برهان in 30 Seconds
- Borhān: Proof, argument, demonstration.
- Used for strong, logical evidence.
- Common in academic, legal, and philosophical contexts.
- Implies certainty and conclusiveness.
The Persian word 'برهان' (borhān) is a powerful noun that translates to 'proof,' 'argument,' or 'demonstration' in English. It signifies a piece of evidence or reasoning that establishes the truth or validity of something. Think of it as the solid ground upon which a claim rests. It's used in various contexts, from academic discussions and legal proceedings to everyday reasoning and philosophical debates. When someone presents a 'برهان', they are offering a compelling case to support their assertion, aiming to convince others of its accuracy.
In academic settings, a 'برهان' is crucial for scientific theories, mathematical proofs, and logical arguments. A scientist might present a 'برهان' in the form of experimental data to support a hypothesis. A mathematician uses rigorous 'برهان' to prove theorems. In law, a lawyer constructs a 'برهان' using evidence and testimonies to persuade a judge or jury. Beyond these formal environments, 'برهان' is also used in more general discussions where one needs to justify a belief or an action. If you want to convince someone of your opinion on a matter, you would ideally provide them with a strong 'برهان'.
The word carries a sense of certainty and irrefutability. A good 'برهان' leaves little room for doubt. It's not just an opinion or a suggestion; it's a reasoned explanation that aims to be conclusive. The act of presenting a 'برهان' involves careful thought, logical structuring, and the presentation of supporting facts or principles. It's about building a case that is sound and convincing. When you hear 'برهان', imagine someone building a strong, logical bridge from a premise to a conclusion, making it undeniable.
- Formal Contexts
- Used in academic papers, legal arguments, philosophical treatises, and scientific research to denote logical proof or conclusive evidence.
- Informal Contexts
- Can be used in everyday conversations to refer to a strong reason or justification for a belief or action, though less common than in formal settings.
دانشمندان به دنبال برهان علمی برای تایید نظریه خود هستند.
Mastering 'برهان' involves understanding its grammatical role and how it fits into sentence structures. As a noun, it typically functions as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. The key is to see how it's used to denote a form of evidence or argumentation.
In many cases, 'برهان' is preceded by possessive pronouns or adjectives, indicating whose proof or argument it is. For example, 'برهان او' (borhān-e u) means 'his proof'. It can also be the object of verbs like 'ارائه کردن' (erā'e kardan - to present) or 'آوردن' (āvardan - to bring/provide). When used as a subject, it often leads the sentence, setting up a statement about its nature or significance.
Consider sentences where 'برهان' is used to justify a conclusion. The structure often involves stating a claim and then presenting the 'برهان' that supports it. For instance, 'این برهان نشان میدهد که او حق دارد.' (In borhān neshān midahad ke u haq dārad) - 'This proof shows that he is right.' Here, 'برهان' is the subject of 'نشان میدهد'.
- Subject of a Sentence
- The برهان presented was very convincing. (برهان ارائه شده بسیار قانع کننده بود.)
- Object of a Verb
- The lawyer needed a strong برهان to win the case. (وکیل برای پیروزی در پرونده به برهان محکمی نیاز داشت.)
- Complement
- His entire argument lacked a solid برهان. (کل استدلال او فاقد برهان مستحکم بود.)
آیا برهان کافی برای این ادعا وجود دارد؟
You'll most frequently encounter 'برهان' in formal and intellectual settings. Think of university lectures, debates, courtrooms, and serious discussions about philosophy, science, or religion. In these environments, the word is used to signify rigorous evidence or logical reasoning that aims to establish truth.
Imagine a university professor explaining a complex mathematical theorem. They would use the term 'برهان' to refer to the step-by-step logical deduction that proves the theorem's validity. Similarly, in a philosophical debate, participants might challenge each other to provide a 'برهان' for their claims, meaning they want a well-reasoned argument supported by evidence or established principles.
In legal contexts, 'برهان' is indispensable. Lawyers present evidence as 'برهان' to support their client's case. This could be anything from witness testimonies and forensic reports to documents and expert opinions. The strength of the 'برهان' presented directly impacts the outcome of the trial. Even in religious or theological discussions, 'برهان' is used to describe arguments or evidence that support religious doctrines or beliefs.
While less common in casual everyday chatter, you might hear it used metaphorically. Someone might say, 'The fact that he always arrives on time is a برهان of his discipline.' Here, it's used to mean strong evidence or a clear indication, even if not a formal logical proof. It elevates the reason from a mere observation to a definitive sign.
- Academic Discussions
- Used extensively in lectures, essays, and research papers in fields like mathematics, philosophy, and logic.
- Legal Proceedings
- Lawyers and judges use it when referring to evidence that establishes facts in a case.
- Religious and Theological Texts
- Found in discussions about the evidence for or against religious beliefs and doctrines.
- Formal Debates
- Participants often demand or present a 'برهان' to support their arguments.
در دادگاه، وکیل به دنبال برهان محکمی برای دفاع از موکل خود بود.
One common pitfall for learners is confusing 'برهان' with less formal terms for 'reason' or 'explanation.' While 'دلیل' (dalil) can sometimes overlap, 'برهان' implies a higher degree of logical rigor and conclusiveness. Using 'برهان' for a simple personal opinion or a weak justification would be an overstatement.
