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آفتاب

A1 noun #2,000 most common 9 min read

آفتاب

Q: How do I say 'sunburn' in Persian?

The word for sunburn is 'aaftaab-sookhtegi' (آفتابسوختگی). It is a compound word made of 'aaftaab' (sun) and 'sookhtegi' (burn/burning). If you want to say 'I got sunburned', you say 'man aaftaab-sookhteh shodam'. It is a very useful word for summer holidays!

aftab Top 2,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips آفتاب in 30 Seconds

Explanation آفتاب in your Level:

At the A1 level, your primary goal is to learn how to use the word آفتاب to describe basic weather conditions and simple daily observations. When you look out the window and see a bright, clear sky, you need to know how to express that in Persian. The most common and essential phrase you will learn is 'havaa aaftaabi ast' (هوا آفتابی است), which translates directly to 'the weather is sunny'. This is a fundamental building block for making small talk and understanding basic descriptions of the environment. You will also learn to recognize the noun form in simple sentences like 'emrooz aaftaab ast' (امروز آفتاب است - today is sunny/there is sun today). At this stage, do not worry about the complex poetic or idiomatic uses of the word. Focus entirely on its practical, everyday application. You might also learn simple related vocabulary, such as 'garm' (warm) and 'rooz' (day), because these words frequently appear together. For example, 'rooz-e aaftaabi' (a sunny day) is a very common phrase. Practice pointing to the sunlight and saying the word. Listen for it in beginner audio dialogues where characters discuss what to wear or whether to go outside. Remember that in Persian, the adjective form 'aaftaabi' is created simply by adding an 'i' to the end of the noun. This is a very regular and predictable pattern in the language. By mastering this single word and its adjectival form, you will significantly improve your ability to engage in basic, everyday conversations about the world around you. It is a highly frequent word, so you will encounter it often in your early reading and listening exercises. Make sure you can pronounce it clearly, with the stress on the second syllable: aaf-TAAB. This will ensure native speakers understand you perfectly when you comment on the beautiful weather.

Moving into the A2 level, your understanding and usage of آفتاب will expand beyond simple weather descriptions to include daily routines, locations, and basic actions. You will start using prepositions with this word to describe where things are happening. The most important phrase to learn here is 'zir-e aaftaab' (زیر آفتاب), which means 'under the sun' or 'in the sunlight'. You will use this to say things like 'I am sitting in the sun' (man zir-e aaftaab neshastam) or 'Do not leave the milk in the sun' (shir raa zir-e aaftaab nazaar). You will also begin to encounter compound verbs. A very common and useful one is 'aaftaab gereftan' (آفتاب گرفتن), which literally means 'to catch the sun' but is the standard Persian phrase for 'sunbathing'. This allows you to talk about holiday activities and leisure time. Furthermore, you will learn to describe the times of day associated with the sun: 'toloo-e aaftaab' (sunrise) and 'ghoroob-e aaftaab' (sunset). These are crucial for making plans, understanding schedules, and talking about your daily routine. For example, 'I wake up before sunrise' (man ghabl az toloo-e aaftaab bidaar mishavam). At this level, you are building the capacity to tell simple stories and describe past events. You might say, 'Yesterday was a sunny day, so we went to the park' (dirooz rooz-e aaftaabi bood, pas maa be paark raftim). Notice how the word integrates into longer, more complex sentences. You should also start noticing the difference between aaftaab (sunlight) and khorshid (the sun as a star), ensuring you use the correct term in the correct context. Practice these new phrases by writing short diary entries about your day and the weather, incorporating these new prepositional phrases and compound verbs.

At the B1 intermediate level, your use of آفتاب becomes more nuanced and expressive. You are no longer just stating facts about the weather; you are describing the quality of the sunlight, its effects, and using it in more complex grammatical structures. You will learn adjectives to describe the sun, such as 'aaftaab-e tond' (harsh/strong sun) or 'aaftaab-e malaayem' (mild/gentle sun). This allows for much richer descriptions in your speaking and writing. You will also start using it in conditional sentences and expressing opinions. For instance, 'If the sun shines tomorrow, we will go to the mountains' (agar fardaa aaftaab bezanad, maa be kooh miravim). Notice the use of the verb 'zadan' (to hit/strike) with aaftaab, which is a very natural, native-sounding collocation meaning 'to shine'. At this stage, you will also encounter the word in more authentic materials, such as news reports, travel blogs, and simple literature. You might read about 'aaftaab-sookhtegi' (sunburn) in a health article or 'eynak-e aaftaabi' (sunglasses) in a fashion blog. Your vocabulary around the concept is expanding rapidly. You should also be comfortable using it metaphorically in common, everyday expressions. For example, describing someone's face as bright or sunny. Furthermore, you will practice listening to faster, more natural speech where the word might be blended or spoken quickly. Pay attention to how native speakers use it to express relief (e.g., after a long winter) or annoyance (e.g., in the peak of summer heat). Your goal at B1 is to sound less like a textbook and more like a natural speaker, which means mastering these collocations, compound words, and slight metaphorical extensions of the basic noun.

