At the A1 level, learners should focus on the basic identification and physical use of the word 'kārd'. It is a concrete noun representing a common household object. Students learn to say 'This is a knife' (In yek kārd ast) and to use it with simple verbs like 'to have' (dāshtan) or 'to give' (dādan). The focus is on the kitchen and dining room contexts. Learners should also be able to distinguish 'kārd' from 'chāqu' in a basic way, primarily identifying 'kārd' as the tool they use to eat fruit or bread. Emphasis is placed on the long 'ā' sound to avoid confusion with the verb 'kardan'. Simple adjectives like 'tiz' (sharp) and 'bozorg' (big) are introduced to describe the knife. By the end of A1, a student should be able to ask for a knife at a dinner table or find one in a kitchen drawer using basic Persian sentence structures.
At the A2 level, the use of 'kārd' expands to include more complex daily interactions and simple compound sentences. Learners begin to use 'kārd' as an instrument using the preposition 'bā' (with) to describe actions like 'I cut the apple with a knife'. They also learn more specific types of knives, such as 'kārd-e miveh-khori' (fruit knife). The A2 learner starts to understand the 'rā' marker better, correctly applying it when referring to a specific knife ('Kārd rā بشور' - Wash the knife). They can also describe the condition of the knife, such as 'kond' (dull) or 'tamiz' (clean). Simple cultural aspects, like the importance of knives in serving guests fruit, are introduced. The learner can now handle a short dialogue in a kitchen, explaining what they are doing with the tool.
At the B1 level, the learner moves beyond purely physical descriptions and begins to encounter 'kārd' in common idioms and more varied professional contexts. They learn the phrase 'kārd-o-changāl' as a collective noun for cutlery. B1 students are introduced to the famous idiom 'kārd be ostokhān residan' (the knife reached the bone), meaning a situation has become unbearable. They can discuss the quality and origin of a knife, perhaps mentioning 'kārd-e Zanjān'. Their grammar allows them to use 'kārd' in different tenses and moods, such as 'If I had a sharper knife, I would cut the meat faster.' They also start to recognize 'kārd' in news reports or simple stories, where it might be used in a more descriptive or narrative fashion.
At the B2 level, the learner is expected to understand the nuance between 'kārd' and its synonyms in various registers. They can use the word in more technical culinary discussions or when describing craftsmanship. The use of 'kārd' in literature and media becomes more accessible. B2 learners can explain the cultural significance of the knife in Iranian hospitality in detail. They also become proficient in using compound words like 'kārd-tiz-kon' (knife sharpener) and 'kārdak' (spatula). Their understanding of idioms expands to include phrases like 'kārd bezani khūnash dar nemiāyad' (to be extremely angry). They can participate in debates about the quality of different tools or describe a complex process involving multiple types of blades with precision.
At the C1 level, 'kārd' is used with full native-like fluency, including its use in sophisticated metaphors and high-level literature. The learner understands the historical etymology of the word and its relationship to other Indo-European languages. They can appreciate the use of 'kārd' in classical poetry, where it might symbolize the 'knife of fate' or a 'sharp wit'. C1 learners are also aware of the subtle socio-linguistic choices between 'kārd' and 'chāqu' in different Iranian provinces and social classes. They can write detailed essays or give presentations on topics ranging from the history of Iranian metallurgy to the symbolism of domestic tools in Persian cinema, using 'kārd' as a focal point for broader cultural analysis.
At the C2 level, the mastery of 'kārd' is absolute. The learner can detect the slightest irony or double meaning when the word is used in political satire or complex legal documents. They are familiar with archaic uses of the word in Middle Persian texts and can discuss its linguistic evolution. In conversation, they use idioms involving 'kārd' effortlessly and can even create their own metaphors that resonate with native speakers. The C2 learner can analyze the psychological implications of the 'knife' in Persian folklore and mythology. They have a deep understanding of the aesthetics of the 'kārd' as an art object (such as in museum collections of Zanjan steel) and can discuss its role in the history of Persian technology and art at an academic level.

کارد en 30 secondes

  • Kārd means knife, specifically for the kitchen or table.
  • It is different from 'chāqu', which is a more general or folding knife.
  • It is a core part of Iranian hospitality and fruit-serving rituals.
  • The word has a long 'ā' sound, distinguishing it from the verb 'kard'.

The Persian word کارد (kārd) refers specifically to a knife, usually one intended for use in the kitchen or at the dining table. While the word chāqu is often used as a general term for all knives, kārd carries a nuance of being a fixed-blade implement used for food preparation or consumption. In the Iranian household, the kārd is an indispensable tool, not just for cooking, but for the ubiquitous cultural ritual of serving fresh fruit to guests. When you enter a Persian home, you will almost certainly be presented with a plate of seasonal fruits, and beside it, a small, sharp kārd-e miveh-khori (fruit knife).

The Culinary Context
In professional and home kitchens, the kārd is categorized by its function, such as the kārd-e āshpaz-khāne (chef's knife). It is the primary instrument for dicing onions, herbs, and meat for stews like Ghormeh Sabzi.

مادرم با کارد تیز، سبزی‌ها را خرد کرد. (My mother chopped the vegetables with a sharp knife.)

