At the A1 level, you should learn 'ekhterā' kardan' as a basic action word for making something new. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that it means 'to invent.' Think of famous people like Edison and the light bulb. At this level, you can use it in simple sentences like 'I want to invent a toy.' The focus is on the 'kardan' part, which you already know means 'to do.' It is a long word, so practice saying it slowly: ek-te-rā-kar-dan. You will mostly use it in the past tense to talk about things that were made a long time ago. It is a useful word because it helps you talk about the world around you and the things people have made. Even at this early stage, knowing the difference between making a sandwich (dorost kardan) and inventing a machine (ekhterā' kardan) is a great way to start thinking like a native speaker. Try to use it when you see something very clever or new. It is a big word, but it is very common in school and books.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'ekhterā' kardan' to describe historical events and simple ideas. You should be comfortable conjugating the 'kardan' part in the simple past (kardam, kardi, kard...) and the present (mikonam, mikoni, mikon...). For example, you can say 'Who invented the wheel?' (Che kasi charkh rā ekhterā' kard?). You should also notice that we usually use the word 'rā' after the thing that was invented, like 'telfon rā' or 'māshin rā.' This is a good time to learn the word for 'inventor,' which is 'mokhtere'.' You can say 'Edison is a famous inventor.' At this level, you are building your ability to tell stories about history. You might also use it in the future tense to talk about what you might do one day. 'In the future, I will invent a flying car.' This helps you practice the 'khāham kard' structure. The word is formal, but very clear. You will see it in children's books and basic news articles. It's a great 'power verb' to add to your vocabulary.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'ekhterā' kardan' in more complex sentences with conjunctions like 'because' (chon) and 'but' (ammā). You should also start using the passive voice: 'ekhterā' shod' (was invented). This is very common when you don't know who invented something, or when the invention is more important than the person. For example: 'The printing press was invented in Germany.' (Dastgāh-e chāp dar Ālmān ekhterā' shod.) You can also use it with modal verbs like 'tavānestan' (can) and 'bāyad' (must). 'We must invent a solution for this problem.' At this level, you should also distinguish 'ekhterā' kardan' from 'sakhtan' (to build). If you build a house, it's 'sakhtan,' but if you create a new way to build houses, it's 'ekhterā' kardan.' This nuance shows you are moving beyond basic vocabulary. You might also encounter the noun 'ekhterā'āt' (inventions) in plural form. Practice using this word in discussions about technology and its impact on your life. It's a key word for intermediate conversation.
At the B2 level, which is the target level for this word, you should use 'ekhterā' kardan' with precision and variety. You should understand its place in a family of words, including 'ebdā' kardan' (to innovate/create) and 'no-āvari' (innovation). You should be able to discuss the 'registration of inventions' (sabt-e ekhterā') and the legal aspects of patents. At this level, you can use the verb in the present perfect continuous to talk about ongoing research: 'Scientists have been inventing new methods for years.' You should also be able to use it metaphorically, such as 'inventing a new language' or 'inventing a story,' though you should know when 'bāften' (to weave) is more appropriate for lies. Your sentences should be more sophisticated, using relative clauses: 'The person who invented this device was a genius.' You should also be comfortable with the formal register used in academic texts and news reports. This level requires you to not just know the word, but to know the cultural and scientific context in which it is used in Iran and the broader Persian-speaking world.
At the C1 level, you use 'ekhterā' kardan' to engage in deep academic or philosophical discussions. You can analyze the impact of 'ekhterā'āt' on society and the ethics of certain inventions. You should be able to use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as the past perfect subjunctive or conditional sentences: 'If the internet hadn't been invented, our lives would be very different.' You should also be familiar with related technical terms like 'haghighat-e ekhterā'' (the essence of invention) or 'ekhterā'āt-e dārā-ye gāvam' (patented inventions). At this level, your vocabulary should include synonyms like 'be vujud āvardan' (to bring into existence) and you should know when to use each for the best stylistic effect. You can read scientific papers in Persian and understand the nuances of how an invention is described compared to a discovery. You should also be able to discuss the history of Persian science, using this verb to describe the contributions of medieval scholars to modern technology. Your use of the word should be indistinguishable from a native speaker in a formal setting.
At the C2 level, 'ekhterā' kardan' is just one tool in a massive arsenal of expressive possibilities. You can use it with subtle irony, poetic license, or extreme technical precision. You might use it in a literary context to describe a character 'inventing' a new way of loving or a new way of seeing the world. You understand the deep etymological links between 'ekhterā'' and other Arabic-rooted words in Persian, and you can play with these connections in your writing. You can critique the concept of 'invention' itself, perhaps discussing whether anything is truly 'invented' or if everything is just a reconfiguration of existing ideas. In professional environments, you can lead discussions on patent law, intellectual property, and the history of global innovation, all in Persian. Your mastery includes knowing the rarest synonyms and the most obscure idioms related to creation and innovation. You can write essays on the 'philosophy of invention' and use this verb to anchor complex arguments about human progress and its costs.

