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B2 conjunction 8 min read

به شرط

be sharte
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips به شرط in 30 Seconds
Explanation به شرط in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to worry too much about the complex grammar of 'به شرط' (be sharte). Instead, think of it as a special way to say 'if' when you are making a deal. For example, if you want to say 'I will play, IF you play,' you can use this word to show that there is a rule or a condition. You might hear it in very simple sentences like 'I eat, on condition of cake!' (meaning I'll only eat if there's cake). At this stage, just recognize that 'shart' means 'condition' or 'rule'. It is like saying 'I do this, but only if you do that.' It helps you start thinking about how sentences can be linked together. You don't need to master the subjunctive mood yet; just try to recognize the sound 'be sharte' when people are talking about rules or making simple plans. It's a useful word to know for basic shopping or playing games with friends where rules are important.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'به شرط اینکه' (be sharte inke) to connect two simple ideas. You are likely learning how to express your needs and preferences. This phrase is perfect for that. For example, 'I will go to the park, provided that it is sunny.' You should start noticing that after this phrase, the verb often sounds a bit different—this is the beginning of the subjunctive mood. Don't worry if you don't get the verb ending perfect every time, but try to use 'inke' as a bridge between the condition and the action. You will find this very useful when talking to teachers or friends about your schedule. It's also great for basic bargaining in a shop. If a seller gives you a price, you can say 'I buy, provided that you give a discount.' This shows you are moving beyond the most basic Persian and starting to use more natural, adult-like expressions for making agreements.
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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'به شرط اینکه' in both spoken and written Persian. You are now expected to use the subjunctive mood correctly most of the time after this conjunction. For example, instead of saying 'be sharte inke miravi' (incorrect), you should say 'be sharte inke beravi' (correct). At this level, you can use the word to describe more complex situations, like workplace rules or social commitments. You can also start using the variation 'به شرطی که' (be sharti ke), which is very common in conversation. This is the stage where you move from just 'making deals' to 'explaining requirements.' You might use it in an email to a colleague: 'I can finish the report by tomorrow, provided that I receive the data today.' It helps your Persian sound more logical and structured. You are also starting to see how this word differs from the simple 'agar' (if) by adding a layer of 'requirement' or 'necessity' to the condition.
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At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'به شرط'. You understand that it implies a formal or semi-formal 'contractual' feeling. You can use it fluently to set boundaries and negotiate complex terms. You should also be able to use it at the beginning of sentences for rhetorical effect ('Provided that we all agree, we shall proceed...'). At this stage, you should also be aware of its usage in idiomatic expressions, such as 'be sharte chäqu' (buying fruit on condition of testing it). Your use of the subjunctive should be automatic and error-free in this context. You can distinguish between 'be sharte inke' (neutral/formal) and 'be sharti ke' (more colloquial). You are also able to understand the word when it appears in more dense texts like news articles or legal warnings. This word is a key part of your ability to engage in 'argumentative' Persian—where you are building a case or setting specific terms for a discussion or a project.
At the C1 level, you use 'به شرط' with precision and stylistic flair. You might use the more literary version 'به شرط آنکه' (be sharte änke) in formal essays or speeches to create a sophisticated tone. You understand the historical and legal weight of the word 'shart' and can use it in philosophical or abstract discussions. You can easily switch between 'be sharte', 'dar surati ke', and 'mashrut bar inke' depending on the exact register required. You are also sensitive to the cultural implications of using this word; you know that in a 'Ta'arof' situation, stating a condition too bluntly with 'be sharte' might be seen as aggressive, so you know how to soften it or use it strategically. You can analyze literature or legal documents that use this conjunction to create complex conditional hierarchies. Your mastery of the subjunctive following this phrase is not just about grammar, but about conveying the exact degree of possibility or necessity you intend.
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At the C2 level, 'به شرط' is a tool you use with the mastery of a native speaker. You understand its deepest roots in Arabic logic and how it has been integrated into the Persian linguistic soul. You can use it in high-level legal drafting, complex academic synthesis, or poetic composition. You are aware of archaic uses and how they differ from modern legal standards. You can use the phrase to create subtle irony or to set extremely precise, multi-layered conditions in a philosophical argument. You also understand the relationship between this conjunction and other related concepts like 'mashrutiyat' (constitutionalism) in Iranian history. For you, the word is no longer just a conjunction; it's a concept that represents the Iranian approach to agreements, law, and social contracts. You can effortlessly navigate the most formal 'mashrut bar inke' and the most colloquial 'be sharti ke' without a second thought, always choosing the one that fits the cultural and situational context perfectly.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

به شرط in 30 Seconds

  • A vital conjunction meaning 'provided that' or 'on condition that' used for requirements.
  • Commonly used as 'به شرط اینکه' (be sharte inke) followed by the subjunctive mood.
  • Essential for bargaining, making deals, and setting professional or personal boundaries in Persian.
  • More formal and specific than the general word 'اگر' (if) for conditional situations.