Historically, the term has roots in Middle Persian and reflects a long tradition of metallurgy in the Iranian plateau. Unlike a folding pocket knife, which is strictly a chāqu, a kārd is often associated with the elegance of a set of cutlery. You will frequently hear it paired with its partner, the fork, in the phrase kārd-o-changāl. This pair is the standard for eating anything from steak to sliced watermelon. Understanding the distinction is key for learners: use kārd when you are talking about the table setting or the kitchen counter.

Symbolism and Etiquette
In Persian etiquette (Ta'arof), when passing a kārd to someone, it is polite to offer the handle rather than the blade, often accompanied by a slight bow or a polite phrase like 'befarmāid'.

این کارد برای بریدن گوشت بسیار مناسب است. (This knife is very suitable for cutting meat.)

Beyond the physical tool, kārd appears in numerous idioms that describe emotional states. For instance, when someone is pushed to their absolute limit, they might say the 'knife has reached the bone.' This illustrates how deeply the concept of the knife as a sharp, impactful object is embedded in the Persian psyche. Whether you are discussing the sharpness of a blade or the intensity of a situation, kārd remains a foundational noun in the Persian vocabulary.

لطفاً یک کارد میوه‌خوری به من بدهید. (Please give me a fruit knife.)

Materiality
Modern Persian kārds are typically made of stainless steel (fūlād-e zed-e zang), but traditional ones from cities like Zanjan are famous for their craftsmanship and carbon steel blades.

او با کارد روی چوب خط انداخت. (He made a mark on the wood with a knife.)

To conclude, kārd is more than just 'knife'; it is the instrument of hospitality, the tool of the chef, and a metaphor for life's sharpest moments. Its frequency in daily life makes it a vital word for any A1 learner to master early in their journey.

Using the word کارد (kārd) in a sentence requires an understanding of Persian sentence structure, which is typically Subject-Object-Verb (SOV). Because kārd is a noun, it often functions as the instrument in a sentence, requiring the preposition (with). For example, 'I cut the bread with a knife' becomes Man bā kārd nān rā boridam. Notice how kārd follows 'bā' to indicate the tool being used.

Grammatical Roles
As a direct object, if the knife is specific, you must add the 'rā' marker: Kārd rā rū-ye mīz gozashtam (I put the knife on the table).

آیا این کارد تیز است؟ (Is this knife sharp?)

When describing the knife, adjectives follow the noun and are connected by the ezafe (the short 'e' sound). For instance, 'sharp knife' is kārd-e tiz and 'small knife' is kārd-e kūchak. This is a fundamental rule for A1 learners. If you want to talk about multiple knives, you add the plural suffix -hā, making it kārd-hā. However, in spoken Persian, if you are counting them, you use the singular form: se tā kārd (three knives).

Common Verbs
Verbs frequently paired with kārd include boridan (to cut), tiz kardan (to sharpen), shostan (to wash), and pust kandan (to peel).

او کارد را در کشو پیدا کرد. (He found the knife in the drawer.)

In compound nouns, kārd often comes first. A 'knife-sharpener' is a kārd-tiz-kon. If you are describing the quality of the blade, you might use kārd-e dande-dār (serrated knife). In complex sentences, kārd can be the subject: Kārd dastam rā borid (The knife cut my hand). Here, the knife is the active agent. As you progress to B1 and B2 levels, you will use kārd in more abstract ways, but at the A1 level, focusing on these concrete physical interactions is most beneficial.

من به یک کارد بزرگ برای بریدن هندوانه نیاز دارم. (I need a large knife to cut the watermelon.)

The Negative Construction
To say you don't have a knife, use: Man kārd nadāram. Simple and direct.

کودکان نباید با کارد بازی کنند. (Children should not play with knives.)

Mastering these patterns allows you to navigate a Persian kitchen with confidence. Whether asking for a tool or describing an action, the word kārd is your gateway to functional household vocabulary.

You will encounter the word کارد (kārd) in several distinct environments, each with its own set of associated phrases. The most common place is, of course, the kitchen (āshpaz-khāne). During meal preparation, family members often ask each other for tools. You might hear a mother say to her child, 'Go get the kārd from the drawer.' In this context, it is almost always the kitchen knife.

At the Dinner Table
When a guest is served fruit, the host will say: Befarmāid, kārd o changāl gozashtam (Please, I've placed the knife and fork). This is a hallmark of Iranian hospitality.

گارسون! لطفاً یک کارد تمیز بیاورید. (Waiter! Please bring a clean knife.)

Another place you'll hear kārd is in the bazaar, specifically at the hardware or cutlery shops. Artisans from Zanjan, famous for their metalwork, will use the word to describe their products. You might hear a seller shouting about kārd-e Zanjān, boasting of its sharpness and durability. In these markets, the word is spoken with a sense of pride in craftsmanship. Additionally, in restaurants, if you are served a dish like 'Jūjeh Kabāb' or 'Chelo Kabāb', and the meat is a bit tough, you might ask the waiter for a sharper kārd.

In the Media and News
While less common in positive news, the word appears in reports regarding 'hamleh bā kārd' (knife attacks) or in forensic discussions. However, for a learner, the culinary use is much more frequent.