اختراع‌کردن in 30 Seconds

  • A compound verb meaning 'to invent,' used primarily for scientific and technological creations that are original and previously non-existent.
  • Consists of 'ekhterā'' (invention) and 'kardan' (to do), requiring the 'kardan' part to be conjugated across different tenses and moods.
  • Distinguished from 'kashf kardan' (to discover), which refers to finding things that already exist but were unknown to humans.
  • Essential for discussing history, technology, and innovation in Persian, carrying a formal and prestigious tone in most contexts.

The Persian verb اختراع‌کردن (ekhterā' kardan) is a cornerstone of Persian vocabulary, particularly within the realms of science, technology, and human history. At its most fundamental level, it translates to 'to invent' or 'to create something that did not previously exist.' Unlike 'discovery' (کشف - kashf), which involves finding something already in existence but unknown, ekhterā' kardan implies a generative process of the human mind and hands. This word is a compound verb, consisting of the noun اختراع (invention/innovation) and the auxiliary verb کردن (to do/to make). In modern Persian, it is used to describe everything from the creation of the wheel to the development of complex artificial intelligence algorithms.

Etymological Roots
The term 'Ekhterā'' originates from the Arabic root خ-ر-ع (kh-r-'), which conceptually relates to splitting, cutting, or creating something anew. In the Persian context, it has been adopted to signify the act of bringing a new device, method, or process into being through original thought and experimentation.
Contextual Nuance
While often used in scientific contexts, ekhterā' kardan can also be used metaphorically or in everyday speech to describe someone 'inventing' a story or an excuse, though the word بافتن (to weave) is more common for negative connotations like lying. However, in a B2 level proficiency, you should primarily associate it with technical and historical achievements.

گراهام بل تلفن را در سال ۱۸۷۶ اختراع کرد.
Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876.

Understanding when to use this word requires a grasp of the 'newness' of the object. If a scientist finds a new planet, they kashf it. If a scientist builds a new type of telescope to see that planet, they ekhterā' it. This distinction is vital for clear communication in Persian. Furthermore, the word carries a sense of prestige. To be an 'inventor' (مخترع - mokhtere') is a position of high social and intellectual standing in Iranian culture, reflecting the long history of Persian contributions to mathematics, medicine, and astronomy.

آیا می‌توانی چیزی اختراع کنی که زندگی را آسان‌تر کند؟
Can you invent something that makes life easier?

Grammatical Structure
As a compound verb, the 'kardan' part carries all the conjugation. The 'ekhterā'' part remains static. For example: 'I invent' (ekhterā' mikonam), 'I will invent' (ekhterā' khāham kard), 'I have invented' (ekhterā' kardeh-am).

بسیاری از ابزارها برای حل مشکلات اختراع شده‌اند.
Many tools have been invented to solve problems.

In academic writing, you will frequently see this verb in the passive voice (اختراع شدن). This shifts the focus from the inventor to the invention itself, which is common in scientific journals and history books. For a B2 learner, mastering the transition between active and passive forms of this verb is a key milestone. It allows you to discuss the history of technology with the appropriate level of formality and precision.

Using اختراع‌کردن correctly involves understanding its transitive nature. In Persian, a transitive verb requires a direct object, often marked by the post-position را (rā) if the object is definite. When you say 'I invented the lamp,' you must say 'Man lamp ekhterā' kardam.' This structural requirement is essential for sentence clarity. Without the 'rā', the sentence might feel incomplete or informal unless the object is generic.

Tense and Aspect
Because inventions usually happen at a specific point in the past, the simple past (اختراع کرد) and the present perfect (اختراع کرده است) are the most frequent forms. However, when discussing future technology, the future tense or the present continuous can be used to describe the ongoing process of creation.

دانشمندان در حال اختراع‌کردن واکسن‌های جدید هستند.
Scientists are in the process of inventing new vaccines.

When constructing complex sentences, ekhterā' kardan often pairs with modal verbs like 'must' (bāyad) or 'can' (tavānestan). For instance, 'We must invent a new way to save water' becomes 'Mā bāyad rāhe jadidi barāye sarfe-juyi dar āb ekhterā' konim.' Notice how the auxiliary verb 'kardan' changes to its subjunctive stem 'kon-' after 'bāyad'. This level of conjugation is what identifies a B2 learner from a beginner.

او ادعا می‌کند که این دستگاه را خودش اختراع کرده است.
He claims that he has invented this device himself.

Negative Forms
To negate the verb, add the prefix 'na-' to the auxiliary. 'He did not invent' becomes 'Ekhterā' nakard.' This is straightforward but crucial for expressing historical disagreements or failed attempts at innovation.

هیچ‌کس نمی‌تواند به تنهایی چرخ را دوباره اختراع کند.
No one can reinvent the wheel alone.

Finally, consider the use of adverbs. Words like 'be-tāze-gi' (recently) or 'māherāne' (skillfully) often modify ekhterā' kardan to provide more detail about the act of creation. 'An innovative system was skillfully invented' translates to 'Systemi no-āvarāne be-māherāne ekhterā' shod.' By combining these elements, you can create rich, descriptive narratives about human progress.