Another mistake is not recognizing the formal register of 'برهان'. While it can be used metaphorically, its primary usage is in contexts demanding logical solidity. Using it casually in a lighthearted conversation might sound overly academic or even pretentious. For instance, saying 'I have a برهان why we should eat pizza tonight' would be unusual; 'دلیل' (dalil - reason) or 'ایده' (ideh - idea) would be more appropriate.
Learners might also struggle with the grammatical construction. Forgetting to use the 'ezafe' construction when connecting 'برهان' to a possessive pronoun or another noun can lead to grammatical errors. For example, instead of 'برهانِ من' (borhān-e man - my proof), one might mistakenly say 'برهان من'. This is crucial for clarity and correctness in Persian.
Furthermore, mistaking 'برهان' for a synonym of 'evidence' in a general sense can be problematic. While evidence can form part of a 'برهان', 'برهان' itself is the structured argument or demonstration that uses that evidence to prove a point. It's the complete logical package, not just a single piece of data.
- Overuse in Informal Settings
- Using 'برهان' for everyday reasons or opinions, where 'دلیل' (reason) or 'خاطر' (khāter - for the sake of) would be more natural.
- Confusing with General Evidence
- Thinking 'برهان' is just a synonym for any kind of evidence, rather than a structured, logical argument built upon evidence.
- Grammatical Errors with Ezafe
- Incorrectly forming possessive phrases, e.g., saying 'برهان او' instead of 'برهانِ او'.
استفاده از برهان در بحثهای روزمره ممکن است غیرطبیعی به نظر برسد.
Understanding the nuances between 'برهان' and similar words is key to accurate usage. The most common alternative is 'دلیل' (dalil), which translates to 'reason' or 'cause.' While both can be used to justify a statement, 'دلیل' is much broader and can refer to any cause, motive, or reason, whether logical or not. 'برهان' specifically implies a logical, often formal, proof or demonstration.
For example, if someone asks why you are late, you might say 'دلیلش ترافیک بود' (dalilash tarāfik bud - the reason was traffic). This is a cause. However, if you are arguing a scientific hypothesis, you would present 'برهان' based on data and logical inference. You wouldn't typically use 'برهان' for everyday causes.
Another related term is 'استدلال' (estedlāl), meaning 'reasoning' or 'inference.' 'استدلال' is the process of arriving at a conclusion through logical steps. 'برهان' is often the *result* of sound 'استدلال', the actual proof itself. You use 'استدلال' to construct a 'برهان'.
'مدرک' (madrak) translates to 'document' or 'evidence,' often in a legal or official sense. While evidence ('مدرک') is crucial for building a 'برهان', 'مدرک' itself is not the argument or proof. It's a piece of information that can be used as part of a 'برهان'.
In a very formal philosophical or logical context, 'اثبات' (esbāt - proof) is a direct synonym for 'برهان', particularly when referring to the act or result of proving something mathematically or logically. However, 'برهان' often carries a slightly broader connotation of a well-reasoned argument or demonstration.
- برهان (borhān)
- A formal, logical proof or demonstration. Implies conclusiveness and rigor.
- دلیل (dalil)
- Reason, cause, motive. Much broader and can be informal. Used for everyday explanations.
- استدلال (estedlāl)
- Reasoning, inference, argumentation. The process of reaching a conclusion.
- مدرک (madrak)
- Evidence, document, proof (often in a legal or official context). A component of a larger argument.
- اثبات (esbāt)
- Proof, verification. Very close synonym, especially in mathematical or logical contexts.
برای اثبات ادعای خود، به برهان نیاز داریم، نه فقط دلیل شخصی.
How Formal Is It?
"این رساله به بررسی عمیق برهانهای متافیزیکی میپردازد."
"برای پذیرش این نظریه، به برهان قویتری نیاز داریم."
"خب، دلیلش چی بود؟ یعنی برهانش چی بود؟"
"وقتی چیزی رو ثابت میکنی، بهش میگن برهان. مثل اینکه چرا آسمون آبیه."
Fun Fact
The concept of 'burhān' is deeply rooted in Islamic philosophy and theology, where establishing proofs for religious tenets was a significant intellectual pursuit. Many classical Islamic scholars wrote extensively on logic and argumentation, often using the term 'burhān' extensively.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'o' as a long 'oh' sound.
- Omitting or mispronouncing the 'h' sound.
- Not stressing the second syllable.
- Confusing the 'r' sound with an English 'r'.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'برهان' is common in academic and formal texts. Understanding its nuances requires familiarity with logical argumentation and formal Persian vocabulary. Learners might encounter it in newspapers, academic articles, and literature.
Using 'برهان' correctly in writing requires a good grasp of its formal register and its distinction from words like 'دلیل'. It's best reserved for essays, formal reports, or arguments where logical rigor is essential.
In everyday conversation, 'برهان' is less common than 'دلیل'. Using it appropriately in speech signals a more formal or intellectual tone. It's suitable for debates, presentations, or discussions requiring a strong justification.
Listening comprehension of 'برهان' is crucial for understanding formal discussions, lectures, news reports, and debates. Recognizing its presence indicates a shift towards a more serious or analytical topic.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Ezafe Construction
The word 'برهان' is often followed by another noun or pronoun using the 'ezafe' (ـِ) construction to show possession or relationship. For instance, 'برهانِ او' (borhān-e u) means 'his proof', and 'برهانِ منطق' (borhān-e manteq) means 'the proof of logic'.
Adjective Agreement
Adjectives modifying 'برهان' usually follow it and agree in number and gender (though 'برهان' is masculine, most adjectives don't change form based on gender). For example, 'برهان قاطع' (borhān-e qāte') means 'conclusive proof'. The adjective 'قاطع' comes after 'برهان'.