توی این جعبه، شش تا کارد میوه‌خوری هست. (Inside this box, there are six fruit knives.)

You will also hear the word in creative contexts, such as in Persian poetry or songs, where the 'knife' might represent a sharp tongue or a painful betrayal. In movies, a character might threaten another with a kārd, though in street slang, they might switch to 'ghameh' or 'chāqu'. Finally, in the context of DIY and crafts, kārd-e moke-bori (utility knife) is a term used by workers. Pay attention to the context: if food is involved, it's almost always kārd.

مراقب باش! کارد خیلی تیز است. (Be careful! The knife is very sharp.)

TV Cooking Shows
Watch any Iranian cooking program, and you'll hear the chef say 'Kārd rā bar-midārim...' (We take the knife...) dozens of times.

این کارد دسته چوبی زیبایی دارد. (This knife has a beautiful wooden handle.)

By listening for kārd in these settings, you'll begin to notice the subtle differences in tone and register, from the polite table setting to the bustling market floor.

For English speakers learning Persian, the most frequent mistake involving کارد (kārd) is a pronunciation error that changes the word's meaning entirely. Persian is sensitive to vowel length. The word kārd (knife) has a long 'ā' (like in 'father'). If you pronounce it with a short 'a' (like in 'cat'), you are saying kard, which is the past tense of 'to do' (he/she/it did). This can lead to very confusing sentences!

Pronunciation Pitfall
Saying 'Man bā kard nān boridam' sounds like 'I did with bread cut,' which is nonsensical. Ensure you stretch that 'ā'.

اشتباه: من با کَرْد میوه خوردم. (Wrong pronunciation of knife.)

Another mistake is the over-reliance on the word chāqu. While chāqu is a safe bet for any knife, using it for a dinner knife in a formal setting can sound slightly unrefined or overly general. It's like calling a 'steak knife' a 'cutting tool.' To sound more like a native speaker, use kārd when referring to cutlery or kitchen tools. Conversely, don't use kārd for a pocket knife; a folding knife is always a chāqu-ye jibi.

The 'Rā' Marker Confusion
Learners often forget to use 'rā' when the knife is the specific object. 'Kārd bede' (Give a knife) vs 'Kārd rā bede' (Give the knife).

درست: کارد را به من بده. (Correct: Give me the knife.)

A third common error involves plurals. English speakers might try to pluralize kārd as kārd-ān. As mentioned before, -ān is reserved for living things (mostly humans). For a knife, always use -hā. Also, avoid using the plural suffix after a number. 'Panj kārd-hā' is incorrect; it should be 'panj tā kārd'. This is a rule that applies to all Persian nouns but is frequently forgotten in the heat of conversation.

اشتباه: سه کاردها روی میز است. (Wrong: Three knives are on the table.)

Translation Errors
Sometimes learners use 'kārd' for 'sword' (shamsher) or 'dagger' (khanjar). While they are all blades, 'kārd' is strictly a utility/table knife.

درست: کارد تیز است، مواظب باش. (Correct: The knife is sharp, be careful.)

By avoiding these common pitfalls—especially the vowel length distinction—you will communicate much more effectively and avoid accidental confusion with the verb 'kardan'.

In Persian, there are several words for cutting tools, and knowing which one to choose will make your speech more precise. The most frequent alternative to کارد (kārd) is chāqu. While they are often used interchangeably in casual speech, chāqu is the broader category. Think of chāqu as 'knife' in general, and kārd as 'table/kitchen knife'.

Kārd vs. Chāqu
Use kārd for: Kitchen knives, fruit knives, table knives. Use chāqu for: Pocket knives, switchblades, general-purpose knives.

او یک چاقوی تاشو در جیب دارد. (He has a folding knife in his pocket.)

If you are in a butcher shop, you might see a sātūr (cleaver). This is a heavy, rectangular blade used for chopping through bone. For surgical or very precise cutting, the word is nashtar (scalpel) or tigh (blade/razor). A khanjar is a dagger, usually curved and historical or ceremonial in nature, while a shamsher is a sword. Knowing these distinctions prevents you from using a word that is too 'aggressive' for a kitchen setting.

Other Cutting Tools
  • Ghanchī: Scissors (for paper or fabric).
  • Kārdak: Spatula or putty knife (literally 'little knife').
  • Tighe: The blade itself, without the handle.

نقاش از کاردک برای کشیدن رنگ استفاده کرد. (The painter used a spatula to apply paint.)

In a formal literary context, you might encounter ālat-e borande (cutting instrument), which is a more clinical or legal term. However, for everyday life, sticking to kārd and chāqu will cover 95% of your needs. If you want to describe the sharpness, use tiz (sharp) or barandeh (cutting/sharp). If the knife is blunt, the word is kond.

این ساطور برای خرد کردن گوشت است. (This cleaver is for dicing meat.)

Comparison Table
WordBest Use Case
KārdDining table / Kitchen prep
ChāquGeneral / Pocket / Utility
SātūrButcher / Heavy chopping
TighShaving / Razor blade

او با تیغ ریش خود را تراشید. (He shaved his beard with a razor.)

