخوانده من است.

This is my stepdaughter.

Simple 'This is' structure with possessive 'man'.

2

نام دخترخوانده او سارا است.

His stepdaughter's name is Sara.

Use of 'ezafe' to link 'name' and 'stepdaughter'.

3

دخترخوانده من کوچک است.

My stepdaughter is small/young.

Basic adjective 'koochak' (small/young).

4

او یک دخترخوانده دارد.

He has a stepdaughter.

Verb 'dāshtan' (to have) in present tense.

5

دخترخوانده شما کجاست؟

Where is your stepdaughter?

Question word 'kojāst' (where is).

6

دخترخوانده من مهربان است.

My stepdaughter is kind.

Adjective 'mehrabān' (kind).

7

آن دختر، دخترخوانده مریم است.

That girl is Maryam's stepdaughter.

Demonstrative 'ān' (that).

8

من دخترخوانده‌ام را دوست دارم.

I love my stepdaughter.

Direct object marker 'rā' used with 'am' suffix.

1

دخترخوانده‌ام امروز به مدرسه رفت.

My stepdaughter went to school today.

Past tense 'raft' (went).

2

او برای دخترخوانده‌اش کتاب می‌خرد.

He is buying a book for his stepdaughter.

Present continuous sense 'mi-kharad'.

3

آیا دخترخوانده شما فارسی بلد است؟

Does your stepdaughter know Persian?

The phrase 'balad budan' (to know/be skilled in).

4

ما با دخترخوانده‌مان به پارک رفتیم.

We went to the park with our stepdaughter.

Preposition 'bā' (with) and plural possessive 'mān'.

5

دخترخوانده او در تهران زندگی می‌کند.

His stepdaughter lives in Tehran.

Compound verb 'zendegi kardan'.

6

من برای دخترخوانده‌ام یک هدیه خریدم.

I bought a gift for my stepdaughter.

Past tense 'kharidam'.

7

دخترخوانده‌اش بسیار باهوش است.

His/her stepdaughter is very intelligent.

Adverb 'besyār' (very) with adjective 'bā-hoosh'.

8

آن‌ها دخترخوانده‌شان را به سینما بردند.

They took their stepdaughter to the cinema.

Past tense 'bordand' (took/carried).

1

پدرم همیشه با دخترخوانده‌اش با احترام رفتار می‌کند.

My father always treats his stepdaughter with respect.

Adverbial phrase 'bā ehterām' (with respect).

2

دخترخوانده او تصمیم دارد در دانشگاه هنر درس بخواند.

His stepdaughter intends to study art at university.

The phrase 'tasmim dārad' (has the intention/decided).

3

رابطه بین او و دخترخوانده‌اش هر روز بهتر می‌شود.

The relationship between her and her stepdaughter is getting better every day.

Comparative 'behtar' (better) with 'shodan' (to become).

4

او می‌خواهد تمام دارایی‌اش را به دخترخوانده‌اش ببخشد.

He wants to bestow all his assets upon his stepdaughter.

Subjunctive mood 'be-bakhshad' after 'mi-khāhad'.

5

دخترخوانده‌ام از اینکه به خانه جدید رفتیم خیلی خوشحال است.

My stepdaughter is very happy that we moved to a new house.

Causal clause starting with 'az inke'.

6

او به عنوان یک دخترخوانده، تمام حقوق قانونی را دارد.

As a stepdaughter/adopted daughter, she has all legal rights.

Phrase 'be onvān-e' (as / in the capacity of).

7

مادرم برای دخترخوانده‌اش یک مهمانی بزرگ گرفت.

My mother threw a big party for her stepdaughter.

Idiomatic use of 'gereftan' (to take/get) for holding a party.

8

دخترخوانده آن‌ها در یک شرکت معتبر کار می‌کند.

Their stepdaughter works in a reputable company.

Adjective 'mo'tabar' (reputable/valid).

1

پذیرفتن یک دخترخوانده در سنین نوجوانی می‌تواند چالش‌برانگیز باشد.

Accepting a stepdaughter during teenage years can be challenging.

Gerund-like use of 'paziroftan' as the subject.

2

او سعی می‌کند نقش پدری را برای دخترخوانده‌اش به خوبی ایفا کند.

He tries to fulfill the fatherly role for his stepdaughter well.

Phrase 'naqsh-e ... rā ifā kardan' (to play the role of...).

3

قوانین مربوط به ارث برای دخترخوانده در سال‌های اخیر تغییر کرده است.

