At the A1 level, you can think of 'آرزو داشتن' as a special way to say 'I want' for big things. Even though it's a bit more advanced than 'khāstan' (to want), you can use it to talk about simple dreams. For example, if you want to say 'I wish to go to Iran,' you say 'Man ārezu dāram be Irān beravam.' At this level, don't worry too much about the complex grammar. Just remember that 'ārezu' means a wish, and 'dāram' means I have. You can use it to tell your teacher or friends about what you hope to do in the future. It's a very nice and polite word to use, and it makes your Persian sound more advanced and thoughtful right from the start. Focus on the present tense: 'dāram', 'dāri', 'dārad'.
At the A2 level, you should start using 'آرزو داشتن' to distinguish between your daily needs and your bigger goals. You now know more verbs, so try to use 'ārezu داشتن' with a 'ke' (that) clause. For example, 'Man ārezu dāram ke yek māshin-e jadid bekharam' (I have a wish that I buy a new car). Notice how the second verb 'bekharam' changes slightly—this is the subjunctive mood, which is very common with this verb. You can also use it in the past tense to talk about things you wanted when you were younger: 'Vaqti bache budam, ārezu dāshtam khalabān shavam' (When I was a child, I had a wish to become a pilot). This level is about building sentences that connect your past and future through your desires.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'آرزو داشتن' in various tenses and with different subjects. You should also understand its emotional weight. It's not just about buying things; it's about life aspirations. You might use it to discuss social issues or career paths. For instance, 'Hame-ye mā ārezu dārim ke va'ziyat-e eqtesādi behtar shavad' (All of us have a wish that the economic situation improves). At this level, you should also be able to use the negative form 'ārezu nadāshtan' to express a lack of desire or interest in something. You are beginning to see how this verb is used in more complex sentence structures, including those with multiple clauses and more advanced vocabulary.
At the B2 level, you can use 'آرزو داشتن' to express nuance and hypothetical situations. You might combine it with conditional structures to talk about what you would wish for if things were different. You are also likely encountering this verb in media, such as news reports or interviews, where it is used to describe collective aspirations. You should be able to differentiate it clearly from its synonyms like 'meyl dāshtan' or 'tamannā dāshtan'. For example, you understand that 'ārezu dāshtan' is perfect for a personal dream, while 'tamannā dāshtan' might be used in a very formal letter. Your ability to use the subjunctive mood after 'ārezu داشتن' should be nearly automatic by now, even with irregular verbs.
At the C1 level, you are exploring the poetic and philosophical uses of 'آرزو داشتن'. You can analyze how it appears in classical Persian poetry, where it often signifies a profound spiritual longing. You can use the verb to discuss abstract concepts like 'the human wish for immortality' or 'the wish for absolute truth.' Your sentences are complex, using various literary devices. You might use the passive or causative forms in conjunction with this verb to describe how wishes are formed or fulfilled. You also understand the cultural implications of 'ārezu' as a concept in Iranian thought, including how it relates to concepts like 'fate' (qesmat) and 'effort' (koushesh).
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'آرزو داشتن' is complete. You can use it with the same level of nuance as a native speaker, choosing it over other verbs to create specific emotional effects in your writing or speech. You can engage in deep discussions about the role of 'ārezu' in Persian literature, from the epic Shāhnāmeh to modern avant-garde prose. You understand the subtle differences in meaning when the word is used in different regional dialects of Persian (like Tajiki or Dari). You can also use the verb in highly sophisticated rhetorical structures, such as in formal debates or academic papers, to describe human motivations and societal trends with precision and elegance.

آرزو داشتن in 30 Seconds

  • آرزو داشتن means 'to have a wish' or 'to desire' something deeply.
  • It is a compound verb where 'dāshtan' is conjugated and 'ārezu' stays the same.
  • It is more formal and emotional than the simple verb 'khāstan' (to want).
  • It usually triggers the subjunctive mood in the verb that follows it.

The Persian compound verb آرزو داشتن (ārezu dāshtan) is a cornerstone of emotional expression in the Persian language. At its most basic level, it translates to 'to have a wish' or 'to desire.' However, unlike the simple English verb 'to want' (which is usually expressed by 'khāstan' in Persian), ārezu dāshtan carries a weight of aspiration, longing, and sometimes even a touch of poetic melancholy. It is used when discussing long-term goals, deep-seated dreams, or heartfelt wishes for oneself and others. Whether you are talking about your career aspirations, your hopes for a better future, or a simple birthday wish, this is the verb that captures the essence of human longing. It is composed of the noun 'ārezu' (wish/desire) and the auxiliary verb 'dāshtan' (to have).

Formal Context
In formal writing or speeches, it signifies noble aspirations or national goals. For example, a leader might speak about the wishes they have for the prosperity of the nation.
Informal Context
In daily conversation, it is used to express personal dreams, such as wanting to travel, learn a new skill, or see a loved one succeed.

من همیشه آرزو داشتم که یک نویسنده بزرگ شوم.
(I always had the wish to become a great writer.)