The Persian conjunction به شرط (be sharte) is a fundamental building block for expressing conditional logic in both spoken and written Persian. Literally translating to 'to the condition,' it functions identically to the English phrases 'provided that,' 'on condition that,' or 'as long as.' It is used when an action or situation is entirely dependent on another specific requirement being met first. In the hierarchy of Persian conditionals, it sits slightly higher in formality than the simple word اگر (agar - if), as it explicitly highlights the 'condition' (shart) itself.

Core Meaning
Establishing a mandatory prerequisite for an outcome. It links a result to a specific requirement.
Syntactic Role
It acts as a subordinating conjunction, usually followed by the subjunctive mood in the dependent clause.

In everyday life, Iranians use this phrase in negotiations, promises, and parental instructions. For example, a parent might tell a child they can go out 'provided that' they finish their homework. In business, it appears in contracts to specify terms of agreement. Because Persian culture often involves complex social negotiations (related to Ta'arof), being able to clearly state conditions using به شرط is essential for clarity and setting boundaries.

من با تو می‌آیم، به شرط اینکه زود برگردیم. (I will come with you, provided that we return early.)

Understanding the nuance of this word involves recognizing its Arabic root 'Shart' (condition), which is a cornerstone of Islamic law and Persian philosophy. When you use به شرط, you are not just saying 'if'; you are invoking a specific term or agreement. It implies a sense of commitment and expectation that 'اگر' (agar) does not always carry. While 'اگر' can be used for hypothetical or unlikely scenarios, به شرط is usually used for realistic, negotiable conditions in the present or future.

وام را می‌دهیم به شرط ارائه ضامن. (We give the loan on condition of providing a guarantor.)

Register
Standard/Neutral. It is perfectly acceptable in formal writing, legal documents, and casual conversation.

In summary, this phrase is the key to expressing 'terms and conditions' in Persian. Whether you are bargaining in a bazaar or discussing a project at work, be sharte allows you to create structured, conditional agreements that are clear and culturally appropriate.

Using به شرط correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and the 'inke/änke' bridge. In most sentences, it connects two clauses: the main result and the condition. The condition clause usually follows the conjunction. For English speakers, the most important thing to remember is the mandatory use of the subjunctive mood for the verb that follows the condition.

The 'Inke' Bridge
In modern Persian, we almost always say 'به شرط اینکه' (be sharte inke) before a full sentence. 'Inke' acts like the English 'that'.

می‌توانی تلویزیون ببینی به شرط اینکه مشق‌هایت را تمام کنی. (You can watch TV provided that you finish your homework.)

Note that in the example above, the verb 'تمام کنی' (tamäm koni) is in the present subjunctive mood. This is because the condition is an unfulfilled possibility or requirement. If you were to use the simple present or future tense here, it would sound ungrammatical to a native ear. This 'subjunctive trigger' is a key feature of B2-level Persian proficiency.

Another common pattern is placing the condition at the beginning of the sentence for emphasis. This is very common in formal speeches or legal warnings. When you start with the condition, the 'inke' remains, and the main clause follows after a short pause.

به شرط اینکه باران نبارد، ما به پیکنیک خواهیم رفت. (Provided that it doesn't rain, we will go on a picnic.)

Negation
To say 'provided that NOT,' simply negate the subjunctive verb in the conditional clause (e.g., 'نروی' - provided you don't go).

Lastly, in business or legal contexts, you will see 'به شرط' used to modify nouns directly. For example, 'خرید به شرط چاقو' (buying on condition of the knife) is a famous bazaar idiom meaning you can test a fruit (like a watermelon) with a knife before buying it to ensure it's ripe. This shows how versatile the phrase is across different grammatical structures.

You will encounter به شرط in almost every facet of Iranian life. It is not an 'academic-only' word; it is a practical tool for everyday negotiation. One of the most common places to hear it is in the Grand Bazaar or any local market. Iranians love to negotiate, and 'be sharte' is the language of the deal.

این فرش را می‌خرم، به شرط اینکه تخفیف بدهید. (I will buy this carpet, on the condition that you give a discount.)

Beyond the market, you will hear it in academic settings. Professors use it to set terms for assignments or exams. For instance, 'You can submit the paper late, provided that you have a doctor's note.' In this context, it sounds professional and authoritative. It is much more precise than 'agar' (if), which might sound too casual or hypothetical for a formal instruction.

In Iranian cinema and literature, be sharte is often used in dramatic moments—the 'ultimatum.' A character might say, 'I will forgive you, on the condition that you never see him again.' This usage highlights the weight and seriousness the phrase carries. It creates a verbal contract between characters that the audience recognizes as legally or morally binding.

