At the A1 level, you can think of 'Ekhtiyār' as a polite word used when someone says 'thank you' or 'sorry.' You don't need to know all the complex legal meanings yet. Just remember the phrase 'Ekhtiyār dārid.' If you accidentally bump into someone and say 'Bebakhshid' (Excuse me), and they say 'Ekhtiyār dārid,' they are being very nice and saying 'No problem at all!' or 'Don't worry about it.' It is a magic phrase for politeness. You might also hear it when someone asks 'Can I sit here?' and you want to say 'Of course, it's your choice.' It shows you are a polite person who knows Iranian culture. At this stage, focus on the sound /ex-ti-yār/ and its use in Ta'arof (politeness). You can also learn 'Man ekhtiyār dāram' to mean 'I have the choice' in very simple games or decisions, like choosing between tea or coffee. It is a big word for a beginner, but using it correctly will impress your Iranian friends immediately. Think of it as the 'polite choice' word. Don't worry about the spelling too much, just listen for it in conversations. It often comes with a smile!
At the A2 level, you can start using 'Ekhtiyār' to talk about simple decisions and permissions. You should know that 'Ekhtiyār' means 'choice' or 'option.' For example, you can say 'In ba ekhtiyār-e shomāst' (This is your choice/up to you). This is very useful when you are shopping or talking with friends about what to do. You are moving beyond just the polite phrase 'Ekhtiyār dārid' and starting to use the word as a noun. You can also understand that 'Ekhtiyār dāshtan' means 'to have the right' or 'to have the choice.' If a teacher says 'Shomā ekhtiyār dārid in ketāb rā bekhānid,' they mean 'You have the option to read this book.' You should also begin to recognize the word in simple signs or instructions that talk about 'optional' activities. It's a step up from 'Entekhāb' (choice) because 'Ekhtiyār' feels a bit more formal and about the *right* to choose. Practice saying 'Be ekhtiyār-e khodam' (By my own choice) when someone asks why you did something. It shows you are taking responsibility for your actions in a simple way.
At the B1 level, you should understand 'Ekhtiyār' in more functional contexts like work and social responsibilities. You will encounter the plural form 'Ekhtiyārāt,' which means 'authorities' or 'powers.' If you are looking at a job description, it might mention 'Ekhtiyārāt-e in shoghl' (The powers of this job). You should be able to explain what you are allowed to do and what you are not allowed to do using this word. For example, 'Man ekhtiyār-e emzā-ye in gharārdād rā nadāram' (I don't have the authority to sign this contract). You are also becoming more aware of the cultural depth of 'Ekhtiyār dārid.' You understand that it's not just a 'yes' or 'no,' but a way to show respect. In B1, you start to see 'Ekhtiyār' in news stories about government officials and their duties. You should also be able to use the compound verb 'Ekhtiyār kardan' in its more common meanings, like choosing a place to live: 'U Tehrān rā barāye zendegi ekhtiyār kard' (He chose Tehran for living). This is more formal than 'entekhāb kard.' You are now seeing the word as a tool for both formal communication and nuanced social interaction.
At the B2 level, you have a firm grasp of 'Ekhtiyār' as a concept of 'agency' and 'discretion.' You can use it to discuss complex topics like workplace autonomy or legal rights. You understand the difference between 'Ekhtiyār' (the power to choose) and 'Salāhiyat' (the professional competence/right to act). You can participate in debates about whether people have 'Ekhtiyār' over their own destiny or if everything is 'Ghesmat' (fate). You are comfortable using phrases like 'Ekhtiyār-e tām' (full authority) and can explain the implications of a 'Vekālat-nāme bā ekhtiyār-e tām' (a power of attorney with full authority). Your use of 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is now perfectly timed and nuanced; you know when it's appropriate to use it to deflect a compliment and when it's used to politely disagree with someone who is being too humble. You can also use the word in the context of 'discretionary spending' or 'discretionary actions' in a business environment. You understand that 'Ekhtiyār' implies a level of trust and responsibility. You are able to read articles about 'Ekhtiyārāt-e shurā-ye neghahbān' (the authorities of the Guardian Council) and understand the legal boundaries being discussed.
At the C1 level, you explore the philosophical and literary depths of 'Ekhtiyār.' You can analyze classical Persian texts where 'Ekhtiyār' is contrasted with 'Jabr' (determinism). You understand how poets like Rumi use 'Ekhtiyār' to discuss the soul's journey and the paradox of human will within a divine plan. You are capable of using 'Ekhtiyār' in academic writing, perhaps discussing 'Ekhtiyār-e ghazāyi' (judicial discretion) or 'Ekhtiyār-e shar'i' (religious authority). You understand the etymological link to 'Kheyr' (good) and how this informs the concept of choosing the best path. Your vocabulary includes derivatives and related terms like 'Mokhtār' (empowered/free to act) and 'Khod-mokhtāri' (autonomy/self-governance). You can navigate high-level Ta'arof where 'Ekhtiyār' is used in complex, multi-layered social dances of power and humility. You can also identify 'Ekhtiyār' in specialized fields like contract law, where 'Ekhtiyār-e faskh' (the right to rescind/cancel) is a specific legal term. Your understanding is not just linguistic but deeply cultural and intellectual, allowing you to appreciate the word's resonance in Persian thought.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like intuition for the word 'Ekhtiyār.' You can use it to express the finest shades of meaning, from the subtle psychological state of feeling 'in control' to the most rigid constitutional definitions of 'executive authority.' You can engage in high-level philosophical discourse on 'Human Agency' (Ekhtiyār-e Ensāni) vs. 'Structural Constraints.' You are familiar with the historical evolution of the term in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) and how 'Ekhtiyār' affects the validity of contracts or criminal responsibility. You can appreciate and use the word in its most abstract forms in contemporary Persian literature and avant-garde cinema, where 'loss of choice' might be a central theme. You can effortlessly switch between the hyper-formal 'Ekhtiyārāt-e hākemiyat' (sovereign powers) and the most colloquial, idiomatic uses in street slang or family jokes. You understand how 'Ekhtiyār' functions as a pillar of Iranian identity—the tension between the desire for individual autonomy and the cultural pressure of social obligation. You are, in essence, 'Mokhtār' (the master) of this word and its many worlds.