Understanding these synonyms and alternatives will allow you to describe any cutting task with the appropriate level of detail and cultural awareness.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'kārd' is related to the Sanskrit word 'kartari' (scissors/knife) and the English word 'curt' or 'curtail' via the Proto-Indo-European root *sker- meaning 'to cut'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /kɑːrd/
US /kɑrd/
The stress is on the only syllable: KĀRD.
Rime avec
آرد (ārd - flour) دارد (dārad - he/she has) بارد (bārad - it rains) تارد (tārd - dark/archaic) سپارد (sepārad - he/she entrusts) فشارد (feshārad - he/she presses) شمارد (shomārad - he/she counts) گزارد (gozārad - he/she performs)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing it as 'kard' (short 'a'), which means 'he/she did'.
  • Dropping the final 'd' sound.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'r' in a way that sounds non-Persian.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Very easy to read; simple three-letter word in Persian script.

Écriture 1/5

Simple to write; no complex connectors or rare letters.

Expression orale 2/5

Requires attention to the long vowel 'ā' to avoid confusion with 'kard'.

Écoute 2/5

Must distinguish from the past tense verb in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

میز (Table) نان (Bread) میوه (Fruit) داشتن (To have) بریدن (To cut)

Apprends ensuite

چنگال (Fork) قاشق (Spoon) بشقاب (Plate) آشپزخانه (Kitchen) تیز (Sharp)

Avancé

صیقل (Polish) فولاد (Steel) آهنگری (Blacksmithing) غلاف (Sheath) برندگی (Sharpness/Cutting quality)

Grammaire à connaître

Ezafe Construction

کاردِ تیز (kārd-e tiz) - The 'e' links the noun to the adjective.

Instrumental Preposition 'bā'

با کارد بریدن (bā kārd boridan) - Using 'bā' to indicate the tool.

Object Marker 'rā'

کارد را بیاور (kārd rā biyāvar) - Using 'rā' for a specific knife.

Pluralization with '-hā'

کاردها تمیز هستند (kārd-hā tamiz hastand) - Adding '-hā' for plurality.

Compound Noun Formation

کارد + میوه + خوری = کارد میوه‌خوری (Fruit-eating knife).

Exemples par niveau

1

این یک کارد است.

This is a knife.

Basic 'In ... ast' structure.

2

من کارد دارم.

I have a knife.

Use of the verb 'dāshtan' (to have).

3

کارد تیز است.

The knife is sharp.

Subject + Adjective + Verb.

4

لطفاً کارد را بده.

Please give the knife.

Imperative with 'rā' marker.

5

کارد کجاست؟

Where is the knife?

Question word 'kojāst'.

6

کارد روی میز است.

The knife is on the table.

Preposition 'rū-ye' (on).

7

این کارد کوچک است.

This knife is small.

Adjective 'kūchak' following the noun.

8

من با کارد سیب می‌برم.

I cut the apple with a knife.

Instrumental 'bā' (with).

1

مادرم با کارد بزرگ پیاز را خرد کرد.

My mother chopped the onion with a large knife.

Past tense 'khord kard'.

2

آیا شما کارد میوه‌خوری دارید؟

Do you have a fruit knife?

Compound noun 'kārd-e miveh-khori'.

3

کارد را در کشوی آشپزخانه بگذار.

Put the knife in the kitchen drawer.

Imperative 'be-gozār'.

4

این کارد برای بریدن نان خوب نیست.

This knife is not good for cutting bread.

Negative 'khūb nist'.

5

او با کارد دستش را برید.

He cut his hand with a knife.

Reflexive meaning 'dast-ash' (his hand).

6

من باید کاردها را بشویم.

I must wash the knives.

Plural 'kārd-hā'.

7

کارد را تیز کن چون خیلی کند است.

Sharpen the knife because it is very dull.

Contrast between 'tiz' and 'kond'.

8

کارد و چنگال روی دستمال سفره است.

The knife and fork are on the napkin.

Compound subject 'kārd o changāl'.

1

وقتی کارد به استخوان رسید، او تصمیم گرفت شغلش را عوض کند.

When the knife reached the bone (he could take no more), he decided to change his job.

Idiomatic use.

2

این کارد از فولاد ضد زنگ ساخته شده است.

This knife is made of stainless steel.

Passive construction 'sākhte shode ast'.

3

او با دقت کارد را در غلاف قرار داد.

He carefully placed the knife in the sheath.

Adverbial phrase 'bā deghat'.

4

همیشه کارد را از دسته به دیگران بدهید.

Always give the knife to others by the handle.

Polite imperative.

5

در بازار زنجان، کاردهای دست‌ساز بسیار مشهور هستند.

In the Zanjan bazaar, handmade knives are very famous.

Adjective 'دست‌ساز' (handmade).

6

آشپز با یک کارد مخصوص، ماهی را فیله کرد.

The chef filleted the fish with a special knife.

Specific noun 'kārd-e makhsūs'.

7

او آنقدر عصبانی بود که انگار کارد بزنی خونش در نمی‌آمد.

He was so angry that if you stabbed him, no blood would come out (idiom).

Complex idiomatic expression.

8

کاردک برای صاف کردن خامه روی کیک استفاده می‌شود.

