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اختیار داشتن

B2 verb 11 min read

اختیار داشتن

ekhtiyar dashtan

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips اختیار داشتن in 30 Seconds

Explanation اختیار داشتن in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'اختیار داشتن' (ekhtiyār dāshtan) as a very formal way to say 'I can choose.' While you won't use it often in basic greetings, you might hear it in polite situations. Imagine you are at a friend's house and they ask what you want to drink. If you say 'من اختیار دارم؟' it sounds too formal, but if they say 'اختیار با شماست' (ekhtiyār bā shomāst), they are being very nice and saying 'You choose!' Think of it as a special 'power' word. You have the 'power' to pick the apple or the orange. At this level, just remember that 'ekhtiyār' means 'choice' or 'freedom.' You use the verb 'dāshtan' (to have) with it. So, 'man ekhtiyār dāram' means 'I have the choice.' It's a good word to know for being extra polite when someone offers you something. Even though it's a big word, it's made of two parts you already know: 'ekhtiyār' and 'dāshtan.' Just like you 'have' a book, you 'have' the choice. Practice saying 'Ekhtiyār dārid' when someone says 'Thank you' to you. It's like saying 'No problem' in a very, very polite way. This will make you sound very sophisticated even as a beginner!

At the A2 level, you start to see 'اختیار داشتن' in more practical settings, like at school or in a simple job. It means 'to have permission' or 'to have the right to do something.' For example, if your teacher says, 'You have the right to ask questions,' they would use this verb: 'شما اختیار دارید سوال بپرسید.' It is more formal than 'mitavānid' (you can). You should use 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' when you want to talk about rules. If a rule says you can do something, you 'have the authority' to do it. Also, learn the negative form: 'من اختیار ندارم' (man ekhtiyār nadāram). This is very useful if you are working and someone asks you to do something that only your boss can do. You can say, 'I'm sorry, I don't have the authority.' It sounds much more professional than just saying 'I can't.' Remember to conjugate the verb 'dāshtan' correctly. In the present tense, it's 'dāram, dāri, dārad...' and in the past, it's 'dāshtam, dāshti, dāsht...'. This verb helps you describe what people are allowed to do in a structured environment like an office or a classroom. It’s also the key to understanding the polite 'Ta'arof' culture where people give each other the 'authority' to make decisions as a sign of respect.

As a B1 learner, you should understand 'اختیار داشتن' as a term for 'agency' and 'discretion.' At this level, you can use it to describe personal responsibilities and professional boundaries. It's not just about permission anymore; it's about who is in charge of a specific task. For instance, 'Who has the authority to change the schedule?' would be 'چه کسی اختیار دارد برنامه را تغییر دهد؟'. You will also encounter this word in news reports or simple articles about laws and rights. It’s important to distinguish it from 'entekhāb kardan' (to choose). While 'entekhāb' is the action, 'ekhtiyār' is the status of having the power to perform that action. You can also start using it in the subjunctive mood, which is common at B1. For example, 'I want you to have the authority' would be 'من می‌خواهم شما اختیار داشته باشید.' Notice how 'dāshtan' changes to 'dāshteh bāshid.' This verb is essential for discussing social issues, such as the rights of citizens or the powers of a local government. It adds a layer of precision to your speech. Instead of saying 'He is the boss,' you can say 'He has the authority to manage the team.' This makes your Persian sound more mature and business-ready. You should also be comfortable using the noun 'ekhtiyārāt' (authorities/powers) which is the plural form often used in official contexts.

At the B2 level, 'اختیار داشتن' is a vital part of your professional and academic vocabulary. You are expected to use it to discuss complex topics like legal jurisdiction, corporate hierarchy, and philosophical free will. At this stage, you should understand the nuance between 'ekhtiyār' (authority) and 'eqtedār' (power/might). While a person might have the 'ekhtiyār' (legal right) to do something, they might not have the 'eqtedār' (actual influence) to carry it out. You should be able to use the verb in complex sentence structures, such as 'با وجود اینکه او مدیر است، اما اختیار کامل ندارد' (Even though he is the manager, he doesn't have full authority). You will also see this verb in more abstract contexts, like discussing the 'ekhtiyār' of a writer over their characters or the 'ekhtiyār' of a nation over its resources. In Ta'arof, you should now understand that 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is not just a polite phrase but a way of negating a compliment or an apology by elevating the other person's status. It’s about social power dynamics. You should also be familiar with collocations like 'اختیار تام' (absolute authority) and 'سلب اختیار' (stripping of authority). This verb is a bridge to higher-level legal and political Persian, and mastering it allows you to participate in debates about governance, ethics, and social structures with confidence.