اختیار 30초 만에

  • Ekhtiyār means authority, choice, or free will.
  • It is used in legal, philosophical, and social contexts.
  • The phrase 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is a key part of Persian politeness (Ta'arof).
  • It differs from 'Entekhāb' (the act of picking) by focusing on the *right* to pick.

The Persian word اختیار (ekhtiyār) is a multifaceted noun that primarily translates to 'authority,' 'choice,' 'option,' or 'free will.' Rooted in the Arabic triliteral root (kh-y-r), which relates to 'goodness' or 'choosing the better of two options,' it has evolved in Persian into a fundamental concept spanning legal, philosophical, and everyday social contexts. At its core, it represents the capacity of an individual to act according to their own judgment or to hold the power to dictate terms to others. In a legal sense, it refers to the 'discretion' or 'jurisdiction' granted to an official. In a philosophical sense, it is the cornerstone of the 'Free Will vs. Determinism' (Jabr-o-Ekhtiyār) debate that has occupied Persian poets and scholars for centuries. In the realm of social etiquette, or Ta'arof, it is used as a polite way to defer to someone else's judgment or to modestly decline a compliment.

Legal Authority
In administrative Persian, it refers to the mandate given to a person to perform specific tasks. For example, 'Ekhtiyār-e tām' means 'full authority' or 'plenipotentiary power.'
Philosophical Agency
It denotes the human capacity to choose between right and wrong, standing in contrast to 'Jabr' (compulsion or predestination).
Social Deference
The phrase 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is a ubiquitous polite response meaning 'You have the authority,' often used to say 'Not at all' or 'It is as you wish.'

مدیر پروژه اختیار کامل برای استخدام نیروهای جدید دارد.

The project manager has full authority to hire new personnel.

انسان با اختیار خود مسیر زندگی‌اش را انتخاب می‌کند.

Humans choose their life path with their own free will.

ـ ببخشید که مزاحم شدم. ـ اختیار دارید، خوش آمدید!

- Sorry for bothering you. - Not at all (You have the authority/You are welcome), welcome!

Furthermore, the word is used in compound verbs like 'Ekhtiyār kardan,' which means to adopt, choose, or take up a residence or a profession. In the context of the family, 'Ekhtiyār-e hamsar' refers to the choice of a spouse. The depth of this word lies in its ability to shift from a rigid legal term to a fluid social lubricant. Understanding 'Ekhtiyār' is key to navigating both formal Persian documents and the complex nuances of Iranian social interactions. It suggests a level of autonomy that is respected but also often shared or deferred in the spirit of communal harmony.

Using 'Ekhtiyār' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a noun and its functional role in various registers. In formal writing, it often appears with the preposition 'bar' (over) or 'dar' (in/regarding). For instance, 'Ekhtiyār bar sarnavesht' (authority over destiny). In common speech, it's frequently paired with the verb 'dāshtan' (to have).

Possession of Authority
Structure: [Subject] + [Noun/Pronoun] + [Ekhtiyār] + [dāshtan]. Example: 'Man ekhtiyār-e in khāne rā dāram' (I have the authority/control of this house).
Granting Authority
Structure: [Subject] + [Object] + [be] + [Recipient] + [Vāgozār kardan]. Example: 'Dowlat ekhtiyārāt rā be ostāndār vāgozār kard' (The government delegated the authorities to the governor).

هیچ‌کس اختیار ندارد در زندگی خصوصی دیگران دخالت کند.

No one has the right/authority to interfere in others' private lives.