Verb Collocations
'برهان' commonly pairs with verbs like 'آوردن' (to bring/present), 'ارائه دادن' (to present), 'داشتن' (to have), 'نیاز داشتن' (to need), and 'رد کردن' (to refute). For example, 'ارائه برهان' (to present proof).
Prepositional Phrases
'برهان' can be used in prepositional phrases, often indicating its absence or necessity. For example, 'بدون برهان' (badun-e borhān - without proof) or 'به دنبال برهان' (be donbāl-e borhān - in search of proof).
Pluralization
The plural form of 'برهان' is 'براهین' (barāhin). This plural is used when referring to multiple proofs or arguments, e.g., 'براهین متعدد' (barāhin-e mota'added - multiple proofs).
Examples by Level
این یک دلیل است.
This is a reason.
چرا این کار را کردی؟
Why did you do this?
من دلیل دارم.
I have a reason.
او دلیل خوبی آورد.
He brought a good reason.
این دلیل من است.
This is my reason.
آیا دلیل دیگری داری؟
Do you have another reason?
دلیلش این بود.
Its reason was this.
دلیل خوبی برای جشن گرفتن.
A good reason to celebrate.
این یک برهان منطقی است.
This is a logical proof.
برهان (borhān) - noun, singular. منطقی (manteqi) - adjective.
آیا برهان کافی برای این ادعا داری؟
Do you have sufficient proof for this claim?
کافی (kāfi) - adjective. ادعا (edde'ā) - noun.
وکیل باید برهان محکمی ارائه دهد.
The lawyer must present a strong proof.
محکم (mohkam) - adjective. ارائه دادن (erā'e dādan) - verb.
برهان علمی او نظریهاش را تایید کرد.
His scientific proof confirmed his theory.
علمی (elmi) - adjective. تایید کردن (ta'yid kardan) - verb.
بدون برهان، حرفهایش قابل قبول نیست.
Without proof, his words are not acceptable.
قابل قبول (qābel-e qabul) - adjective phrase.
این یک برهان روشن است.
This is a clear proof.
روشن (roshan) - adjective.
آنها به دنبال برهان برای اثبات بیگناهی بودند.
They were looking for proof to establish innocence.
بیگناهی (bi-gonāhi) - noun.
هر استدلالی نیاز به برهان دارد.
Every argument needs proof.
استدلال (estedlāl) - noun.
فیلسوفان قرنهاست که در مورد ماهیت برهان بحث میکنند.
Philosophers have debated the nature of proof for centuries.
ماهیت (māhiyat) - noun. بحث کردن (bahs kardan) - verb.
ارائه یک برهان قانعکننده در این مورد دشوار است.
Presenting a convincing proof in this matter is difficult.
قانعکننده (qāne'-konande) - adjective. مورد (mowred) - noun.
علم برهان خود را بر اساس مشاهدات تجربی بنا میکند.
Science bases its proof on empirical observations.
مشاهدات (moshāhedāt) - noun, plural. تجربی (tajrobi) - adjective. بنا کردن (banā kardan) - verb.
بدون وجود برهان قاطع، نمیتوانیم این نتیجهگیری را بپذیریم.
Without the existence of conclusive proof, we cannot accept this conclusion.
قاطع (qāte') - adjective. نتیجهگیری (natijeh-giri) - noun. پذیرفتن (paziraftean) - verb.
دادستان برای اثبات جرم، به دنبال برهان و مدرک بود.
The prosecutor was looking for proof and evidence to prove the crime.
دادستان (dādestān) - noun. جرم (jorm) - noun. مدرک (madrak) - noun.
هر فرضیهای برای تبدیل شدن به نظریه، نیازمند برهان است.
Every hypothesis, to become a theory, requires proof.
فرضیه (farziyeh) - noun. نظریه (nazariyeh) - noun. نیاز داشتن (niyāz dāshtan) - verb.
برهان او چنان قوی بود که هیچکس نتوانست آن را رد کند.
His proof was so strong that no one could refute it.
چنان (chenān) - adverb. قوی (qavi) - adjective. رد کردن (rad kardan) - verb.
در منطق، برهان به زنجیرهای از گزارههای درست گفته میشود.
In logic, proof is called a chain of true propositions.
منطق (manteq) - noun. زنجیره (zanjireh) - noun. گزاره (gozāreh) - noun. درست (dorost) - adjective.
دانشمندان برای اعتبارسنجی یافتههای خود، به دنبال برهانهای تجربی و نظری هستند.
Scientists seek empirical and theoretical proofs to validate their findings.
اعتبارسنجی (e'tebār-sanji) - noun. یافتهها (yāftehā) - noun, plural. نظری (nazari) - adjective.
این کتاب به بررسی انواع مختلف برهان در فلسفه تحلیلی میپردازد.
This book examines different types of proof in analytic philosophy.
بررسی کردن (barresi kardan) - verb. انواع (anvā') - noun, plural. فلسفه (falsafeh) - noun. تحلیلی (tahlili) - adjective. پرداختن (pardākhtan) - verb.
بدون ارائه برهان قاطع، ادعاهای او صرفاً در حد گمانهزنی باقی میماند.
Without presenting conclusive proof, his claims remain merely speculative.
قاطع (qāte') - adjective. صرفاً (serfan) - adverb. گمانهزنی (gomān-zani) - noun. باقی ماندن (bāqi māndan) - verb.
