دل گرفته in 30 Seconds

  • Del gerefteh means feeling sad or downhearted.
  • It describes a heavy heart or low spirits.
  • Commonly used in everyday Persian conversation.
  • Can be used for personal feelings or observing others.
Meaning
The Persian phrase “دل گرفته” (del gerefteh) literally translates to “heart taken” or “heart captured,” but its idiomatic meaning is to feel sad, downhearted, or in low spirits. It describes a state of emotional heaviness or melancholy, often without a specific, identifiable cause, though it can also be a response to difficult circumstances.
Usage
This expression is very common in everyday Persian conversation. It’s used to convey a general feeling of sadness or unhappiness. You might hear it when someone is feeling a bit blue, is going through a rough patch, or simply feels a weight on their heart. It’s a versatile phrase that can be used in both formal and informal settings, though it leans more towards expressing personal feelings. It’s not necessarily a sign of deep depression but rather a temporary state of low mood. For instance, someone might say they feel “دل گرفته” on a rainy day, or after hearing some bad news, or even just because they woke up feeling a bit melancholic. It’s a gentle way to express that one is not feeling their usual cheerful self. The phrase implies an internal emotional state, a feeling that resides within one’s heart (دل). It’s a common way to check in with friends and family, asking if they are feeling alright, and if they respond with “دل گرفته,” it means they are feeling sad.

Weather can sometimes make me feel دل گرفته.

Describing Personal Feelings
The most common use is to describe one's own emotional state. You can directly state that you are feeling “دل گرفته” or use it to explain why you might be acting a certain way. For example, if someone asks why you’re quiet, you can reply, “امروز کمی دل گرفته‌ام” (Emruz kami del gerefteh am - Today I am a little downhearted).
Inquiring About Others
You can also use it to ask about someone else’s well-being. A simple “چرا دلت گرفته؟” (Chera del-et gerefteh? - Why are you downhearted?) can show concern. This is a gentle way to inquire, implying you’ve noticed a change in their demeanor.
Describing a Mood or Atmosphere
Sometimes, the phrase can describe a general mood or atmosphere, especially if it's somber or melancholic. For instance, “هوای امروز دلم را گرفته است” (Hava-ye emruz del-am ra gerefteh ast - Today’s weather has made my heart heavy) or “فضای خانه دلگیر بود و همه دل گرفته بودند” (Faza-ye khaneh delgir bud va hameh del gerefteh budand - The atmosphere of the house was somber and everyone was downhearted).
As a Response to News
When you hear unfortunate news, it’s natural to feel sad. You might say, “با شنیدن این خبر دلم گرفت” (Ba shenidan-e in khabar del-am gereft - Hearing this news made my heart heavy). This shows a direct emotional reaction to an event.

He seemed very quiet, so I asked, “چرا دل گرفته ای؟”

Everyday Conversations
This is perhaps the most common place to hear “دل گرفته.” In casual chats with friends, family, or colleagues, people use it to express their emotional state. For instance, during a phone call, someone might say, “امروز سرم شلوغ بود و یکم دل گرفته بودم.” (Emruz sar-am sholugh bud va yekam del gerefteh budam. - Today I was busy and felt a bit downhearted).
Literature and Poetry
Persian literature and poetry are rich with emotional expressions, and “دل گرفته” is a frequent theme. Poets often use it to describe feelings of longing, sorrow, or melancholy. You’ll find it in ghazals, short stories, and novels depicting characters’ inner turmoil.
Movies and TV Shows
Iranian films and television series often portray realistic human emotions, and “دل گرفته” is commonly used by characters to express their sadness or unhappiness. It’s a natural part of dialogue when characters are experiencing emotional difficulties.
Music
Many Persian songs, particularly those with a melancholic or romantic theme, feature the phrase “دل گرفته.” It’s a powerful way for singers to convey feelings of sadness, loss, or unrequited love to their audience.
Support Groups and Counseling
In settings where people discuss their emotions, such as support groups or therapy sessions, “دل گرفته” is a common way for individuals to articulate their feelings of being sad or emotionally burdened.

The singer’s voice was filled with emotion as she sang about her دل گرفته heart.