In everyday conversation, 'Ekhtiyār' is most famous for the phrase 'Ekhtiyār dārid.' If you thank someone profusely, they might say this to mean 'It was nothing, don't mention it.' If you apologize for being late, they say it to mean 'Don't worry about it.' It is a versatile 'shield' against social awkwardness. Another common usage is 'Be ekhtiyār-e khod' (By one's own choice/will), often used to describe voluntary actions. For instance, 'U be ekhtiyār-e khod az maghāmash estefā dād' (He resigned from his position of his own free will). This distinguishes a voluntary action from one forced by external circumstances (be ejbār).

The word 'Ekhtiyār' is heard across the entire spectrum of Iranian society, from the highest courts to the most casual dinner tables. Its frequency is high because it touches upon the core values of autonomy and politeness. You will encounter it in the following domains:

News and Politics
Reporters often discuss 'Ekhtiyārāt-e Rais-jomhur' (The President's powers) or 'Ekhtiyārāt-e majles' (The Parliament's authorities).
Literature and Philosophy
In classical poetry, such as that of Rumi or Hafez, the tension between human 'Ekhtiyār' and divine 'Ghadar' (Fate) is a recurring theme.
The Workplace
Managers use it to define boundaries: 'In mas'ale dar hayte-ye ekhtiyārāt-e man nist' (This matter is not within my scope of authority).

همه چیز در اختیار شماست؛ هر طور مایلید تصمیم بگیرید.

Everything is at your disposal; decide however you wish.

In a modern Iranian office, you might hear 'Ekhtiyār-e tām' when a consultant is given a green light to change a system. In a traditional bazaar, a merchant might say 'Ekhtiyār-e mā dast-e shomāst' (Our choice/will is in your hands) to a customer as a form of high-level Ta'arof, essentially saying 'I trust your judgment on the price' or 'I am at your service.' Even in movies, during dramatic confrontations, a character might shout 'To hich ekhtiyāri nadāri!' (You have no authority/right!), emphasizing a loss of power or legitimacy.

Learners of Persian often struggle with 'Ekhtiyār' because of its dual nature as both a literal term for 'authority' and a figurative term for 'politeness.' Here are the most frequent pitfalls:

Confusing with 'Entekhāb'
While both relate to choice, 'Entekhāb' is the act of picking (e.g., picking a fruit), whereas 'Ekhtiyār' is the *right* or *power* to pick. You have 'Ekhtiyār' which allows you to make an 'Entekhāb.'
Overusing 'Ekhtiyār dārid'
While polite, using it in a strictly professional, literal context where someone actually *doesn't* have authority can be confusing. Use it only as a social response to modesty or apologies.

اشتباه: من اختیار کردم که سیب بخورم. (درست: من انتخاب کردم...)

Mistake: I 'authority-ed' to eat an apple. (Correct: I 'chose' to eat...)

Another mistake is the pronunciation of the 'kh' (خ) sound. English speakers often pronounce it as a 'k' or 'h,' but it should be a guttural sound like the 'ch' in 'Bach.' Also, remember that 'Ekhtiyār' is a noun. To use it as a verb, you must use light verbs like 'dāshtan' (to have), 'dādan' (to give), or 'kardan' (to do/adopt). Mixing these up can change the meaning significantly. Giving authority (Ekhtiyār dādan) is very different from having authority (Ekhtiyār dāshtan).

To truly master 'Ekhtiyār,' one must see how it sits alongside its linguistic cousins. Depending on the context, you might choose a different word to be more precise.

Salāhiyat (صلاحیت)
Focuses on 'competence' or 'qualification.' While 'Ekhtiyār' is the power to act, 'Salāhiyat' is the legal or professional fitness to hold that power.
Haq (حق)
Means 'Right.' You have a 'Haq' to vote (a legal entitlement), but you have the 'Ekhtiyār' to decide whether to go to the polls or stay home (the agency to exercise that right).
Ghobrat (قدرت)
Means 'Power' or 'Strength.' 'Ekhtiyār' is legitimate, often delegated authority, whereas 'Ghodrat' can be raw, physical, or political might.

او صلاحیت لازم برای این جایگاه را دارد، اما هنوز اختیار اجرایی به او داده نشده است.

He has the necessary competence for this position, but executive authority has not yet been given to him.

In the context of 'choice,' 'Entekhāb' is your best alternative for the act of selecting. If you are talking about 'freedom' in a general sense, 'Āzādi' is used. 'Ekhtiyār' is specifically the freedom of the *will* or the freedom to *decide* within a framework. In formal settings, 'Majāz' (authorized) is also related; if you have 'Ekhtiyār,' you are 'Majāz' to perform an action. Understanding these subtle differences will make your Persian sound much more sophisticated and accurate.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The root 'Kheyr' means 'good' in Arabic and Persian. So, 'Ekhtiyār' literally implies the process of finding the 'good' or 'best' path forward.

발음 가이드

UK /ex.ti.jɒːr/
US /ek.ti.jɑːr/
The stress is on the final syllable: ek-ti-YĀR.
라임이 맞는 단어
Bāzār (Market) Gharār (Appointment) Bahār (Spring) Divār (Wall) Yār (Beloved) Bidār (Awake) Hamkār (Colleague) Etebār (Credit)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'kh' as a simple 'k' (e.g., ektiyar).
  • Shortening the final 'ā' sound.
  • Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.