در مناظرات سیاسی، اغلب از برهانهای احساسی به جای برهانهای منطقی استفاده میشود.
In political debates, emotional arguments are often used instead of logical proofs.
مناظرات (monāzerāt) - noun, plural. سیاسی (siyāsi) - adjective. احساسی (ehsāsi) - adjective. منطقی (manteqi) - adjective.
اثبات وجود خدا یکی از قدیمیترین و پیچیدهترین مسائل فلسفی است که نیازمند برهانهای قوی است.
The proof of God's existence is one of the oldest and most complex philosophical problems requiring strong proofs.
وجود (vojud) - noun. خدا (khodā) - noun. قدیمیترین (qadimi-tarin) - adjective, superlative. پیچیدهترین (pichideh-tarin) - adjective, superlative. مسائل (masā'el) - noun, plural. قوی (qavi) - adjective.
توانایی ارائه یک برهان منسجم و مستند، نشاندهنده تسلط فرد بر موضوع است.
The ability to present a coherent and documented proof indicates the individual's mastery of the subject.
توانایی (tavānāyi) - noun. منسجم (monsajen) - adjective. مستند (mostanad) - adjective. تسلط (tasallot) - noun. موضوع (mozu') - noun.
در عصر اطلاعات، تفکیک میان برهان معتبر و اطلاعات نادرست اهمیت فزایندهای یافته است.
In the information age, distinguishing between valid proof and misinformation has gained increasing importance.
عصر (asr) - noun. اطلاعات (ettelā'āt) - noun, plural. تفکیک (tafrik) - noun. معتبر (mo'tabar) - adjective. نادرست (nādorost) - adjective. فزاینده (fazāyande) - adjective. یافته است (yāfteh ast) - verb phrase.
قاضی پس از شنیدن تمام برهانهای طرفین، رای خود را صادر کرد.
The judge issued their verdict after hearing all the proofs from both sides.
قاضی (qāzi) - noun. طرفین (tarafein) - noun, dual. رای (ray) - noun. صادر کردن (sāder kardan) - verb.
این کتاب با استناد به شواهد تاریخی و تحلیلهای عمیق، برهانی قوی برای نظریه خود ارائه میدهد.
This book presents a strong proof for its theory by citing historical evidence and deep analyses.
استناد کردن (estenād kardan) - verb. شواهد (shavāhed) - noun, plural. تحلیلها (tahlilhā) - noun, plural. عمیق (amiq) - adjective. نظریه (nazariyeh) - noun.
بسیاری از مکاتب فلسفی بر پایه نوعی برهان متافیزیکی بنا شدهاند که ماهیت واقعیت را توجیه میکنند.
Many philosophical schools are based on a type of metaphysical proof that justifies the nature of reality.
مکاتب (makāteb) - noun, plural. متافیزیکی (metafiziki) - adjective. توجیه کردن (towjih kardan) - verb. واقعیت (vāqe'iyat) - noun.
توانایی تمایز قائل شدن میان برهان معتبر و استدلال مغالطهآمیز، برای تفکر انتقادی ضروری است.
The ability to distinguish between valid proof and fallacious reasoning is essential for critical thinking.
تمایز قائل شدن (tamāyoz qā'el shodan) - verb phrase. مغالطه (moqāletoh) - noun. تفکر انتقادی (tafakkor-e enteqādi) - noun phrase.
در علم، هر ادعایی باید با برهانهای تکرارپذیر و قابل مشاهده پشتیبانی شود.
In science, every claim must be supported by reproducible and observable proofs.
ادعا (edde'ā) - noun. تکرارپذیر (tekrar-pazir) - adjective. قابل مشاهده (qābel-e moshāhedeh) - adjective phrase. پشتیبانی شدن (poshtibāni shodan) - verb.
برخی معتقدند که برهانهای ریاضی، نمایانگر حقایق مطلق و جهانشمول هستند.
Some believe that mathematical proofs represent absolute and universal truths.
معتقد بودن (mo'taqed budan) - verb. نمایانگر (namāyāndegar) - adjective. مطلق (motlaq) - adjective. جهانشمول (jahān-shomul) - adjective.
فقدان برهان قانعکننده در مورد علل اصلی بحران، منجر به سردرگمی عمومی شده است.
The lack of convincing proof regarding the root causes of the crisis has led to public confusion.
فقدان (feqdān) - noun. علل اصلی (elal-e asli) - noun phrase. بحران (bohrān) - noun. منجر شدن (monjar shodan) - verb. سردرگمی (sardargomi) - noun.
این مقاله به بررسی نقش برهان در شکلگیری باورهای دینی و اخلاقی میپردازد.
This article examines the role of proof in shaping religious and ethical beliefs.
نقش (naqsh) - noun. شکلگیری (shakl-giri) - noun. باورها (bāvarhā) - noun, plural. دینی (dini) - adjective. اخلاقی (akhlāqi) - adjective.
استفاده از قیاسهای معالفارق به عنوان برهان، یکی از خطاهای رایج در استدلال است.
Using false analogies as proof is one of the common fallacies in reasoning.
قیاس (qiyās) - noun. معالفارق (mo'al-fāreq) - adjective. خطا (khatā) - noun. رایج (rāyej) - adjective.
تحلیل تطبیقی رویکردهای مختلف به برهان در سنتهای فلسفی شرق و غرب، نشاندهنده پیچیدگیهای معرفتشناختی است.
A comparative analysis of different approaches to proof in Eastern and Western philosophical traditions reveals epistemological complexities.