In the modern Persian-speaking world, you will encounter اختراع‌کردن in several specific environments. The most common is the educational system. From elementary school textbooks to university lectures, students are taught about the 'mokhtere'ān' (inventors) who shaped the world. If you watch Persian-language documentaries on channels like BBC Persian or Manoto, or read science sections in newspapers like Ettela'at or Shargh, this word is ubiquitous.

News and Media
Tech news is a major source for this word. When a new startup in Tehran or a tech giant in Silicon Valley releases a new gadget, the headlines often use 'ekhterā' kardan' or the related noun 'ekhterā'' to describe the patenting process. 'Sabt-e ekhterā'' (registering an invention/patent) is a phrase you will hear in legal and business contexts.

در اخبار شنیدم که یک جوان ایرانی دستگاه جدیدی اختراع کرده است.
I heard in the news that a young Iranian has invented a new device.

Another place you'll hear it is in the context of history. Iranians are very proud of their scientific heritage. Discussions about Zakariya al-Razi (who discovered alcohol but is often discussed in the context of 'inventing' medical processes) or Al-Khwarizmi (algebra) frequently involve the verb ekhterā' kardan or its synonyms. In these settings, the word carries a tone of reverence and national pride.

بسیاری از مردم معتقدند که ایرانیان باستان خط را اختراع کردند.
Many people believe that ancient Persians invented writing.

Academic Environment
In Persian universities, especially in engineering and basic sciences, students are encouraged to 'ekhterā' kardan.' You will see posters for 'Jashnvareh-ye Ekhterā'āt' (Invention Festivals) where young innovators showcase their work. In this formal setting, the word is used with precision to denote original, patentable work.

استاد از ما خواست تا یک روش جدید برای تصفیه آب اختراع کنیم.
The professor asked us to invent a new method for water purification.

Lastly, in the world of literature and film, ekhterā' kardan appears in science fiction (a growing genre in Iran). Characters might invent time machines or new forms of energy. In these narratives, the word serves as a catalyst for the plot, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the story's world. Listening for this word in these varied contexts will help you understand its full semantic range.

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning Persian is the confusion between اختراع‌کردن (to invent) and کشف‌کردن (to discover). In English, these are sometimes used loosely, but in Persian, the distinction is strictly maintained. You cannot 'ekhterā'' a new species of animal or a new continent; those must be 'kashf' (discovered) because they already existed. Conversely, you cannot 'kashf' a computer; it had to be 'ekhterā'' (invented) because it was a new creation.

The 'Kardan' vs. 'Shodan' Trap
Another mistake is using the active voice when the passive is required. In English, we often say 'The wheel was invented in Mesopotamia.' A common learner mistake is to say 'Charkh dar Mesopotamia ekhterā' kard' (The wheel invented in Mesopotamia), which sounds like the wheel itself was doing the inventing. You must use 'ekhterā' shod' (was invented) to be grammatically correct.

❌ اشتباه: ادیسون برق را کشف کرد.
Edison discovered electricity. (While technically electricity is a phenomenon, in the context of the bulb, use 'ekhterā'.)

✅ درست: ادیسون لامپ را اختراع کرد.
Edison invented the light bulb.

Confusing ekhterā' kardan with ساختن (sakhtan - to build/make) is also common. While every invention is 'made,' not everything made is an invention. If you are following a recipe to make a cake, you are 'sakhtan' or 'dorost kardan' (making) the cake. You are only 'ekhterā' kardan' if you have created an entirely new type of pastry that has never been seen before. Using ekhterā' for mundane tasks makes you sound overly dramatic or confused.

او یک بهانه جدید اختراع کرد.
He invented a new excuse. (This is metaphorical, but 'sakht' is more natural for excuses.)

Spelling and Pronunciation
The 'kh' (خ) sound and the 'gh' (ق) or 'kh' (خ) sounds in related words can be tricky. Make sure to pronounce the 'kh' clearly as a voiceless velar fricative. Also, in writing, ensure the 'ayn (ع) at the end of 'ekhterā'' is present, even though it's often silent or just a slight glottal stop in spoken Tehrani Persian.

Lastly, remember that ekhterā' kardan is a formal word. In very casual slang, people might use other terms for 'coming up with' something, but for any serious discussion of creativity or technology, sticking to ekhterā' kardan ensures you are taken seriously and understood clearly by native speakers across all regions.

While اختراع‌کردن is the standard term for 'to invent,' Persian offers several synonyms and related terms that can add variety and precision to your speech. Depending on the register and the specific nature of the 'creation,' you might choose a different verb. At the B2 level, being able to distinguish between these alternatives is a sign of advanced vocabulary control.

ابداع‌کردن (ebdā' kardan)
This is a very close synonym, often used in more formal or artistic contexts. While ekhterā' feels mechanical or scientific, ebdā' often refers to the creation of a new style, a new artistic technique, or a novel idea. It carries a connotation of 'innovation' and 'originality' that is highly valued in literature and the arts.
نوآوری‌کردن (no-āvari kardan)
Translating literally to 'to bring newness,' this is the modern Persian word for 'to innovate.' It is used frequently in business and technology. While ekhterā' focuses on the object itself, no-āvari focuses on the process of improving things or introducing new ways of doing business.