A spatula (small knife) is used for smoothing cream on a cake.

Diminutive form 'kārdak'.

1

ظرافت تیغه این کارد نشان‌دهنده مهارت آهنگر است.

The elegance of this knife's blade shows the blacksmith's skill.

Abstract noun 'zerafat'.

2

آن‌ها مثل کارد و پنیر هستند و مدام با هم دعوا می‌کنند.

They are like knife and cheese (like cat and dog) and constantly fight.

Simile using 'kārd o panir'.

3

او برای بریدن طناب محکم، از کارد شکاری‌اش استفاده کرد.

He used his hunting knife to cut the strong rope.

Possessive 'shekāri-ash'.

4

کارد آشپزخانه باید همیشه تیز نگه داشته شود تا ایمن باشد.

A kitchen knife must always be kept sharp to be safe.

Modal 'bāyad' (must).

5

طراحی دسته کارد به گونه‌ای است که در دست لیز نمی‌خورد.

The design of the knife handle is such that it doesn't slip in the hand.

Complex descriptive structure.

6

او با یک حرکت سریع، کارد را در هوا چرخاند.

With a quick motion, he spun the knife in the air.

Prepositional phrase 'bā yek harekat-e sari'.

7

استفاده از کارد در این مراسم سنتی، نماد شجاعت است.

Using a knife in this traditional ceremony is a symbol of courage.

Subject as 'estefāde az kārd'.

8

پدرم همیشه می‌گفت: «کارد تیز، زبان تند نمی‌خواهد.»

My father always said: 'A sharp knife doesn't need a sharp tongue.'

Quoted proverb.

1

نویسنده در این داستان، قلم را به کاردی تشبیه کرده که جهل را می‌شکافد.

In this story, the author compares the pen to a knife that cuts through ignorance.

Literary metaphor.

2

کشف کاردهای مفرغی در این منطقه، قدمت تمدن را به هزاره سوم می‌رساند.

The discovery of bronze knives in this region dates the civilization back to the third millennium.

Academic vocabulary 'mafraz' (bronze).

3

او با کلامش، گویی کاردی بر قلب شنونده فرود می‌آورد.

With his words, it was as if he was plunging a knife into the listener's heart.

Poetic imagery.

4

صیقل دادن کارد، هنری است که نیاز به سال‌ها تجربه دارد.

Polishing a knife is an art that requires years of experience.

Gerund 'seyghal dādan'.

5

در تحلیل روان‌شناختی، کارد می‌تواند نمادی از قدرت یا تهدید باشد.

In psychological analysis, the knife can be a symbol of power or threat.

Formal academic register.

6

لبه‌ی برنده کارد، در نور مهتاب می‌درخشید.

The sharp edge of the knife gleamed in the moonlight.

Descriptive literary style.

7

او با خونسردی تمام، کارد را روی میز گذاشت و سکوت کرد.

With complete composure, he placed the knife on the table and remained silent.

Adverbial phrase 'bā khūnsardi-ye tamām'.

8

تکنولوژی ساخت کارد در دوران صفویه به اوج خود رسید.

The technology of knife-making reached its peak during the Safavid era.

Historical analysis.

1

تیغِ جفای تو، چون کاردی بر استخوانِ روحم نشسته است.

The blade of your cruelty has settled like a knife upon the bone of my soul.

Archaic/High poetic style.

2

واکاویِ ساختارِ واژگانیِ 'کارد' در متونِ پهلوی، پیوندِ ناگسستنیِ آن را با مفهومِ بریدن آشکار می‌سازد.

Analyzing the lexical structure of 'kārd' in Pahlavi texts reveals its unbreakable link with the concept of cutting.

Linguistic academic register.

3

کارد در دستانِ او، نه یک ابزار، بلکه امتدادِ اراده‌اش برای خلقِ اثر بود.

The knife in his hands was not a tool, but an extension of his will to create the work.

Philosophical phrasing.

4

او با ظرافتی جراح‌گونه، با کاردِ کلمات، پرده از حقیقت برداشت.

With surgical precision, using the knife of words, he unveiled the truth.

Advanced metaphor.

5

تقابلِ میانِ نرمیِ گوشت و سختیِ کارد، درون‌مایه‌ی اصلیِ این تابلوی طبیعتِ بیجان است.

The contrast between the softness of the meat and the hardness of the knife is the main theme of this still life painting.

Art criticism vocabulary.

6

هرچند کارد ابزاری خانگی است، اما در اساطیر، گاه ابزاری برای گسستنِ پیوندهای کیهانی بوده است.

Although the knife is a household tool, in mythology, it has sometimes been a tool for severing cosmic bonds.

Mythological analysis.

7

او با مهارتی بی‌بدیل، کارد را چنان بر زمین کوبید که تا نیمه در خاک فرو رفت.

With unparalleled skill, he struck the knife into the ground so hard it sank halfway into the soil.

Epic narrative style.

8

در این جستار، به بررسیِ تطبیقیِ واژه‌ی 'کارد' و معادل‌های آن در زبان‌های هندواروپایی می‌پردازیم.

In this essay, we perform a comparative study of the word 'kārd' and its equivalents in Indo-European languages.