Reaching the B2 level means you are achieving a high degree of fluency and can handle complex, abstract, and idiomatic uses of آفتاب. At this stage, you will dive into the rich world of Persian idioms and proverbs. A classic example is 'aaftaab lab-e boom' (آفتاب لب بوم), which literally translates to 'the sun on the edge of the roof'. This is a poignant idiom used to describe someone who is very old and nearing the end of their life, much like the sun is about to set. Understanding and using such idioms demonstrates a deep cultural and linguistic competence. You will also encounter the word in more sophisticated literature, poetry, and journalistic texts. You will read descriptions of landscapes where the sunlight plays a symbolic role, representing hope, truth, or revelation. In discussions and debates, you might use phrases like 'mesl-e rooz roshan ast' (it is as clear as day/sunlight) to assert a point. Your ability to comprehend context is crucial here. You will easily distinguish between literal and figurative uses. Furthermore, you will be comfortable discussing topics like solar energy (enerzhi-ye khorshidi/aaftaabi) and environmental issues, using the appropriate terminology. You will notice that while 'khorshidi' is often used for technical terms (like solar panels), 'aaftaab' still dominates the experiential descriptions. Your writing at this level should incorporate varied vocabulary, avoiding repetition. Instead of just saying 'it was sunny', you might write 'the golden rays of the sun illuminated the valley' (partow-haaye talaayi-ye aaftaab darreh raa roshan kard). This level is about refining your expression, understanding cultural nuances, and engaging with the language on a deeper, more artistic level.

At the C1 advanced level, your mastery of آفتاب involves a deep appreciation of its literary, historical, and philosophical significance in the Persian language. You are now engaging with classical Persian poetry—the works of Hafez, Rumi, Saadi, and Ferdowsi—where the sun is a central, recurring motif. In mystical (Sufi) poetry, the sun often represents the Divine, the ultimate truth, or the spiritual guide (Murshid). You will analyze texts where the warmth of the sun is a metaphor for divine love, and its light represents spiritual awakening. You will understand complex poetic structures and archaic vocabulary that surround this concept. For example, you will encounter synonyms like 'shams' and 'mehr' and understand their specific connotations. You will be able to discuss the historical roots of sun symbolism in Iran, tracing it back to Zoroastrianism and Mithraism, where light and fire were sacred. In contemporary, high-level discourse, you will use the word effortlessly in abstract arguments. You might read academic papers or listen to philosophical lectures where the concept of illumination (Eshragh) is discussed. Your spoken Persian will be highly idiomatic and culturally resonant. You will know exactly when to use a specific proverb or poetic line to emphasize a point in a sophisticated conversation. You are not just using the word to communicate; you are using it to connect with the soul of the Persian culture. Your writing will be elegant and nuanced, capable of evoking specific moods and atmospheres through the precise description of light and shadow. At C1, the word is a key that unlocks centuries of profound Iranian thought and artistic expression.

At the C2 mastery level, your understanding and application of آفتاب are virtually indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess a comprehensive command of all its semantic layers, from the most colloquial slang to the most esoteric mystical terminology. You can effortlessly navigate academic texts on Iranian history, analyzing the evolution of solar deities (like Mithra) and their linguistic legacy in modern Persian. You can critique classical poetry, discussing the subtle differences in how various poets employ the metaphor of the sun. You are capable of writing sophisticated essays, articles, or even poetry yourself, using the word and its related concepts with absolute precision and creativity. You understand the regional variations and dialectical differences in how the word might be pronounced or used across the Persian-speaking world (Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan). In spontaneous, high-level debates, you can invent your own metaphors based on the concept of sunlight, demonstrating a complete internalization of the language's generative capacity. You can easily translate complex literary texts involving sun imagery between Persian and your native language, capturing not just the literal meaning but the exact emotional and cultural resonance. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 'aaftaab' is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a profound cultural symbol that you manipulate with the skill of an artist and the understanding of a scholar. You recognize its presence in the very DNA of the Persian language, reflecting a civilization that has revered light and warmth for millennia.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

آفتاب in 30 Seconds

Means 'sun' or 'sunshine' in Persian.
Used daily to describe sunny weather.
Different from 'khorshid' (the star itself).
A powerful symbol in Persian poetry.