난이도

독해 3/5

Easy to recognize, but legal texts can be dense.

쓰기 4/5

Requires knowledge of compound verbs and ezāfe.

말하기 2/5

The polite phrase is easy; philosophical use is harder.

듣기 3/5

Common in news and movies; must distinguish from 'Entekhāb'.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

داشتن (To have) انتخاب (Choice) قدرت (Power) حق (Right) ببخشید (Excuse me)

다음에 배울 것

صلاحیت (Competence) مسئولیت (Responsibility) حاکمیت (Sovereignty) اراده (Will) اجبار (Compulsion)

고급

قضا و قدر (Fate and Destiny) تفویض (Delegation) ولایت (Guardianship) استقلال (Independence) مشروطیت (Constitutionalism)

알아야 할 문법

Ezāfe with Ekhtiyār

اختیارِ من (My authority)

Compound Verbs with Ekhtiyār

اختیار کردن (To choose/adopt)

Pluralization with -āt

اختیارات (Powers/Authorities)

Subjunctive after Ekhtiyār dāshtan

اختیار دارم که بروم (I have the option to go)

Preposition 'Dar' with Ekhtiyār

در اختیارِ اوست (It is at his disposal)

수준별 예문

1

اختیار دارید، بفرمایید بنشینید.

Not at all, please have a seat.

Ekhtiyār dārid is a fixed polite phrase.

2

من اختیار دارم.

I have the choice.

Simple subject + noun + verb.

3

این با اختیار شماست.

This is your choice.

Using 'bā' to show possession of choice.

4

اختیار دارید، شما استاد ما هستید.

Not at all, you are our master/teacher.

Used to deflect a compliment.

5

آیا من اختیار دارم؟

Do I have the choice?

Question form.

6

او اختیار ندارد.

He/She does not have the choice.

Negative form.

7

اختیار با کیست؟

Who has the choice/authority?

Asking about the possessor of authority.

8

ببخشید. - اختیار دارید!

Sorry. - No problem at all!

A1 conversational response.

1

شما اختیار دارید که امروز نیایید.

You have the option not to come today.

Noun + 'dārid ke' + subjunctive verb.

2

من به اختیار خودم این کار را کردم.

I did this work by my own choice.

'Be ekhtiyār-e khod' means voluntarily.

3

او هیچ اختیاری در این مورد ندارد.

He has no authority in this matter.

Use of 'hich' for emphasis.

4

آیا شما اختیار امضا دارید؟

Do you have the authority to sign?

Ekhtiyār + noun (ezāfe) + verb.

5

همه چیز در اختیار شماست.

Everything is at your disposal.

'Dar ekhtiyār' means 'available to' or 'at the disposal of'.

6

او با اختیار خودش رفت.

He went of his own free will.

Emphasizing voluntary action.

7

ما اختیار انتخاب رنگ را داریم.

We have the choice of choosing the color.

Ekhtiyār-e entekhāb (the choice of choosing).

8

اختیار این پوشه با مدیر است.

The authority over this folder is with the manager.

Subject as 'Ekhtiyār'.

1

مدیر اختیارات زیادی به من داده است.

The manager has given me many authorities.

Plural 'Ekhtiyārāt' refers to specific powers.

2

این دارو باید در اختیار پزشک باشد.

This medicine must be at the disposal of the doctor.

'Dar ekhtiyār-e' indicating professional control.

3

او تهران را برای زندگی اختیار کرد.

He chose Tehran for living.

Formal compound verb 'Ekhtiyār kardan' meaning 'to choose/adopt'.

4

آیا دولت این اختیار را دارد؟

Does the government have this authority?

Discussing legal/political power.

5

من بدون اختیار خندیدم.

I laughed involuntarily.

'Bedun-e ekhtiyār' means 'involuntarily'.

6

او اختیار کامل برای انجام پروژه دارد.

He has full authority to carry out the project.

'Ekhtiyār-e tām' is a common phrase for 'full power'.

7

اختیار زبان خود را داشته باش.

Have control over your tongue (watch what you say).

Using 'ekhtiyār' as 'self-control'.

8

این موضوع خارج از اختیار من است.

This subject is beyond my authority/control.

'Khārej az ekhtiyār' is a professional way to say 'I can't help'.

1

او به عنوان وکیل، اختیار تام دارد.

As a lawyer, he has power of attorney (full authority).

Legal context of 'Ekhtiyār-e tām'.

2

باید بین جبر و اختیار یکی را انتخاب کرد.

One must choose between determinism and free will.

Philosophical pairing: Jabr vs. Ekhtiyār.

3

اختیارات رئیس‌جمهور در قانون اساسی تعریف شده است.

The President's authorities are defined in the constitution.

Formal political usage.

4

او با سلب اختیار از دیگران، قدرت را به دست گرفت.

By stripping others of authority, he took power.

'Salb-e ekhtiyār' means 'depriving of authority'.

5

این تصمیم کاملاً در حیطه اختیار شماست.