Formal research introduction.

Collocations courantes

کارد تیز
کارد کند
کارد میوه‌خوری
کارد آشپزخانه
کارد و چنگال
دسته کارد
تیز کردن کارد
کارد شکاری
کارد پنیر
کارد استیل

Phrases Courantes

کارد به استخوان رسیدن

— To reach the limit of one's patience or endurance. Literally: the knife reached the bone.

صبرم تمام شد، کارد به استخوانم رسیده است.

مثل کارد و پنیر

— To be like enemies or constantly at odds. Literally: like knife and cheese.

آن دو برادر مثل کارد و پنیر هستند.

کارد بزنی خونش در نمی‌آید

— To be extremely angry or furious. Literally: if you hit him with a knife, no blood comes out.

او چنان عصبانی بود که کارد می‌زدی خونش در نمی‌آمد.

کارد انداختن

— To stab or thrust a knife (less common, usually 'chāqu zadan').

او با کارد به سمت دشمن حمله کرد.

کارد کشیدن

— To draw a knife in a threatening manner.

در دعوا، یکی از آن‌ها کارد کشید.

کارد و چنگال چیدن

— To set the table with cutlery.

میز را چیدی؟ کارد و چنگال‌ها را گذاشتی؟

کارد میوه‌خوری آوردن

— To bring fruit knives for guests.

برای مهمان‌ها کارد میوه‌خوری بیاور.

کارد تیز کردن برای کسی

— To prepare to attack or confront someone (metaphorical).

رقیبش برای او کارد تیز کرده است.

کارد در دست داشتن

— To hold a knife; to be in a position of power or threat.

او همیشه کارد در دست دارد (کنایه از آمادگی برای دعوا).

کارد دسته چوبی

— A wooden-handled knife (a very common household item).

کارد دسته چوبی بهترین کارد برای پیاز است.

Souvent confondu avec

کارد vs کرد (kard)

The past tense of 'to do'. Distinguished by vowel length (short 'a' vs. long 'ā').

کارد vs کارت (kārt)

Means 'card' (like a credit card). Distinguished by the final 't' vs. 'd'.

کارد vs کادر (kādr)

Means 'staff' or 'frame'. The 'r' and 'd' are swapped.

Expressions idiomatiques

"کارد به استخوان رسیدن"

— To be in a desperate situation; to be unable to tolerate any more pain or hardship.

از فقر و بدبختی، کارد به استخوان مردم رسیده بود.

General/Informal
"مثل کارد و پنیر بودن"

— To have a very poor relationship; to be incompatible and prone to conflict.

زن و شوهر همسایه مثل کارد و پنیر هستند.

Informal
"کارد بزنی خونش در نمی‌آید"

— Describing someone who is so angry or shocked that they have turned pale or rigid.

وقتی خبر را شنید، کارد می‌زدی خونش در نمی‌آمد.

Informal/Slang
"کاردش را تیز کردن"

— To prepare oneself for a fight or to take advantage of a situation.

او برای گرفتن ارثیه، کاردش را تیز کرده است.

Informal
"دسته کارد را گرفتن"

— To take control of a situation (less common than 'afsār').

او بالاخره دسته کارد را در این پروژه گرفت.

Informal
"کارد به شکم زدن"

— To betray someone deeply (figurative).

او با خیانتش، کارد به شکم من زد.

Informal
"تیزیِ کارد"

— The edge of the knife; refers to the most dangerous or critical part of something.

ما روی تیزیِ کارد راه می‌رویم.

Literary
"کارد و سفره"

— Refers to a state of readiness for a meal or hospitality.

کارد و سفره آماده است، بفرمایید.

Informal
"کاردِ دسته طلا"

— Something beautiful but potentially dangerous or uselessly expensive.

این ماشین فقط یک کارد دسته طلا است.

Informal
"کارد در زخم چرخاندن"

— To make a bad situation worse; to rub salt in the wound.

با حرف‌هایت، کارد را در زخمم نچرخان.

Literary/Informal

Facile à confondre

کارد vs چاقو (chāqu)

Both mean knife.

Kārd is for table/kitchen fixed blades; Chāqu is general/folding.

برای میوه کارد بیاور، نه چاقوی جیبی!

کارد vs تیغ (tigh)

Both are sharp blades.

Tigh is a razor or the edge itself; Kārd is the whole tool with a handle.

تیغِ کارد خیلی برنده است.

کارد vs ساطور (sātūr)

Both are kitchen tools.

Sātūr is a heavy cleaver; Kārd is a standard knife.

گوشت را با ساطور بزن، نه با کارد میوه‌خوری.

کارد vs خنجر (khanjar)

Both are pointed blades.

Khanjar is a dagger (weapon); Kārd is a utility tool.

او در جنگ خنجر داشت، نه کارد.

کارد vs کاردک (kārdak)

Sounds similar.

Kārdak is a spatula/scraper, not for cutting food.

با کاردک خامه را صاف کن.

Structures de phrases

A1

[Subject] [Kārd] [Verb: dāshtan]

من کارد دارم.

A1

[In] [Kārd] [Verb: ast]

این کارد است.