The Persian word for sun or sunshine is آفتاب (aftab). Understanding this word is fundamental for anyone learning the Persian language, as it appears in daily conversations, weather forecasts, literature, and cultural expressions. The word itself is a beautiful compound, historically rooted in ancient Iranian languages, carrying the profound significance of light, warmth, and life. When you hear native speakers talking about the weather, this word is absolutely ubiquitous. It is important to distinguish between the astronomical body of the sun, which is often called خورشید (khorshid), and the light or rays of the sun, which is more commonly referred to as آفتاب. For instance, when you want to say 'the sun is shining' or 'it is sunny', you use this word.

Literal Meaning: The literal translation is sunshine or sunlight, referring specifically to the rays and the warmth that reach the earth.

امروز آفتاب بسیار گرم است.

In everyday context, you will frequently encounter this noun when discussing the climate. Iran is a country with vast deserts and a generally arid climate, meaning that sunshine is a dominant feature of the environment. Consequently, the vocabulary surrounding solar phenomena is rich and nuanced.

Cultural Significance: In Persian culture, sunlight represents truth, purity, and divine illumination, deeply rooted in Zoroastrian traditions.

لباس‌ها را در آفتاب پهن کردم.

Furthermore, the concept extends beyond mere weather. It permeates the psychological and emotional landscape of the language. A sunny disposition, a bright future, and clarity of thought are all metaphorically linked to this concept.

Everyday Usage: Used primarily as a noun, it can also form compound adjectives like aftabi (sunny) which is essential for A1 learners.

هوا آفتاب است.

The sheer frequency of this word in Persian cannot be overstated. From the moment you wake up and open the curtains, the presence of the sun dictates the rhythm of the day.

بیا تو آفتاب بشینیم.

In classical poetry, poets like Hafez and Rumi use it to symbolize the ultimate reality or the presence of the beloved. The warmth of the sun is compared to the warmth of love. Therefore, mastering this word opens up a gateway to understanding both the mundane daily life of Iranians and the lofty heights of their literary heritage.

گل آفتابگردان به سمت آفتاب می‌چرخد.

In summary, this is not just a vocabulary item; it is a cultural cornerstone. By learning how to use it correctly, you are taking a significant step towards fluency in Persian. The distinction between the physical star and the experiential sunlight is a beautiful nuance that enriches your expressive capabilities in the language. Practice using it in simple sentences first, and gradually explore its idiomatic and poetic dimensions as you progress through your language learning journey.

Using the word آفتاب correctly involves understanding its grammatical function and the specific verbs it pairs with in Persian. As a noun, it typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence. For beginners, the most common usage is in describing the weather. The phrase 'havaa aaftaabi ast' (the weather is sunny) uses the adjectival form, but the noun itself is equally prevalent.

Collocation with Verbs: It frequently pairs with verbs like zadan (to strike/shine), oftadan (to fall), and tulu kardan (to rise).

صبح زود آفتاب زد.

Another very common structure is 'zir-e aftab' which translates to 'under the sun'. This is used when talking about sitting outside, drying clothes, or working in the heat.

Prepositional Phrases: The preposition 'zir-e' (under) is the standard way to express being in the sunlight.

زیاد زیر آفتاب نمان.

You will also hear the phrase 'aftab gereftan' which literally means 'to catch the sun', but idiomatically translates to sunbathing. This is a perfect example of how a simple noun combines with a light verb to create a new, specific meaning.

Compound Verbs: Aftab gereftan is the standard term for sunbathing or tanning.

او در ساحل آفتاب می‌گیرد.

Furthermore, the word is used to indicate the time of day. 'Ghoroob-e aftab' means sunset, and 'toloo-e aftab' means sunrise. These phrases are essential for making plans, understanding schedules, and reading literature.

قبل از غروب آفتاب برمی‌گردیم.

When writing or speaking, pay attention to the context. If you are discussing astronomy, you might want to switch to 'khorshid'. But for everyday experiences—feeling the warmth, seeing the light, complaining about the heat—'aftab' is your go-to word. It is a versatile, dynamic noun that seamlessly integrates into various grammatical structures, making it an indispensable part of your Persian vocabulary arsenal.