Legal/Official
Contracts often state 'به شرط رعایت مفاد...' (On condition of observing the clauses...).
Daily Life
'I'll come to the party, provided my car is fixed.'

Finally, you'll hear it in religious or philosophical discourses. Many spiritual promises in Persian literature are framed with 'be sharte,' suggesting that divine grace or enlightenment is accessible 'on the condition' of sincere effort or purity of heart. This adds a layer of depth to the word that goes beyond simple grammar.

Learning به شرط is relatively straightforward for English speakers because it mirrors 'provided that,' but there are several pitfalls that can make your Persian sound 'foreign' or grammatically incorrect. The most frequent error involves the verb mood following the conjunction.

Mistake 1: Forgetting the Subjunctive
English speakers often use the indicative (simple present) because 'provided that' doesn't always require a mood change in English. In Persian, 'به شرط اینکه می‌روی' (incorrect) must be 'به شرط اینکه بروی' (correct).

Incorrect: کمک می‌کنم به شرطی که می‌خوانی.
Correct: کمک می‌کنم به شرطی که بخوانی.

Another mistake is the confusion between به شرط اینکه and به شرطی که. While both are used, 'به شرطی که' (be sharti ke) is slightly more common in spoken Persian. However, learners often forget the 'i' (ye-e-nesbat) in the middle, saying 'به شرط که,' which is incorrect. You must either use the ezafe 'به شرطِ اینکه' or the 'i' suffix 'به شرطی که'.

A third common error is using به شرط when a simple اگر (if) is more appropriate. Use 'be sharte' when there is a specific, negotiated requirement. Using it for general hypotheticals like 'If it rains, the grass gets wet' sounds overly dramatic and unnatural. Use it for human agreements or specific prerequisites.

Mistake 4: Word Order
Placing the condition in the middle of the main clause. In Persian, the conjunction should clearly separate the two clauses, or start the sentence.

Finally, avoid overusing the formal 'آنکه' (änke) in casual conversation. While 'به شرط آنکه' is beautiful in literature, it sounds a bit stiff when you're just asking a friend to borrow a book. Stick to 'به شرط اینکه' or 'به شرطی که' for a more natural, B2-level flow.

Persian has several ways to express conditions, and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey. به شرط is just one tool in your toolkit.

اگر (Agar)
The most common word for 'if'. It is general and can be used for any condition, whereas 'be sharte' is more specific to requirements.
در صورتی که (Dar surati ke)
Literally 'in the case that'. This is more formal than 'agar' and often used in professional emails or academic writing. It's a close synonym to 'be sharte' but feels slightly more clinical.
چنانچه (Chenänche)
A very formal, literary version of 'if'. You will see this in law books and classical poetry. It is much more formal than 'be sharte'.

Comparison:
1. اگر وقت داری بیا. (Come if you have time - casual)
2. به شرطی که وقت داری بیا. (Come provided you have time - emphasizes the condition)
3. در صورتی که وقت دارید، تشریف بیاورید. (In the event you have time, please come - formal)

Another interesting alternative is مشروط بر اینکه (mashrut bar inke). This is the adjectival form of 'shart' and is extremely formal. It is almost exclusively used in legal contracts or high-level diplomatic correspondence. If 'be sharte' is 'provided that,' 'mashrut bar inke' is 'contingent upon the fact that.'

Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate social hierarchies in Iran. Using the right conditional word shows respect for the context and your interlocutor. While 'be sharte' is versatile, knowing when to upgrade to 'dar surati ke' or simplify to 'agar' is a sign of true linguistic competence.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"پذیرش دانشجو به شرط قبولی در مصاحبه است."

Neutral

"می‌آیم به شرط اینکه زود برگردیم."

Informal

"باشه، به شرطی که تو حساب کنی!"

Child friendly

"جایزه می‌گیری به شرط اینکه پسر خوبی باشی."

Slang

"می‌زنم به چاک، به شرطی که پلیس نیاد."

Fun Fact

The word 'Shart' is also used for betting. In historical times, a 'shart' was a physical mark left to indicate a boundary or a deal.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /be ʃart/
US /be ʃɑːrt/
The stress is typically on the second syllable: 'shart'.
Rhymes With
کارت (kärt) پارت (pärt) شصت (shast - near rhyme) تخت (takht - near rhyme) وقت (vaqt - near rhyme) سخت (sakht - near rhyme) بخت (bakht - near rhyme) رخت (rakht - near rhyme)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'shart' like the English vulgar slang. In Persian, it is a perfectly clean and formal word.
  • Vowel length: The 'a' in 'shart' is a short 'a' (fatha) in many dialects, or a long 'ä' depending on regional accent.
  • Mumbling the 'be': The 'be' should be distinct but quick.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'r': The Persian 'r' is a tap, not a deep American 'r'.
  • Treating it as one word: It is two words 'be' and 'shart' with an ezafe link when followed by 'inke'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts, but requires understanding of clause structure.