Inheritance laws regarding stepdaughters have changed in recent years.

Present perfect 'taghyir karde ast'.

4

او با وجود اینکه دخترخوانده اوست، شباهت زیادی به او دارد.

Despite being his stepdaughter, she bears a great resemblance to him.

Concession clause 'bā voojood-e inke' (despite the fact that).

5

دخترخوانده‌اش از او خواست که در مراسم ازدواجش شرکت کند.

His stepdaughter asked him to attend her wedding ceremony.

Verb 'khāstan' followed by 'ke' and subjunctive.

6

حمایت عاطفی از دخترخوانده در خانواده‌های ترکیبی بسیار مهم است.

Emotional support for the stepdaughter is very important in blended families.

Compound noun 'khānevādeh-hā-ye tarkibi' (blended families).

7

او همیشه دخترخوانده‌اش را به عنوان فرزند واقعی خود معرفی می‌کند.

He always introduces his stepdaughter as his own real child.

Adverb 'hamishe' (always) and 'mo'arrefi kardan' (to introduce).

8

دخترخوانده او در حال نوشتن کتابی درباره تجربیات خود است.

His stepdaughter is in the middle of writing a book about her experiences.

Continuous construction 'dar hāl-e ...'.

1

در ادبیات معاصر، رابطه میان نامادری و دخترخوانده با نگاهی انسانی‌تر بازنمایی می‌شود.

In contemporary literature, the relationship between stepmother and stepdaughter is represented with a more humanistic perspective.

Passive-like construction 'bāznemāyi mi-shavad'.

2

موضوع ولایت بر دخترخوانده در حقوق مدنی ایران بحث‌های پیچیده‌ای را برانگیخته است.

The issue of guardianship over a stepdaughter has sparked complex debates in Iranian civil law.

Formal term 'velāyat' (guardianship) and 'bar-angikhte ast' (has provoked).

3

او با ظرافت خاصی توانست اعتماد دخترخوانده رنجور خود را جلب کند.

With a specific delicacy, he managed to gain the trust of his suffering stepdaughter.

Complex adverbial phrase 'bā zarāfat-e khāsi'.

4

دخترخوانده پادشاه، علی‌رغم مخالفت درباریان، به مقام والایی دست یافت.

The King's stepdaughter attained a high rank despite the opposition of the courtiers.

Prepositional phrase 'ali-raghm-e' (notwithstanding/despite).

5

نویسنده در این رمان، تنهایی عمیق یک دخترخوانده را در محیطی بیگانه به تصویر می‌کشد.

In this novel, the author depicts the deep loneliness of a stepdaughter in an alien environment.

Idiomatic 'be tasvir mi-keshad' (depicts/illustrates).

6

تعهد اخلاقی او نسبت به دخترخوانده‌اش فراتر از وظایف قانونی او بود.

His moral commitment to his stepdaughter went beyond his legal duties.

Comparative 'farātar az' (beyond/higher than).

7

دخترخوانده او به عنوان وارث اصلی در وصیت‌نامه ذکر شده است.

His stepdaughter is mentioned as the primary heir in the will.

Passive 'zekr shode ast' (is mentioned).

8

او همواره سعی داشت تبعیضی میان دختر تنی و دخترخوانده‌اش قائل نشود.

He always tried not to discriminate between his biological daughter and his stepdaughter.

The phrase 'tab'iz qā'el shodan' (to discriminate).

1

پیوند عاطفی میان او و دخترخوانده‌اش، بطلانی بود بر تمام کلیشه‌های رایج درباره ناپدری‌ها.

The emotional bond between him and his stepdaughter was a refutation of all common stereotypes about stepfathers.

Literary term 'botlān' (nullity/refutation).

2

تحلیل روان‌شناختی جایگاه دخترخوانده در ساختار قدرت خانواده، ابعاد پنهانی از هویت را آشکار می‌سازد.

A psychological analysis of the stepdaughter's position in the family power structure reveals hidden dimensions of identity.

Academic phrasing 'sakhtār-e qodrat' (power structure).

3

او در خاطراتش از دخترخوانده‌اش به عنوان بارقه‌ای از امید در روزهای تاریک یاد می‌کند.

In his memoirs, he recalls his stepdaughter as a glimmer of hope in dark days.

Poetic metaphor 'bāregh-ei az omid' (a glimmer of hope).

4

مسئله مشروعیت بخشیدن به پیوند با دخترخوانده، ریشه در سنت‌های دیرینه حقوقی دارد.