نور آفتاب چشمم را اذیت می‌کند.

By mastering these collocations and phrases, you will sound much more natural and fluent when discussing the weather, outdoor activities, and the passage of time in Persian.

The word آفتاب is ubiquitous in Persian-speaking environments, echoing through various facets of daily life, media, and art. You will first and foremost hear it in daily casual conversations. Whenever Iranians discuss the weather, plan a picnic, or complain about the summer heat, this word takes center stage. In a country where outdoor gatherings, especially in parks and gardens, are a significant part of the culture, checking if there is sunshine is a prerequisite for any social plan.

Weather Forecasts: Meteorologists on TV and radio use it constantly to describe clear, sunny days.

فردا هوا کاملاً آفتاب خواهد بود.

Beyond the literal weather, you will hear it in traditional proverbs and idioms. Persian is a highly idiomatic language, and natural elements are frequently used to convey complex human situations. For example, the phrase 'aftab lab-e boom' (the sun on the edge of the roof) is a poetic and common way to describe someone who is very old and near the end of their life, just as the sun is about to set.

Idiomatic Expressions: It is deeply embedded in expressions relating to time, aging, and obvious truths.

پدربزرگم دیگر آفتاب لب بام است.

You will also encounter this word extensively in Persian music and poetry. From classical maestros like Shajarian to modern pop singers, the sun is a universal motif for hope, love, and spiritual awakening. When a singer wants to express that someone brings light into their life, they will often compare them to the sunshine.

Music and Poetry: A powerful symbol of love, warmth, and divine presence in lyrical contexts.

تو مثل آفتاب به زندگی‌ام تابیدی.

Furthermore, in architectural and historical contexts, you will hear terms like 'aftab-gir' (sun-catching), referring to rooms or buildings designed to maximize natural light. This reflects the practical importance of sunlight in traditional Iranian architecture, where managing heat and light was crucial for comfort.

این اتاق خیلی آفتاب گیر است.

In short, whether you are watching a movie, listening to a song, reading a poem, or just chatting with a friend over tea, this word is bound to come up. Its widespread use across different registers—from the most mundane weather chat to the most elevated mystical poetry—makes it a truly essential word to recognize and understand in all its various contexts.

بوی آفتاب روی لباس‌های شسته شده حس می‌شود.

When learning the word آفتاب, learners often make a few predictable mistakes, primarily stemming from direct translation from their native languages or confusion with similar Persian words. The most prominent error is confusing it with خورشید (khorshid). While both translate to 'sun' in English, their usage in Persian is distinct. Khorshid refers to the celestial body, the star at the center of our solar system. Aftab, on the other hand, refers to the light, warmth, and rays emitted by that star.

Aftab vs. Khorshid: Use khorshid for astronomy and the physical star; use aftab for the weather and sunlight.

اشتباه: من در خورشید نشستم. درست: من در آفتاب نشستم.

Another common mistake involves prepositions. In English, we say 'in the sun'. Direct translation might lead a learner to say 'dar aftab', which is sometimes understood but less natural than 'zir-e aftab' (under the sun) when referring to being outside in the sunlight.

Preposition Errors: Prefer 'zir-e' (under) rather than 'dar' (in) when talking about physical placement in sunlight.

ماشین را زیر آفتاب پارک نکن.

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the compound verbs. For example, to say 'the sun is shining', a beginner might try to find a direct equivalent for 'shining' and construct an awkward sentence. In Persian, it is much more natural to say 'aftab ast' (it is sunny) or 'aftab mizand' (the sun is hitting/shining).

Verb Choices: Avoid overcomplicating verbs. Use simple collocations like zadan or oftadan.

امروز آفتاب خوبی می‌تابد.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'aftab-gardaan' (sunflower). Sometimes learners try to separate the words or use them incorrectly. It is a single, unified concept. Also, when talking about a sunburn, the term is 'aftab-sookhtegi'. Do not try to translate 'sun' and 'burn' separately and mash them together improperly. Understanding these nuances will significantly improve your naturalness and accuracy when speaking Persian.

کرم ضد آفتاب بزن تا نسوزی.

Always remember that language is about context, and in the context of daily life, this word is your primary tool for all things related to daylight and solar warmth.

گربه زیر آفتاب خوابیده است.

In Persian, the semantic field surrounding light, day, and the sun is rich and varied. To fully grasp the nuance of آفتاب, it is helpful to compare it with similar words. As discussed, the most direct comparison is with خورشید (khorshid). While khorshid is the astronomical entity, aftab is the experiential phenomenon of its light and heat.