The word 'ārezu' itself is deeply embedded in Persian culture, appearing frequently in classical poetry by Rumi, Hafez, and Saadi. When you use this verb, you are tapping into a tradition of expressing the soul's desires. It is not just about physical objects; it is about the state of being and the direction of one's life. In many ways, it is more passive than 'khāstan'; while 'khāstan' implies an active pursuit or a demand, ārezu dāshtan focuses on the internal state of harboring a dream.

آیا تو هم آرزو داری دنیا جای بهتری شود؟
(Do you also have a wish for the world to become a better place?)

Understanding the nuances of this verb helps learners distinguish between immediate needs and long-term aspirations. If you are thirsty, you use 'khāstan' to ask for water. If you dream of peace in your homeland, you use ārezu dāshtan. This distinction is crucial for achieving fluency and sounding natural in Persian. Furthermore, the verb is often used in the past continuous (mi-dāshtam) to describe dreams that one held for a long time in the past.

او آرزو داشت زودتر به خانه برگردد.
(He had a wish to return home sooner.)

Cultural Nuance
In Persian culture, sharing one's 'ārezu' is seen as an act of vulnerability and intimacy. It is not something shared with everyone, but rather with close friends and family.

مادرم برای ما بهترین‌ها را آرزو دارد.
(My mother has the best wishes for us.)

بسیاری از جوانان آرزو دارند در خارج از کشور تحصیل کنند.
(Many young people have the wish to study abroad.)

Using آرزو داشتن correctly requires an understanding of its compound nature and its interaction with other parts of the sentence. As a compound verb, the noun 'ārezu' remains static, while the auxiliary verb 'dāshtan' (to have) conjugates according to the subject and tense. The basic structure is: [Subject] + [Object/Clause] + [Conjugated 'ārezu dāshtan']. Because it expresses a wish or potentiality, it almost always triggers the subjunctive mood in the following verb when used with a 'ke' (that) clause.

Present Tense
In the present tense, 'dāshtan' is irregular. We use the stem 'dār'. Example: 'Man ārezu dāram' (I have a wish).

من آرزو دارم که تو را دوباره ببینم.
(I have a wish to see you again. Note the subjunctive 'bebinam'.)

When expressing a wish for someone else, the structure remains the same, but the 'ke' clause becomes essential. You are essentially saying 'I have the wish that [something happens].' This is the most common way to express complex desires in Persian. In the past tense, you use the stem 'dāsht'. For example, 'Man ārezu dāshtam' (I had a wish). This can refer to a specific moment in the past or a long-term state of mind.

ما آرزو داشتیم که در این مسابقه برنده شویم.
(We had a wish to win in this competition.)

Negative Form
To negate, add 'na' to the start of the 'dāshtan' part. Example: 'Man ārezu nadāram' (I don't have a wish/I have no wish).

Another important aspect is the use of prepositions. While you can have a wish 'for' something (barāye), it is much more common to use a 'ke' clause. If you are wishing for a noun directly, you might say 'Man ārezu-ye [noun] dāram'. The 'ye' here is the Ezafe construction, linking the wish to its object.

او آرزوی موفقیت شما را دارد.
(He has the wish for your success.)

For more advanced usage, you can use the word in the future tense: 'ārezu khāham dāsht' (I will have a wish), though this is rarer as wishes are usually felt in the present or past. In poetic or highly formal contexts, you might see 'ārezu dāshtan' replaced by 'dar ārezu-ye chizi budan' (to be in the wish of something), which emphasizes the state of longing even more.

آن‌ها آرزو دارند که روزی به ماه سفر کنند.
(They have a wish to travel to the moon one day.)

Question Form
To ask a question, simply change the intonation or add 'āyā' at the beginning. Example: 'Āyā ārezu dāri?' (Do you have a wish?)

بچه‌ها همیشه آرزو داشتند یک سگ داشته باشند.
(The children always had a wish to have a dog.)

You will encounter آرزو داشتن in a wide variety of settings, ranging from the most intimate family gatherings to the grandest stages of Persian literature. In the domestic sphere, it is the standard way to talk about hopes and dreams. For instance, during birthdays, after the candles are blown out, someone might ask: 'Che ārezuyi dāri?' (What wish do you have?). It is also common in heartfelt letters or messages between friends, where expressing one's wishes for the other's happiness is a cultural staple.

Pop Culture and Music
Persian pop songs are filled with this verb. Singers often lament about the wishes they have for a lost love or the dreams they have for a better life. It provides a melodic and emotional depth to lyrics.

در ترانه‌های قدیمی، خواننده‌ها می‌گفتند: «آرزو داشتم که یار من باشی.»
(In old songs, singers used to say: 'I had a wish that you would be my beloved.')

In the realm of literature and poetry, ārezu dāshtan is used to explore the human condition. Classic poets use it to describe the soul's longing for the Divine or the lover's longing for the beloved. In modern Persian literature, it is used more realistically to describe the social and personal aspirations of characters. If you read a Persian novel, you will likely see this verb used when a character is reflecting on their life choices or their future.

او در دفتر خاطراتش نوشت: «فقط یک آرزو دارم و آن آزادی است.»
(He wrote in his diary: 'I have only one wish, and that is freedom.')