تحلیل تطبیقی (tahlil-e tatbiqi) - noun phrase. رویکردها (ruykardhā) - noun, plural. سنتها (sonnat-hā) - noun, plural. معرفتشناختی (ma'refat-shenākhti) - adjective.
این اثر با ارائه برهانهای مبتنی بر نظریه بازیها، استراتژیهای بهینه را در مذاکرات پیچیده تبیین میکند.
This work elucidates optimal strategies in complex negotiations by presenting proofs based on game theory.
مبتنی بر (mobtani bar) - adjective phrase. نظریه بازیها (nazariyeh-ye bāzihā) - noun phrase. استراتژیها (estrātezihā) - noun, plural. بهینه (behineh) - adjective. مذاکرات (mozākerāt) - noun, plural. پیچیده (pichideh) - adjective. تبیین کردن (tabyin kardan) - verb.
فهم عمیق ماهیت برهان، مستلزم درک ظرافتهای منطقی و زبانشناختی است که در طول تاریخ تکامل یافتهاند.
A deep understanding of the nature of proof requires grasping the logical and linguistic nuances that have evolved throughout history.
فهم عمیق (fahm-e amiq) - noun phrase. مستلزم بودن (mostalzam budan) - verb. ظرافتها (zrāfat-hā) - noun, plural. زبانشناختی (zabān-shenākhti) - adjective. تکامل یافتن (takāmol yāftan) - verb.
در بحثهای معاصر پیرامون هوش مصنوعی، چالش اصلی، ارائه برهانی است که نشان دهد آیا این سیستمها دارای خودآگاهی هستند یا خیر.
In contemporary discussions surrounding artificial intelligence, the main challenge is to provide proof indicating whether these systems possess self-awareness.
معاصر (mo'āser) - adjective. پیرامون (pirāmun) - preposition. هوش مصنوعی (hush-e masnu'i) - noun phrase. چالش اصلی (chālesh-e asli) - noun phrase. خودآگاهی (khod-āgāhi) - noun.
این رساله، با رویکردی میانرشتهای، برهانی جامع در باب امکانسنجی ارتباط با تمدنهای فرازمینی ارائه میدهد.
This treatise, with an interdisciplinary approach, offers a comprehensive proof regarding the feasibility of communication with extraterrestrial civilizations.
رساله (resāleh) - noun. میانرشتهای (miyān-reshtei) - adjective. جامع (jāme') - adjective. امکانسنجی (emkān-sanji) - noun. ارتباط (ertebāt) - noun. تمدنها (tamaddonhā) - noun, plural. فرازمینی (farāzamini) - adjective.
اهمیت برهان در علوم انسانی نه تنها در اثبات فرضیهها، بلکه در تشریح و تبیین پدیدههای پیچیده اجتماعی نیز مشهود است.
The importance of proof in the humanities is evident not only in verifying hypotheses but also in explaining and elucidating complex social phenomena.
علوم انسانی (olom-e ensāni) - noun phrase. اثبات (esbāt) - noun. تشریح (tashrih) - noun. پدیدهها (padidehā) - noun, plural. اجتماعی (ejtemā'i) - adjective. مشهود (mashhud) - adjective.
استفاده از برهانهای آماری پیشرفته در تحلیل دادههای کلان، امکان کشف الگوهای پنهان و ارائه پیشبینیهای دقیقتر را فراهم میآورد.
The use of advanced statistical proofs in big data analysis enables the discovery of hidden patterns and provides more accurate predictions.
آماری (āmāri) - adjective. پیشرفته (pishrafteh) - adjective. دادهها (dādehā) - noun, plural. کلان (kelān) - adjective. کشف (kashf) - noun. الگوها (olguha) - noun, plural. پنهان (penhān) - adjective. پیشبینیها (pishbinihā) - noun, plural. فراهم آوردن (farāham āvardan) - verb.
در فلسفه علم، بحث بر سر اینکه آیا برهانهای ریاضی مستقل از ذهن انسان وجود دارند یا ساخته ذهن او هستند، همچنان ادامه دارد.
In the philosophy of science, the debate over whether mathematical proofs exist independently of the human mind or are constructs of it, continues.
فلسفه علم (falsafeh-ye elm) - noun phrase. مستقل (mostaqel) - adjective. ذهن (zehn) - noun. ساخته (sākhteh) - noun. همچنان (hamchenān) - adverb. ادامه دارد (edāmeh dārad) - verb phrase.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Proof and reason (often used together for emphasis).
برای پذیرش این موضوع، هم برهان و هم دلیل منطقی لازم است.
Often Confused With
'دلیل' means reason or cause and is much broader and more common in everyday speech. 'برهان' specifically implies a logical, often formal, proof or demonstration that establishes truth, whereas 'دلیل' can be any justification, however informal or subjective.
'استدلال' refers to the process of reasoning or argumentation. 'برهان' is typically the outcome or the actual proof derived from sound reasoning. You use 'استدلال' to build a 'برهان'.
'مدرک' means evidence or document. While evidence is often used as part of a 'برهان', 'مدرک' itself is not the complete logical argument or demonstration. It's a component.
Idioms & Expressions
— To construct a proof or argument from scratch, or to present a completely new and fundamental proof.
او توانست از بیخ و بن برهان بیاورد و مسئله را حل کند.
Formal— To use proof by contradiction (reductio ad absurdum).
برای اثبات این موضوع، از برهان خلف استفاده میکنیم.
Formal/Academic— To bring forth proof or argument; to provide justification.