Khorshid vs. Aftab: Khorshid is the star; Aftab is the sunshine.

نور آفتاب از خورشید می‌آید.

Another related word is روز (rooz), which means day. While not a direct synonym, the presence of aftab defines the rooz. You might say 'rooz-e aftabi' to mean a sunny day.

Rooz (Day): The concept of day is intrinsically linked to the presence of sunshine in Persian thought.

امروز یک روز آفتابی زیباست.

The word نور (noor) means light. Aftab is a specific type of noor. You can say 'noor-e aftab' to specifically mean sunlight, distinguishing it from 'noor-e maah' (moonlight) or 'noor-e cheraagh' (lamplight).

Noor (Light): A broader term for light, of which sunshine is the most prominent natural example.

اتاق پر از نور آفتاب است.

Additionally, there are poetic synonyms like مهر (mehr) or شمس (shams). Shams is of Arabic origin and is used in formal or poetic contexts (like Shams Tabrizi, the spiritual instructor of Rumi). Mehr is an ancient Persian word that means both sun and love/affection, highlighting the deep cultural connection between warmth, light, and positive emotion. While you won't use shams or mehr to talk about the weather, recognizing them will greatly enhance your understanding of Persian literature and names.

در پاییز آفتاب ملایم‌تر است.

By understanding this web of related vocabulary, you can choose the precise word for your intended meaning, whether you are chatting about a picnic, reading a classical poem, or discussing the solar system.

گیاهان به آفتاب نیاز دارند.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Ezafe construction (e.g., noor-e aaftaab)

Noun to Adjective derivation with suffix '-i'

Compound verbs with 'gereftan' and 'zadan'

Prepositions of place (zir-e, dar)

Conditional sentences (agar aaftaab baashad...)

Examples by Level

امروز آفتاب است.

Today is sunny.

Simple noun usage with the verb 'to be' (ast).

هوا آفتابی است.

The weather is sunny.

Using the adjectival form 'aaftaabi'.

من آفتاب را دوست دارم.

I like the sun.

Noun as a direct object with 'raa'.

آفتاب گرم است.

The sun is warm.

Subject of a simple descriptive sentence.

یک روز آفتابی.

A sunny day.

Noun-adjective combination using Ezafe.

آفتاب زرد است.

The sun is yellow.

Basic color description.

ما در آفتاب هستیم.

We are in the sun.

Using preposition 'dar' (in).

آفتاب زیباست.

The sun is beautiful.

Contraction of 'zibaa ast' to 'zibaast'.

من زیر آفتاب نشستم.

I sat under the sun.

Using the preposition 'zir-e' (under).

او در ساحل آفتاب می‌گیرد.

He/She is sunbathing on the beach.

Compound verb 'aaftaab gereftan' (to sunbathe).

قبل از طلوع آفتاب بیدار شدم.

I woke up before sunrise.

Vocabulary for time of day: 'toloo-e aaftaab'.

غروب آفتاب خیلی قشنگ بود.

The sunset was very beautiful.

Vocabulary for time of day: 'ghoroob-e aaftaab'.

لباس‌ها را در آفتاب خشک کن.

Dry the clothes in the sun.

Imperative sentence structure.

امروز آفتاب تند است.

The sun is strong today.

Using adjectives to describe the intensity of the sun.

عینک آفتابی من کجاست؟

Where are my sunglasses?

Compound noun 'eynak-e aaftaabi'.

بیا تو آفتاب راه برویم.

Let's walk in the sun.

Suggestive structure with 'biyaa' (let's/come).

اگر فردا آفتاب بزند، به کوه می‌رویم.

If the sun shines tomorrow, we will go to the mountains.

First conditional sentence with 'agar' (if).

نور آفتاب چشمم را اذیت می‌کند.

The sunlight is bothering my eyes.

Using 'noor-e aaftaab' (sunlight) as the subject.

کرم ضد آفتاب زدی؟

Did you put on sunscreen?

Vocabulary: 'krem-e zedd-e aaftaab' (sunscreen).

گیاهان برای رشد به آفتاب نیاز دارند.

Plants need sun to grow.

Expressing necessity with 'niyaaz daashtan'.

بعد از چند روز باران، بالاخره آفتاب شد.

After a few days of rain, it finally became sunny.

Using 'baad az' (after) and expressing a change of state.

آفتاب پاییزی بسیار دلپذیر است.

The autumn sun is very pleasant.