Writing 4/5

Requires mastery of the subjunctive mood which can be tricky for learners.

Speaking 3/5

Very useful and common; once the pattern is learned, it is easy to deploy.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

اگر (if) شرط (condition) باید (must) باشم (to be - subjunctive)

Learn Next

در صورتی که (in case that) با وجود اینکه (despite the fact that) به طوری که (so that)

Advanced

مشروطیت (constitutionalism) الزام‌آور (binding) مفاد قرارداد (contract clauses)

Grammar to Know

Subjunctive Mood

After 'be sharte inke', the verb must be in the subjunctive (e.g., بروم, بکنی).

Ezafe Construction

The 'e' in 'be sharte' is an ezafe connecting 'shart' to 'inke'.

Negative Subjunctive

To negate, use 'na' prefix on the subjunctive verb (e.g., 'نروی').

Sentence Initial Position

The conditional clause can come first for emphasis.

Inke Complementizer

'Inke' is used to introduce the subordinate clause.

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Examples by Level

1

من می‌آیم به شرط اینکه تو هم بیایی.

I am coming provided that you also come.

Simple use of 'be sharte inke' for a deal.

2

غذا می‌خورم به شرط اینکه خوشمزه باشد.

I will eat provided that it is delicious.

Basic condition for an action.

3

بازی می‌کنیم به شرط اینکه من اول باشم.

We will play provided that I am first.

Using a condition to set a rule.

4

کتاب را می‌دهم به شرط اینکه زود برگردانی.

I will give the book provided that you return it soon.

A simple borrow-and-return condition.

5

می‌خوابم به شرط اینکه چراغ خاموش باشد.

I will sleep provided that the light is off.

A condition for comfort.

6

بستنی می‌خرم به شرط اینکه پسر خوبی باشی.

I will buy ice cream provided that you are a good boy.

Parental condition.

7

می‌روم به شرط اینکه باران نیاید.

I will go provided that it doesn't rain.

Weather-based condition.

8

می‌خوانم به شرط اینکه ساکت باشی.

I will read provided that you are quiet.

Condition for focus.

1

می‌توانی بیرون بروی به شرطی که تکالیفت را انجام بدهی.

You can go out on the condition that you do your assignments.

Use of 'be sharti ke' with subjunctive.

2

پول را می‌دهم به شرطی که فردا پس بدهی.

I will give the money on condition that you give it back tomorrow.

Simple financial condition.

3

کمکت می‌کنم به شرط اینکه به من یاد بدهی.

I'll help you provided that you teach me.

Reciprocal condition.

4

ماشین را می‌فروشم به شرط اینکه نقد بدهید.

I'll sell the car on condition that you pay in cash.

Sales condition.

5

با تو صحبت می‌کنم به شرط اینکه عصبانی نشوی.

I will talk to you provided that you don't get angry.

Emotional condition.

6

می‌توانی میوه بخوری به شرط اینکه دست‌هایت را بشویی.

You can eat fruit on condition that you wash your hands.

Hygiene condition.

7

فیلم را می‌بینیم به شرط اینکه ترسناک نباشد.

We'll watch the movie provided that it's not scary.

Preference condition.

8

در را باز می‌کنم به شرط اینکه خودت باشی.

I'll open the door provided that it's you.

Identity condition.

1

او با ما همکاری می‌کند به شرط آنکه حقوقش افزایش یابد.

He will cooperate with us provided that his salary increases.

Formal 'be sharte änke' with passive/subjunctive.

2

می‌توانی از لپ‌تاپ استفاده کنی به شرطی که مراقب باشی.

You can use the laptop provided that you are careful.

Condition of care.

3

سفر می‌رویم به شرط اینکه بلیت ارزان پیدا کنیم.

We will go on a trip provided that we find a cheap ticket.

Financial possibility condition.

4

او قول داد بیاید به شرط اینکه علی هم باشد.

He promised to come provided that Ali is also there.

Social condition.

5

رژیم می‌گیرم به شرط اینکه تو هم با من ورزش کنی.

I will go on a diet provided that you exercise with me too.

Mutual commitment condition.

6

خانه را اجاره می‌کنم به شرط اینکه صاحب‌خانه آن را رنگ کند.

I'll rent the house on condition that the landlord paints it.

Rental agreement condition.

7

می‌توانی در جلسه شرکت کنی به شرط اینکه وقت‌شناس باشی.

You can attend the meeting provided that you are punctual.

Professional condition.

8

پروژه را قبول می‌کنم به شرط اینکه زمان کافی داشته باشم.

I will accept the project provided that I have enough time.