لطفاً برای ادعای خود برهان بیاورید.
Neutral/Formal— A circular argument; proving something by assuming it is true (a logical fallacy).
این استدلال دچار مغالطه برهان از خودِ برهان است.
Formal/Academic— A linear proof; a straightforward, step-by-step logical argument.
این اثبات یک برهان خطی و قابل فهم است.
Academic— Implicit proof; proof that is suggested or implied rather than explicitly stated.
عملکرد او برهان ضمنی بر صداقتش بود.
Neutral/Formal— Rational proof; an argument based on reason and logic.
فیلسوفان به دنبال برهانِ عقلی برای مسائل وجودی هستند.
Formal/Academic— Religious or Sharia-based proof; an argument derived from religious texts or principles.
این فتوا بر اساس برهانِ شرعی صادر شده است.
Formal/Religious— Empirical proof; evidence derived from observation and experimentation.
کشف جدید، برهانِ تجربی محکمی برای نظریه است.
Academic/Scientific— Abstract proof; a proof dealing with abstract concepts rather than concrete examples.
این اثبات از نوع برهانِ تجریدی است و درک آن دشوار است.
Academic/MathematicalEasily Confused
Both 'برهان' and 'دلیل' can be used to justify a statement or belief.
'برهان' implies a rigorous, logical, and often formal proof that establishes truth conclusively. 'دلیل' is a more general term for any reason, cause, or justification, which can be informal, subjective, or even emotional. You would use 'برهان' for a scientific hypothesis or a legal argument, but 'دلیل' for why you chose a certain restaurant.
برای اثبات ادعای خود به برهان نیاز داری، نه فقط دلیل شخصی. (You need proof for your claim, not just a personal reason.)
Both relate to logical thinking and argumentation.
'استدلال' is the process of thinking logically to reach a conclusion. 'برهان' is the actual proof or argument that results from that reasoning process. Think of 'استدلال' as building the bridge, and 'برهان' as the completed bridge itself that allows passage from uncertainty to certainty.
با استدلال منطقی، توانست یک برهان قوی بسازد. (With logical reasoning, he was able to construct a strong proof.)
Both are related to establishing facts or truth.
'مدرک' refers to evidence, data, or documents that can be used to support an argument. 'برهان' is the complete, structured argument or demonstration that utilizes such evidence to prove a point. A 'مدرک' might be a single piece of evidence, while a 'برهان' is the entire logical case built upon one or more 'مدرک's.
مدرک ارائه شده، بخشی از برهان دادستان بود. (The presented evidence was part of the prosecutor's proof.)
Both mean 'proof'.
'اثبات' is a direct synonym for proof, especially in mathematical and logical contexts, often referring to the act or result of proving. 'برهان' is a more general term for a well-structured argument or demonstration that leads to proof, often implying a more elaborate or philosophical argument than a simple 'اثبات'.
اثبات قضیه فیثاغورس یک برهان کلاسیک است. (The proof of the Pythagorean theorem is a classic demonstration.)
Both are used in formal argumentation and justification.
'حجت' often carries a connotation of authoritative proof, especially in religious or legal contexts, suggesting a compelling argument that cannot be easily dismissed. 'برهان' is more about the logical structure and clarity of the proof itself, regardless of its source of authority, though it also implies strong evidence.
این آیه قرآن حجت محکمی بر حقانیت اسلام است، در حالی که برهان علمی ممکن است نیاز به تفسیر داشته باشد. (This Quranic verse is a strong proof of Islam's authenticity, whereas scientific proof might require interpretation.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + برهان + Verb.
برهان او قانع کننده بود.
Adjective + برهان.
یک برهان محکم لازم است.
Noun + Ezafe + برهان + Verb.
نیاز به برهان برای این ادعا داریم.
Verb + برهان + Prepositional Phrase.
آنها برهان خود را در دادگاه آوردند.
Adverb + Adjective + برهان + Verb.
برهان علمی جدید، نظریه را تایید کرد.
Prepositional Phrase + برهان + Verb.
بدون برهان کافی، نمیتوان پذیرفت.
Noun + Ezafe + Adjective + برهان + Verb.
ارائه برهان قاطع، وظیفه وکیل بود.
Complex Subject + Verb + برهان.
توانایی ارائه برهان منسجم، نشاندهنده تسلط است.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Medium-High in formal contexts, Low in informal contexts.
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Using 'برهان' for everyday reasons.
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Using 'دلیل' (dalil) for everyday reasons.
Using 'برهان' in casual conversation for simple justifications sounds overly formal or pretentious. For instance, saying 'My 'برهان' for eating ice cream is that I like it' is incorrect. 'دلیل' is appropriate here: 'دلیل من این است که بستنی دوست دارم.'
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Confusing 'برهان' with 'evidence' alone.
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Understanding 'برهان' as a structured argument that uses evidence.
'برهان' is not just a piece of evidence ('مدرک' or 'شواهد'); it's the entire logical framework that uses evidence to prove something. A single document might be evidence, but the lawyer presents a 'برهان' using multiple pieces of evidence and legal reasoning.
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Incorrect Ezafe usage.
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Using 'برهانِ' followed by the possessor or descriptor.
Forgetting the 'ezafe' marker can lead to grammatical errors. For example, instead of 'برهانِ او' (his proof), one might mistakenly say 'برهان او'. Proper ezafe formation is essential for clarity in formal Persian.
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Treating 'برهان' as a synonym for 'opinion'.