In news and media, the verb is used when reporting on the hopes of specific groups or the general public. For example, 'The people have a wish for economic stability.' It is also common in interviews, where celebrities or public figures are asked about their future plans or what they 'ārezu' for their fans. It's a word that bridges the gap between the deeply personal and the broadly social.

مردم آرزو دارند که قیمت‌ها کاهش یابد.
(People have a wish for prices to decrease.)

Social Media
On Instagram or Twitter, you'll see hashtags like #آرزو (#wish) where people share their dreams or post inspirational quotes using this verb.

من برای همه شما آرزوی سلامتی دارم.
(I have the wish of health for all of you.)

همیشه آرزو داشتم که بتوانم پیانو بنوازم.
(I always had the wish to be able to play the piano.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using آرزو داشتن is confusing it with the simple verb 'khāstan' (to want). While they are related, 'khāstan' is for immediate, concrete needs (I want a sandwich), whereas 'ārezu dāshtan' is for deeper aspirations (I wish for a peaceful life). Using 'ārezu dāshtan' to ask for a glass of water would sound very strange and overly dramatic, almost as if you were reciting poetry to a waiter.

The 'Mi-' Prefix Error
In the present tense, the auxiliary verb 'dāshtan' does NOT take the 'mi-' prefix in standard or colloquial Persian. Beginners often say 'ārezu midāram,' which is grammatically incorrect. It should always be 'ārezu dāram'.

اشتباه: من آرزو می‌دارم.
درست: من آرزو دارم.
(Correct: I have a wish.)

Another common error is failing to use the subjunctive mood in the following verb. Because a wish is something that hasn't happened yet (it's a possibility), the verb in the 'ke' clause must be in the subjunctive. For example, instead of saying 'Ārezu dāram ke miravam' (I wish that I go), you must say 'Ārezu dāram ke beravam'. This is a hallmark of Persian grammar that requires practice.

اشتباه: آرزو دارم که او می‌آید.
درست: آرزو دارم که او بیاید.
(Correct: I wish that he comes.)

Learners also sometimes confuse 'ārezu dāshtan' with 'omidvār budan' (to be hopeful). While similar, 'ārezu dāshtan' is more about the desire itself, while 'omidvār budan' is about the expectation or optimism that something will happen. You can have a wish for something you know is impossible, but you usually only hope for things that are somewhat likely.

او آرزو داشت پرواز کند، اما می‌دانست غیرممکن است.
(He had a wish to fly, but he knew it was impossible.)

Ezafe Usage
When followed by a noun, don't forget the Ezafe. It's 'ārezu-ye [noun]', not just 'ārezu [noun]'.

من آرزویِ صلح دارم.
(I have the wish of peace.)

ما هیچ آرزویی جز خوشبختی شما نداریم.
(We have no wish except for your happiness.)

To truly master Persian, you should be aware of the synonyms and alternatives to آرزو داشتن. Depending on the level of formality and the intensity of the feeling, you might choose a different word. While ārezu dāshtan is the most versatile, exploring these alternatives will make your Persian sound more sophisticated and precise.

خواستن (Khāstan)
Meaning 'to want'. It is more direct and less emotional than 'ārezu dāshtan'. Use it for everyday needs or clear intentions.
میل داشتن (Meyl dāshtan)
Meaning 'to have an inclination' or 'to feel like'. It is more polite and often used when offering food or suggesting an activity. 'Meyl dārid ghazā bokhorid?' (Do you wish to eat?)

من میل دارم کمی استراحت کنم.
(I feel like/wish to rest a bit.)

For more formal or literary contexts, you might use تمنا داشتن (tamannā dāshtan), which means 'to entreat' or 'to have a deep, humble request'. This is much stronger and more formal than a regular wish. Another formal alternative is مشتاق بودن (moshtāq budan), which means 'to be eager' or 'to be longing'. This focuses on the eagerness of the person rather than the wish itself.

او مشتاق است که شما را ملاقات کند.
(He is eager/wishes to meet you.)

In some contexts, خواستار بودن (khāstār budan) is used, especially in legal or official contexts, meaning 'to be a seeker of' or 'to demand'. This is common in news headlines. For example, 'The protesters are seekers of justice.' Understanding these synonyms allows you to tailor your language to the situation, moving from the poetic 'ārezu' to the practical 'khāstan' or the formal 'tamannā'.

ما خواستار تغییرات اساسی هستیم.
(We are seeking/wish for fundamental changes.)

Comparison Table
آرزو داشتن: Deep dreams/longing. خواستن: Direct wants/needs. میل داشتن: Polite inclinations. تمنا داشتن: Formal/humble requests.

او تمنا داشت که او را ببخشند.
(He entreated/wished for them to forgive him.)