Literal Translation
A common mistake for learners is to translate “دل گرفته” literally as “heart taken” or “heart captured.” While this is the direct word-for-word translation, it completely misses the idiomatic meaning of feeling sad or downhearted. English speakers might try to use phrases like “my heart is captured” which sounds poetic but doesn't convey the intended emotion of sadness.
Overuse or Misapplication
Learners might incorrectly use “دل گرفته” to describe physical pain or a situation that is not emotional. For example, saying “My stomach is دل گرفته” would be incorrect. The phrase is exclusively for emotional states.
Confusing with Similar Expressions
There are other Persian expressions related to the heart and emotions. For instance, “دل شکسته” (del shekasteh - broken heart) implies a deeper, more profound sadness, often due to betrayal or loss. Using “دل گرفته” when a “broken heart” is more appropriate, or vice versa, can lead to miscommunication.
Incorrect Verb Conjugation
When forming sentences, learners might struggle with the correct conjugation of the verb “گرفتن” (gereftan). For instance, using the present tense incorrectly or failing to conjugate it for the correct subject (e.g., “او دل گرفته” instead of “او دل گرفته است” or “او دل گرفته‌ام” which is grammatically incorrect). The phrase is often used with the past tense of “گرفتن” such as “دلم گرفت” (my heart became heavy) or in the present perfect “دل گرفته‌ام” (I am downhearted).
Using it for Intense Anger
While sadness can sometimes be linked to anger, “دل گرفته” specifically denotes sadness or melancholy. It is not typically used to express strong anger. For anger, other words like “عصبانی” (asabani - angry) or “ناراحت” (narahat - upset/annoyed) might be more appropriate, depending on the intensity.

Incorrect: My heart is taken by sadness. Correct: I am feeling downhearted.

غمگین (ghamgin)
Meaning: Sad.
Comparison: “غمگین” is a more direct and general term for sadness. “دل گرفته” often implies a more subdued, heavy, or melancholic kind of sadness, perhaps less intense than profound grief. You might feel “غمگین” about a specific event, while “دل گرفته” can be a more pervasive, lingering feeling.
Example: “او از خبر بد خیلی غمگین شد.” (He became very sad about the bad news.) vs. “امروز حس می‌کنم دلم گرفته.” (Today I feel like my heart is heavy.)
ناراحت (narahat)
Meaning: Upset, unhappy, displeased.
Comparison: “ناراحت” is a broader term that can encompass various negative feelings, including annoyance, disappointment, or being upset. “دل گرفته” is more specifically about feeling downhearted and low in spirits. You can be “ناراحت” about someone’s actions, but you’d be “دل گرفته” if you felt a general sense of melancholy.
Example: “حرف‌هایش مرا ناراحت کرد.” (His words upset me.) vs. “بعد از رفتنش دلم گرفته بود.” (After he left, I felt downhearted.)
افسرده (afsordeh)
Meaning: Depressed.
Comparison: “افسرده” indicates a more serious and clinical state of depression, often characterized by prolonged sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms. “دل گرفته” is a milder, more temporary feeling of sadness or low spirits. It’s important not to confuse a temporary feeling of being “دل گرفته” with clinical depression (“افسردگی” - afsordegi).
دلگیر (delgir)
Meaning: Somber, melancholic, oppressive (often used for atmosphere or weather).
Comparison: While “دلگیر” can describe a mood or atmosphere that makes one feel “دل گرفته,” it’s not typically used to describe a person’s internal feeling directly. You might say the weather is “دلگیر” (somber), which in turn makes you feel “دل گرفته.”
Example: “هوای امروز دلگیر است.” (Today’s weather is somber.)
بی‌حال (bi-hal)
Meaning: Listless, lethargic, lacking energy.
Comparison: “بی‌حال” focuses on a lack of physical or mental energy, which can be a symptom of being “دل گرفته,” but it’s not the same. Someone who is “دل گرفته” might also be “بی‌حال,” but one can be “بی‌حال” for other reasons, like fatigue or illness, without necessarily feeling sad.

While feeling دل گرفته, I also felt a bit غمگین.

How Formal Is It?