Resource-based condition.

1

دولت با طرح موافقت کرد به شرط آنکه بودجه تأمین شود.

The government agreed to the plan provided that the budget is secured.

Formal political context.

2

او به شرطی مسئولیت را پذیرفت که اختیارات کامل داشته باشد.

He accepted the responsibility on condition that he has full authority.

Condition of authority.

3

ما می‌توانیم قرارداد را امضا کنیم به شرط اینکه تمام بندها بررسی شوند.

We can sign the contract provided that all clauses are reviewed.

Legal review condition.

4

به شرط اینکه هوا مساعد باشد، عملیات نجات آغاز خواهد شد.

Provided that the weather is favorable, the rescue operation will begin.

Sentence-initial condition.

5

می‌توانی در آزمون شرکت کنی به شرط اینکه پیش‌نیازها را گذرانده باشی.

You can take the exam provided that you have passed the prerequisites.

Academic prerequisite condition.

6

او حاضر است ببخشد به شرط اینکه خطاکار عذرخواهی کند.

He is willing to forgive on condition that the wrongdoer apologizes.

Moral condition.

7

سرمایه‌گذاری می‌کنیم به شرط اینکه ریسک آن کم باشد.

We will invest provided that the risk is low.

Investment condition.

8

به شرطی می‌توانی رانندگی کنی که گواهینامه داشته باشی.

You can drive only on the condition that you have a license.

Legal requirement condition.

1

توسعه پایدار میسر است به شرط آنکه منابع طبیعی حفظ گردند.

Sustainable development is possible provided that natural resources are preserved.

High-level academic/environmental context.

2

آزادی بیان ارزشمند است به شرط اینکه مخل حقوق دیگران نشود.

Freedom of speech is valuable provided that it does not infringe upon the rights of others.

Philosophical/legal nuance.

3

مذاکرات ادامه می‌یابد به شرطی که طرفین به تعهدات خود پایبند باشند.

Negotiations will continue provided that both parties adhere to their commitments.

Diplomatic register.

4

به شرط آنکه زیرساخت‌ها آماده باشند، تکنولوژی جدید وارد خواهد شد.

Provided that the infrastructure is ready, new technology will be introduced.

Technical/Infrastructural condition.

5

صلح پایدار خواهد بود به شرط اینکه عدالت در جامعه برقرار شود.

Peace will be lasting provided that justice is established in society.

Sociopolitical condition.

6

او به شرطی به این مقام منصوب شد که اصلاحات گسترده‌ای انجام دهد.

He was appointed to this position on condition that he carries out extensive reforms.

Administrative condition.

7

علم مفید است به شرط آنکه در راه خدمت به بشریت باشد.

Science is useful provided that it is in the service of humanity.

Ethical/Philosophical condition.

8

به شرطی می‌توان به موفقیت رسید که پشتکار و صبر داشت.

One can achieve success only on the condition of having perseverance and patience.

Abstract condition for success.

1

تحقق دموکراسی به شرطی ممکن است که نهادهای مدنی تقویت شوند.

The realization of democracy is possible on the condition that civil institutions are strengthened.

Complex sociopolitical analysis.

2

مشروطیت در ایران به شرطی به پیروزی رسید که اتحاد طبقات مختلف حفظ شد.

Constitutionalism in Iran succeeded on the condition that the unity of various classes was maintained.

Historical/Academic analysis.

3

به شرط آنکه مبانی اخلاقی رعایت نگردد، تمدن دچار فروپاشی خواهد شد.

Provided that moral foundations are not observed, civilization will collapse.

Philosophical warning/Subjunctive negation.

4

رشد اقتصادی به شرطی مستمر خواهد بود که بهره‌وری افزایش یابد.

Economic growth will be continuous on condition that productivity increases.

Macroeconomic condition.

5

به شرط آنکه حقیقت پنهان بماند، عدالت هرگز اجرا نخواهد شد.

As long as the truth remains hidden, justice will never be served.

Abstract legal/ethical principle.

6

سعادت بشر به شرطی حاصل می‌شود که خرد بر خشم چیره گردد.

Human happiness is attained on condition that reason triumphs over anger.

Classical philosophical style.

7

به شرطی می‌توان از بحران عبور کرد که مدیریت یکپارچه اعمال شود.

The crisis can be overcome only on condition that integrated management is applied.

Crisis management terminology.

8

هنر به شرطی ماندگار است که از روح زمانه فراتر رود.

Art is enduring provided that it transcends the spirit of the age.

Aesthetic theory.

Common Collocations

به شرط چاقو
به شرط آنکه
به شرط حیات
به شرط تملیک
به شرطی که
به شرطِ رعایتِ
به شرطِ پرداختِ
به شرطِ تاییدِ
به شرطِ موفقیتِ
به شرطِ سلامتِ

Common Phrases

به شرطی که قول بدهی

— On the condition that you promise.