من همیشه آرزو دارم جهان در صلح باشد.
(I always have a wish for the world to be at peace.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'ārezu' is cognate with several words in other Indo-European languages that mean 'to ask' or 'to seek,' showing the ancient human link between asking and wishing.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɒːreˈzuː dɒːʃˈtæn/
US /ɔːreɪˈzuː dɑːʃˈtæn/
The stress in 'ārezu' is on the last syllable 'zu'. In 'dāshtan', it's on 'dāsh'. In the compound form, the primary stress is usually on 'zu'.
Rhymes With
goftogu jostoju āberu tāberu sebu asub āhu bāzu
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'ā' as a short 'a' like in 'cat'. It must be long and deep.
  • Putting the stress on the first syllable 'ā'.
  • Merging the two words into one without a slight pause.
  • Forgetting to conjugate the 'dāshtan' part.
  • Adding 'mi-' to 'dāshtan' in the present tense (e.g., 'ārezu midāram').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts as it's a common compound verb.

Writing 4/5

Requires mastery of the subjunctive mood and correct conjugation of 'dāshtan'.

Speaking 3/5

Natural in conversation but requires correct intonation for questions.

Listening 2/5

Clearly audible in songs and movies.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

داشتن (to have) خواستن (to want) امید (hope) من (I) که (that)

Learn Next

امیدوار بودن (to be hopeful) تصمیم گرفتن (to decide) هدف داشتن (to have a goal) رویا دیدن (to dream) تلاش کردن (to try)

Advanced

تمنا کردن (to entreat) مستجاب شدن (to be granted - for a wish) آرمان (ideal) اشتیاق (enthusiasm/longing) حسرت خوردن (to regret/long for)

Grammar to Know

Subjunctive Mood after Ārezu Dāshtan

آرزو دارم که تو را *ببینم* (bebinam).

Compound Verb Conjugation

من آرزو *دارم*، تو آرزو *داری*، او آرزو *داشت*.

Ezafe Construction for Nouns

آرزو*یِ* صلح (The wish of peace).

Negative of Dāshtan

من آرزو *ندارم*.

Omission of 'Ke'

آرزو دارم بروم (I wish to go - 'ke' is optional here).

Examples by Level

1

من آرزو دارم.

I have a wish.

Simple present tense of 'dāshtan'.

2

آیا تو آرزو داری؟

Do you have a wish?

Question form using intonation.

3

او آرزو دارد به ایران برود.

He has a wish to go to Iran.

Third person singular + subjunctive verb 'beravad'.

4

ما آرزو داریم.

We have a wish.

First person plural.

5

آن‌ها آرزو دارند.

They have a wish.

Third person plural.

6

من آرزویِ بستنی دارم.

I have a wish for ice cream.

Using Ezafe with a noun.

7

او آرزو داشت.

He had a wish.

Simple past tense.

8

آرزویِ تو چیست؟

What is your wish?

Using the noun 'ārezu' in a question.

1

من آرزو دارم که یک ماشین بخرم.

I have a wish to buy a car.

Present tense + 'ke' + subjunctive 'bekharam'.

2

او همیشه آرزو داشت دکتر شود.

She always had a wish to become a doctor.

Past tense + 'shavad' (subjunctive of shodan).

3

ما آرزو داریم که شما را ببینیم.

We have a wish to see you.

Plural subject + subjunctive 'bebinim'.

4

آیا آرزو داری زبان فارسی را یاد بگیری؟

Do you have a wish to learn Persian?

Second person singular question.

5

او آرزو دارد که در تهران زندگی کند.

He has a wish to live in Tehran.

Subjunctive 'zendegi konad'.

6

بچه‌ها آرزو دارند که برف بیاید.

The children have a wish for it to snow.

Plural subject + impersonal subjunctive 'biyāyad'.

7

من آرزو داشتم که زودتر بزرگ شوم.

I had a wish to grow up sooner.

Past tense reflecting on childhood.

8

او آرزو دارد که یک گربه داشته باشد.

She has a wish to have a cat.

Subjunctive 'dāshte bāshad'.

1

من آرزو دارم که روزی تمام دنیا را بگردم.

I have a wish to travel the whole world one day.

Use of 'begardam' (subjunctive of gardidan/gashtan).

2

او آرزو داشت که در امتحان موفق شود.

He had a wish to succeed in the exam.

Past tense + compound subjunctive 'movaffaq shavad'.

3

ما آرزو داریم که صلح در جهان برقرار باشد.

We have a wish for peace to be established in the world.

Abstract concept as the object of the wish.

4

آیا هرگز آرزو داشته‌ای که پرواز کنی؟

Have you ever had the wish to fly?

Present perfect tense 'ārezu dāshte-i'.

5

او آرزو دارد که بتواند به دیگران کمک کند.

He has a wish to be able to help others.

Subjunctive of 'tavānestan' (be-tavānad).

6

من آرزو دارم که خانواده‌ام همیشه شاد باشند.

I have a wish for my family to always be happy.

Plural subjunctive 'bāshand'.

7

آن‌ها آرزو داشتند که خانه‌ای بزرگتر بخرند.

They had a wish to buy a larger house.

Comparative adjective 'bozorgtar'.

8

او آرزو دارد که نویسنده‌ای مشهور شود.

She has a wish to become a famous writer.

Subjunctive 'shavad'.