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Fun Fact

The heart (دل) is considered the seat of emotions in Persian culture, much like in many other languages. This is why so many idiomatic expressions related to feelings involve the word 'del'. 'Del gerefteh' is one of the most common ways to express sadness.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dɛl ɡɛrˈfe/
US /dɛl ɡɛrˈfeɪ/
The primary stress falls on the last syllable: 'ge-REF-teh'.
Rhymes With
nefe-teh gerefteh bar-gashteh dar-amadeh raftesh khastash sokhtesh didamesh
Common Errors
  • Mispronouncing the 'g' sound as 'j' or 'zh'.
  • Making the 'e' sounds too long or too short.
  • Pronouncing the final 'eh' too strongly.
  • Confusing the word with similar-sounding Persian words.
  • Not capturing the idiomatic nuance beyond a literal translation.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Understanding 'del gerefteh' in reading requires recognizing its idiomatic meaning beyond the literal translation of 'heart taken'. Context is key to distinguishing it from other forms of sadness or physical discomfort. Learners might initially struggle with figurative language.

Writing 3/5

Using 'del gerefteh' correctly in writing involves understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts. Overuse or misuse can make writing sound unnatural. Correct conjugation and sentence structure are also important.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation and natural intonation are important for conveying the feeling. Learners need to practice using it in spontaneous conversation to sound authentic.

Listening 3/5

Recognizing 'del gerefteh' in spoken Persian requires familiarity with common idiomatic expressions and understanding the emotional tone of the speaker.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

دل (del) - heart گرفتن (gereftan) - to take/get غم (gham) - sadness ناراحت (narahat) - upset خوشحال (khoshhal) - happy

Learn Next

دلگیر (delgir) - somber, melancholic دل‌شکسته (del shekasteh) - broken-hearted افسرده (afsordeh) - depressed دلتنگی (deltangi) - longing, missing someone

Advanced

حسرت (hasrat) - regret, longing اندوه (anduh) - sorrow, grief ملال (malal) - boredom, weariness, melancholy تأمل (ta'amol) - contemplation, reflection

Grammar to Know

Past tense of 'gereftan' (to take/get).

دلم گرفت (My heart got heavy). او خبر را گرفت (He took the news).

Present perfect tense for current states.

من دل گرفته‌ام (I am downhearted). او رفته است (He has gone).

Using adjectives to describe states.

او غمگین است (He is sad). او دل گرفته است (He is downhearted).

Conditional sentences with 'agar' (if).

اگر دلت گرفته، بیا صحبت کنیم (If you are downhearted, let's talk).

Using possessive suffixes with 'del'.

دلم (my heart), دلت (your heart), دلش (his/her heart).

Examples by Level

1

امروز هوا ابری است و من کمی دل گرفته ام.

Today the weather is cloudy and I am a little downhearted.

Simple present tense usage with 'am'.

2

او دل گرفته به نظر می رسد.

He looks downhearted.

Adjective describing appearance.

3

چرا دلت گرفته؟

Why are you downhearted?

Question form addressing 'you'.

4

کمی دل گرفته ام، نیازی به صحبت نیست.

I am a little downhearted, no need to talk.

Expressing personal state and a condition.

5

این آهنگ باعث شد دلم بگیرد.

This song made my heart heavy.

Past tense of 'gereftan' for causing the feeling.

6

او همیشه وقتی تنهاست دل گرفته است.

She is always downhearted when she is alone.

Habitual action with 'always'.

7

این خبر مرا دل گرفته کرد.

This news made me downhearted.

Past tense indicating a cause and effect.

8

آیا حال تو خوب است؟ دلت گرفته؟

Are you okay? Are you downhearted?

Simple question structure.

1

بعد از دیدن فیلم غم انگیز، دلم گرفت.

After watching the sad movie, I felt downhearted.

Using 'ba'ad az' (after) with a past event.

2

هوای بارانی باعث می‌شود که دلم بگیرد.

Rainy weather causes me to feel downhearted.

Using 'ba'es shodan' (to cause) with a subject.

3

امروز احساس می‌کنم کمی دل گرفته ام و حوصله ندارم.

Today I feel a bit downhearted and don't have the inclination/energy.

Combining 'ehsas kardan' (to feel) with 'del gerefteh' and 'hosseleh nadar' (no energy).

4

او با اینکه لبخند می‌زد، معلوم بود دلش گرفته است.

Even though she was smiling, it was clear she was downhearted.

Using 'ba inke' (even though) to show contrast.