می‌گویم، به شرطی که قول بدهی به کسی نگویی.

به شرط اینکه وقت داشته باشم

— Provided that I have time.

می‌آیم به شرط اینکه وقت داشته باشم.

به شرط اینکه باران نبارد

— Provided that it doesn't rain.

پیکنیک می‌رویم به شرط اینکه باران نبارد.

به شرط اینکه فراموش نکنی

— On condition that you don't forget.

کتاب را ببر به شرط اینکه فراموش نکنی بیاوری.

به شرط اینکه همه موافق باشند

— Provided that everyone agrees.

جلسه را برگزار می‌کنیم به شرط اینکه همه موافق باشند.

به شرط اینکه زود برگردی

— On condition that you return early.

برو بیرون به شرط اینکه زود برگردی.

به شرط اینکه حقیقت را بگویی

— Provided that you tell the truth.

می‌بخشمت به شرط اینکه حقیقت را بگویی.

به شرط اینکه مراقب باشی

— On condition that you are careful.

ماشین را بردار به شرط اینکه مراقب باشی.

به شرط اینکه هزینه را بدهی

— Provided that you pay the cost.

انجام می‌دهم به شرط اینکه هزینه را بدهی.

به شرط اینکه لازم باشد

— On condition that it is necessary.

تغییر می‌دهیم به شرط اینکه لازم باشد.

Often Confused With

به شرط vs اگر (Agar)

Agar is 'if' (general). Be sharte is 'provided that' (specific requirement).

به شرط vs با شرط (Ba Shart)

Non-standard. Always use 'be' (to) as the preposition for the conjunction.

به شرط vs شاید (Shäyad)

Means 'maybe'. Do not confuse the uncertainty of 'maybe' with the requirement of 'condition'.

Idioms & Expressions

"به شرط چاقو"

— Guaranteed quality (literally: 'on condition of the knife', testing fruit).

این هندوانه به شرط چاقو است.

Colloquial/Market
"به شرط حیات"

— If I'm still alive (humble way of planning for the future).

سال دیگر می‌بینمت، به شرط حیات.

Traditional
"شرطِ ادب"

— The requirement of politeness.

شرط ادب این است که سلام کنی.

Formal
"شرطِ عقل"

— The dictate of reason/wisdom.

شرط عقل این است که احتیاط کنی.

General
"یک شرط داشتن"

— To have one condition/requirement.

من فقط یک شرط دارم.

General
"شرط بستن"

— To make a bet (related to 'shart').

شرط می‌بندم که او نمی‌آید.

General
"شرط و شروط"

— Terms and conditions (often pluralized for emphasis).

خیلی شرط و شروط گذاشت.

General
"بی‌قید و شرط"

— Unconditionally.

تسلیم بی‌قید و شرط.

Formal/Military
"شرطِ بلاغ"

— The minimum requirement for conveying a message.

من گفتم، این شرط بلاغ بود.

Literary
"به شرطِ مزد"

— On condition of payment/wage.

کار می‌کنم به شرط مزد.

General

Easily Confused

به شرط vs شرط (Shart)

It can mean a bet or a condition.

In 'be sharte', it always means condition. In 'shart bastan', it means betting.

شرط بستم (I bet) vs به شرط اینکه (provided that).

به شرط vs شرح (Sharh)

Sounds similar.

Sharh means explanation or description, not condition.

شرح دادم (I explained).

به شرط vs شرق (Sharq)

Sounds similar.

Sharq means East.

مشرق زمین (The East).

به شرط vs شرب (Sharb)

Sounds similar.

Sharb relates to drinking (Arabic root).

شربت (Syrup/Drink).

به شرط vs شرطی (Sharti)

Adjective form.

Sharti means 'conditional' (e.g., conditional sentence), whereas 'be sharte' is the conjunction.

جمله شرطی (Conditional sentence).

Sentence Patterns

A1

Action + به شرط + Noun

بستنی به شرطِ جایزه.

A2

Action + به شرط اینکه + Simple Subjunctive

می‌آیم به شرط اینکه باشی.

B1

Action + به شرطی که + Present Subjunctive

کمک می‌کنم به شرطی که یاد بگیری.

B2

به شرط اینکه + Subjunctive, + Future Result

به شرط اینکه بروی، من هم خواهم آمد.

C1

Result + به شرط آنکه + Complex Subjunctive

توسعه ممکن است به شرط آنکه زیرساخت‌ها فراهم گردند.

C2

Noun Phrase + مشروط بر اینکه + Subjunctive

پیروزی مشروط بر اینکه اتحاد حفظ شود.

B2

Negative Condition + به شرط اینکه + Negative Subjunctive

می‌مانم به شرط اینکه نروی.