At the C1 level, your mastery of 'اختیار داشتن' should extend to its most subtle and literary applications. You should be able to navigate the philosophical debates of 'Jabr vs. Ekhtiyār' (Determinism vs. Free Will) which are central to Persian intellectual history. In this context, the verb describes the metaphysical capacity of the human soul to act independently of divine or natural necessity. You will encounter this in the works of classical poets and modern philosophers alike. Furthermore, in high-level legal Persian, you must understand how 'ekhtiyār' functions in contracts and constitutional law. For example, 'تفویض اختیار' (delegation of authority) is a critical concept in administration. You should be able to discuss the limits of executive authority using this verb: 'محدوده اختیارات ریاست جمهوری در قانون اساسی تعریف شده است.' Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's Arabic roots and its historical evolution in the Persian language. You should also be able to use it ironically or sarcastically in sophisticated social settings. For instance, saying someone has 'too much authority' (ekhtiyār-e ziyādi) to imply they are overstepping their bounds. At C1, you don't just use the word; you understand the weight of 'agency' it carries in every sentence. You can also contrast it with 'vājebat' (obligations), showing the balance between what one *must* do and what one *has the authority* to do.

At the C2 level, 'اختیار داشتن' is a tool for precise, high-level discourse in law, philosophy, and diplomacy. You should be able to use it to articulate the most minute distinctions in power dynamics. For example, in international relations, you might discuss whether a body like the UN has the 'ekhtiyār' to intervene in sovereign affairs. You should be comfortable with archaic or highly formal variants and related terms like 'مختار بودن' (to be empowered/autonomous). In literary analysis, you might discuss the 'ekhtiyārāt-e shā'eri' (poetic licenses) that allow a poet to deviate from standard grammar or meter. Your understanding of the word should be so deep that you can interpret its use in classical texts where it might have slightly different connotations than in modern legal Persian. You should be able to draft legal documents or academic papers where 'ekhtiyār' is defined, limited, or expanded with absolute clarity. Furthermore, you should master the social nuances of the word in the highest circles of Iranian society, where the use of 'ekhtiyār' in Ta'arof can be a complex dance of humility and power-play. At this level, the verb is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a conceptual framework through which you analyze and describe the world's power structures, from the individual's mind to the global stage.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

اختیار داشتن in 30 Seconds

Ekhtiyār dāshtan means having the authority or right to act.
It is a compound verb used in formal, legal, and polite contexts.
It contrasts with 'jabr' (predestination) in philosophical debates.
In Ta'arof, 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is a very polite way to defer to others.

The Persian compound verb اختیار داشتن (ekhtiyār dāshtan) is a multifaceted expression that bridges the gap between legal authority, philosophical agency, and everyday social etiquette. At its most fundamental level, it translates to 'to possess the power or right to act.' However, its usage varies significantly depending on the context, ranging from a manager asserting their corporate jurisdiction to a host politely deferring to a guest's preference. The word ekhtiyār itself is derived from the Arabic root meaning 'to choose,' but in Persian, it has evolved into a noun representing the abstract concept of 'authority' or 'free will.' When paired with the light verb dāshtan (to have), it creates a state of being in control or having the mandate to make decisions.

Legal and Formal Context: In legal documents or administrative settings, this phrase defines the scope of a person's power. For instance, a lawyer might state that their client اختیار تام دارد (has absolute authority) to sign documents. It implies a sanctioned right that is recognized by an institution or by law.

مدیر عامل برای تغییر استراتژی شرکت اختیار دارد.
(The CEO has the authority to change the company's strategy.)

In philosophical and theological discussions, ekhtiyār dāshtan is the antithesis of jabr (predestination). It is used to discuss whether human beings have the free will to choose their path in life. If you are debating ethics in a Persian-speaking environment, you will inevitably use this verb to describe the human capacity for moral agency. Unlike simple choice (entekhāb), which is the act of picking one thing over another, ekhtiyār is the *possession* of the freedom that makes that choice possible.

Personal Autonomy: In daily life, it describes personal boundaries. If someone asks why you did something, you might reply, 'من اختیار زندگی خودم را دارم' (I have control over my own life). It serves as an assertion of independence.

شما اختیار دارید که هر زمان خواستید جلسه را ترک کنید.
(You have the right/freedom to leave the meeting whenever you wish.)

Furthermore, the word is used in the context of 'discretion.' In professional English, we might say 'at your discretion.' In Persian, this is often rendered using 'اختیار داشتن'. It suggests that the person is not bound by a strict rule but can use their judgment. This makes it a high-frequency word in business negotiations, where flexible terms are discussed. Understanding this verb requires recognizing that it is not just about 'having' something, but about the 'legitimacy' of that possession. It is the difference between having a car and having the legal right to drive it.

Social Deference: When someone says 'اختیار با شماست' (The choice is yours), they are using a variation of this concept to show respect. It places the decision-making power in the hands of the listener, which is a hallmark of polite Persian discourse.

در این مورد، من هیچ اختیاری ندارم.
(In this matter, I have no authority/say.)

Using اختیار داشتن correctly involves understanding the syntax of compound verbs in Persian. The word 'اختیار' acts as the noun component, while 'داشتن' is conjugated according to the subject and tense. Because 'داشتن' is an irregular verb in the present tense (stem: dār-), learners must be careful with its conjugation. In most sentences, the thing over which one has authority is preceded by the preposition bar (over) or dar (in), or followed by a clause starting with ke (that).