The issue of legitimizing the bond with a stepdaughter is rooted in long-standing legal traditions.

The phrase 'rishe dar ... dārad' (is rooted in).

5

دخترخوانده او، با تکیه بر نبوغ ذاتی‌اش، مرزهای دانش را درنوردید.

His stepdaughter, relying on her innate genius, pushed the boundaries of knowledge.

Literary verb 'dar-navardid' (traversed/conquered).

6

تجلی عشق بی‌شائبه در رفتار او با دخترخوانده‌اش، تحسین همگان را برانگیخت.

The manifestation of selfless love in his behavior toward his stepdaughter drew everyone's admiration.

Abstract noun 'tajalli' (manifestation) and adjective 'bi-shā'ebe' (unalloyed/selfless).

7

تنش‌های نهفته میان دخترخوانده و فرزندان تنی، بن‌مایه بسیاری از تراژدی‌های خانوادگی است.

The latent tensions between the stepdaughter and biological children are the motif of many family tragedies.

Literary term 'bon-māye' (motif/theme).

8

او به دخترخوانده‌اش به مثابه پلی میان گذشته و آینده می‌نگریست.

He looked upon his stepdaughter as a bridge between the past and the future.

Formal preposition 'be masābe-ye' (as/like).

Collocations courantes

پذیرفتن دخترخوانده
رابطه با دخترخوانده
حقوق دخترخوانده
دخترخوانده مهربان
تربیت دخترخوانده
ازدواج دخترخوانده
حمایت از دخترخوانده
نام دخترخوانده
موفقیت دخترخوانده
سرپرستی دخترخوانده

Phrases Courantes

مثل دختر تنی

— Like a biological daughter. Used to show deep affection for a stepdaughter.

من او را مثل دختر تنی خودم دوست دارم.

به فرزندی قبول کردن

— To accept as a child. The common verb for adopting or taking in a stepchild.

او دختر همسرش را به فرزندی قبول کرد.

اختلاف با دخترخوانده

— Conflict with the stepdaughter. Refers to common family tensions.

آن‌ها سعی دارند اختلاف با دخترخوانده را حل کنند.

ارث دخترخوانده

— The inheritance of the stepdaughter. A frequent topic in legal discussions.

ارث دخترخوانده موضوع پیچیده‌ای است.

دخترخوانده بزرگ

— The eldest stepdaughter. Used in families with multiple children.

دخترخوانده بزرگ من ازدواج کرده است.

عشق به دخترخوانده

— Love for the stepdaughter. Emphasizes the emotional bond.

عشق به دخترخوانده در این خانواده موج می‌زند.

هدیه برای دخترخوانده

— A gift for the stepdaughter. Common in social contexts.

او یک هدیه برای دخترخوانده‌اش خرید.

مسئولیت دخترخوانده

— Responsibility for the stepdaughter. Refers to the duties of a step-parent.

او تمام مسئولیت‌های دخترخوانده‌اش را پذیرفت.

آینده دخترخوانده

— The future of the stepdaughter. Often used in planning or worrying.

او نگران آینده دخترخوانده‌اش است.

خانواده و دخترخوانده

— Family and the stepdaughter. Refers to the integration into the family unit.

او به خوبی در خانواده و میان دخترخوانده‌اش جا افتاده است.

Souvent confondu avec

دخترخوانده vs نادختری

Often used for stepdaughter, but 'دخترخوانده' is more formal and can also mean adopted daughter.

دخترخوانده vs فرزندخوانده

This is the gender-neutral term; 'دخترخوانده' is specifically for a female child.

دخترخوانده vs دختر خاله/عمه

New learners sometimes confuse family compounds; these mean cousins.

Expressions idiomatiques

"دخترخوانده را مثل دختر خود دانستن"

— To treat a stepdaughter exactly like one's own biological daughter.

او دخترخوانده‌اش را مثل دختر خود می‌داند.

General
"نور چشم پدرخوانده"

— The apple of the stepfather's eye (referring to the stepdaughter).

این دخترخوانده، نور چشم پدرخوانده‌اش است.

Affectionate
"خون به جای شیر"

— A metaphor for a difficult relationship (literally 'blood instead of milk'), sometimes used in tragic stories about stepchildren.

رابطه آن‌ها خون به جای شیر بود.

Literary
"فرزند خوانده، فرزند دل است"

— An adopted/stepchild is a child of the heart. A common saying to validate non-biological bonds.

همیشه می‌گفت: دخترخوانده من، فرزند دل من است.