این هنرمند سبک جدیدی در نقاشی ابداع کرده است.
This artist has innovated (created) a new style in painting.

Other related verbs include خلق‌کردن (khalgh kardan - to create), which has a more divine or grand connotation, often used for God creating the world or a genius creating a masterpiece. There is also طراحی‌کردن (tarāhi kardan - to design), which is used when the focus is on the planning and aesthetic aspect of the invention rather than the functional 'newness' of it.

او یک موتور جدید برای هواپیما طراحی کرد.
He designed a new engine for the airplane.

تأسیس‌کردن (ta'sis kardan)
Sometimes confused with invention, this means 'to found' or 'to establish' an institution. You ta'sis a university or a company, but you ekhterā' the product that the company sells. Keeping these distinct will make your Persian sound much more professional.

In summary, while ekhterā' kardan is your 'go-to' verb for inventions, don't be afraid to use ebdā' for creativity, no-āvari for innovation, and tarāhi for design. This variety will allow you to describe the full spectrum of human ingenuity with the nuance it deserves.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While the noun is Arabic, the verb structure (noun + kardan) is uniquely Persian. This 'light verb' construction is how Persian incorporates thousands of foreign nouns into its verbal system.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /exteɾɒː kæɾdæn/
US /exteɾɑː kərdæn/
The primary stress is on the last syllable of the noun 'ekhterā'' and the last syllable of the verb 'kardán'.
Rhymes With
بنا‌کردن (banā kardan) رها‌کردن (rahā kardan) امضا‌کردن (emzā kardan) پیدا‌کردن (peydā kardan) اجرا‌کردن (ejrā kardan) اهدا‌کردن (ehdā kardan) دعا‌کردن (do'ā kardan) شنا‌کردن (shenā kardan)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'kh' like 'k'. It should be a fricative.
  • Ignoring the silent 'ayn (ع) at the end of 'ekhterā''.
  • Putting stress on the first syllable.
  • Mixing up the 'ā' sound with a short 'a'.
  • Pronouncing 'kardan' as 'kordan'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is long but follows standard compound verb patterns.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct use of the 'ayn (ع) and nim-fāseleh.

Speaking 3/5

The 'kh' sound and long 'ā' require practice for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick out in a sentence.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

کردن (kardan) ساختن (sakhtan) جدید (jadid) دستگاه (dastgāh) علم (elm)

Learn Next

کشف‌کردن (kashf kardan) ابداع‌کردن (ebdā' kardan) تکنولوژی (teknoloji) نظریه (nazariyeh) تحقیق (tahghigh)

Advanced

مالکیت معنوی (Intellectual property) فرآیند صنعتی (Industrial process) تجاری‌سازی (Commercialization) بنیان‌گذار (Founder) خلاقیت (Creativity)

Grammar to Know

Compound Verb Conjugation

In 'ekhterā' kardan', only 'kardan' changes. (e.g., ekhterā' mikonam).

Direct Object Marker 'rā'

Use 'rā' for specific inventions: 'Telfon rā ekhterā' kard.'

Passive Voice with 'shodan'

Change 'kardan' to 'shodan' for passive: 'Ekhterā' shod.'

Subjunctive Mood

Use 'kon-' stem after 'bāyad': 'Bāyad ekhterā' konim.'

Past Participle

Used in present perfect: 'Ekhterā' kardeh ast.'

Examples by Level

1

او یک بازی اختراع کرد.

He invented a game.

Simple past tense: ekhterā' kard.

2

من می‌خواهم چیزی اختراع کنم.

I want to invent something.

Present subjunctive after 'mikhāham'.

3

چه کسی تلفن را اختراع کرد؟

Who invented the telephone?

Question form with 'che kasi'.

4

ادیسون لامپ را اختراع کرد.

Edison invented the light bulb.

Subject-Object-Verb order.

5

این یک اختراع جدید است.

This is a new invention.

Using the noun 'ekhterā''.

6

او ماشین را اختراع نکرد.

He did not invent the car.

Negative past: 'na' prefix.

7

ما چرخ را اختراع کردیم.

We invented the wheel.

Plural 'we' conjugation.

8

آیا تو این را اختراع کردی؟

Did you invent this?

Second person singular question.

1

او همیشه چیزهای جالب اختراع می‌کند.

He always invents interesting things.

Habitual present with 'mikonad'.

2

دانشمندان داروهای جدید اختراع می‌کنند.

Scientists invent new medicines.

Present tense plural.

3

برادرم یک ربات کوچک اختراع کرده است.

My brother has invented a small robot.

Present perfect tense.

4

آن‌ها می‌خواستند یک هواپیما اختراع کنند.

They wanted to invent an airplane.

Past desire + subjunctive.

5

این دستگاه در ایران اختراع شد.

This device was invented in Iran.

Passive voice: 'ekhterā' shod'.

6

او به عنوان یک مخترع شناخته می‌شود.

He is known as an inventor.

Using the noun 'mokhtere''.

7

شما چه چیزی اختراع خواهید کرد؟

What will you invent?

Future tense 'khāhid kard'.

8

او سعی کرد یک موتور جدید اختراع کند.

He tried to invent a new engine.