Structure: Subject + [Context] + اختیار داشتن: The most common structure involves specifying the domain of authority. For example: 'دولت بر اموال عمومی اختیار دارد' (The government has authority over public property). Here, the domain is 'public property.'

ما اختیار داریم که قیمت‌ها را تعیین کنیم.
(We have the authority to set the prices.)

In the negative form, it often indicates a lack of permission or a bureaucratic limitation. 'من اختیار ندارم' is a standard way to tell a customer or a colleague that a certain action is beyond your pay grade. It is more formal and specific than simply saying 'I can't' (ne-mitavānam). While 'ne-mitavānam' might mean you lack the physical ability, 'ekhtiyār nadāram' means you lack the legal or organizational mandate.

Using with Modal Verbs: You can combine it with verbs like 'bāyad' (must) or 'shāyad' (perhaps). 'شما باید اختیار کامل داشته باشید' (You must have full authority). Notice that 'داشتن' changes to its subjunctive form 'dāshteh bāshid' after 'bāyad'.

آیا شما اختیار داشتید که این تصمیم را بگیرید؟
(Did you have the authority to make this decision?)

In the past tense, it is used to describe historical rights or previous job descriptions. 'در قرن نوزدهم، پادشاه اختیار مطلق داشت' (In the 19th century, the king had absolute authority). The past tense of 'dāshtan' is regular (dāsht-), making it easier for learners to conjugate. One nuance to remember is that when 'ekhtiyār' is used with a plural subject, the verb remains singular if 'ekhtiyār' is treated as an abstract noun, but usually, the verb agrees with the subject: 'آن‌ها اختیار دارند' (They have authority).

Formal vs. Informal: In informal speech, 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' might be shortened in pronunciation, but the structure remains the same. In very formal Persian, you might see 'vājeb-ol-ekhtiyār' (possessing authority), but the verb form is the standard for most writing.

هر کسی اختیار دارد عقیده خود را بیان کند.
(Everyone has the right to express their opinion.)

The verb اختیار داشتن echoes through various corridors of Iranian life, from the strict environment of a courtroom to the fluid and polite exchanges of a family dinner. Understanding where you will hear this word helps in grasping its emotional and social weight. It is not just a word; it is a marker of status, permission, and respect.

The Workplace and Bureaucracy: In any Iranian office, you will hear this word frequently. When a subordinate needs a signature, they might ask, 'آیا شما اختیار امضای این فرم را دارید؟' (Do you have the authority to sign this form?). Conversely, a clerk might hide behind the phrase 'من در این زمینه اختیاری ندارم' (I have no authority in this area) to avoid making a difficult decision or to redirect you to a superior.

رئیس بخش اختیار کامل داشت که کارمندان جدید را استخدام کند.
(The department head had full authority to hire new employees.)

In the realm of Iranian media and news, especially political broadcasts, ekhtiyār dāshtan is used to discuss the powers of the president, the parliament, or international bodies. You will hear journalists asking about the 'scope of authority' (dāyere-ye ekhtiyārāt). It is a key term in political science and civic discourse in Persian-speaking countries.

Legal and Judicial Settings: In a court of law, judges and lawyers use this verb to define jurisdiction. A judge might say, 'این دادگاه اختیار رسیدگی به این پرونده را ندارد' (This court does not have the jurisdiction/authority to handle this case). Here, the word takes on a very rigid, technical meaning.

وکیل من اختیار دارد از طرف من صحبت کند.
(My lawyer has the authority to speak on my behalf.)

In literature and philosophy, you will encounter the word in discussions about the nature of man. Classical poets like Rumi or Hafez often touch upon the balance between divine will and human ekhtiyār. In modern literature, it is used to describe a character's struggle for independence. When a protagonist says they want to 'have authority over their own fate,' the verb used is ekhtiyār dāshtan. This gives the word a poetic and existential depth that goes beyond mere bureaucracy.

In the Classroom: Teachers use it to define the rules of the classroom. 'شما اختیار ندارید در طول امتحان با هم صحبت کنید' (You do not have the right/permission to talk to each other during the exam). It sets a clear boundary of what is allowed.

دانشجویان اختیار دارند موضوع تحقیق خود را انتخاب کنند.
(Students have the freedom to choose their research topic.)

While اختیار داشتن is a common verb, English speakers often trip up on its specific nuances. One of the most frequent errors is confusing 'having the authority' with 'having the physical ability' or 'having the choice' in a simple sense. Because Persian has several words for 'can' and 'choice,' choosing the wrong one can lead to confusion or unintended formality.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Tavānestan' (Can): Learners often say 'من اختیار ندارم این را بلند کنم' when they mean 'I can't lift this.' This is incorrect. Ekhtiyār dāshtan is about rights and permissions, not physical strength. For physical ability, use tavānestan.

Incorrect: من اختیار ندارم پیانو بزنم. (Unless you are legally forbidden!)
Correct: من نمی‌توانم پیانو بزنم. (I don't know how to/can't play piano.)