5

اگر دلت گرفته، بیا با هم قدم بزنیم.

If you are downhearted, let's go for a walk together.

Conditional sentence with 'agar' (if).

6

این روزها همه کمی دل گرفته اند.

These days everyone is a little downhearted.

Plural form for 'everyone'.

7

دل گرفته بودن او مرا نگران کرد.

Her being downhearted worried me.

Gerund form 'budan' (being) used as a noun.

8

نمی‌دانم چرا، اما دلم گرفته است.

I don't know why, but I am downhearted.

Expressing uncertainty about the reason.

1

پس از شنیدن خبر ناگوار، تمام روز دلم گرفته بود.

After hearing the unfortunate news, I was downhearted all day.

Using 'pas az' (after) and past continuous tense.

2

فضای جلسه کمی دلگیر بود و همه احساس دل گرفتگی می‌کردند.

The atmosphere of the meeting was a bit somber, and everyone felt downhearted.

Using 'ehsas kardan' (to feel) with 'del gereftegi' (noun form).

3

شاید لازم باشد با کسی صحبت کنی تا دلت باز شود.

Perhaps you need to talk to someone to feel better (lit. your heart to open up).

Using 'lazem budan' (to need) and subjunctive mood.

4

او تلاش می‌کرد شاد به نظر برسد، اما در چشمانش دل گرفتگی موج می‌زد.

He tried to appear happy, but sadness was evident in his eyes.

Using 'talash kardan' (to try) and idiomatic expression 'mowj mizaad' (was surging).

5

باور نمی‌کنم که این اتفاق افتاده باشد، قلبم هنوز دل گرفته است.

I can't believe this has happened; my heart is still heavy.

Expressing disbelief and current state.

6

گاهی اوقات دل گرفتگی ناشی از دلتنگی برای کسی یا جایی است.

Sometimes feeling downhearted stems from missing someone or somewhere.

Using 'nashi az' (stems from) and 'del-tangi' (longing/missing).

7

اگر احساس دل گرفتگی می‌کنی، سعی کن به موسیقی آرامش‌بخش گوش دهی.

If you feel downhearted, try listening to calming music.

Imperative mood with 'sa'i kon' (try).

8

آن روزها، هر چه بیشتر فکر می‌کردم، دلم بیشتر می‌گرفت.

In those days, the more I thought, the heavier my heart became.

Comparative structure 'har che... bishtar'.

1

علیرغم تلاش‌های فراوانش برای شاد بودن، او همچنان دل گرفته به نظر می‌رسید.

Despite his numerous attempts to be happy, he still appeared downhearted.

Using 'alaraghm' (despite) and past participle 'gerefteh'.

2

فضای شهر در آن روزهای زمستانی اغلب دلگیر بود و مردم حس دل گرفتگی داشتند.

The city's atmosphere on those winter days was often somber, and people felt downhearted.

Adjective 'delgir' for atmosphere, noun 'del gereftegi' for feeling.

3

گاهی اوقات، یک تلنگر کوچک کافیست تا دل گرفته‌ای را شاد کنی.

Sometimes, a small nudge is enough to cheer someone up who is downhearted.

Using 'kafi ast' (is enough) and passive construction.

4

او با لحنی گرفته و صدایی گرفته، از دل گرفتگی عمیق خود سخن گفت.

With a heavy tone and a choked voice, he spoke of his deep melancholy.

Using 'gerefteh' as an adverbial modifier for tone and voice.

5

دل گرفتگی مزمن می‌تواند نشانه‌ای از یک مشکل روانی جدی‌تر باشد.

Chronic melancholy can be a sign of a more serious psychological problem.

Using 'mazman' (chronic) and 'ravani' (psychological).

6

برای رهایی از این حس دل گرفتگی، او شروع به نوشتن خاطراتش کرد.

To escape this feeling of melancholy, she started writing her memoirs.

Using 'baraye rahayi az' (to escape from) and infinitive clauses.

7

هرچند سعی کردیم او را بخندانیم، اما دل گرفتگی‌اش قابل لمس بود.

Although we tried to make her laugh, her downheartedness was palpable.

Using 'har chand' (although) and 'ghabel-e lams' (palpable).

8

این منظره زیبا نتوانست دل گرفتگی مرا از بین ببرد.