Verb 'sa'y kardan' + subjunctive.

1

اگر بتوانی، چه چیزی اختراع می‌کنی؟

If you could, what would you invent?

Conditional sentence.

2

بسیاری از ابزارها برای راحتی انسان اختراع شده‌اند.

Many tools have been invented for human comfort.

Passive present perfect.

3

او مدعی است که این روش را خودش اختراع کرده است.

He claims that he invented this method himself.

Reported speech structure.

4

قبل از اینکه او بیاید، من این را اختراع کرده بودم.

Before he came, I had invented this.

Past perfect tense.

5

اختراع‌کردن به خلاقیت زیادی نیاز دارد.

Inventing requires a lot of creativity.

Using the infinitive as a subject.

6

او برای اختراع‌کردن این دستگاه سال‌ها تلاش کرد.

He worked for years to invent this device.

Infinitive with 'barāye'.

7

چرا مردم چیزهایی را اختراع می‌کنند که خطرناک هستند؟

Why do people invent things that are dangerous?

Relative clause with 'ke'.

8

او توانست یک زبان مخفی اختراع کند.

He was able to invent a secret language.

Modal 'tavānestan' + past.

1

این تکنولوژی توسط یک تیم جوان اختراع شده است.

This technology was invented by a young team.

Passive with 'tavasot-e'.

2

او با اختراع‌کردن این سیستم، انقلابی در صنعت ایجاد کرد.

By inventing this system, he created a revolution in the industry.

Gerund-like use of infinitive.

3

ثبت اختراع در این کشور مراحل قانونی پیچیده‌ای دارد.

Registering an invention in this country has complex legal steps.

Compound noun 'sabt-e ekhterā''.

4

او نه تنها یک فیلسوف، بلکه کسی بود که ابزارهای علمی اختراع می‌کرد.

He was not only a philosopher but someone who invented scientific tools.

Correlative conjunction 'na tanhā... balke'.

5

باید راهی برای اختراع‌کردن سوخت‌های پاک پیدا کنیم.

We must find a way to invent clean fuels.

Noun phrase 'rāhi barāye...'.

6

او هیچ‌گاه فکر نمی‌کرد که اختراعش جهان را تغییر دهد.

He never thought that his invention would change the world.

Subjunctive in a 'thought' clause.

7

اختراع‌کردن بدون دانش پایه غیرممکن به نظر می‌رسد.

Inventing without basic knowledge seems impossible.

Infinitive subject with 'be nazar residan'.

8

آیا شما در حال اختراع‌کردن نسخه جدیدی از این نرم‌افزار هستید؟

Are you in the process of inventing a new version of this software?

Present continuous tense.

1

او با نبوغ خود توانست مفاهیم جدیدی را در فیزیک اختراع کند.

With his genius, he was able to invent new concepts in physics.

Abstract use of the verb.

2

تاریخ بشر با میل به اختراع‌کردن و کشف‌کردن گره خورده است.

Human history is tied to the desire to invent and discover.

Passive participle 'gereh khordeh'.

3

او از اینکه نتوانسته بود دستگاه را به موقع اختراع کند، ناامید شد.

He became disappointed that he hadn't been able to invent the device on time.

Past perfect subjunctive.

4

هر اختراعی که در تاریخ صورت گرفته، واکنشی به یک نیاز بوده است.

Every invention that has taken place in history has been a reaction to a need.

Relative clause with 'surat gerefteh'.

5

او به جای اختراع‌کردن چرخ، سعی کرد آن را بهبود ببخشد.

Instead of reinventing the wheel, he tried to improve it.

Prepositional phrase 'be jāye'.

6

آیا می‌توان ادعا کرد که هوش مصنوعی در حال اختراع‌کردن هنر است؟

Can it be claimed that AI is inventing art?

Passive 'ed'ā kard' with continuous.

7

او با اختراع‌کردن این دارو، جان میلیون‌ها نفر را نجات داد.

By inventing this medicine, he saved the lives of millions.

Instrumental use of the infinitive.

8

نویسنده در این کتاب، دنیایی را اختراع کرده که در آن زمان وجود ندارد.

The author has invented a world in this book where time does not exist.

Literary use of 'ekhterā' kardan'.

1

پارادایم‌های علمی جدید اغلب زمانی اختراع می‌شوند که مدل‌های قدیمی شکست می‌خورند.

New scientific paradigms are often invented when old models fail.

Plural passive present.

2

او در رساله‌اش به بررسی ماهیت هستی‌شناسانه اختراع‌کردن پرداخته است.

In his treatise, he has examined the ontological nature of inventing.

Highly formal 'be ... pardākhteh ast'.

3

اختراع‌کردن صرفاً یک عمل فنی نیست، بلکه یک کنش فرهنگی عمیق است.

Inventing is not merely a technical act, but a profound cultural action.

Adverbial 'serfan' and contrastive 'balke'.

4

او با ظرافتی بی‌نظیر، روایتی نو از تاریخ باستان اختراع کرد.

With unparalleled elegance, he invented a new narrative of ancient history.

Metaphorical use in historiography.

5

چنانچه این سیستم اختراع نمی‌شد، پیامدهای اقتصادی فاجعه‌باری به بار می‌آمد.