Another common pitfall is the misuse of the phrase in Ta'arof. When someone says 'Ekhtiyār dārid' to you, they are being polite. Some learners take this literally and think the person is actually talking about 'authority.' If you respond by trying to explain your authority, the social moment becomes awkward. Simply smile or return a polite phrase like 'Khāhesh mikonam'.

Mistake 2: Preposition Errors: Learners sometimes use 'bā' (with) instead of 'bar' (over) when describing authority over something. While 'ekhtiyār bā shomāst' (the choice is with you) is a set phrase, when using the verb 'dāshtan,' the preposition is often 'dar' or 'bar'.

Incorrect: او اختیار با این پروژه را دارد.
Correct: او در این پروژه اختیار دارد. (He has authority in this project.)

Finally, don't confuse ekhtiyār dāshtan with entekhāb kardan (to choose). If you are at a restaurant, you don't 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' the pizza; you 'entekhāb' the pizza. You 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' the *right* to choose which restaurant to go to. One is the action of selecting; the other is the possession of the right to select. Using the formal 'ekhtiyār' for mundane choices like choosing a color of socks can sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic.

Mistake 3: Subject-Verb Agreement in Ta'arof: In Ta'arof, 'Ekhtiyār dārid' is always plural to show respect, even if you are talking to one person. Saying 'Ekhtiyār dāri' (singular) to a stranger or elder is a major social faux pas; it sounds dismissive or overly familiar.

Incorrect (to a teacher): اختیار داری.
Correct: اختیار دارید.

Persian is rich with synonyms that touch upon power, choice, and authority. Choosing between اختیار داشتن and its alternatives depends on the specific 'flavor' of authority you wish to convey—whether it is legal, moral, or functional.

Salahiyat Dashtan (صلاحیت داشتن): This means 'to have the competence' or 'to be qualified.' While ekhtiyār is about the right to act, salāhiyat is about the ability or qualification to do so. A judge has the ekhtiyār to rule, but they must also have the salāhiyat (legal qualification) to hear that specific case.

او برای این شغل صلاحیت دارد.
(He is qualified/has the competence for this job.)

Another close relative is Haq dāshtan (حق داشتن), which means 'to have the right.' This is more about entitlement. You have the haq (right) to be treated fairly. Ekhtiyār is more about the agency to make a decision. Often, having a haq leads to having ekhtiyār, but they are distinct concepts in Persian law and logic.

Mojāz budan (مجاز بودن): This means 'to be permitted' or 'to be allowed.' This is a passive state. If you are mojāz, someone else has given you permission. If you have ekhtiyār, the power resides within your role or person.

شما مجاز نیستید اینجا سیگار بکشید.
(You are not permitted to smoke here.)

For more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter Eqtedār dāshtan (اقتدار داشتن), which translates to 'to have authority' but with a connotation of 'power' or 'might.' It is often used for governments or powerful leaders. While ekhtiyār is a legal right, eqtedār is the actual power to enforce that right. A weak leader might have the ekhtiyār to command but lack the eqtedār to make people listen.

Farman-rava'i kardan (فرمانروایی کردن): This means 'to rule' or 'to govern.' This is a much stronger and more specific verb used for monarchs or supreme leaders. It encompasses having ekhtiyār but on a national or grand scale.

او بر کل منطقه فرمانروایی می‌کرد.
(He used to rule over the entire region.)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"نماینده مجلس اختیار دارد در مورد لایحه تحقیق کند."

Neutral

"من اختیار دارم که لباسم را خودم انتخاب کنم."

Informal

"بابام اختیار پولاشو داره، به من ربطی نداره."

Child friendly

"تو اختیار داری که با اسباب‌بازی‌هات بازی کنی."

Slang

"صاحب‌اختیاری داداش، هر چی تو بگی!"

Fun Fact

In classical Islamic philosophy, the debate over 'ekhtiyār' was a major intellectual battleground. Some scholars argued humans have total choice, while others argued everything is predestined. Persian poets often used this word to navigate these complex spiritual ideas.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɛxtɪˈjɑː dɑːstæn/

US /ektiˈjɑr dɑstæn/

Primary stress on 'yār' and 'tān'.

Rhymes With

Bāztāb (بازتاب) Kāstān (کاستن) Engār (انگار) Bāzār (بازار) Golzār (گلزار) Pendar (پندار) Bidār (بیدار) Hushyār (هوشیار)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kh' as a simple 'k'.
Treating 'dāshtan' as a regular verb in the present tense (it should be 'dāram', not 'dāshtam' for present).
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.
Failing to pronounce the 'h' in 'dāshtan' clearly.
Shortening the long 'ā' sounds too much.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The word appears in complex legal and philosophical texts.

Writing 5/5

Requires knowledge of compound verb conjugation and prepositions.

Speaking 3/5

Used frequently in Ta'arof, which is easy to memorize.