A2

[Subject] [bā] [Kārd] [Object] [Verb: boridan]

او با کارد سیب را برید.

A2

[Kārd] [Adjective] [Verb: ast]

کارد خیلی تیز است.

B1

[Kārd] [rā] [Preposition] [Place] [Verb: gozāshtan]

کارد را در کشو گذاشتم.

B1

[Compound Noun: Kārd-e ...] [Verb]

کارد میوه‌خوری کجاست؟

B2

[Idiom involving Kārd]

کارد به استخوانم رسیده است.

C1

[Metaphorical use of Kārd]

کلام او مانند کاردی بر قلبم بود.

Famille de mots

Noms

کاردک (kārdak - spatula)
کاردسازی (kārdsāzi - knife-making)
کاردزن (kārdzan - one who stabs/uses a knife)

Verbes

کارد زدن (kārd zadan - to stab/cut with a knife)

Adjectifs

کاردخورده (kārdkhorde - stabbed/cut by a knife)

Apparenté

چاقو (chāqu)
تیغ (tigh)
ساطور (sātūr)
خنجر (khanjar)
غلاف (ghalāf)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very frequent in domestic and culinary contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'kard' (short a) instead of 'kārd'. کارد (kārd)

    The short 'a' version is the past tense of 'to do'. This is the most common error for learners.

  • Pluralizing as 'kārd-ān'. کاردها (kārd-hā)

    The suffix '-ān' is for living beings. Knives are inanimate objects.

  • Saying 'panj kārd-hā'. پنج تا کارد (panj tā kārd)

    In Persian, nouns stay singular after a number.

  • Using 'kārd' for a folding pocket knife. چاقو (chāqu)

    'Kārd' is for fixed blades. A pocket knife is always 'chāqu'.

  • Omitting 'rā' for a specific knife. کارد را بده (kārd rā bede)

    If you are asking for a specific knife already on the table, you must use 'rā'.

Astuces

The Long 'A' Rule

Always stretch the 'ā' sound in 'kārd'. If it's too short, people will think you are using the verb 'to do'.

Fruit Etiquette

In Iran, use the 'kārd' to peel fruit for your elders or guests as a sign of respect.

Using 'Bā'

Remember to use the preposition 'bā' (with) when 'kārd' is the tool you are using for an action.

Cutlery Pairs

Learn 'kārd' and 'changāl' (fork) together. They are almost always used as a pair in conversation.

Handing a Knife

When passing a 'kārd' to someone, always hold the blade and offer them the handle. It's safe and polite.

Zanjan Quality

If you are buying knives in Iran, look for 'kārd-e Zanjān' for the best craftsmanship.

Desperation

Use 'kārd be ostokhān residan' when you want to express that you've reached your absolute limit.

Spelling

The word is spelled Kaf-Alef-Re-Dal. It's simple, but make sure the Alef is there!

Table Talk

At a formal dinner, always use 'kārd' rather than 'chāqu' to refer to the knives on the table.

Compound Words

Listen for the word 'kārd' at the beginning of compound words like 'kārd-e miveh-khori' to understand the specific type of knife.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'CARD' that is so sharp it can cut through anything. A 'KĀRD' is like a sharp credit card for your kitchen.

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant kitchen knife (KĀRD) slicing a large birthday CARD in half.

Word Web

Kitchen Sharp Cut Steel Fruit Table Handle Blade

Défi

Try to name five things in your kitchen you can cut with a 'kārd' using the sentence: 'Man bā kārd ... rā mī-boram'.

Origine du mot

The word originates from Middle Persian 'kārd', which traces back to Old Persian and Avestan roots. It is shared across many Indo-Iranian languages.

Sens originel : A cutting tool or instrument.

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

Contexte culturel

Never give a knife as a gift in some Iranian traditions without asking for a small coin in return, as some believe it can 'cut' the friendship (though this is an old superstition).

In English, 'knife' is used for everything. In Persian, remember to switch from 'chāqu' to 'kārd' when you're at the dinner table to sound more natural.

Zanjan Knives (Kārd-e Zanjān) - Famous for centuries. The idiom 'Kārd be ostokhān residan' in classical poetry. Traditional Persian miniature paintings often show hunters with a 'kārd' at their waist.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Eating Fruit

  • کارد میوه‌خوری کجاست؟
  • با کارد سیب را پوست بکن.
  • کارد را به من بده.
  • این کارد برای پرتقال خوب است.

Cooking

  • کارد آشپزخانه را تیز کن.
  • پیاز را با کارد خرد کن.
  • گوشت را با کارد بزرگ ببر.
  • مواظب باش کارد دستت را نبرد.

At a Restaurant

  • لطفاً یک کارد دیگر بیاورید.
  • این کارد اصلاً تیز نیست.
  • کارد و چنگال تمیز می‌خواهم.
  • کارد مخصوص استیک دارید؟

Shopping

  • قیمت این ست کارد چقدر است؟
  • آیا این کاردها زنگ می‌زنند؟
  • یک کارد خوب برای آشپزی می‌خواهم.
  • این کارد گارانتی دارد؟

DIY/Crafts

  • با کاردک چسب را پخش کن.
  • کارد موکت‌بری کجاست؟
  • تیغه کارد را عوض کن.
  • با کارد روی چوب علامت بزن.