Had this system not been invented, disastrous economic consequences would have ensued.

Formal conditional 'chonānche'.

6

او همواره در پی اختراع‌کردن مفری برای فرار از واقعیت‌های تلخ بود.

He was always seeking to invent a loophole to escape bitter realities.

Idiomatic 'dar pey-e' (seeking).

7

برخی معتقدند که زبان خود یک تکنولوژی است که توسط بشر اختراع شده است.

Some believe that language itself is a technology invented by humans.

Complex passive structure.

8

او توانست با اختراع‌کردن الگوریتمی نوین، محدودیت‌های محاسباتی را درهم بشکند.

He was able to break computational limits by inventing a novel algorithm.

Formal 'darham beshakanad'.

Common Collocations

ثبت اختراع
حق اختراع
اختراع بزرگ
دستگاه اختراع‌کردن
روش اختراع‌کردن
مخترع جوان
جشنواره اختراعات
اختراع تصادفی
میل به اختراع
تاریخ اختراعات

Common Phrases

چرخ را دوباره اختراع‌کردن

— To waste time doing something that has already been done.

لازم نیست چرخ را دوباره اختراع کنی، از کارهای قبلی استفاده کن.

اختراع قرن

— The most important invention of the century.

بسیاری اینترنت را اختراع قرن می‌دانند.

به نام خود ثبت‌کردن

— To register an invention in one's own name.

او توانست اختراعش را به نام خود ثبت کند.

در شرف اختراع

— On the verge of inventing something.

آن‌ها در شرف اختراع یک واکسن جدید هستند.

دنیای اختراعات

— The world of inventions.

به دنیای هیجان‌انگیز اختراعات خوش آمدید.

نیاز مادر اختراع است

— Necessity is the mother of invention.

همان‌طور که می‌گویند، نیاز مادر اختراع است.

ایده اختراع

— The idea behind an invention.

ایده اختراع این دستگاه از کجا آمد؟

اختراع بشر

— A human invention.

پول یکی از عجیب‌ترین اختراعات بشر است.

تکنولوژی اختراع‌شده

— The invented technology.

تکنولوژی اختراع‌شده بسیار پیشرفته است.

قصد اختراع‌کردن

— The intention to invent.

او قصد دارد چیزی مفید اختراع کند.

Often Confused With

اختراع‌کردن vs کشف‌کردن (kashf kardan)

Discovery of existing things vs invention of new things.

اختراع‌کردن vs ساختن (sakhtan)

Building/making vs original invention.

اختراع‌کردن vs پیداکردن (peydā kardan)

Finding something lost or existing vs creating something new.

Idioms & Expressions

"چرخ را دوباره اختراع‌کردن"

— To reinvent the wheel; to do something redundant.

بیا چرخ را دوباره اختراع نکنیم و از کدهای موجود استفاده کنیم.

Common
"آسمان و ریسمان را به هم بافتن"

— To invent wild stories or excuses (often used instead of ekhterā').

باز هم داشت آسمان و ریسمان را به هم می‌بافت تا دیر آمدنش را توجیه کند.

Informal
"از خودش درآوردن"

— To make something up (invent a lie or a story).

این حرف‌ها را از خودش درآورده است، باور نکن.

Slang
"نوبرش را آوردن"

— To do or invent something so new it's unusual (sometimes sarcastic).

واقعاً با این کارت نوبرش را آوردی!

Informal
"طرح نو درانداختن"

— To create or invent a completely new way of doing things (poetic).

بیا تا گل برافشانیم و می در ساغر اندازیم / فلک را سقف بشکافیم و طرحی نو دراندازیم.

Literary
"دست به ابداع زدن"

— To start the act of inventing or creating.

او دست به ابداع روشی جدید در جراحی زد.

Formal
"فکر بکر"

— A brilliant, original idea (the seed of invention).

یک فکر بکر به سرم زده است!

Common
"شق‌القمر کردن"

— To do something extraordinary or invent something miraculous (often sarcastic).

فکر کردی شق‌القمر کردی با این اختراعت؟

Informal
"راه نو باز کردن"

— To pioneer or invent a new path.

او راه نویی در علم ژنتیک باز کرد.

Formal
"درِ جدیدی باز کردن"

— To open a new door (invent a new possibility).

این اختراع درِ جدیدی به سوی آینده باز کرد.

Neutral

Easily Confused

اختراع‌کردن vs ابداع (ebdā')

Both mean to create something new.

Ekhterā' is usually for physical devices/processes; Ebdā' is for ideas/arts.

Ekhterā'-e rādio vs Ebdā'-e sabk-e she'r.

اختراع‌کردن vs خلق (khalgh)

Both imply creation.

Khalgh is more existential or divine; Ekhterā' is more technical.

Khalgh-e bashar vs Ekhterā'-e charkh.

اختراع‌کردن vs تأسیس (ta'sis)

Both involve starting something.

Ta'sis is for institutions/companies; Ekhterā' is for products/methods.

Ta'sis-e bank vs Ekhterā'-e card-e banki.

اختراع‌کردن vs نوآوری (no-āvari)

Both relate to newness.