Listening 4/5

Can be confused with other similar-sounding words in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

داشتن (to have) حق (right) انتخاب (choice) اجازه (permission) قدرت (power)

Learn Next

صلاحیت (competence) مسئولیت (responsibility) وظیفه (duty) حاکمیت (sovereignty) آزادی (freedom)

Advanced

تفویض (delegation) مصوبه (enactment) قانون اساسی (constitution) ولایت مطلقه (absolute guardianship) جبرگرایی (determinism)

Grammar to Know

Compound Verb Conjugation

In 'ekhtiyār dāshtan', only 'dāshtan' is conjugated: 'man ekhtiyār dāram'.

Subjunctive after 'Bāyad'

شما باید اختیار داشته باشید (You must have authority).

Preposition 'Bar'

او بر زیردستان خود اختیار دارد (He has authority over his subordinates).

Negation with 'Na'

من اختیار ندارم (I do not have authority).

Pluralization of Abstract Nouns

اختیارات (ekhtiyārāt) refers to the set of specific powers a person holds.

Examples by Level

من اختیار دارم که سیب بخورم.

I have the choice to eat an apple.

Simple subject + noun + verb 'dāshtan'.

شما اختیار دارید.

You have the choice / You are too kind (Ta'arof).

Formal 'you' with plural verb.

آیا من اختیار دارم؟

Do I have the choice?

Question form using 'āyā'.

او اختیار ندارد.

He/she does not have the choice.

Negative form 'na-dārad'.

ما اختیار داریم بازی کنیم.

We have the freedom to play.

Plural subject 'mā'.

آن‌ها اختیار ندارند اینجا بیایند.

They do not have the right to come here.

Negative plural form.

کتاب یا دفتر؟ اختیار با شماست.

Book or notebook? The choice is yours.

A common variation 'ekhtiyār bā shomāst'.

من امروز اختیار دارم.

I have the freedom today.

Using 'emruz' (today) as a time marker.

دانش‌آموز اختیار دارد سوال بپرسد.

The student has the right to ask a question.

Singular subject with 'dārad'.

من اختیار ندارم این در را باز کنم.

I don't have the authority to open this door.

Using 'ekhtiyār' for professional permission.

آیا شما اختیار دارید امضا کنید؟

Do you have the authority to sign?

Formal question in a work context.

ما اختیار داشتیم زود برویم.

We had the permission to go early.

Past tense 'dāshtim'.

او در خانه اختیار کامل دارد.

He has full authority at home.

Adding the adjective 'kāmel' (full).

شما نباید در این مورد اختیار داشته باشید.

You should not have authority in this matter.

Negative modal 'nabāyad' with subjunctive.

پلیس اختیار دارد ماشین را متوقف کند.

The police have the authority to stop the car.

Legal authority context.

من هیچ اختیاری در این شرکت ندارم.

I have no authority in this company.

Using 'hich' for emphasis.

مدیر به من اختیار داد که پروژه را شروع کنم.

The manager gave me the authority to start the project.

Using 'dād' (gave) as a related action.

هر انسانی اختیار دارد سرنوشت خود را بسازد.

Every human has the free will to build their own destiny.

Abstract/Philosophical usage.

آیا دولت اختیار دارد مالیات را زیاد کند؟

Does the government have the authority to increase taxes?

Political/Economic context.

او بدون اختیار من کاری انجام نمی‌دهد.

He doesn't do anything without my authority.

Using 'bedun-e' (without) with the noun.

شما باید اختیار داشته باشید که تصمیم بگیرید.

You must have the authority to make decisions.

Modal 'bāyad' + subjunctive 'dāshteh bāshid'.

در گذشته، زنان اختیار کمتری داشتند.

In the past, women had less authority.

Comparative 'kamtar' (less).

این دادگاه اختیار رسیدگی به این جرم را ندارد.

This court does not have the jurisdiction to handle this crime.

Legal terminology 'residagi' (handling/investigating).

من می‌خواهم در زندگی‌ام اختیار بیشتری داشته باشم.

I want to have more control in my life.

Desire 'mikhāham' + subjunctive.

تفویض اختیار به کارمندان باعث افزایش بهره‌وری می‌شود.

Delegating authority to employees increases productivity.

Compound noun 'tafviz-e ekhtiyār' (delegation of authority).

او مدعی است که اختیار قانونی برای این کار را دارد.

He claims that he has the legal authority for this action.

Using 'modda'i ast' (claims).

محدوده اختیارات وزیر در این لایحه مشخص شده است.

The scope of the minister's authorities is specified in this bill.

Plural noun 'ekhtiyārāt' (powers/authorities).

شورای شهر اختیار دارد بودجه را تصویب کند.

The city council has the authority to approve the budget.

Administrative context.

سلب اختیار از مدیر عامل توسط هیئت مدیره انجام شد.

The stripping of authority from the CEO was done by the board of directors.

Noun phrase 'salb-e ekhtiyār' (stripping of authority).

آیا والدین بر فرزندان بالغ خود اختیار دارند؟

Do parents have authority over their adult children?

Preposition 'bar' (over).