Descriptive language with seasonal adjectives.

مراقب باش آفتاب‌سوخته نشوی.

Be careful not to get sunburned.

Negative subjunctive used for warnings.

اتاق من خیلی آفتاب‌گیر است.

My room gets a lot of sun (is very sunny).

Using the compound adjective 'aaftaab-gir'.

پیرمرد دیگر آفتاب لب بام است.

The old man is like the sun on the edge of the roof (near death).

Classic Persian idiom for old age.

حقیقت مثل روز روشن و مثل آفتاب آشکار است.

The truth is as clear as day and as obvious as the sun.

Using similes for emphasis.

انرژی خورشیدی می‌تواند جایگزین سوخت‌های فسیلی شود، وقتی آفتاب کافی باشد.

Solar energy can replace fossil fuels when there is enough sunshine.

Complex sentence discussing environmental topics.

در معماری سنتی ایران، جهت‌گیری ساختمان‌ها بر اساس تابش آفتاب بود.

In traditional Iranian architecture, the orientation of buildings was based on the radiation of the sun.

Academic/historical descriptive language.

آفتاب بی‌رحم کویر، مسافران را تشنه و خسته کرده بود.

The merciless sun of the desert had made the travelers thirsty and tired.

Advanced descriptive vocabulary ('bi-rahm' - merciless).

او با دیدن فرزندش، مثل آفتاب شکفت.

Upon seeing her child, she blossomed like the sun (beamed with joy).

Metaphorical use of the sun to describe emotion.

سایه‌ها با پایین رفتن آفتاب بلندتر می‌شدند.

The shadows were getting longer as the sun went down.

Describing simultaneous actions/changes.

پنجره‌ها را باز کن تا آفتاب به داخل خانه بتابد.

Open the windows so the sun can shine into the house.

Using 'taa' (so that) with the subjunctive mood.

در شعر مولانا، شمس و آفتاب نمادهای تجلی الهی هستند.

In Rumi's poetry, the sun and sunshine are symbols of divine manifestation.

Literary analysis vocabulary.

آفتاب حقیقت سرانجام از پشت ابرهای فریب بیرون خواهد آمد.

The sun of truth will eventually emerge from behind the clouds of deception.

Extended metaphorical phrasing.

فرهنگ مهرپرستی در ایران باستان، تقدس آفتاب را به وضوح نشان می‌دهد.

The culture of Mithraism in ancient Iran clearly shows the sanctity of the sun.

Historical and cultural academic discourse.

نگاه گرم او همچون آفتاب تموز، یخ‌های قلبم را آب کرد.

Her warm gaze, like the mid-summer sun, melted the ice of my heart.

Poetic simile using specific cultural references (Tammuz).

آفتاب‌پرستی نه به معنای پرستش فیزیکی، بلکه نمادی از نورگرایی است.

Sun-worship is not meant as physical worship, but as a symbol of seeking light.

Philosophical and theological distinction.

در غیاب آفتابِ خرد، سایه‌های جهل بلندتر به نظر می‌رسند.

In the absence of the sun of wisdom, the shadows of ignorance appear longer.

Abstract philosophical statement.

شاعر با تشبیهی بی‌بدیل، زلف یار را به شب و رخسارش را به آفتاب ماننده کرده است.

The poet, with an unparalleled simile, has likened the beloved's hair to the night and her face to the sun.

Analyzing classical literary devices.

سیاستمدار سعی کرد روی اشتباهاتش سرپوش بگذارد، اما آفتاب آمد دلیل آفتاب.

The politician tried to cover up his mistakes, but 'the sun came as proof of the sun' (the truth became self-evident).

Using a famous classical proverb in a modern context.

تجلی آفتاب در اندیشه اشراقی سهروردی، مبنای هستی‌شناسی نور است.

The manifestation of the sun in Suhrawardi's Illuminationist thought is the basis of the ontology of light.

Highly specialized philosophical terminology.

استعاره‌ی آفتاب در متون عرفانی، دلالت بر فنای فی‌الله و بقای بالله دارد.

The metaphor of the sun in mystical texts signifies annihilation in God and subsistence in God.

Advanced Sufi terminology (Fana and Baqa).

بررسی تطبیقی اسطوره آفتاب در تمدن‌های بین‌النهرین و فلات ایران، نیازمند رویکردی میان‌رشته‌ای است.

A comparative study of the sun myth in Mesopotamian civilizations and the Iranian plateau requires an interdisciplinary approach.

Academic research methodology language.