This decision is entirely within the scope of your authority.

'Hayte-ye ekhtiyār' means 'sphere/scope of authority'.

6

اختیار عمل در این شرایط بسیار مهم است.

Freedom of action is very important in these conditions.

'Ekhtiyār-e amal' means 'discretion' or 'freedom to act'.

7

او از اختیار خود سوءاستفاده کرد.

He abused his authority.

'Su-estefāde az ekhtiyār' is a common legal phrase.

8

آیا انسان در افعالش صاحب اختیار است؟

Is man the master of his own actions?

'Sāheb-ekhtiyār' means 'possessing authority/agency'.

1

مولوی در مثنوی به تفصیل درباره اختیار سخن گفته است.

Rumi has spoken in detail about free will in the Masnavi.

Literary/Academic context.

2

تفویض اختیار به زیردستان باعث افزایش بهره‌وری می‌شود.

Delegating authority to subordinates increases productivity.

'Tafviz-e ekhtiyār' is the technical term for 'delegation'.

3

او با اختیارِ سکوت، از پاسخ به سوالات خودداری کرد.

By choosing silence, he refrained from answering the questions.

Using 'ekhtiyār' to denote a deliberate choice of state.

4

اختیارِ فسخ معامله در متن قرارداد ذکر شده است.

The right to rescind the transaction is mentioned in the contract text.

Legal term: 'Ekhtiyār-e faskh'.

5

این هنرمند سبک خاصی را برای بیان خود اختیار کرده است.

This artist has adopted a specific style for his self-expression.

Formal use of 'Ekhtiyār kardan' as 'to adopt'.

6

حاکمیت ملی به معنای اختیارِ تعیین سرنوشت است.

National sovereignty means the authority to determine destiny.

Political science terminology.

7

او در حالت بی‌اختیاری آن سخنان را بر زبان آورد.

He uttered those words in a state of loss of control.

'Bi-ekhtiyāri' means 'involuntariness' or 'loss of self-control'.

8

محدوده اختیارات قانونی او توسط دادگاه مشخص شد.

The scope of his legal authorities was determined by the court.

'Mahdude-ye ekhtiyārāt' (limit of powers).

1

جدال دیرینه میان قائلان به جبر و طرفداران اختیار همچنان باقی است.

The long-standing battle between proponents of determinism and advocates of free will persists.

High-level philosophical discourse.

2

او با سلب اختیارِ تام از خود، مسئولیت را به جمع واگذار کرد.

By relinquishing his absolute authority, he delegated responsibility to the collective.

Complex social/political dynamic.

3

در این جستار، مفهوم اختیار از منظر پدیدارشناسی بررسی می‌شود.

In this essay, the concept of agency is examined from a phenomenological perspective.

Academic register.

4

اختیارِ مطلق بدون مسئولیت، به استبداد می‌انجامد.

Absolute authority without responsibility leads to tyranny.

Political philosophy aphorism.

5

او در تنگنای میان وظیفه و اختیار، راه سوم را برگزید.

In the dilemma between duty and free will, he chose the third path.

Literary narrative style.

6

نظام‌های خودکامه همواره در پی تحدیدِ اختیاراتِ شهروندان هستند.

Autocratic systems are always seeking to limit the authorities/freedoms of citizens.

'Tahdid' (limiting) + 'Ekhtiyārāt'.

7

تجلی اختیار در آثار صادق هدایت، رنگی از پوچی به خود می‌گیرد.

The manifestation of free will in Sadegh Hedayat's works takes on a hue of absurdity.

Literary criticism.

8

او با اختیارِ فقرِ گزینشی، به نقدِ جامعه مصرف‌گرا برخاست.

By adopting selective poverty, he rose to criticize the consumerist society.

Sociological/Philosophical context.

자주 쓰는 조합

اختیار تام
سلب اختیار
تفویض اختیار
در اختیار داشتن
به اختیار خود
خارج از اختیار
صاحب اختیار
حیطه اختیارات
بدون اختیار
جبر و اختیار

자주 쓰는 구문

اختیار دارید

— A polite way to say 'Not at all,' 'Don't mention it,' or 'You have the authority.'

ـ ببخشید دیر آمدم. ـ اختیار دارید!

در اختیار گذاشتن

— To provide or make something available to someone.

کتاب را در اختیار من گذاشت.

با کمال اختیار

— With full willingness and no pressure.

با کمال اختیار این کار را انجام دادم.

سلبِ اختیار کردن

— To take away someone's power or ability to choose.

بیماری از او سلب اختیار کرد.

اختیار با شماست

— It's up to you / The decision is yours.

هر طور راحتید، اختیار با شماست.

صاحب اختیار بودن

— To be the one in charge or to have the final say.

در این خانه او صاحب اختیار است.

به اختیارِ خود

— Voluntarily / Of one's own accord.

او به اختیار خود استعفا داد.

اختیارِ تام داشتن

— To have absolute or full authority.

نماینده اختیار تام دارد.

از اختیار خارج شدن

— To get out of control.