او با اختیار تام در مذاکرات شرکت کرد.

He participated in the negotiations with absolute authority.

Phrase 'ekhtiyār-e tām' (plenipotentiary/absolute authority).

داشتن اختیار بدون مسئولیت خطرناک است.

Having authority without responsibility is dangerous.

Gerund 'dāshtan-e ekhtiyār' as a subject.

بحث میان جبر و اختیار یکی از کهن‌ترین مباحث فلسفی است.

The debate between determinism and free will is one of the oldest philosophical topics.

Philosophical pairing of 'jabr' and 'ekhtiyār'.

نویسنده در خلق دنیای خود اختیار مطلق دارد.

The author has absolute authority in creating their world.

Metaphorical usage for creativity.

پروتکل‌های جدید، اختیار پزشکان را در تجویز دارو محدود می‌کند.

New protocols limit the authority of doctors in prescribing medication.

Professional/Technical context.

او از اختیار قانونی خود برای وتوی طرح استفاده کرد.

He used his legal authority to veto the plan.

Political action 'estefādeh kardan' (to use).

عدم اختیار در تعیین سرنوشت، منجر به ناامیدی اجتماعی می‌شود.

Lack of agency in determining one's fate leads to social despair.

Complex noun phrase 'adam-e ekhtiyār' (lack of authority).

او به گونه‌ای صحبت می‌کرد که گویی اختیار کل جهان را دارد.

He spoke as if he had authority over the entire world.

Hypothetical 'gu'i' (as if) with subjunctive.

در این قرارداد، به موجر اختیار داده شده است که ملک را بازرسی کند.

In this contract, the lessor has been given the authority to inspect the property.

Passive construction 'ekhtiyār dādeh shodeh ast'.

اختیارات وسیع نیروهای امنیتی مورد نقد قرار گرفت.

The extensive powers of the security forces were criticized.

Plural 'ekhtiyārāt' as a subject.

ماهیت وجودی انسان با داشتن اختیار گره خورده است.

The existential nature of man is tied to having free will.

Existential/Philosophical high-level usage.

تفویض اختیارات حاکمیتی به نهادهای فراملی چالش‌برانگیز است.

The delegation of sovereign authorities to supranational institutions is challenging.

Political science terminology.

او در دوران تصدی خود، از تمامی اختیارات صلاحدیدی‌اش بهره برد.

During his tenure, he utilized all of his discretionary powers.

Adjective 'salāhdidi' (discretionary).

محدودیت‌های ساختاری، اختیار عمل کنشگران را سلب کرده است.

Structural limitations have stripped the agency of the actors.

Sociological/Academic context.

آیا هوش مصنوعی می‌تواند در آینده اختیار اخلاقی داشته باشد؟.

Can artificial intelligence have moral agency in the future?

Technological ethics context.

او با ظرافت تمام، از پاسخگویی با استناد به عدم اختیار، طفره رفت.

With total subtlety, he evaded accountability by citing a lack of authority.

Complex sentence with gerunds and prepositions.

اختیارات تام‌الاختیار سفیر، راه را برای صلح هموار کرد.

The plenipotentiary powers of the ambassador paved the way for peace.

Formal adjective 'tām-ol-ekhtiyār'.

بررسی تضاد میان اختیار فردی و مصالح جمعی در حقوق عمومی.

Examining the conflict between individual agency and collective interests in public law.

Academic title/abstract style.

Common Collocations

اختیار تام

اختیار قانونی

اختیار کامل

سلب اختیار

تفویض اختیار

دایره اختیارات

اختیار عمل

اختیار داشتن بر

سوء استفاده از اختیار

محدوده اختیارات

Common Phrases

اختیار با شماست

— The choice is yours. Used to show respect and let others decide.

هر طور میل دارید؛ اختیار با شماست.

اختیار دارید!

— You are too kind! / Not at all! (Used in Ta'arof).

— ببخشید مزاحم شدم. — اختیار دارید!

در اختیار داشتن

— To have something at one's disposal or in one's possession.

او منابع زیادی در اختیار دارد.

اختیار خود را داشتن

— To be independent and in control of one's own life.

او دیگر بزرگ شده و اختیار خود را دارد.

از خود اختیاری نداشتن

— To have no say in a matter or to be controlled by others.

او در آن خانه از خود اختیاری ندارد.

با کمال اختیار

— With full willingness and without any force.

من این کار را با کمال اختیار انجام دادم.

اختیار از کف دادن

— To lose control (usually emotional control).

از شدت خشم، اختیار از کف داد.

خارج از اختیار

— Beyond one's control or authority.

این اتفاق خارج از اختیار من بود.

اختیاردار بودن

— To be the person in charge or the decision-maker.

در این پروژه، او اختیاردار است.

به اختیار خود

— By one's own choice/volition.

او به اختیار خود استعفا داد.

Often Confused With

اختیار داشتن vs انتخاب کردن

Entekhāb kardan is the act of choosing; ekhtiyār dāshtan is the right/power to choose.