B1

Interrogative + به شرط اینکه...

قبول می‌کنی به شرط اینکه پول بدهم؟

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

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How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both legal/formal and daily conversational Persian.

Common Mistakes
  • به شرط اینکه می‌روی → به شرط اینکه بروی

    Using indicative instead of subjunctive mood.

  • به شرط که → به شرط اینکه / به شرطی که

    Missing the 'inke' or the 'i' suffix to connect the clauses.

  • با شرط اینکه → به شرط اینکه

    Using the wrong preposition ('ba' instead of 'be').

  • Using 'be sharte' for 'maybe' → Using 'shäyad' for 'maybe'

    'Be sharte' is for conditions, not for expressing uncertainty.

  • به شرط چاقو (for a car) → به شرط سلامت فنی

    'Be sharte chäqu' is specifically for fruit/watermelons; don't use it for non-food items.

Tips

Subjunctive Alert

Always remember: Be Sharte Inke + Subjunctive. This is the most important rule for B2 learners.

Bazaar Bargaining

Use 'be sharte' when you want to make a firm deal with a shopkeeper. It shows you know how to negotiate.

Formal Variation

Use 'به شرط آنکه' in your writing to instantly elevate the register of your Persian.

Inke vs Sharti

In fast conversation, 'be sharti ke' flows better. Practice saying it as one word: 'beshartike'.

Noun usage

Remember that 'shart' itself is a noun meaning 'condition'. You can have many 'sharthä' (conditions).

Context Clues

If you hear 'shart', look for the 'deal' being made. It's almost always about an agreement.

The 'T' is for Terms

SharT = Terms. 'Be Sharte' = By the Terms.

Don't Overuse

For simple 'if' scenarios, stick to 'agar'. Save 'be sharte' for when there's a real requirement.

Mashrutiyat

Connect the word to 'Mashruteh' (Constitution) to remember its legal and historical weight.

Practice Patterns

Write five sentences today starting with 'به شرط اینکه' to master the word order.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Be Sharte' as 'Be Sure To...' (Be sure to do X, on the condition that...). The 'Sh' in Shart and the 'C' in Condition are both strong consonants.

Visual Association

Imagine a handshake between two people where one person is holding a paper labeled 'SHART' (the condition). The result only happens when the paper is signed.

Word Web

Agreement Contract Requirement If Condition Negotiation Bargaining Rule

Challenge

Try to use 'be sharte inke' three times today: once for a meal, once for a plan with a friend, and once for a work/study goal.

Word Origin

Derived from the Arabic root 'sh-r-t' (ش ر ط), which relates to marking, signaling, or stipulating. It entered Persian through Islamic legal and philosophical influence.

Original meaning: A sign, a mark, or a mandatory stipulation in a contract.

Semitic (root) integrated into Indo-European (Persian grammar).

Cultural Context

It is a neutral and safe word to use. However, in very delicate social situations, stating conditions too firmly might seem less 'polite' than using a softer 'agar' (if).

Similar to 'provided that' in English, but used more frequently in daily negotiations than its English counterpart.

The Mashruteh Revolution (Constitutional Revolution) Classical poems by Rumi about the conditions of love. Bazaar idioms like 'be sharte chäqu'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping/Bargaining

  • تخفیف بدهید به شرط اینکه...
  • می‌خرم به شرط اینکه...
  • به شرط چاقو
  • به شرط سلامت کالا

Work/Office

  • به شرط تایید مدیریت
  • به شرط تامین بودجه
  • به شرط رعایت مهلت
  • به شرط همکاری تیمی

Family/Rules

  • به شرط اینکه درست را بخوانی
  • به شرط اینکه زود بیایی
  • به شرط اینکه کمک کنی
  • به شرط اینکه قول بدهی

Legal/Contracts

  • به شرط تملیک
  • مشروط بر اینکه
  • به شرط رعایت مفاد
  • فسخ به شرط...

Travel/Weather

  • به شرط مساعد بودن هوا
  • به شرط پیدا کردن بلیت
  • به شرط اینکه هتل خوب باشد
  • به شرط همراهی دوستان

Conversation Starters

"من با این پیشنهاد موافقم، اما به شرط اینکه..."

"آیا می‌توانی به من کمک کنی، به شرط اینکه من هم..."

"ما می‌توانیم فردا به سینما برویم، به شرط اینکه..."

"به نظر تو، خوشبختی به شرط چیست؟"

"من این کار را انجام می‌دهم، فقط به شرطی که..."

Journal Prompts

در مورد هدفی بنویسید که می‌خواهید به آن برسید، به شرط اینکه سخت تلاش کنید.

یک قرارداد خیالی با خودتان بنویسید: 'من به خودم جایزه می‌دهم به شرط اینکه...'