Poetic
"نامادری مهربان‌تر از مادر"

— A stepmother kinder than a mother. Often used when a stepdaughter is exceptionally well-treated.

او برای دخترخوانده‌اش نامادری مهربان‌تر از مادر بود.

Proverbial
"پیوند دل، نه پیوند خون"

— A bond of heart, not a bond of blood. Describes the relationship with a stepdaughter.

رابطه او با دخترخوانده‌اش پیوند دل است.

Literary
"تاج سر"

— Crown of the head. Used to say someone is highly respected, often said by a step-parent about a beloved stepdaughter.

دخترخوانده‌ام تاج سر من است.

Affectionate
"جای خالی را پر کردن"

— To fill the empty space. Often said when a stepdaughter brings joy back to a home.

دخترخوانده‌اش جای خالی دخترش را پر کرد.

Emotional
"یک روح در دو بدن"

— One soul in two bodies. Describes an extremely close bond.

او و دخترخوانده‌اش یک روح در دو بدن هستند.

Poetic
"میوه دل"

— Fruit of the heart. A term for a beloved child, regardless of biology.

دخترخوانده‌اش میوه دل اوست.

Traditional

Facile à confondre

دخترخوانده vs دخترخوانده

Sounds like 'daughter who reads'.

'Khānde' here means 'called', not 'reading'.

او دخترخوانده من است. (She is my stepdaughter.)

دخترخوانده vs دخترِ خواننده

Similar pronunciation.

This means 'the daughter of the singer'.

او دخترِ خواننده معروف است. (She is the daughter of the famous singer.)

دخترخوانده vs دخترِ خوانده شده

Literal translation of 'read daughter'.

This refers to a daughter mentioned in a text.

نام دخترِ خوانده شده در کتاب... (The name of the daughter read in the book...)

دخترخوانده vs پسرخوانده

Same structure.

Refers to a stepson/adopted son.

او پسرخوانده من است.

دخترخوانده vs خواهرخوانده

Same structure.

Refers to a stepsister or a very close female friend treated as a sister.

ما با هم خواهرخوانده هستیم.

Structures de phrases

A1

این [noun] من است.

این دخترخوانده من است.

A2

من یک [noun] دارم.

من یک دخترخوانده دارم.

B1

[noun] من در [place] کار می‌کند.

دخترخوانده من در بانک کار می‌کند.

B1

من با [noun] صحبت کردم.

من با دخترخوانده‌ام صحبت کردم.

B2

او [noun] را به فرزندی پذیرفت.

او آن دختر را به عنوان دخترخوانده پذیرفت.

B2

رابطه او با [noun] [adjective] است.

رابطه او با دخترخوانده‌اش بسیار صمیمی است.

C1

علی‌رغم [noun], [noun] موفق شد.

علی‌رغم مشکلات، دخترخوانده‌اش موفق شد.

C2

[noun] به مثابه [noun] است.

دخترخوانده او به مثابه نوری در زندگی‌اش است.

Famille de mots

Noms

دختر (Daughter)
پسرخوانده (Stepson)
فرزندخوانده (Stepchild/Adopted child)
پدرخوانده (Stepfather/Godfather)
مادرخوانده (Stepmother/Godmother)

Verbes

خواندن (To call/read)
پذیرفتن (To accept)
بزرگ کردن (To raise/bring up)

Adjectifs

خوانده (Called/Named)
ناتنی (Non-biological)
تنی (Biological)

Apparenté

خانواده (Family)
سرپرستی (Guardianship/Adoption)
نامادری (Stepmother)
ناپدری (Stepfather)
ارث (Inheritance)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in legal and formal family discussions; moderate in daily speech.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'ناپسر' instead of 'پسرخوانده'. پسرخوانده

    While 'نا-' is used for step-parents, the 'خوانده' suffix is the standard for step-children.

  • Pronouncing it 'Dokhtar-khāndeh' (with a hard H). Dokhtar-khānde

    The 'h' is silent and just marks the vowel 'e'.

  • Writing 'دختر خوانده' with a full space. دخترخوانده

    It is a compound noun and should be written together or with a half-space.

  • Forgetting 'rā' after the possessive. دخترخوانده‌ام را...

    When the stepdaughter is a specific object, 'rā' is mandatory.

  • Confusing it with 'دخترخاله'. دخترخوانده

    Don't confuse family compounds; 'khāle' is aunt, 'khānde' is called/step.

Astuces

Use ZWNJ

When typing, always use the zero-width non-joiner (half-space) before adding suffixes to 'دخترخوانده' to maintain the correct Persian orthography.