اختیار داشتن vs توانستن

Tavānestan refers to physical or mental ability; ekhtiyār dāshtan refers to permission or authority.

اختیار داشتن vs اجازه داشتن

Ejāzeh dāshtan means someone else gave you permission; ekhtiyār dāshtan often implies the power is inherent to your role.

Idioms & Expressions

"اختیار ما هم دست شماست"

— I am at your service / My fate is in your hands (Hyper-polite).

هر چه شما بگویید، اختیار ما هم دست شماست.

Very Formal/Ta'arof

"بی‌اختیار خندیدن"

— To laugh uncontrollably/involuntarily.

از حرف او بی‌اختیار خندیدم.

Informal

"اختیار شکم را نداشتن"

— To be unable to control one's appetite.

او اصلا اختیار شکمش را ندارد.

Informal/Slang

"اختیار زبان را داشتن"

— To be careful with what one says.

آدم باید اختیار زبانش را داشته باشد.

General

"افسار اختیار را به دست گرفتن"

— To take the reins of control.

او بالاخره افسار اختیار زندگی‌اش را به دست گرفت.

Literary

"مختار و مجاز بودن"

— To be fully empowered and allowed (Legal idiom).

وکیل مختار و مجاز است که...

Legal

"اختیار از دست دادن"

— To lose one's composure or self-control.

وقتی خبر را شنید، اختیار از دست داد.

General

"صاحب‌اختیار بودن"

— To be the absolute master of a situation.

شما در این مغازه صاحب‌اختیار هستید.

Formal

"اختیار با دل است"

— The heart has its own will (used for love/emotions).

در عشق، اختیار با دل است.

Poetic

"بی‌اختیار شدن"

— To become helpless or lose agency.

در برابر تقدیر، انسان بی‌اختیار می‌شود.

Philosophical

Easily Confused

اختیار داشتن vs اختیاری

It looks like the verb but it's an adjective.

Ekhtiyāri means 'optional' or 'voluntary'. Ekhtiyār dāshtan is the verb 'to have authority'.

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

اختیار داشتن vs مختار

It shares the same root.

Mokhtār is an adjective meaning 'empowered' or 'free to act'.

شما در این کار مختار هستید. (You are free to do this.)

اختیار داشتن vs خیر

Same Arabic root.

Kheyr means 'good' or 'no' (in formal Persian). It doesn't mean authority.

کار خیر انجام دهید. (Do a good deed.)

اختیار داشتن vs اقتدار

Similar meaning in English (authority).

Eqtedār is more about 'power' and 'might' rather than just 'right'.

اقتدار ملی (National power/authority).

اختیار داشتن vs صلاحیت

Often used together in legal contexts.

Salahiyat is about 'competence' or 'qualification'.

او صلاحیت پزشکی ندارد. (He doesn't have medical qualifications.)

Sentence Patterns

من [Noun] اختیار دارم.

من در انتخاب غذا اختیار دارم.

آیا شما اختیار دارید [Verb]؟

آیا شما اختیار دارید امضا کنید؟

[Subject] اختیار دارد که [Clause].

او اختیار دارد که هر وقت خواست برود.

[Subject] بر [Object] اختیار کامل دارد.

پدر بر اموال فرزند اختیار کامل دارد.

با استناد به اختیارات قانونی، [Action].

با استناد به اختیارات قانونی، شهردار طرح را لغو کرد.

تفویض اختیار به [Entity] مستلزم [Condition] است.

تفویض اختیار به استان‌ها مستلزم تغییر قانون است.

من هیچ اختیاری در [Context] ندارم.

من هیچ اختیاری در این مورد ندارم.

اختیارات [Noun] محدود است.

اختیارات پلیس در این زمینه محدود است.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional, legal, and polite social contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' for simple physical ability. → من می‌توانم بدوم.
'Ekhtiyār dāshtan' is for rights/authority, not physical skills.
Using it for ownership of objects. → من این کتاب را دارم.
You 'have' a book, you don't 'have authority' over a book in a simple sense.
Saying 'Ekhtiyār dāri' (singular) to a superior. → اختیار دارید.
In Ta'arof, always use the plural form to show respect.
Using 'bā' instead of 'bar' for authority over something. → او بر تیم اختیار دارد.
'Bar' is the standard preposition for 'authority over'.
Confusing 'ekhtiyār' with 'entekhāb'. → من این پیتزا را انتخاب می‌کنم.
Use 'entekhāb' for the act of picking something.

Tips

Conjugation Alert

Remember that 'dāshtan' is irregular in the present. It's 'dāram', not 'dāsht-am' for 'I have'.

Ta'arof Mastery

Use 'Ekhtiyār dārid' when someone says 'Sorry for bothering you.' It makes you sound very polite.

Plural Form

Use 'ekhtiyārāt' when talking about a list of official powers or job duties.

Authority vs. Ability

Don't use it for physical things. Say 'I can run' with 'tavānestan', not 'ekhtiyār dāshtan'.

Legal Precision

In contracts, use 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' to define what each person is allowed to do.