اوضاع از اختیار ما خارج شد.

اختیارِ زبان

— Control over one's speech.

اختیار زبانت را داشته باش.

자주 혼동되는 단어

اختیار vs انتخاب (Entekhāb)

Entekhāb is the act of choosing; Ekhtiyār is the power/right to choose.

اختیار vs قدرت (Ghodrat)

Ghodrat is raw power; Ekhtiyār is legitimate, often delegated authority.

اختیار vs اراده (Erāde)

Erāde is the 'will' or 'desire' to do something; Ekhtiyār is the 'agency' or 'freedom' to do it.

관용어 및 표현

"اختیار ما دست شماست"

— A very polite way of saying 'I am at your service' or 'I follow your lead.'

کجا برویم؟ ـ اختیار ما دست شماست.

Very Polite/Ta'arof
"دست و پا بسته و بی‌اختیار"

— To be completely helpless and without any choice.

من در برابر او دست و پا بسته و بی‌اختیارم.

Literary/Emotive
"اختیارِ کسی در دستِ دیگری بودن"

— To be controlled by someone else; to have no agency.

اختیار زندگی‌اش در دست پدرش است.

Neutral
"بی‌اختیار شدن"

— To lose one's composure or self-control (often due to emotion).

از دیدن او بی‌اختیار شدم و گریه کردم.

Emotional
"اختیارِ خود را به دست گرفتن"

— To take charge of one's own life or situation.

بالاخره اختیار خودش را به دست گرفت.

Neutral
"صاحب‌اختیارِ کل"

— The ultimate decision-maker; someone with absolute power.

او صاحب‌اختیار کلِ این شرکت است.

Formal
"به اختیار یا به اجبار"

— Whether you want to or not; by hook or by crook.

به اختیار یا به اجبار باید این کار را بکنی.

Neutral
"عنانِ اختیار از کف دادن"

— To lose the reins of control; to lose self-possession.

عنان اختیار از کف داد و فریاد زد.

Poetic/Formal
"در بندِ اختیار"

— To be limited by one's own choices or constraints.

او همیشه در بندِ اختیارِ خود است.

Philosophical
"اختیارِ مطلق"

— Absolute, unchecked power.

هیچ‌کس نباید اختیار مطلق داشته باشد.

Political

혼동하기 쉬운

اختیار vs اختیاری

Adjective form of Ekhtiyār.

Ekhtiyār is 'authority' (noun); Ekhtiyāri is 'optional' (adjective).

این درس اختیاری است. (This course is optional.)

اختیار vs مختار

Related noun/adjective.

Mokhtār is the *person* who has the authority or choice.

شما مختارید که بروید. (You are free/empowered to go.)

اختیار vs اجبار

Opposite meaning.

Ejbār is being forced; Ekhtiyār is having the choice.

با اجبار آمد، نه با اختیار. (He came by force, not by choice.)

اختیار vs اکراه

Nuance of choice.

Ekrah is doing something with choice but against one's heart's desire.

با اکراه پذیرفت. (He accepted reluctantly.)

اختیار vs صلاحیت

Legal overlap.

Salāhiyat is fitness/competence; Ekhtiyār is the mandate to act.

او صلاحیت دارد ولی اختیار ندارد. (He is competent but lacks authority.)

문장 패턴

A1

اختیار با [شخص] است.

اختیار با شماست.

A2

من اختیار دارم [فعل التزامی].

من اختیار دارم بروم.

B1

[چیزی] در اختیارِ [شخص] قرار گرفت.

ماشین در اختیار او قرار گرفت.

B2

او اختیارِ تام برای [کار] دارد.

او اختیار تام برای خرید دارد.

C1

سلبِ اختیار از [شخص] در مورد [موضوع].

سلب اختیار از مدیر در مورد بودجه.

C1

تفویضِ اختیار به [شخص].

تفویض اختیار به معاون.

C2

تقابل میانِ جبر و اختیار.

تقابل میان جبر و اختیار در شعر حافظ.

C2

اختیارِ [اسم] کردن.

او سکوت اختیار کرد.

어휘 가족

명사

مختار (Mokhtār - empowered person)
خودمختاری (Khod-mokhtāri - autonomy)
بی‌اختیاری (Bi-ekhtiyāri - involuntariness)

동사

اختیار کردن (Ekhtiyār kardan - to choose/adopt)
اختیار داشتن (Ekhtiyār dāshtan - to have authority)

형용사

مختار (Mokhtār - authorized/free)
اختیاری (Ekhtiyāri - optional)
بی‌اختیار (Bi-ekhtiyār - involuntary/helpless)

관련

خیر (Kheyr - Good)
انتخاب (Entekhāb - Choice)
اراده (Erāde - Will)
سلطه (Solte - Dominance)
ولایت (Velāyat - Guardianship/Authority)

사용법

frequency

Very high in both spoken (social) and written (legal/news) Persian.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'Ekhtiyār' for 'picking' an object. Entekhāb kardan

    Ekhtiyār is about the power or right to choose, not the physical act of selecting an item.