Politeness Matters

In a social gathering, referring to someone as a 'دخترخوانده' is much more elegant and respectful than using 'نادختری'.

Learn the Family

Learn 'پسرخوانده', 'پدرخوانده', and 'مادرخوانده' together. They all follow the same pattern and will help you master the concept quickly.

Soft 'Kh'

Make sure your 'kh' (خ) sound is not too harsh; it should be a gentle friction in the back of the throat.

Broad Definition

Be aware that Persian speakers might use this word for a girl they have raised but not legally adopted. It's an emotional designation too.

Compound Recognition

Practice writing it as one thought. Even though it's long, native speakers see it as a single unit of meaning.

Suffix Awareness

Listen for the 'am', 'at', or 'ash' at the end of the word to know whose stepdaughter is being discussed.

Step vs Adopted

If you need to be 100% clear about adoption, use 'فرزندخوانده' with a female pronoun or context.

The 'Called' Daughter

Keep the literal meaning 'called daughter' in mind to never forget the word's structure.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Daughter' (Dokhtar) who is 'Called' (Khānde) into the family circle. She wasn't born there, she was called there by love or marriage.

Association visuelle

Imagine a woman calling a young girl to join a family dinner table. The 'calling' (khānde) action makes her a 'dokhtar-khānde'.

Word Web

Family Daughter Adoption Marriage Love Legal Home Bond

Défi

Try to write three sentences using 'دخترخوانده' describing a famous movie character (like Cinderella) to a Persian friend.

Origine du mot

The word is a Middle Persian (Pahlavi) rooted compound. 'Dokhtar' comes from the Proto-Indo-European *dhugh₂tḗr, which is cognate with English 'daughter'. 'Khānde' is the past participle of 'khāndan' (to call), which has roots in the Old Persian 'xvan-' (to sound/call).

Sens originel : Literally 'the daughter who is called' or 'the named daughter'.

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

Contexte culturel

Be careful not to use 'Nā-dokhtari' if you want to sound warm; 'Dokhtar-khānde' is always the safer, more respectful choice in social settings.

Equivalent to 'stepdaughter' or 'adopted daughter'. Western cultures often distinguish more sharply between the two, whereas Persian uses this term broadly for both.

The story of Cinderella is often translated using this term for the stepdaughters. Modern Iranian 'Serials' (soap operas) frequently use this word to denote family drama. Legal codes in Iran regarding 'Sarparasti' (Adoption) use this term extensively.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Legal / Administrative

  • حقوق قانونی دخترخوانده
  • ثبت نام دخترخوانده
  • وصیت‌نامه برای دخترخوانده
  • سرپرستی قانونی دخترخوانده

Family Gatherings

  • معرفی دخترخوانده
  • هدیه برای دخترخوانده
  • صحبت درباره دخترخوانده
  • موفقیت‌های دخترخوانده

Psychology / Counseling

  • رابطه با دخترخوانده
  • سازگاری دخترخوانده
  • احساسات دخترخوانده
  • مشاوره برای دخترخوانده

Literature / Storytelling

  • داستان یک دخترخوانده
  • تنهایی دخترخوانده
  • سرنوشت دخترخوانده
  • دخترخوانده قهرمان

School / Education

  • والدین دخترخوانده
  • پیشرفت تحصیلی دخترخوانده
  • پرونده دخترخوانده
  • جلسه برای دخترخوانده

Amorces de conversation

"آیا شما دخترخوانده دارید؟ (Do you have a stepdaughter?)"

"رابطه شما با دخترخوانده‌تان چطور است؟ (How is your relationship with your stepdaughter?)"

"دخترخوانده شما چند سال دارد؟ (How old is your stepdaughter?)"

"دخترخوانده‌تان در چه رشته‌ای تحصیل می‌کند؟ (What major is your stepdaughter studying?)"

"آیا دخترخوانده‌تان با شما زندگی می‌کند؟ (Does your stepdaughter live with you?)"

Sujets d'écriture

درباره اهمیت پیوندهای غیربیولوژیکی در خانواده، مثل رابطه با یک دخترخوانده، بنویسید. (Write about the importance of non-biological bonds in family, like the relationship with a stepdaughter.)

اگر یک دخترخوانده داشتید، دوست داشتید چه ارزش‌هایی را به او یاد بدهید؟ (If you had a stepdaughter, what values would you like to teach her?)