Formal Contexts

Listen for this word in news reports about the president or parliament.

Respectful Refusal

If you can't help someone because of rules, say 'Man ekhtiyār nadāram' to be polite but firm.

Arabic Root

Knowing it comes from 'khayr' (good) helps you remember it's about 'choosing the best'.

Executive Authority

Associate 'Ekhtiyār' with 'Executive' to remember it's about power and authority.

Prepositions

Always check if you need 'dar' (in) or 'bar' (over) with this verb.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ekhtiyār' as 'Executive Authority'. Both start with 'E' and 'Ex'. If you have 'Ekhtiyār', you are the 'Executive' of your own choices.

Visual Association

Imagine a judge's gavel. When the judge holds the gavel, they 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' (have the authority) to make a ruling. The gavel is the physical symbol of their 'ekhtiyār'.

Word Web

Authority Choice Agency Right Power Free Will Permission Control

Challenge

Try to use 'اختیار داشتن' in three different ways today: once to describe a rule at work, once in a polite Ta'arof response, and once to describe a personal decision.

Word Origin

The word 'اختیار' (ekhtiyār) is an Arabic loanword derived from the root 'kh-y-r' (خیر), which relates to 'goodness' or 'choosing the better option.' In Arabic, 'ikhtiyār' is the verbal noun of the eighth form of the verb.

Original meaning: The original meaning in Arabic was 'to choose' or 'to prefer the best.' It implies a rational selection between options.

Persian (Indo-European) with an Arabic (Semitic) loanword component.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using this word in political contexts in Iran, as the 'authorities' (ekhtiyārāt) of various government branches can be a sensitive topic.

English speakers might find the Ta'arof usage of 'Ekhtiyār dārid' confusing, as it seems to grant power to the other person when it's actually just a polite greeting.

The debate of 'Jabr and Ekhtiyār' in the poetry of Omar Khayyam. Legal documents of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution of 1906. Modern Persian songs that talk about 'having no choice' (bi-ekhtiyāri) in love.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace

اختیار امضا
محدوده اختیارات
تفویض اختیار
عدم اختیار

Ta'arof (Etiquette)

اختیار دارید
صاحب‌اختیارید
اختیار با شماست
بنده اختیار ندارم

Legal/Court

اختیار قانونی
سلب اختیار
اختیار تام
صلاحیت و اختیار

Philosophy

جبر و اختیار
اختیار انسانی
اراده و اختیار
اختیار مطلق

Family/Personal

اختیار زندگی
به اختیار خود
بی‌اختیار
تحت اختیار

Conversation Starters

"آیا شما در شغل خود اختیار کافی دارید؟ (Do you have enough authority in your job?)"

"فکر می‌کنید انسان‌ها واقعاً اختیار دارند یا همه چیز تقدیر است؟ (Do you think humans really have free will or is everything fate?)"

"در خانواده شما، چه کسی اختیار اصلی را دارد؟ (In your family, who has the main authority?)"

"آیا دولت باید اختیار بیشتری در کنترل اینترنت داشته باشد؟ (Should the government have more authority in controlling the internet?)"

"اگر اختیار تام داشتید، چه تغییری در دنیا ایجاد می‌کردید؟ (If you had absolute authority, what change would you make in the world?)"

Journal Prompts

درباره زمانی بنویسید که احساس کردید هیچ اختیاری بر زندگی خود ندارید. (Write about a time you felt you had no control over your life.)

آیا داشتن اختیار زیاد همیشه خوب است؟ چرا؟ (Is having a lot of authority always good? Why?)

تفاوت بین اختیار داشتن و زورگویی کردن چیست؟ (What is the difference between having authority and being a bully?)

نقش اختیار در خوشبختی انسان را توصیف کنید. (Describe the role of agency in human happiness.)

چگونه می‌توانیم به دیگران اختیار عمل بیشتری بدهیم؟ (How can we give others more agency to act?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, in social contexts (Ta'arof), it is a polite way of saying 'Not at all' or 'You are too kind.' It is a standard response to an apology or a compliment.

Generally, no. It is a human concept involving rational choice and legal rights. You would use 'tavānestan' or simple descriptions for animals.

'Ejāzeh' is permission given by someone else. 'Ekhtiyār' is the power or right that you hold, often because of your position or nature.

You can say 'من هیچ اختیاری ندارم' (man hich ekhtiyāri nadāram) or 'من بی‌اختیار هستم'.

The root is used, and the concept is central to Islamic theology, though the specific Persian compound verb 'ekhtiyār dāshtan' is a later linguistic development.

Yes, it is more formal than 'can' or 'choose.' It is used in offices, courts, and polite conversation.

It means 'absolute authority' or 'plenipotentiary power,' meaning the person can make any decision without asking others.

Yes, you can say 'این در اختیار من نیست' (This is not in my control/authority).

The opposite is 'ejbāri' (compulsory/mandatory).

You conjugate 'dāshtan' in the future: 'man ekhtiyār khāham dāsht' (I will have authority).