  • Pronouncing it as 'Ektiyar'. Ekhtiyār (with guttural kh)

    The 'kh' sound is essential; without it, the word is unrecognizable to native ears.

  • Saying 'Man ekhtiyār dāram' to mean 'I am free' in a political sense. Man āzād hastam

    Ekhtiyār is agency/authority; Āzādi is general freedom from bondage.

  • Confusing 'Ekhtiyār' with 'Erāde'. Erāde (Will)

    Erāde is the internal desire/will; Ekhtiyār is the external/internal capacity to act on that will.

  • Using 'Ekhtiyārāt' for a single choice. Ekhtiyār

    Ekhtiyārāt is plural and usually refers to a set of formal powers or job duties.

Ta'arof Master

Use 'Ekhtiyār dārid' whenever someone apologizes for something small. It instantly builds rapport.

Noun to Verb

Remember to pair 'Ekhtiyār' with 'dāshtan' (to have) for authority and 'kardan' (to do/adopt) for choosing a path.

Power of Attorney

In legal contexts, 'Ekhtiyār-e tām' is the equivalent of 'Power of Attorney.' It's a very serious term.

The Big Debate

If you want to start a deep conversation, ask an Iranian about 'Jabr-o-Ekhtiyār' (Fate vs. Free Will).

The Guttural 'Kh'

Don't let the 'kh' sound like a 'k'. It's the sound of clearing your throat gently.

Job Boundaries

Use 'Hayte-ye ekhtiyārāt' to define what you can and cannot do at work. It sounds very professional.

Deference

Saying 'Ekhtiyār bā shomāst' is a great way to let a guest decide what to eat or where to go.

Losing Control

'Bi-ekhtiyār' is perfect for describing emotions that take over, like sudden tears or laughter.

Word Family

Learn 'Mokhtār' (authorized) and 'Ekhtiyāri' (optional) along with 'Ekhtiyār' to see the full picture.

Formal Choice

When writing a story, use 'U sokut ekhtiyār kard' (He adopted silence) for a more literary feel than just saying he was quiet.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'EX-TI-YAR'. 'EX' like an EXecutive (who has authority), 'TI' like a TIe-breaker (who makes the choice), and 'YAR' like a YARD (the space where you are free to play).

시각적 연상

Imagine a judge's gavel (authority) next to a fork in the road (choice).

Word Web

Authority Choice Free Will Option Discretion Voluntary Politeness Power

챌린지

Try to use 'Ekhtiyār dārid' at least three times today in different polite contexts (thank you, sorry, or after a compliment).

어원

Borrowed from Arabic (اختيار), derived from the root 'kh-y-r' (خ ي ر).

원래 의미: The act of choosing the best (kheyr) option between two or more possibilities.

Semitic root, adapted into the Indo-European Persian grammatical structure.

문화적 맥락

Be careful not to use 'Ekhtiyār' in a way that sounds like you are demanding power in a sensitive social situation; always wrap it in polite markers.

English speakers might find 'Ekhtiyār dārid' confusing because it translates literally to 'You have the authority,' which sounds strange as a response to 'Thank you.'

Rumi's Masnavi (Discussions on Free Will) Hafez's Divan (Fate vs. Human Will) The Iranian Constitution (Article 57 - Powers of the State)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Legal/Contracts

  • اختیار تام
  • فسخ معامله
  • وکیل پایه یک
  • حق اختیار

Social/Politeness

  • اختیار دارید
  • صاحب اختیارید
  • بنده بی‌اختیارم
  • امر بفرمایید

Work/Management

  • تفویض اختیار
  • حیطه وظایف
  • مدیر اجرایی
  • گزارش عملکرد

Philosophy/Religion

  • جبر و اختیار
  • اراده باری‌تعالی
  • مسئولیت اخلاقی
  • خلق افعال

Medical/Psychology

  • بی‌اختیاری ادرار
  • کنترل رفتار
  • واکنش ناخودآگاه
  • اراده آزاد

대화 시작하기

"آیا فکر می‌کنید انسان در زندگی‌اش اختیار کامل دارد؟"

"در شغل شما، چقدر اختیار عمل دارید؟"

"به نظر شما، اختیارِ تام دادن به فرزندان درست است؟"

"یک خاطره بگویید که در آن بی‌اختیار خندیدید."

"اگر اختیار داشتید به هر جای دنیا سفر کنید، کجا می‌رفتید؟"

일기 주제

امروز در چه مواردی از اختیار خود استفاده کردید؟

آیا تا به حال احساس کرده‌اید که اختیاری در زندگی ندارید؟ چرا؟

تفاوت بین 'داشتن اختیار' و 'داشتن مسئولیت' از نظر شما چیست؟

چگونه 'اختیار دارید' در روابط اجتماعی شما تاثیر می‌گذارد؟

درباره زمانی بنویسید که سلب اختیار از شما شد.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

It's a polite phrase used to say 'Not at all' or 'It's up to you.' It literally means 'You have the authority,' which is a way of showing respect and humility in Persian culture.