This beautiful scenery could not dispel my melancholy.

Using 'natavanest' (could not) and 'az beyn bordan' (to dispel).

1

در سکوت شب، حس دل گرفتگی عمیقی بر وجودش سایه افکنده بود.

In the silence of the night, a deep sense of melancholy had cast a shadow over his being.

Figurative language 'sayeh afkandeh bud' (had cast a shadow).

2

او با وجود موقعیت اجتماعی برجسته‌اش، غالباً از دل گرفتگی‌های پنهان رنج می‌برد.

Despite his prominent social standing, he often suffered from hidden melancholy.

Using 'alavé-raghm' (despite) and 'penhan' (hidden).

3

گاهی اوقات، دل گرفتگی نه از فقدان، بلکه از فقدانِ معنا ناشی می‌شود.

Sometimes, melancholy arises not from loss, but from a lack of meaning.

Philosophical phrasing, contrastive structure.

4

هنرمند تلاش می‌کرد تا با خلق آثارش، دل گرفتگی‌های نسل خود را بازنمایی کند.

The artist sought to represent the melancholy of his generation through his creations.

Using 'baznamayi kardan' (to represent) and 'nasl' (generation).

5

تحلیل روانشناختی نشان داد که دل گرفتگی او ریشه‌های عمیقی در تجربیات کودکی‌اش دارد.

The psychological analysis revealed that his melancholy had deep roots in his childhood experiences.

Using 'ravanshenakhti' (psychological) and 'rishehaye amigh' (deep roots).

6

او در مواجهه با ناملایمات زندگی، به جای تسلیم شدن به دل گرفتگی، راهی برای تاب‌آوری می‌جست.

In the face of life's adversities, instead of succumbing to melancholy, she sought a way to build resilience.

Using 'dar mowajeheh ba' (in the face of), 'namelayemat' (adversities), and 'tab-avari' (resilience).

7

این قطعه موسیقی، با ملودی اندوهگین و هارمونی‌های پیچیده، به خوبی حس دل گرفتگی را القا می‌کند.

This musical piece, with its sorrowful melody and complex harmonies, effectively conveys a sense of melancholy.

Using 'qate'eh' (piece), 'anduhgin' (sorrowful), and 'elgha mikonad' (conveys/induces).

8

در مواجهه با پوچیِ هستی، گاهی دل گرفتگی تنها پاسخی قابل درک به نظر می‌رسد.

In confronting the absurdity of existence, sometimes melancholy appears to be the only understandable response.

Philosophical terms 'poochi-ye hasti' (absurdity of existence) and 'pasokh-e qabel-e dark' (understandable response).

1

فلسفه‌ی اگزیستانسیالیسم، غالباً با تبیین دل گرفتگی‌های وجودی انسان، به دنبال یافتن معنا در جهانی بی‌معناست.

Existentialism, often by explaining humanity's existential melancholy, seeks to find meaning in a meaningless world.

Complex philosophical terminology, abstract concepts.

2

شاعر در اشعارش، با ظرافت تمام، دل گرفتگی‌های ناشی از شکاف نسلی و گسست فرهنگی را به تصویر می‌کشد.

The poet, with utmost subtlety, depicts the melancholy arising from generational gaps and cultural rifts in his verses.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'zafarat tam' (utmost subtlety), 'shekaf-e nasli' (generational gap), 'gosast-e farhangi' (cultural rift).

3

تحلیل پدیدارشناختیِ تجربه‌ی دل گرفتگی، بر جنبه‌ی ذهنی و کیفیِ این حالت عاطفی تمرکز دارد.

Phenomenological analysis of the experience of melancholy focuses on the subjective and qualitative aspects of this emotional state.

Advanced academic vocabulary 'padidar-shenakhti' (phenomenological), 'zehni' (subjective), 'keyfi' (qualitative).

4

در دوران پس از جنگ، فضایی از دل گرفتگی جمعی بر جامعه حاکم بود که در آثار هنری آن دوران به وضوح نمایان است.

In the post-war era, a pervasive atmosphere of collective melancholy dominated society, clearly evident in the art of that period.

Using 'fasleh' (era), 'jam'i' (collective), 'hakem bud' (was dominant), 'vazuh' (clearly).