1

بسیاری از هنرمندان آرزو دارند که آثارشان در گالری‌های بزرگ نمایش داده شود.

Many artists have a wish for their works to be displayed in large galleries.

Passive subjunctive 'namāyesh dāde shavad'.

2

او آرزو داشت که ای کاش زمان به عقب برمی‌گشت.

He had a wish—if only time would turn back.

Use of 'ey kāsh' within the wish context.

3

ما آرزو داریم که تکنولوژی به حفظ محیط زیست کمک کند.

We have a wish for technology to help preserve the environment.

Complex subject and object.

4

او آرزو دارد که بتواند در حل این بحران نقشی داشته باشد.

He has a wish to be able to play a role in solving this crisis.

Subjunctive 'dāshte bāshad'.

5

آن‌ها آرزو داشتند که شرایط کاری‌شان بهبود یابد.

They had a wish for their working conditions to improve.

Intransitive subjunctive 'behbūd yābad'.

6

من آرزو دارم که روزی عدالت در همه جا اجرا شود.

I have a wish that justice be implemented everywhere one day.

Passive subjunctive 'ejrā shavad'.

7

او آرزو دارد که حقیقت برای همه روشن شود.

He has a wish for the truth to become clear to everyone.

Subjunctive 'roshan shavad'.

8

ما آرزوی قلبی داریم که شما همیشه سلامت باشید.

We have a heartfelt wish for you to always be healthy.

Use of 'ārezu-ye qalbi' (heartfelt wish).

1

فلاسفه همواره آرزو داشته‌اند که به کنه حقیقت دست یابند.

Philosophers have always had the wish to reach the essence of truth.

Present perfect tense + literary phrase 'kone haqiqat'.

2

او آرزو داشت که ای کاش می‌توانست بر سرنوشت خود غلبه کند.

He had a wish—if only he could overcome his own fate.

Hypothetical past subjunctive 'mitavānest'.

3

بسیاری آرزو دارند که میراثی ماندگار از خود به جای بگذارند.

Many have the wish to leave a lasting legacy behind.

Subjunctive 'be jāy bogozārand'.

4

او آرزو دارد که جامعه به سطحی از آگاهی برسد که جنگ را فراموش کند.

He has a wish for society to reach a level of awareness where it forgets war.

Relative clause within a wish clause.

5

شاعران در اشعار خود آرزوی وصال با معشوق را دارند.

Poets in their poems have the wish for union with the beloved.

Literary vocabulary 'vesāl' and 'ma'shūq'.

6

او آرزو داشت که بتواند پلی بین فرهنگ‌های مختلف ایجاد کند.

He had a wish to be able to create a bridge between different cultures.

Metaphorical use of 'pol' (bridge).

7

ما آرزو داریم که علم بتواند پاسخی برای پرسش‌های بنیادین بشر بیابد.

We have a wish for science to find an answer to the fundamental questions of humanity.

Subjunctive 'biyābad'.

8

او آرزو دارد که هرگز از جستجوی دانایی باز نایستد.

He has a wish to never stop the search for wisdom.

Negative subjunctive 'bāz nā-istad'.

1

در ژرفای وجود هر انسانی، آرزوی جاودانگی نهفته است.

In the depths of every human being, the wish for immortality is hidden.

Advanced syntax and literary vocabulary 'zharfā' and 'jāvedāngi'.

2

او آرزو داشت که کاش می‌توانست از بند تعلقات دنیوی رها شود.

He had a wish—if only he could be freed from the bonds of worldly attachments.

Sufi-influenced vocabulary 'ta'alloqāt-e donyavi'.

3

بسیاری از متفکران آرزو دارند که آرمان‌شهری بر پایه عدالت بنا کنند.

Many thinkers have the wish to build a utopia based on justice.

Vocabulary 'ārmān-shahr' (utopia).

4

او آرزو دارد که هنر بتواند رنج‌های بشری را تسکین بخشد.

She has a wish for art to be able to soothe human sufferings.

Subjunctive 'taskin bakhshad'.

5

ما آرزو داریم که روزی مرزهای جغرافیایی مانعی برای همدلی انسان‌ها نباشد.

We have a wish that one day geographical borders will not be an obstacle to human empathy.

Negative subjunctive 'nabāshad'.

6

او در نوشته‌هایش آرزوی بازگشت به دوران طلایی فرهنگ خود را دارد.

In his writings, he has the wish to return to the golden age of his culture.

Noun-based wish with Ezafe.

7

آرزو داشتن برای ناممکن‌ها، خصلت همیشگی قهرمانان تراژیک است.

Having a wish for the impossible is the constant trait of tragic heroes.

Using the infinitive 'ārezu dāshtan' as the subject.

8

او آرزو دارد که کلامش بتواند در دل‌های خفته بیداری ایجاد کند.

He has a wish for his words to be able to create an awakening in sleeping hearts.

Metaphorical subjunctive 'bidāri ijād konad'.