ضرب‌المثل «آفتاب آمد دلیل آفتاب» ناظر بر بداهت و بی‌نیازی حقیقت از برهان خارجی است.

The proverb 'the sun came as proof of the sun' observes the self-evidence and independence of truth from external proof.

Epistemological analysis of a proverb.

در معماری کویری، هنر مهار آفتاب سوزان و هدایت نور به اندرونی، شاهکار مهندسی سنتی است.

In desert architecture, the art of harnessing the scorching sun and directing light into the interior is a masterpiece of traditional engineering.

Specialized architectural and engineering vocabulary.

دگردیسی معنایی واژه آفتاب از یک پدیده هواشناختی به یک کلان‌استعاره‌ی سیاسی، در ادبیات مشروطه مشهود است.

The semantic metamorphosis of the word 'sun' from a meteorological phenomenon to a political macro-metaphor is evident in Constitutional literature.

Literary and historical criticism.

تشعشعات آفتاب نه تنها منبع انرژی فیزیکی، بلکه در ناخودآگاه جمعی ایرانیان، سرچشمه‌ی زایش و رویش است.

The radiations of the sun are not only a source of physical energy, but in the collective unconscious of Iranians, the source of birth and growth.

Psychoanalytical and sociological vocabulary.

تقابل نور و ظلمت که با طلوع و غروب آفتاب نمادین می‌شود، بن‌مایه‌ی اصلی ثنویت زرتشتی است.

The opposition of light and darkness, symbolized by the sunrise and sunset, is the main motif of Zoroastrian dualism.

Theological and historical analysis.

Common Collocations

آفتاب زدن

آفتاب گرفتن

طلوع آفتاب

غروب آفتاب

زیر آفتاب

نور آفتاب

عینک آفتابی

کرم ضد آفتاب

آفتاب سوختگی

هوای آفتابی

Common Phrases

هوا آفتابی است

آفتاب می‌تابد

تو آفتاب نشین

آفتاب طلوع کرد

آفتاب غروب کرد

روز آفتابی

آفتاب گرم

آفتاب تند

آفتاب ملایم

آفتاب پاییزی

Often Confused With

آفتاب vs خورشید (khorshid - the sun as a star)

آفتاب vs روز (rooz - day)

آفتاب vs نور (noor - light in general)

Idioms & Expressions

"آفتاب لب بوم"

"آفتاب آمد دلیل آفتاب"

"مثل آفتاب روشن است"

"آفتاب از کدام طرف درآمده؟"

"جای سوزن انداختن نیست از بس آفتاب است"

"آفتاب به گیاه دادن"

"زیر آفتاب سوزان"

"آفتاب مهتاب ندیده"

"آفتاب زردی"

"آفتاب رشک می‌برد"

Easily Confused

آفتاب vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

note

While 'khorshid' is the scientific term for the sun, 'aftab' is the everyday term for sunlight and sunny weather.

Common Mistakes

Using 'khorshid' instead of 'aaftaab' to describe sunny weather.
Saying 'dar aaftaab' (in the sun) instead of the more natural 'zir-e aaftaab' (under the sun).
Forgetting to add the '-i' suffix when using it as an adjective (e.g., saying 'havaa aaftaab ast' instead of 'havaa aaftaabi ast', though the former is sometimes used, the latter is standard).
Translating 'sunburn' literally word-for-word instead of using the compound 'aaftaab-sookhtegi'.
Mispronouncing the first letter as a short 'a' instead of the long 'aa' (آ).

Tips

Adjective Formation

Remember that adding an 'i' to the end of the noun 'aaftaab' makes it the adjective 'aaftaabi' (sunny). This is a very common pattern in Persian. Use it to describe days, weather, or places.

Aftab vs. Khorshid

Never use 'khorshid' to talk about the weather. If you say 'havaa khorshid ast', native speakers will be very confused. Always use 'aaftaab' or 'aaftaabi' for weather and sunlight.

Casual Pronunciation

In spoken, everyday Persian, 'aaftaabi ast' is often contracted to 'aaftaabie'. Using this contraction will make you sound much more natural and fluent when chatting with friends.

Under the Sun

When you want to say you are sitting 'in the sun', use the Persian preposition for 'under' (zir-e). The phrase 'zir-e aaftaab' is the most natural way to express this concept.

Sunbathing

The concept of sunbathing is expressed with the verb 'gereftan' (to take). So, 'aaftaab gereftan' literally means 'to take the sun'. Use this when talking about beach holidays.