تفاوت‌های فرهنگی در برخورد با دخترخوانده در کشور شما و ایران را مقایسه کنید. (Compare cultural differences in treating a stepdaughter in your country and Iran.)

یک داستان کوتاه درباره اولین ملاقات یک پدرخوانده و دخترخوانده‌اش بنویسید. (Write a short story about the first meeting between a stepfather and his stepdaughter.)

چرا کلمه 'دخترخوانده' از 'نادختری' محترمانه‌تر به نظر می‌رسد؟ (Why does the word 'dokhtar-khānde' seem more respectful than 'nā-dokhtari'?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, it is used for both stepdaughters and adopted daughters. In modern formal Persian, it is often the preferred respectful term for a daughter of a spouse from a previous marriage.

You say 'دخترخوانده‌ام' (Dokhtar-khānde-am) or 'دخترخوانده من' (Dokhtar-khānde-ye man).

'Nā-dokhtari' is more literal for stepdaughter but can sound slightly cold or distant. 'Dokhtar-khānde' is more formal and generally considered more polite.

Yes, the plural is 'دخترخوانده‌ها' (Dokhtar-khānde-hā).

No, it is a silent 'h' that indicates the short 'e' vowel sound.

While the concept of a goddaughter is different, in some contexts of 'spiritual adoption', it might be used, but it's not the standard term for the Christian concept of a godchild.

Yes, it is very common in legal settings, news, and formal social conversations.

It is spelled 'د-خ-ت-ر-خ-و-ا-ن-د-ه'.

Inheritance laws are complex, but generally, a 'دخترخوانده' does not automatically inherit like a biological daughter unless specified in a will (vasiyat-nāme).

Yes, the male version is 'پسرخوانده' (Pesar-khānde), meaning stepson or adopted son.

Teste-toi 192 questions

writing

Write a sentence introducing your stepdaughter, Sara.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe your stepdaughter's personality in two sentences.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a short note for your stepdaughter's birthday.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain the relationship between a stepfather and a stepdaughter in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a stepdaughter's legal rights in a will.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Create a dialogue between two friends talking about adoption.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a movie scene involving a stepdaughter.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write about the emotional challenges of being a stepdaughter.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Compare 'دخترخوانده' and 'دختر تنی' in a sentence.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use the word 'دخترخوانده' in a formal business context.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using the plural form.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a gift you bought for your stepdaughter.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a stepdaughter's education.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use the idiom 'نور چشم' with 'دخترخوانده'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain why 'خوانده' is used in this word.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a stepdaughter moving to a new city.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Create a sentence using 'دخترخوانده' and 'احترام'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a family dinner with a stepdaughter.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a formal sentence about guardianship.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a poetic sentence about a stepdaughter.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'This is my stepdaughter' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask 'Is she your stepdaughter?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce 'دخترخوانده' correctly.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone that your stepdaughter is very smart.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I went to the cinema with my stepdaughter.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Explain that you love her like your own daughter.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask 'What is your stepdaughter's name?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'She is studying at school.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Describe a gift you bought for her.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'My stepdaughter lives in Tehran.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask 'How old is your stepdaughter?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I saw my stepdaughter yesterday.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell a friend about your stepdaughter's success.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Discuss the importance of family bonds.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'We are a happy family with our stepdaughter.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask 'Does she like Persian food?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'She is my wife's daughter.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Express worry about her future.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I am proud of my stepdaughter.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Explain that she is like a real daughter to you.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'او دخترخوانده من است.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'دخترخوانده‌اش کجاست؟'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the relationship: 'مریم دخترِ همسرِ علی است.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'من با دخترخوانده‌ام به بازار رفتم.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'آن‌ها یک دخترخوانده دارند.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and answer: 'دخترخوانده علی چند سال دارد؟' (Audio: او ده سال دارد.)

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'اسم دخترخوانده‌اش ساراست.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'او برای دخترخوانده‌اش هدیه خرید.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'رابطه آن‌ها با دخترخوانده‌شان خوب است.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'دخترخوانده‌ام در دانشگاه درس می‌خواند.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the object: 'من دخترخوانده‌ام را دیدم.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'او همیشه از دخترخوانده‌اش حمایت می‌کند.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'آیا دخترخوانده شما فارسی بلد است؟'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'دخترخوانده‌اش بسیار باهوش است.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Transcribe: 'ما برای دخترخوانده‌مان مهمانی گرفتیم.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 192 correct

Perfect score!

C'tait utile ?
Pas encore de commentaires. Soyez le premier à partager vos idées !