Common Collocations

آرزوی بزرگ داشتن
آرزوی قلبی داشتن
آرزوی سلامتی داشتن
آرزوی موفقیت داشتن
آرزوی دیرینه داشتن
آرزوی محال داشتن
آرزوی سفر داشتن
آرزوی صلح داشتن
آرزوی بازگشت داشتن
آرزوی خوشبختی داشتن

Common Phrases

چه آرزویی داری؟

— What wish do you have? Used during birthdays or special moments.

شمع‌ها را فوت کن، چه آرزویی داری؟

آرزو دارم که...

— I wish that... The standard way to start expressing a dream.

آرزو دارم که روزی تو را ببینم.

فقط یک آرزو دارم

— I have only one wish. Used to emphasize a single important goal.

فقط یک آرزو دارم و آن سلامتی مادرم است.

آرزوی بهترین‌ها را دارم

— I wish for the best. A common way to end a letter or message.

برای شما در سال نو آرزوی بهترین‌ها را دارم.

آرزو داشتم جای تو بودم

— I wished I was in your place. Expressing envy or admiration.

وقتی مدال را گرفتی، آرزو داشتم جای تو بودم.

هر چه آرزو داری

— Whatever you wish for. Used to bless someone.

امیدوارم به هر چه آرزو داری برسی.

آرزو داشتن عیب نیست

— Having a wish is not a fault. Encouraging someone to dream big.

نترس، آرزو داشتن عیب نیست.

در آرزوی چیزی سوختن

— To burn in the wish of something. To long for something intensely.

او در آرزوی دیدن فرزندش می‌سوخت.

آرزو به دل ماندن

— To have a wish remain in the heart (unfulfilled).

او آرزو به دل ماند که خانه‌اش را ببیند.

به آرزوی خود رسیدن

— To reach one's wish (to have it come true).

بالاخره به آرزوی خود رسید و خلبان شد.

Often Confused With

آرزو داشتن vs خواستن (Khāstan)

Khāstan is for 'wanting' something now, while ārezu dāshtan is for 'wishing' or 'dreaming' for the future.

آرزو داشتن vs امیدوار بودن (Omidvār budan)

Omidvār budan is 'to be hopeful' that something will happen, while ārezu dāshtan is the desire itself.

آرزو داشتن vs رویا دیدن (Royā didan)

Royā didan is 'to dream' while sleeping, though it can metaphorically mean wishing.

Idioms & Expressions

"آرزو بر جوانان عیب نیست"

— Wishing is not a fault for the youth. It means it's okay for young people to have big, even unrealistic dreams.

می‌خواهی رئیس‌جمهور شوی؟ خب، آرزو بر جوانان عیب نیست!

Informal/Proverb
"آرزوهای دور و دراز"

— Far and long wishes. Refers to ambitious or far-reaching dreams.

او همیشه آرزوهای دور و درازی در سر داشت.

Neutral
"خواب و خیال و آرزو"

— Sleep, imagination, and wish. Refers to things that are just dreams and not reality.

همه این‌ها فقط خواب و خیال و آرزو است.

Informal
"آرزو به گور بردن"

— To take a wish to the grave. Meaning a wish that never came true during one's lifetime.

بیچاره آرزوی دیدن نوه اش را به گور برد.

Informal/Sad
"دنیای آرزو"

— A world of wishes. A state of being full of hope and dreams.

او در دنیای آرزوهای خودش زندگی می‌کند.

Poetic
"سقف آرزوها"

— The ceiling of wishes. The maximum limit of what one hopes for.

سقف آرزوهای او خیلی بلند است.

Modern/Journalistic
"آرزوهای بر باد رفته"

— Wishes gone to the wind. Dreams that have been destroyed or lost.

او به آرزوهای بر باد رفته‌اش فکر می‌کرد.

Literary
"کعبه آرزوها"

— The Kaaba of wishes. A metaphorical destination or goal that everyone desires.

این شهر برای بسیاری کعبه آرزوهاست.

Literary
"مرغ آرزو"

— The bird of wish. A poetic symbol for one's desires taking flight.

مرغ آرزویش به پرواز درآمد.

Poetic
"آرزوی محال"

— An impossible wish.

این یک آرزوی محال است که برف در تابستان ببارد.

Neutral

Easily Confused

آرزو داشتن vs آرزو کردن

Both mean 'to wish'.

Ārezu dāshtan is the state of having a wish, while ārezu kardan is the act of making a wish.

من آرزو دارم (I have a wish). من آرزو کردم (I made a wish).

آرزو داشتن vs میل داشتن

Both express desire.

Meyl dāshtan is more about appetite or polite inclination.

میل داری غذا بخوری؟

آرزو داشتن vs هوس کردن

Both express desire.

Havas kardan is a sudden craving or whim, usually for food or fun.

هوس بستنی کردم.

آرزو داشتن vs قصد داشتن

Both involve the future.

Qasd dāshtan is 'to intend' or 'to plan', which is more concrete than a wish.

قصد دارم فردا بروم.

آرزو داشتن vs تمنا کردن

Both mean wishing/desiring.

Tamannā kardan is an intense, humble pleading or begging.

او تمنا کرد که بمانم.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Subject] آرزو دارد.

علی آرزو دارد.

A2

[Subject] آرزو دارد که [Subjunctive].

