Meaning
A latent problem, conflict, or talent that is currently concealed but could emerge.
Cultural Background
In Iran, this is often used in political discourse to describe the state of society after a period of unrest. The idiom is widely understood across the region due to shared cultural history and the common use of wood-burning stoves. Persian poets often use this to describe the 'hidden' nature of love or grief. Used by managers to describe employees who are unhappy but not complaining openly.
Context is key
Always check if the situation is actually 'hidden'. If it's open, don't use this idiom.
Use with caution
Calling someone an 'آتش زیر خاکستر' can be a compliment or a warning depending on your tone.
Meaning
A latent problem, conflict, or talent that is currently concealed but could emerge.
Context is key
Always check if the situation is actually 'hidden'. If it's open, don't use this idiom.
Use with caution
Calling someone an 'آتش زیر خاکستر' can be a compliment or a warning depending on your tone.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct idiom.
اختلاف آنها تمام نشده، بلکه مثل __________ است.
The idiom describes a hidden conflict.
Which situation is best described by 'آتش زیر خاکستر'?
Which scenario fits the idiom?
The idiom refers to latent, hidden energy.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Why are you worried about the peace treaty? B: Because it's just __________.
It implies the peace is fragile and hides conflict.
Match the idiom to its meaning.
Match 'آتش زیر خاکستر' to its definition.
The idiom is about hidden states.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesاختلاف آنها تمام نشده، بلکه مثل __________ است.
The idiom describes a hidden conflict.
Which scenario fits the idiom?
The idiom refers to latent, hidden energy.
A: Why are you worried about the peace treaty? B: Because it's just __________.
It implies the peace is fragile and hides conflict.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The idiom is about hidden states.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it is strictly metaphorical.
It is neutral and works in most settings.
No, it is used as a singular concept.
Only for hidden talent, not for general good news.
Yes, it is a very standard idiom.
It sounds like you are talking about a literal fire inside ash.
Yes, often in political thrillers.
Yes, to describe someone with hidden potential.
Ah-tesh-e zeere khak-estar.
It's similar to 'still waters run deep'.
Related Phrases
آرامش قبل از طوفان
similarThe quiet before a disaster.
زیرپوستی
similarSomething happening under the surface.
آب زیر کاه
contrastA deceptive person.
شعلهور شدن
builds onTo ignite.