No-āvari is the broader concept of innovation; Ekhterā' is a specific act of inventing.

No-āvari dar tejārat vs Ekhterā'-e doru-ye jadid.

اختراع‌کردن vs طراحی (tarāhi)

Inventions need design.

Tarāhi is the plan/drawing; Ekhterā' is the novel concept/reality.

Tarāhi-ye lebās vs Ekhterā'-e pārche-ye jadid.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Person] [Object] rā ekhterā' kard.

Ali yek bāzi rā ekhterā' kard.

A2

Āyā [Person] [Object] rā ekhterā' kard?

Āyā Edison lamp rā ekhterā' kard?

B1

[Object] dar [Year/Place] ekhterā' shod.

Māshin dar Ālmān ekhterā' shod.

B2

[Person] bā ekhterā' kardan-e [Object], [Result].

Bell bā ekhterā' kardan-e telfon, jahān rā taghyir dād.

C1

Agar [Object] ekhterā' na-mishod, [Consequence].

Agar bargh ekhterā' na-mishod, zendegi sakht bud.

C2

Ma'ni-ye ekhterā' kardan dar [Context] [Definition].

Ma'ni-ye ekhterā' kardan dar falsafeh amighi ast.

B1

Man mikhāham [Object] rā ekhterā' konam.

Man mikhāham dāruyi jadid ekhterā' konam.

B2

Gofteh mishavad ke [Object] rā [Person] ekhterā' kardeh ast.

Gofteh mishavad ke charkh rā Sumeri-hā ekhterā' kardeh-and.

Word Family

Nouns

اختراع (ekhterā') - invention
مخترع (mokhtere') - inventor
اختراعات (ekhterā'āt) - inventions (plural)

Verbs

اختراع‌کردن (ekhterā' kardan) - to invent
اختراع‌شدن (ekhterā' shodan) - to be invented

Adjectives

اختراعی (ekhterā'i) - inventive/patented
مبتکرانه (mobtakerāne) - innovative

Related

کشف (kashf) - discovery
ابداع (ebdā') - innovation
نوآوری (no-āvari) - innovation
تکنولوژی (teknoloji) - technology
صنعت (san'at) - industry

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in academic, historical, and news contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Edison bargh rā ekhterā' kard. Edison lamp rā ekhterā' kard.

    Electricity (bargh) was discovered/harnessed, not invented as a concept.

  • Charkh ekhterā' kard. Charkh ekhterā' shod.

    The wheel was invented (passive), it didn't do the inventing.

  • Man yek cake ekhterā' kardam. Man yek cake dorost kardam.

    Unless it's a revolutionary new type of cake, use 'dorost kardan' (to make).

  • Columb America rā ekhterā' kard. Columb America rā kashf kard.

    America already existed; it was discovered, not invented.

  • Ekhterā' kardan be tavasot-e u. Tavasot-e u ekhterā' shod.

    The word order for 'invented by him' requires the passive 'shodan'.

Tips

Conjugate the Auxiliary

Remember that in compound verbs like this, only the second part (kardan) changes. The first part (ekhterā') stays the same.

Ekhterā' vs Kashf

Always ask yourself: Did this thing exist before? If yes, use 'kashf'. If no, use 'ekhterā''.

National Pride

When talking to Iranians, mentioning ancient Persian inventions is a great way to build rapport.

Half-Space

Use the nim-fāseleh (ctrl+shift+2 on many Persian keyboards) between the two parts of the verb.

Clear 'Kh'

Practice the 'kh' sound by clearing your throat gently. It shouldn't sound like 'k'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'ekhterā'', expect to hear a name or a date soon after, as it's often used in historical contexts.

Edison Mnemonic

Associate the word with Edison. Edison = Ekhterā'.

Passive Voice

Master 'ekhterā' shodan' (to be invented) early on, as it's used very frequently in passive sentences.

Root Recognition

Recognizing the Arabic root 'kh-r-'' can help you understand other related words in the future.

Formal Register

Use this word in essays and formal presentations to sound more professional.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'EX-TERA'. If you invent something, you are creating an 'Extra' 'Terrain' or world of possibilities. 'Kardan' is just the 'do' part.

Visual Association

Visualize Thomas Edison holding a lightbulb while standing on a Persian carpet. The lightbulb represents 'ekhterā'' and the act of holding it is 'kardan'.

Word Web

Ekhterā' (Invention) Mokhtere' (Inventor) Kardan (To do) Kashf (Discovery) No-āvari (Innovation) Sabt (Registration) Dastgāh (Device) Idea (Idea)

Challenge

Try to name three things in your room and say who invented them in Persian. For example: 'Edison lamp rā ekhterā' kard.'

Word Origin

The word 'ekhterā'' is borrowed from Arabic. It comes from the root 'kh-r-'' which means to split or create something new. It entered Persian centuries ago and is now a standard part of the language.

Original meaning: To create something from nothing or to split something into a new form.

Semitic (root) / Indo-European (verb structure)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a positive, intellectual term.

Similar to 'invent,' but Persian speakers are more careful to distinguish it from 'discover.'