او آرزو دارد که بیاید.

B1

[Subject] آرزو داشت که [Subjunctive].

ما آرزو داشتیم که ببریم.

B2

[Subject] آرزوی [Noun] را دارد.

او آرزوی موفقیت شما را دارد.

C1

در آرزوی [Noun] بودن

او در آرزوی دیدار بود.

C2

آرزو داشتن برای [Abstract Noun]

آرزو داشتن برای جاودانگی.

Mixed

آیا [Subject] آرزو دارد؟

آیا تو آرزو داری؟

Mixed

هیچ [Subject] آرزویی ندارد.

او هیچ آرزویی ندارد.

Word Family

Nouns

آرزو (ārezu) - wish
آرزومند (ārezumand) - wisher/desirous person

Verbs

آرزو کردن (ārezu kardan) - to make a wish (action-oriented)

Adjectives

آرزومندانه (ārezumandāne) - wishfully/wistfully
آرزویی (ārezuyi) - related to wishes

Related

امید (omid) - hope
رویا (royā) - dream
هدف (hadaf) - goal
قصد (qasd) - intention
خواهش (khāhesh) - request

How to Use It

frequency

High (Common in daily life, literature, and media).

Common Mistakes
  • Man ārezu midāram. Man ārezu dāram.

    In the present tense, 'dāshtan' does not take the 'mi-' prefix.

  • Ārezu dāram ke miravam. Ārezu dāram ke beravam.

    You must use the subjunctive mood ('beravam') after a wish.

  • Ārezu-ye māshin dāram. Ārezu-ye dāshtan-e māshin dāram.

    While 'ārezu-ye māshin' is okay, adding the infinitive 'dāshtan' makes it clearer.

  • Ārezu dāram āb bokhoram. Meyl dāram āb bokhoram / Āb mikhāham.

    Don't use 'ārezu dāshtan' for simple, immediate needs like drinking water.

  • Vaqti bache budam, ārezu dāram... Vaqti bache budam, ārezu dāshtam...

    Use the past tense 'dāshtan' when talking about the past.

Tips

Subjunctive Alert

Always pair 'ārezu dāram' with a subjunctive verb if you're describing an action you wish to do.

Ārezu vs Khāstan

Remember: Khāstan is for 'I want water', Ārezu dāshtan is for 'I wish for world peace'.

Birthday Wishes

On birthdays, Persians say 'Be ārezu-hāt beresi' (May you reach your wishes) instead of just 'Happy Birthday'.

The Long Ā

Make sure the 'ā' in 'ārezu' is long and deep, like the 'a' in 'father'.

Compound Verb Logic

Only the 'dāshtan' part changes. 'Ārezu' stays exactly as it is.

Heartfelt Wishes

Use 'ārezu-ye qalbi' to show that your wish is very sincere and from the heart.

Song Lyrics

Listen for 'ārezu' in slow, emotional Persian ballads to hear it used in its most poetic form.

A-Real-Zoo

Mnemonic: 'A-Real-Zoo' is my big wish (ārezu).

Polite Wishes

Wishing someone success ('ārezu-ye movaffaqiyat') is a great way to show respect and kindness.

Intonation

When asking 'Ārezu dāri?', raise the pitch at the end to make it a question.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'A-RE-ZOO'. 'A' (A) 'RE' (Really) 'ZOO' (Zoo). Imagine you 'A-REally' want to go to the 'ZOO'. That's your big wish: Ārezu!

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing under a starry night sky, pointing at a shooting star. Inside their heart, the word 'آرزو' is glowing.

Word Web

Wish Dream Hope Aspiration Longing Desire Goal Future

Challenge

Write down three things you 'ārezu dārid' to do in the next five years, using the 'ke' + subjunctive structure.

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Persian 'ārizōg', which comes from Old Persian roots related to desire and seeking.

Original meaning: The original meaning in Middle Persian was 'desire' or 'longing,' often with a spiritual or intense emotional connotation.

Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Iranian -> West Iranian -> Persian.

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking about personal 'ārezu' in very formal or professional settings, as it can sometimes be seen as too personal or informal.

While English speakers use 'I wish' for regrets (I wish I had...), Persian uses 'ārezu dāshtan' primarily for future aspirations. For regrets, 'kāsh' or 'afsus' is more common.

The song 'Ārezu' by various Persian artists. Poetry of Hafez where he speaks of 'ārezu-ye vasl' (wish for union). The Iranian movie 'Ārezuhā-ye Zamini' (Earthly Wishes).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Birthdays

  • آرزو کن!
  • چه آرزویی داری؟
  • امیدوارم به آرزوهات برسی.
  • شمع‌ها رو فوت کن و آرزو کن.

Career/Education

  • آرزو دارم استاد شوم.
  • آرزوی موفقیت برای شما دارم.
  • او آرزوهای بزرگی برای شغلش دارد.
  • آرزو داشت در خارج درس بخواند.

Relationships

  • آرزو دارم همیشه با هم باشیم.
  • برای تو آرزوی خوشبختی دارم.
  • او آرزوی دیدن تو را دارد.
  • آرزوی من شادی توست.