5

روانکاوی معتقد است که دل گرفتگی‌های مزمن، اغلب بازتابی از تعارضات ناخودآگاه و تجربیات سرکوب شده است.

Psychoanalysis posits that chronic melancholy is often a reflection of unconscious conflicts and repressed experiences.

Specialized terminology 'ravankavi' (psychoanalysis), 'ta'arozat-e nakhodagah' (unconscious conflicts), 'sarkub shodeh' (repressed).

6

این رمان، با توصیفات دقیق و شخصیت‌پردازی عمیق، خواننده را به درون دنیای پر از دل گرفتگی قهرمانش می‌کشاند.

This novel, with its precise descriptions and deep characterization, draws the reader into the protagonist's world filled with melancholy.

Literary terms 'tohsifat-e daghigh' (precise descriptions), 'shakhsiyat-pardazi' (characterization), 'qahraman' (protagonist).

7

فقدانِ ارتباط معنادار در جامعه‌ی مدرن، می‌تواند به گسترش پدیده‌ی دل گرفتگیِ فراگیر منجر شود.

The lack of meaningful connection in modern society can lead to the proliferation of widespread melancholy.

Abstract social commentary, 'faghdane' (lack of), 'mo'anadar' (meaningful), 'vasi' (widespread), 'montajer shavad' (lead to).

8

تجربه‌ی هنریِ تماشای غروب خورشید، در کنار زیبایی بصری، می‌تواند حس دل گرفتگیِ گذرا و تأمل‌برانگیزی را در فرد برانگیزد.

The artistic experience of watching the sunset, alongside its visual beauty, can evoke a fleeting and contemplative melancholy in an individual.

Nuanced description of an aesthetic experience, 'gozara' (fleeting), 'ta'amol-barangiz' (contemplative), 'barangizad' (evoke).

Common Collocations

دلم گرفت
دل گرفته بودن
دل کسی را گرفتن
احساس دل گرفتگی
از دل گرفتگی رنج بردن
دل گرفتگی شدید
دل گرفتگی موقت
دل گرفتگی فصلی
دل گرفتگی پنهان
دل گرفتگی را از بین بردن

Common Phrases

دلم گرفت.

— My heart became heavy; I felt downhearted.

وقتی آهنگ غمگین را شنیدم، دلم گرفت.

چرا دلت گرفته؟

— Why are you feeling downhearted?

دوستم امروز خیلی ساکت بود، پرسیدم چرا دلت گرفته؟

کمی دل گرفته ام.

— I am feeling a little downhearted.

امروز هوا ابری است و من کمی دل گرفته ام.

او دل گرفته به نظر می‌رسد.

— He/She looks downhearted.

او امروز دل گرفته به نظر می‌رسد، شاید مشکلی دارد.

این خبر دلم را گرفت.

— This news made me feel downhearted.

با شنیدن خبر تصادف، دلم گرفت.

از دل گرفتگی رنج می‌برم.

— I am suffering from melancholy/low spirits.

او از دل گرفتگی مزمن رنج می‌برد و به دنبال درمان است.

دلش گرفته بود و حوصله نداشت.

— He/She was downhearted and had no energy/inclination.

وقتی به خانه رسیدم، دیدم همسرم دلش گرفته بود و حوصله نداشت.

امیدوارم دلت گرفته نباشد.

— I hope you are not feeling downhearted.

بعد از آن بحث، امیدوارم دلت گرفته نباشد.

با این کار دلت می‌گیرد.

— Doing this will make you feel downhearted.

اگر زیاد به اخبار بد گوش کنی، با این کار دلت می‌گیرد.

دلش از این وضعیت گرفته بود.

— His/Her heart was heavy because of this situation.

او از این وضعیت دلش گرفته بود و نمی‌دانست چه کند.

Often Confused With

دل گرفته vs دل شکسته (del shekasteh)

'Del shekasteh' means broken-hearted, implying a deeper, more profound sadness, often due to betrayal or significant loss. 'Del gerefteh' is a milder, more general sadness or melancholy.

دل گرفته vs ناراحت (narahat)

'Narahat' means upset or unhappy and can cover a broader range of negative emotions like annoyance or disappointment. 'Del gerefteh' is specifically about low spirits and melancholy.