آیا دوستی باید بی‌قید و شرط باشد یا به شرطِ وفاداری؟ چرا؟

شرایط لازم برای موفقیت در یادگیری زبان فارسی چیست؟ (استفاده از به شرط)

در مورد یک خاطره بنویسید که در آن چیزی را به شرطی قبول کردید.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, yes, if it is followed by a verb. If it is followed directly by a noun in a formal context, 'inke' is omitted (e.g., به شرطِ حیات).

'Be sharte inke' is slightly more formal and standard. 'Be sharti ke' is very common in spoken Persian. Both mean the same thing.

Yes. 'به شرط اینکه باران نبارد، می‌رویم' (Provided it doesn't rain, we'll go). This is common for emphasis.

Yes, but the condition itself usually refers to a requirement that was or is to be met, often still using a form of the subjunctive or perfect subjunctive.

No, it is not rude. It is clear and professional. However, in very soft 'Ta'arof' situations, people might use 'agar' to sound less demanding.

It is a famous bazaar idiom. It means 'guaranteed quality,' specifically referring to watermelons you can cut and taste before buying.

Yes, almost always. The verb in the clause following 'be sharte inke' should be in the subjunctive mood.

Absolutely. It is the perfect phrase for setting terms in a professional and clear way.

You can say 'بدون شرط' (bedune shart) or 'بی‌قید و شرط' (bi gheyd o shart).

Yes, it comes from Arabic but is fully integrated into Persian vocabulary and grammar.

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Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'be sharte inke' about going to the park.

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writing

Write a sentence about buying a car on condition of a discount.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about budget and projects.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'be sharti ke' about doing homework.

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writing

Translate: 'I will help you provided that you promise.'

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writing

Use 'be sharte inke' at the beginning of a sentence about rain.

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writing

Write a sentence about a job offer and salary.

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writing

Write an unconditional sentence using 'bi gheyd o shart'.

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writing

Write a sentence about borrowing a book.

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writing

Write a sentence about health and exercise.

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writing

Translate: 'Peace is possible provided that there is justice.'

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writing

Write a sentence using the idiom 'be sharte chäqu'.

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writing

Write a sentence about a child and ice cream.

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writing

Write a sentence about success and hard work.

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writing

Write a sentence about a secret.

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writing

Write a sentence about a meeting and punctuality.

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writing

Write a sentence about a trip and tickets.

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writing

Write a sentence about a laptop and care.

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writing

Write a sentence about a loan and a guarantor.

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writing

Write a sentence about a movie and its genre.

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speaking

Pronounce 'به شرط اینکه' correctly.

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speaking

Say: 'Provided that it is sunny' in Persian.

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speaking

Use 'be sharti ke' in a sentence about food.

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speaking

Explain the idiom 'be sharte chäqu' in Persian.

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speaking

Say: 'I'll come if you come' using 'be sharte'.

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speaking

Negotiate a discount in a shop using 'be sharte'.

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speaking

Set a rule for your child using 'be sharte'.

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speaking

Describe a professional condition for a project.

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speaking

Say 'unconditionally' in a sentence.

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speaking

Use 'be sharte änke' in a formal sentence.

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speaking

Ask a friend for a favor with a condition.

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speaking

Explain the difference between 'agar' and 'be sharte'.

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speaking

Say: 'Provided that I don't forget.'

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speaking

Say: 'On condition of technical health' (for a car).

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speaking

Use 'be sharte hayät' in a future plan.

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speaking

Say: 'Provided that everyone is happy.'

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speaking

Say: 'I will sign provided it is legal.'

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speaking

Say: 'Provided that you tell the truth.'

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speaking

Say: 'Only on this condition.'

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speaking

Say: 'Terms and conditions apply.'

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listening

Listen to the sentence: 'می‌آیم به شرط اینکه باشی.' What is the condition?

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listening

In the phrase 'به شرطی که نروی', is the person going or staying?

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listening

Identify the word 'shart' in the following audio clip.

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listening

What is the speaker's tone when saying 'به شرطی که...'? (Deal, Angry, Sad)

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listening

Does the speaker say 'be sharte inke' or 'be sharti ke'?

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listening

What item is being discussed in 'به شرط چاقو'?

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listening

Listen for the subjunctive verb: 'به شرط اینکه بخوانی'. What is it?

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listening

Is the sentence 'به شرط حیات' about the past or future?

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listening

What is the requirement in: 'به شرط پرداخت جریمه'?

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listening

Translate the heard sentence: 'به شرط اینکه باران نیاید.'

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listening

Identify the formal conjunction in the news clip.

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listening

How many conditions are mentioned in the recording?

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listening

Is the speaker using 'be sharte' in a casual or formal way?

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listening

What happens if the condition is not met in the story?

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listening

Identify the root of the word 'shart' as heard.

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