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Understanding 'برهان' requires objective backing and logical rigor.
'برهان' is grounded in logic and evidence, aiming for objective truth. An opinion can be subjective and may not have a formal 'برهان' to support it. You can't have a 'برهان' for a personal preference.
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Overlooking the formal register.
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Using 'برهان' appropriately in formal contexts like academic writing or debates.
While the meaning might be understood, using 'برهان' in informal settings like text messages or casual chats diminishes its impact and can sound unnatural. It's best reserved for contexts demanding intellectual weight.
Tips
Understand the Register
Remember that 'برهان' is primarily a formal word. Using it in casual conversation might sound out of place. Reserve it for situations where logical rigor and evidence are paramount, like academic discussions or legal arguments.
Distinguish from 'دلیل'
Always differentiate 'برهان' from 'دلیل' (reason/cause). While a 'برهان' is a type of 'دلیل', it's a much stronger, more formal, and logically sound justification. Think of 'برهان' as the solid bedrock of an argument, while 'دلیل' can be anything from a fact to a feeling.
Practice in Writing
Try using 'برهان' in your written exercises, especially when constructing arguments or analyzing texts. This will help solidify its meaning and proper usage in a context where you have time to choose your words carefully.
Listen for it in Formal Media
Pay attention when listening to Persian news, documentaries, or academic lectures. Hearing 'برهان' in these contexts will reinforce its formal usage and help you understand how it functions within a larger discourse.
Visualize 'Bridge of Proof'
Imagine 'برهان' as a strong, unshakeable bridge that connects a claim to truth. This visual can help you remember that it's about establishing validity and certainty through logical steps and evidence.
Note Ezafe Usage
Pay close attention to how 'برهان' is used with the 'ezafe' construction (ـِ) when linking it to possessors or other nouns, like in 'برهانِ من' (my proof) or 'برهانِ علمی' (scientific proof). Correct ezafe usage is crucial for grammatical accuracy.
Compare with 'اثبات' and 'استدلال'
Understanding the subtle differences between 'برهان', 'اثبات' (proof), and 'استدلال' (reasoning) will enhance your precision. 'استدلال' is the process, 'برهان' is the well-formed argument/proof, and 'اثبات' is often the outcome or act of proving.
Identify its Role in Argumentation
Recognize that 'برهان' is used to build a case, refute counterarguments, and establish certainty. It's a tool for persuasion based on logic and evidence, not mere assertion.
Use in Hypothetical Debates
Practice constructing hypothetical arguments using 'برهان'. For example, 'If I had to present a 'برهان' for why cats are better pets, I would focus on...' This helps internalize its function.
Appreciate its Value in Persian Culture
Understand that in Persian intellectual traditions, the ability to present a sound 'برهان' is highly respected. This cultural context adds depth to the word's significance beyond its literal translation.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a strong, sturdy BRIDGE (Borhān) that allows you to cross from doubt to certainty. The bridge is built with logical stones (arguments) and solid foundations (evidence).
Visual Association
Picture a judge's gavel striking down firmly, signifying a final, undeniable 'برهان' (proof) in court. Or visualize a scientist holding up a glowing test tube, representing a clear 'برهان' (demonstration) of their findings.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain a simple concept to a friend using a 'برهان' (proof) – break it down logically and provide evidence for each step.
Word Origin
The word 'برهان' originates from the Arabic word 'burhān' (بُرْهان). It entered Persian through the influence of Arabic in religious, philosophical, and scientific texts.
Original meaning: In Arabic, 'burhān' means proof, evidence, argument, or demonstration. It signifies something clear and evident that removes doubt.
Semitic (Arabic) -> Indo-Iranian (Persian)Cultural Context
The word 'برهان' itself is neutral. However, the context in which it is used, particularly in religious or political debates, can be sensitive. Presenting a 'برهان' that challenges deeply held beliefs requires careful handling and respect for differing viewpoints.
While English has words like 'proof', 'argument', and 'demonstration', the Persian 'برهان' often carries a more formal and rigorous connotation, especially when used in academic or philosophical discussions. It implies a higher standard of logical validity.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Academic Lectures and Research
- برهان علمی این نظریه چیست؟
- ارائه برهانهای جدید برای اثبات فرضیه.
- این کتاب به انواع برهان در منطق میپردازد.
Legal Proceedings
- وکیل به دنبال برهان محکمی برای دفاع بود.
- برهان قاطع برای اثبات جرم لازم است.
- دادگاه بر اساس برهانهای ارائه شده رای داد.
Philosophical Debates
- فلاسفه در مورد ماهیت برهان بحث میکنند.
- آیا برهان عقلی برای اثبات وجود خدا کافی است؟
- استفاده از برهان خلف در این استدلال.
Scientific Discussions
- مشاهدات جدید، برهان محکمی برای نظریه ارائه میدهند.
- نیاز به برهان تجربی برای تایید یافتهها.
- این کشف، برهان روشنتری بر تکامل است.
Formal Arguments and Justifications
- برای این ادعا به برهان نیاز داریم.
- استدلال او فاقد برهان بود.
- ارائه برهان برای موجه کردن تصمیم.
Conversation Starters
"What kind of proof or 'برهان' would convince you of something controversial?"
"Can you think of a situation where a 'برهان' was crucial for resolving a problem?"
"How do you differentiate between a strong 'برهان' and just a strong opinion?"
"When discussing important topics, what makes an argument truly convincing, or a 'برهان' effective?"