The Setting Sun

Learn the idiom 'aaftaab lab-e boom' (sun on the edge of the roof). It is a beautiful, poetic way to describe old age and shows a deep understanding of Persian culture.

Sunglasses

The word for sunglasses is 'eynak-e aaftaabi'. Notice how it uses the Ezafe connector (-e) to link the noun (glasses) with the adjective (sunny).

Sunrise and Sunset

Memorize 'toloo-e aaftaab' (sunrise) and 'ghoroob-e aaftaab' (sunset). These are essential phrases for telling time, making plans, and understanding daily schedules in Iran.

Spelling

The word is spelled with the letter 'Alef baa kolaah' (آ) at the beginning, which gives it the long 'aa' sound. Do not confuse it with a regular Alef (ا).

Weather Reports

Watch Persian weather forecasts on YouTube or TV. You will hear the word 'aaftaabi' constantly. It is excellent listening practice for beginners.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a bright sun shining on the TAJ Mahal. Aaf-TAAB.

Word Origin

Middle Persian

Cultural Context

The Persian calendar is a solar calendar (Taqvim-e Shamsi), emphasizing the cultural and practical importance of the sun's cycles in Iranian life.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"امروز هوا خیلی آفتابی است، نه؟"

"دوست داری بریم زیر آفتاب بشینیم؟"

"کرم ضد آفتاب داری؟"

"آفتاب اینجا خیلی تند است."

"فردا آفتاب میشه یا بارون؟"

Journal Prompts

Describe a perfect sunny day in your city.

Write about a time you got a bad sunburn.

How does the sunshine affect your mood?

Describe the sunrise you saw this morning.

Write a short poem about the sun in Persian.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Khorshid refers to the physical star in the sky, the celestial body. Aftab refers to the light, warmth, and rays that come from that star. You use Khorshid in astronomy, but Aftab for weather. For example, you sit in the Aftab, not the Khorshid. Khorshid is the source; Aftab is what you feel.

The most common and natural way to say 'it is sunny' is 'havaa aaftaabi ast' (هوا آفتابی است). You can also simply say 'emrooz aaftaab ast' (امروز آفتاب است), which means 'today there is sun'. Both are perfectly acceptable for beginners. In casual spoken Persian, it sounds like 'havaa aaftaabie'.

The word Aftab itself is a noun. To make it an adjective, you must add the suffix '-i' to the end, making it 'Aftabi' (آفتابی). So, 'rooz-e aaftaabi' means 'sunny day'. This is a very standard rule in Persian grammar for creating adjectives from nouns.

When talking about the sun shining, Persians often use the verb 'zadan' (to hit/strike), so 'aaftaab zad' means the sun came out or started shining. For sunbathing, the verb is 'gereftan' (to take/catch), making 'aaftaab gereftan'. For the sun rising and setting, use 'toloo kardan' and 'ghoroob kardan'.

Aftab is a universally used word in Persian. It is neither strictly formal nor informal; it belongs to the core vocabulary of the language. You will hear it in the most casual street conversations and read it in the most elevated, formal classical poetry. It fits every register.

The word for sunburn is 'aaftaab-sookhtegi' (آفتاب‌سوختگی). It is a compound word made of 'aaftaab' (sun) and 'sookhtegi' (burn/burning). If you want to say 'I got sunburned', you say 'man aaftaab-sookhteh shodam'. It is a very useful word for summer holidays!

This is a famous Persian idiom that literally translates to 'the sun on the edge of the roof'. It is used metaphorically to describe someone who is very old and near the end of their life. Just as the sun is about to disappear behind the roof at sunset, the person's life is nearing its end.

It is pronounced with two syllables: aaf-TAAB. The first 'a' is like the 'a' in 'father' or 'car'. The second 'a' is also long, like the 'a' in 'father'. The stress is on the second syllable. Make sure to pronounce the 'b' clearly at the end.

The word for sunflower is 'aaftaab-gardaan' (آفتابگردان). It literally means 'sun-turner', which perfectly describes how the flower turns its head to follow the sun across the sky. It is a beautiful and logical compound word.

In ancient Iranian religions like Zoroastrianism and Mithraism, light and the sun were sacred symbols of God, truth, and purity. This deep cultural reverence carried over into Islamic-era Persian poetry, where the sun often represents divine love, spiritual enlightenment, and the ultimate truth.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a simple sentence in Persian saying 'Today is sunny.'

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

Use 'emrooz' (today), 'havaa' (weather), 'aaftaabi' (sunny), and 'ast' (is).