Amorces de conversation

"ببخشید، می‌توانید یک کارد تیز به من بدهید؟ (Excuse me, can you give me a sharp knife?)"

"آیا می‌دانید بهترین کاردهای ایران مال کدام شهر است؟ (Do you know which city makes the best knives in Iran?)"

"شما معمولاً برای بریدن نان از چه کاردی استفاده می‌کنید؟ (What kind of knife do you usually use to cut bread?)"

"می‌توانم با این کارد میوه پوست بکنم؟ (Can I peel fruit with this knife?)"

"آیا این کارد و چنگال برای مهمانی مناسب است؟ (Are these knife and fork sets suitable for the party?)"

Sujets d'écriture

امروز در آشپزخانه چه غذاهایی را با کارد خرد کردید؟ (What foods did you chop with a knife in the kitchen today?)

تجربه خود را از خرید یک ست کارد و چنگال جدید بنویسید. (Write about your experience buying a new set of knives and forks.)

چرا کارد یکی از مهم‌ترین ابزارها در تمدن بشری است؟ (Why is the knife one of the most important tools in human civilization?)

داستانی کوتاه درباره یک کارد قدیمی که از پدربزرگتان به ارث رسیده بنویسید. (Write a short story about an old knife inherited from your grandfather.)

تفاوت‌های فرهنگی در استفاده از کارد بین کشور خودتان و ایران را توصیف کنید. (Describe the cultural differences in knife usage between your country and Iran.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Not exactly. While they both mean knife, 'kārd' is specifically for fixed-blade kitchen and table knives. 'Chāqu' is a more general term that includes pocket knives and weapons. In a kitchen, 'kārd' is more common.

The most important part is the long 'ā' sound, like in the English word 'father'. If you say it with a short 'a' (like 'cat'), it sounds like 'kard' (he did), which is a common mistake for beginners.

It means 'knife and fork'. It is the standard term for a set of cutlery in Persian. You will hear this every time you are at a dinner table.

No, a sword is a 'shamsher'. 'Kārd' is much smaller and intended for utility or eating, not for combat.

Yes, many! One famous one is 'kārd be ostokhān residan', which means a situation has become unbearable. Another is 'مثل کارد و پنیر' (like knife and cheese), meaning two people don't get along.

It is a 'fruit knife'. In Iranian culture, serving fruit to guests is very important, and these small, sharp knives are always provided for peeling and slicing.

You add the suffix '-hā' to make 'kārd-hā'. In spoken Persian, if you use a number, you keep the noun singular, e.g., 'do tā kārd' (two knives).

The city of Zanjan is historically famous for its high-quality, handmade knives. 'Kārd-e Zanjān' is a well-known mark of quality.

It is a neutral, standard word used in all levels of Persian, from casual family dinners to formal restaurant settings.

The opposite is a 'kārd-e kond' (a dull knife). 'Kond' is the standard word for something that is not sharp.

Teste-toi 180 questions

writing

Write 'I have a sharp knife' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Give me the knife and fork' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'My mother cuts bread with a knife' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a 'fruit knife' in one Persian sentence.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use the idiom 'کارد به استخوان رسیدن' in a sentence.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain why Zanjan is famous in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a warning for a child about a knife.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The knife is in the drawer' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I need a large knife for the watermelon' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The knife blade is made of steel' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'He sharpened the knife with a stone' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'They are like knife and cheese.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Put the knife on the table' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Six knives are in the box' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The knife was so sharp that it cut the wood' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'A dull knife is dangerous.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'He found the old knife in the garden' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'The chef uses a professional knife' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The knife handle is broken.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a metaphorical sentence using 'knife' in Persian.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce 'کارد' correctly.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask for a knife in a restaurant.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone the knife is sharp.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I cut the apple with a knife'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask where the fruit knives are.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Explain that the knife is dull.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Use the 'knife reached the bone' idiom in a sentence.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Describe a knife from Zanjan.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone to put the knife in the drawer.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'knife and fork' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask if the knife is stainless steel.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell a child not to touch the knife.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I need to sharpen the knife'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Describe the handle of a knife.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The knife is on the table'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Translate: 'Give me the small knife.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I bought six knives'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask for a bread knife.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Describe the blade of a knife.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Use 'knife and cheese' idiom.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: 'کارد' (Teacher says: kārd).

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

Distinguish between 'kārd' and 'kard'.

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

Listen to the sentence: 'کارد کجاست؟' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'کارد تیز است' and identify the adjective.

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

Listen to: 'کارد و چنگال را بیاور' and identify the objects.

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

Listen to: 'کارد میوه‌خوری' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'کارد به استخوان رسید' and identify the idiom.

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

Listen to: 'دسته کارد شکست' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'کارد را تیز کردم' and identify the verb tense.

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

Listen to: 'کارد زنجان' and identify the city.

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

Listen to: 'شش تا کارد' and identify the number.

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

Listen to: 'کارد کند است' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'کارد شکاری' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'تیغه فولادی' and translate.

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

Listen to: 'کاردک نقاشی' and translate.

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

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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