"If you had to prove something important to someone skeptical, what would be your strategy for building a strong 'برهان'?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had to present a 'برهان' (proof or argument) for your actions or beliefs. What was it, and how did you present it?
Reflect on a topic you feel strongly about. What would constitute a convincing 'برهان' for your viewpoint?
Consider a historical event or scientific discovery. What was the key 'برهان' that led to its acceptance or understanding?
Think about a common misconception. What kind of 'برهان' would be needed to effectively dispel it?
Imagine you are a lawyer or a scientist. How would you approach constructing a solid 'برهان' for a complex case or theory?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'برهان' (borhān) refers to a formal, logical proof or argument that establishes the truth of something, often used in academic, scientific, or legal contexts. It implies rigor and conclusiveness. 'دلیل' (dalil), on the other hand, is a more general term for 'reason' or 'cause'. It can be informal, subjective, or emotional, and doesn't necessarily imply logical certainty. For example, the 'دلیل' for being late might be traffic, but a 'برهان' would be a carefully constructed argument to prove a scientific theory.
You should use 'برهان' when you want to convey a sense of formal, logical, and rigorous argumentation or evidence, particularly in contexts like academic writing, legal arguments, or philosophical discussions. While 'proof' is a direct translation, 'برهان' emphasizes the structured reasoning and the establishment of truth in a more definitive way than a simple piece of evidence might.
Primarily, yes. 'برهان' is most commonly found in formal settings such as academic papers, philosophical treatises, legal proceedings, and scientific research. While it can be used metaphorically in less formal contexts to mean a strong indication, its core meaning and typical usage lean heavily towards formal, logical argumentation.
Common adjectives that describe 'برهان' include 'قاطع' (qāte' - conclusive), 'منطقی' (manteqi - logical), 'علمی' (elmi - scientific), 'قوی' (qavi - strong), 'محکم' (mohkam - solid/firm), 'کافی' (kāfi - sufficient), and 'روشن' (roshan - clear). These adjectives help specify the nature and strength of the proof or argument.
It's less common in casual everyday conversation. Using 'برهان' in a lighthearted chat might sound overly academic or even pretentious. For everyday reasons or justifications, words like 'دلیل' (dalil - reason) or 'خاطر' (khāter - for the sake of) are more natural. However, if you are discussing a serious topic that requires logical backing, 'برهان' could be appropriate.
The plural form of 'برهان' is 'براهین' (barāhin). This is used when referring to multiple proofs, arguments, or demonstrations.
'برهان' is the structured argument or demonstration that uses evidence to establish truth. Evidence ('مدرک' or 'شواهد') is often a component of a 'برهان', but 'برهان' itself is the complete logical structure that makes a case. You use evidence to build a 'برهان'.
The word itself is not phonetically difficult, but mastering its usage requires understanding its formal register and distinguishing it from similar words like 'دلیل'. Its abstract nature and association with logical reasoning can make it challenging for beginners, but context and practice are key.
Common phrases include 'ارائه برهان' (to present proof), 'برهان قاطع' (conclusive proof), 'برهان کافی' (sufficient proof), 'بدون برهان' (without proof), and 'نیاز به برهان' (need for proof). These phrases are frequently encountered in formal discourse.
Sure. 'دانشمندان به دنبال برهان علمی برای تایید نظریه خود هستند.' (Dāneshmandān be donbāl-e borhān-e elmi barāye ta'yid-e nazariyeh-ye khod hastand.) This translates to 'Scientists are looking for scientific proof to confirm their theory.'
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Summary
Borhān signifies a rigorous, logical proof or argument used to establish the truth of a claim, primarily in formal settings like academia and law. It's more than just a reason; it's a structured demonstration of validity.
- Borhān: Proof, argument, demonstration.
- Used for strong, logical evidence.
- Common in academic, legal, and philosophical contexts.
- Implies certainty and conclusiveness.
Understand the Register
Remember that 'برهان' is primarily a formal word. Using it in casual conversation might sound out of place. Reserve it for situations where logical rigor and evidence are paramount, like academic discussions or legal arguments.
Distinguish from 'دلیل'
Always differentiate 'برهان' from 'دلیل' (reason/cause). While a 'برهان' is a type of 'دلیل', it's a much stronger, more formal, and logically sound justification. Think of 'برهان' as the solid bedrock of an argument, while 'دلیل' can be anything from a fact to a feeling.
Practice in Writing
Try using 'برهان' in your written exercises, especially when constructing arguments or analyzing texts. This will help solidify its meaning and proper usage in a context where you have time to choose your words carefully.
Listen for it in Formal Media
Pay attention when listening to Persian news, documentaries, or academic lectures. Hearing 'برهان' in these contexts will reinforce its formal usage and help you understand how it functions within a larger discourse.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More academic words
اعمال کردن
B2To apply, to implement; to put into operation or effect.
عامل شدن
B2To cause; to make something happen.
اعتبار علمی
B2Academic credibility, academic reputation.
اعتبار بخشیدن
B2To validate, to confirm or give official approval to something.
اعتبار سنجی کردن
B2To check or prove the validity or accuracy of something.
اعتباربخشی
B2Accreditation; the official recognition that a person or institution is qualified.
اعتمادپذیر
B2Capable of being relied on; trustworthy and dependable.
اعتراف کردن
B2To confess or acknowledge; to admit that one has committed a crime or done something wrong.
عضو هیئت علمی
B2A faculty member; a professional academic engaged in teaching and research at a university.
عقلانی
B2Rational; based on or in accordance with reason or logic.