Not exactly. 'Āzādi' is the general word for freedom. 'Ekhtiyār' specifically refers to the freedom of the will or the authority to make decisions within a certain context.

Usually, you'd use 'Entekhāb' for the act of picking food. But you could say 'Ekhtiyār-e entekhāb-e ghazā bā shomāst' (The choice of picking the food is yours).

It means 'Full authority' or 'Plenipotentiary power.' It's often used in legal documents or when giving someone complete control over a project.

You can say: 'Be ekhtiyār-e khodam in kār rā kardam.' This emphasizes that you were not forced.

The root 'kh-y-r' is common, but the specific Persian usage of 'Ekhtiyār' as 'free will' is a concept heavily developed in Islamic philosophy and Persian literature.

In philosophy, the opposite is 'Jabr' (determinism). In daily life, the opposite is 'Ejbār' (compulsion/force).

Yes, 'Ekhtiyārāt' is very common and refers to the set of powers or duties associated with a specific role.

It's not 'rude,' but saying it makes you sound much more culturally fluent and polite in social situations.

It means 'involuntarily' or 'without control.' For example, 'Bi-ekhtiyār khandidam' (I laughed involuntarily).

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Translate to Persian: 'I have the authority to sign this contract.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a short dialogue using 'Ekhtiyār dārid' as a polite response.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to English: 'این موضوع خارج از حیطه اختیارات من است.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'بی‌اختیار' in a sentence about an emotion.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Persian: 'Everything is at your disposal.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'اختیار تام'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to English: 'انسان با اختیار خود مسیرش را انتخاب می‌کند.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain the difference between 'انتخاب' and 'اختیار' in Persian (one sentence).

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Optional courses'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Persian: 'He chose silence.' (Formal)

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about 'جبر و اختیار'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to English: 'سلب اختیار از مجرم'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Persian: 'Delegation of authority'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'صاحب اختیار' in a sentence.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to English: 'اختیارِ ما دست شماست.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about 'اختیارات رئیس‌جمهور'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Persian: 'I came by my own choice.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to English: 'بی‌اختیاری ادرار'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'اختیار کردن' as 'to choose a place'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Persian: 'You have no authority here.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Not at all' (politely) in Persian.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Everything is at your disposal.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I have the authority.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'It's up to you.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain 'Ekhtiyār-e tām' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I did it by my own choice.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'This is beyond my authority.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Optional course' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Don't say that' (politely after a compliment).

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Who is in charge here?' (using Ekhtiyār).

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I laughed involuntarily.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Full power of attorney.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Watch your tongue.' (polite-ish).

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The choice is yours, my friend.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Delegated authority.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I have no choice in this matter.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Human free will.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The scope of powers.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I adopted silence.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Not at all, you are welcome.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

If you hear 'اختیار دارید' after you say 'Sorry,' what does it mean?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

In a news report: 'اختیارات رئیس‌جمهور افزایش یافت.' What happened?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A friend says: 'اختیار با خودته.' What are they saying?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A doctor says: 'او کنترلِ بی‌اختیاری دارد.' What is the problem?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A boss says: 'من به تو اختیار تام می‌دهم.' What is he giving you?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Someone says: 'بی‌اختیار شدم و گریه کردم.' Why did they cry?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A lawyer says: 'این حقِ اختیارِ شماست.' What is he referring to?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

At a hotel: 'این اتاق در اختیار شماست.' What does it mean?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

In a debate: 'جبر و اختیار دو روی یک سکه هستند.' What are the two sides?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Someone says: 'اختیارِ ما دست شماست.' Are they being bossy or polite?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

You hear: 'دروس اختیاری را انتخاب کنید.' What should you do?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A manager says: 'این خارج از حیطه اختیارات من است.' Can he help you?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

A poem says: 'عنان اختیار از کف داد.' What happened to the person?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Someone says: 'او صاحب‌اختیار اینجاست.' Who is that person?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

You hear: 'تفویض اختیار صورت گرفت.' What happened in the office?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
error correction

من اختیار کردم که سیب بخورم. (Context: simple choice)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: من انتخاب کردم که سیب بخورم.
error correction

او اختیاری تام داد به من.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: او به من اختیار تام داد.
error correction

این درس اجباری است، نه اختیار.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: این درس اجباری است، نه اختیاری.
error correction

او بدون اختیار خنده کرد.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: او بی‌اختیار خندید.
error correction

اختیار دارید، شما اشتباه می‌کنید. (Rude usage)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: اشتباه می‌کنید. (Don't use 'Ekhtiyār dārid' to precede a direct correction).
error correction

سلب اختیارات از او شد.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: از او سلب اختیار شد.
error correction

من اختیار دارم بروم؟ (Grammar check)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: آیا من اختیار دارم که بروم؟
error correction

او سکوت اختیار داشت.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: او سکوت اختیار کرد.
error correction

همه چیز در اختیارت شماست.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: همه چیز در اختیار شماست.
error correction

او تام‌الاختیار نماینده است.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: او نماینده تام‌الاختیار است.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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