New Year (Nowruz)

  • آرزوی سالی خوب دارم.
  • در سال نو چه آرزویی داری؟
  • آرزوی برکت و سلامتی دارم.
  • بهترین آرزوها برای سال جدید.

Difficult Times

  • آرزو دارم این روزها بگذرد.
  • فقط آرزوی سلامتی دارم.
  • آرزو داشتیم شرایط بهتر بود.
  • در آرزوی روزهای روشن.

Conversation Starters

"بزرگترین آرزوی تو در زندگی چیست؟ (What is your biggest wish in life?)"

"وقتی بچه بودی، چه آرزویی داشتی؟ (When you were a child, what wish did you have?)"

"آیا آرزویی داری که هنوز به آن نرسیده باشی؟ (Do you have a wish that you haven't reached yet?)"

"برای سال آینده چه آرزویی داری؟ (What wish do you have for next year?)"

"فکر می‌کنی آرزو داشتن چقدر در زندگی مهم است؟ (How important do you think having a wish is in life?)"

Journal Prompts

درباره یکی از آرزوهای دوران کودکی خود بنویسید که به حقیقت پیوسته است. (Write about one of your childhood wishes that came true.)

اگر می‌توانستید سه آرزو داشته باشید، آن‌ها چه بودند؟ (If you could have three wishes, what would they be?)

چگونه آرزوهای ما به ما کمک می‌کنند تا در زندگی پیشرفت کنیم؟ (How do our wishes help us progress in life?)

آیا آرزویی دارید که برای دیگران باشد؟ آن را توصیف کنید. (Do you have a wish that is for others? Describe it.)

تفاوت بین 'خواستن' و 'آرزو داشتن' از نظر شما چیست؟ (What is the difference between 'wanting' and 'having a wish' in your opinion?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that would sound very strange. Use 'khāstan' or 'meyl dāshtan' for ordering food. 'Ārezu dāshtan' is for big dreams.

Usually, yes. It expresses a human emotion. However, in literature, animals or even personified objects can have an 'ārezu'.

It is very common and recommended for clarity, but in informal speech, it is sometimes omitted if the meaning is clear.

'Ārezu' is a wish or desire, while 'omid' is hope. You can have a wish without hope, but hope usually follows a wish.

You would use 'kāsh' (if only) or 'afsus' (alas) followed by the past subjunctive. 'Ārezu dāshtan' is not typically used for regrets.

Yes, 'Ārezu' is a very popular female name in Iran and other Persian-speaking countries.

Yes, 'ārezuhā'. For example: 'Ārezuhā-ye man' (My wishes).

It's neutral. It can be used in both formal speeches and very casual conversations with friends.

Usually, 'ārezu' is for positive things. For bad things, words like 'tars' (fear) or 'negarāni' (worry) are used, though 'ārezu-ye marg' (death wish) is a known phrase.

The present stem is 'ārezu dār', and the past stem is 'ārezu dāsht'.

Test Yourself 185 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I wish to see you.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'She had a wish to be a doctor.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'What is your wish?'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'We wish for peace.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'They have many wishes.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I don't have any wish.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'Do you have a wish?'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I wish that it snows.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'He had a long-held wish.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I wish you success.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'May you reach your wishes.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'My wish is your happiness.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'They had a wish to travel.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I have a heartfelt wish.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'He wishes for freedom.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'We had a wish to win.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'Do they have a wish to stay?'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'I wish I could fly.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'She has a big wish.'

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writing

Write a sentence in Persian: 'What is his wish?'

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I have a wish.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'What is your wish?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I wish to go to Iran.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I wish you success.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'She had a wish to see you.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'We wish for peace.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say in Persian: 'Do you have a wish for the future?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I always had this wish.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'My biggest wish is health.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I wish that you be happy.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'They have a wish to travel.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I have no wish.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'He had a heartfelt wish.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'Do they have a wish to stay?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I wish I could help.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'What is her wish?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'We have a wish to win.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'I wish for the best for you.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say in Persian: 'He wishes for freedom.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say in Persian: 'Make a wish!'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'من آرزو ____ که تو را ببینم.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'او آرزو ____ دکتر شود.'

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listening

Listen and identify the tense: 'ما آرزو داشتیم.'

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listening

Listen and translate: 'آرزوی تو چیست؟'

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listening

Listen and write the noun: 'او آرزوی ____ دارد.' (Freedom)

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listening

Listen and identify the subject: 'آرزو دارند.'

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listening

Listen and translate: 'آرزوی قلبی من.'

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listening

Listen and write the subjunctive verb: 'آرزو دارم که ____.' (Go)

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listening

Listen and write the negative form: 'من آرزو ____.'

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listening

Listen and translate: 'آرزو بر جوانان عیب نیست.'

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listening

Listen and identify the object: 'آرزوی موفقیت دارم.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'آیا تو آرزو ____؟'

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listening

Listen and translate: 'به آرزویت رسیدی.'

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listening

Listen and identify the number: 'دو آرزو دارم.'

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listening

Listen and translate: 'آرزوی محال.'

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/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

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