The invention of the Qanat (ancient irrigation). The invention of Algebra (attributed to Al-Khwarizmi). Modern Iranian nanotechnology achievements.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

History Class

  • چه کسی این را اختراع کرد؟
  • در چه سالی اختراع شد؟
  • تأثیر این اختراع چه بود؟
  • قبل از این اختراع...

Science Lab

  • ما باید یک روش جدید اختراع کنیم.
  • این اختراع هنوز کامل نیست.
  • آیا این ایده قابل اختراع است؟
  • در حال آزمایش اختراع جدید هستیم.

Business/Startups

  • باید اختراعمان را ثبت کنیم.
  • حقوق این اختراع محفوظ است.
  • این اختراع بازار را تغییر می‌دهد.
  • سرمایه‌گذاری روی اختراعات.

Everyday Conversation

  • عجب چیزی اختراع کردی!
  • می‌خواهم یک وسیله اختراع کنم.
  • این بهترین اختراع بشر است.
  • او همیشه در حال اختراع‌کردن است.

Legal/Patents

  • درخواست ثبت اختراع.
  • ابطال حق اختراع.
  • مخترع اصلی کیست؟
  • مدارک لازم برای اختراع.

Conversation Starters

"به نظر شما مهم‌ترین اختراع تاریخ چیست؟"

"اگر می‌توانستید هر چیزی اختراع کنید، چه می‌ساختید؟"

"آیا تا به حال سعی کرده‌اید چیزی اختراع کنید؟"

"کدام مخترع را بیشتر از همه تحسین می‌کنید؟"

"آیا فکر می‌کنید تمام چیزهای مهم قبلاً اختراع شده‌اند؟"

Journal Prompts

درباره اختراعی بنویسید که زندگی شما را کاملاً تغییر داده است.

اگر یک مخترع بودید، چه مشکلی را در جهان حل می‌کردید؟

تفاوت بین اختراع‌کردن و کشف‌کردن را با مثال توضیح دهید.

آیا اختراعات همیشه برای بشر مفید هستند؟ نظر خود را بنویسید.

یک روز از زندگی مخترعی را توصیف کنید که در حال کار روی یک پروژه بزرگ است.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While technically possible if the recipe is a scientific breakthrough, usually 'ebda' kardan' or simply 'dorost kardan' is better for food.

Ekhterā' is for things that didn't exist (like a computer). Kashf is for things that existed but were unknown (like gravity).

Yes, it is the standard and formal word. In casual speech, people might use simpler words like 'dorost kardan' unless they specifically mean inventing.

The word for inventor is 'mokhtere'' (مخترع).

In formal speech, it's a slight glottal stop. In casual Tehrani speech, it's often silent, making the final 'ā' sound a bit longer.

Yes, but 'yek dāstān sar-ham kardan' or 'yek dāstān bāftan' is more common for making up stories or lies.

The plural is 'ekhterā'āt' (اختراعات).

Use 'ekhterā' khāham kard', 'ekhterā' khāhi kard', etc.

Not really. It is a specific compound verb. You can use 'ebdā' kardan' in some contexts, which is similar in length.

In modern discussions about AI, yes, you can say 'Housh-e masnu'i dar hāl-e ekhterā' ast' (AI is inventing).

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence: 'I invented a toy.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Who invented the wheel?'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The computer was invented in the 20th century.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Registering an invention is a difficult process.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Without this invention, modern life would be impossible.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Edison is an inventor.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'We want to invent something.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Why did he invent this machine?'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Many inventions come from simple ideas.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The ethics of inventing AI are complex.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'He invented a pen.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Did you invent this game?'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Necessity is the mother of invention.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'He is a young and talented inventor.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Scientific paradigms are invented during crises.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'I love inventions.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'She invented a new tool.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The printing press was invented in Germany.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The team invented a new battery.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Humanity has always sought to invent.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I invented a machine' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Ask 'Who invented the telephone?' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain 'Necessity is the mother of invention' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'This technology was invented by a young team' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the impact of an invention on society briefly in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Edison is a famous inventor' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I want to invent a flying car' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The wheel was invented long ago' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Registering a patent is important' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the difference between invention and discovery in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'This is my invention' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'They invented a new game' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Many things were invented in the 20th century' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'He is working on a new invention' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The ethics of innovation are vital' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the verb: 'U yek bāzi ekhterā' kard.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the noun: 'In mokhtere' javan ast.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the tense: 'Telfon ekhterā' shod.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the phrase: 'Sabt-e ekhterā' dar Iran.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the synonym: 'U yek sabk-e no ebdā' kard.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Edison lamp rā ekhterā' kard.' Who is the subject?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Man mikhāham ekhterā' konam.' What does the speaker want?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'In ekhterā' bozorg ast.' How is the invention described?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Hagh-e ekhterā' mahfuz ast.' What is protected?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'No-āvari dar san'at.' Where is the innovation?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Ekhterā'āt.' Is it singular or plural?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Āyā ekhterā' kardi?' Is it a question or statement?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Dastgāh-e chāp.' What was invented?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Mokhtere'ān-e Irani.' Who are they?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'Pārādāym-e jadid.' What was invented?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!