دل گرفته vs افسرده (afsordeh)

'Afsordeh' refers to clinical depression, a serious mental health condition. 'Del gerefteh' is a temporary feeling of sadness or low spirits.

Idioms & Expressions

"دل به دریا زدن"

— To take a leap of faith; to venture out despite fear or risk.

با وجود ترس، بالاخره دل به دریا زدم و به سفر رفتم.

Informal
"دل به دل راه دارد"

— Love is reciprocal; feelings are mutual.

وقتی دید که او هم به من علاقه دارد، فهمید که دل به دل راه دارد.

Neutral
"از دل و دماغ افتادن"

— To lose heart; to become discouraged or disheartened.

بعد از شکست‌های پی در پی، از دل و دماغ افتاد.

Informal
"دل کسی را به درد آوردن"

— To break someone's heart; to cause someone great pain or sorrow.

بی‌توجهی او دل مرا به درد آورد.

Neutral
"دل کسی را شاد کردن"

— To make someone happy; to gladden someone's heart.

هدیه من دل مادرم را شاد کرد.

Neutral
"دل کندن"

— To let go; to detach oneself emotionally from something or someone.

جدایی از خاطرات گذشته سخت بود، اما باید دل می‌ کندم.

Neutral
"دل به کار دادن"

— To concentrate on one's work; to put one's heart into something.

وقتی دل به کار بدهی، موفق می‌شوی.

Neutral
"دلیلی برای دل گرفتن"

— A reason to feel downhearted.

با این همه مشکل، دلیلی برای دل گرفتن وجود دارد.

Neutral
"دلشوره‌ داشتن"

— To have butterflies in one's stomach; to feel anxious or worried.

قبل از امتحان، دلشوره داشتم.

Informal
"دل به کسی بستن"

— To fall in love with someone; to become attached to someone.

او به سرعت به مردی جوان دل بست.

Neutral

Easily Confused

دل گرفته vs غمگین (ghamgin)

Both mean sad.

'Ghamgin' is a direct translation of 'sad'. 'Del gerefteh' implies a more specific type of sadness – a heavy-heartedness or melancholy, often less intense than deep sorrow.

او از مرگ دوستش غمگین بود. (He was sad about his friend's death.) vs. امروز دلم گرفته است. (Today I feel downhearted.)

دل گرفته vs دلگیر (delgir)

Both relate to a somber or sad feeling.

'Delgir' is often used to describe an atmosphere, weather, or a place that evokes sadness. 'Del gerefteh' is primarily used to describe a person's internal feeling of sadness.

هوای امروز دلگیر است و باعث شده دلم بگیرد. (Today's weather is somber and has made me feel downhearted.)

دل گرفته vs بی‌حال (bi-hal)

Both can involve a lack of energy or enthusiasm.

'Bi-hal' means listless or lethargic, focusing on a lack of physical or mental energy. 'Del gerefteh' focuses on the emotional state of sadness or melancholy, which may or may not be accompanied by a lack of energy.

او بعد از بیماری بی‌حال بود. (He was listless after the illness.) vs. او به خاطر مشکلاتش دل گرفته بود. (He was downhearted because of his problems.)

دل گرفته vs ناراحت (narahat)

Both express negative emotions.

'Narahat' is a general term for being upset, displeased, or unhappy, often in reaction to a specific event or action. 'Del gerefteh' is more about a pervasive feeling of melancholy or low spirits.

حرف‌هایش مرا ناراحت کرد. (His words upset me.) vs. بعد از شنیدن آن خبر، دلم گرفت. (After hearing that news, I felt downhearted.)

دل گرفته vs افسرده (afsordeh)

Both relate to sadness.

'Afsordeh' signifies clinical depression, a serious mental health condition. 'Del gerefteh' is a common, often temporary, feeling of sadness or melancholy.

او از افسردگی رنج می‌برد. (He suffers from depression.) vs. امروز کمی دلم گرفته است. (Today I feel a little downhearted.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

Subject + دل گرفته + است/بود.

او دل گرفته است.

A1

چرا + دلت گرفته؟

چرا دلت گرفته؟

A2

Subject + دلم گرفت.

دلم گرفت.

A2

Subject + کمی دل گرفته + ام/است.

امروز کمی دل گرفته ام.

B1

Subject + از + reason + دل گرفته.

او از این موضوع دل گرفته است.

B1

اگر + Subject + دل گرفته + باشد/است، + consequence.

اگر دلت گرفته باشد، بیا صحبت کنیم.

B2

Subject + به خاطر + reason + دل گرفته.

من به خاطر هوای بارانی دل گرفته ام.

C1

Subject + حس + دل گرفتگی + دارد/می‌کند.

او حس دل گرفتگی دارد.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes
  • Translating 'del gerefteh' literally as 'heart taken'. Feeling sad or downhearted.

    While 'heart taken' is the literal translation, it doesn't convey the idiomatic meaning of sadness. English speakers should use phrases like 'feeling downhearted' or 'my heart feels heavy'.

  • Using 'del gerefteh' for intense anger. Use words like 'asabani' (angry) or 'narahat' (upset).

    'Del gerefteh' specifically denotes sadness or melancholy, not anger. While sadness and anger can be related, this phrase is reserved for the former.

  • Confusing 'del gerefteh' with 'del shekasteh'. 'Del gerefteh' for general sadness; 'del shekasteh' for broken-heartedness.

    'Del shekasteh' implies a deeper, more acute sadness, often due to betrayal or significant loss, whereas 'del gerefteh' is a more general feeling of low spirits.

  • Incorrect verb conjugation with 'gereftan'. Using forms like 'daram del gerefteh mishavam' or 'delam gereft'.

    Learners might struggle with conjugating 'gereftan' correctly for the subject and tense. Ensure you use the appropriate forms like 'delam gereft' (my heart became heavy) or 'del gerefteh am' (I am downhearted).

  • Using 'del gerefteh' for physical pain. Use terms for physical discomfort like 'dard' (pain) or 'bimar' (sick).

    'Del gerefteh' is exclusively for emotional states. It cannot be used to describe physical sensations or illnesses.

Tips

Focus on the 'G' sound

The 'g' in 'gerefteh' is a hard 'g' like in 'go', not a soft 'j' sound. Practice saying 'go-ref-teh' to get the pronunciation right. Remember the stress is on the last syllable: ge-REF-teh.

Heart Analogy

Visualize your heart (del) feeling 'taken' (gerefteh) or weighed down. This visual can help you remember the meaning of feeling heavy-hearted and sad.

Verb Conjugation

Pay attention to the conjugation of the verb 'gereftan' when used with 'del'. Common forms include 'daram del gerefteh mishavam' (I am becoming downhearted) and 'delam gereft' (my heart became heavy).

Heart as Emotion Center

In Persian culture, the heart is the center of emotions. Understanding this helps appreciate why 'del gerefteh' is such a rich and common expression for sadness.

Synonym Spectrum

Learn related words like 'ghamgin' (sad), 'afsordeh' (depressed), and 'delgir' (somber). Understanding their subtle differences will help you choose the most precise word for the emotion you want to convey.

Everyday Use

Try to use 'del gerefteh' in simple sentences when you feel a bit down. For example, 'Man emruz del gerefteh hastam.' This active practice is crucial for retention.

Listen to Music

Persian music, especially ballads, often uses 'del gerefteh'. Listening to songs and paying attention to this phrase in context will significantly improve your understanding and usage.

Read Persian Literature

Authors frequently use 'del gerefteh' to describe characters' emotions. Reading stories and poems will expose you to diverse contexts and nuances of this expression.

Ask Questions

When you hear 'del gerefteh' in conversation, don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you're unsure of the context. Native speakers are usually happy to explain.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine your heart is a balloon (دل) that has been 'taken' (گرفته) by a dark cloud, making it heavy and sad. The cloud represents sadness. So, 'del gerefteh' = heart taken by sadness.

Visual Association

Picture a heart with a hand gently holding it down, as if it's too heavy to rise. The hand represents the feeling of being 'taken' or weighed down by sadness.

Word Web

Sadness Melancholy Low spirits Heavy heart Downhearted Unhappy Gloomy Sorrowful

Challenge

Try to describe a time you felt 'del gerefteh' using at least three other related Persian words you know. For example, 'I felt 'del gerefteh', so I was also 'ghamgin' and 'bi-hal'.

Word Origin

The phrase 'del gerefteh' is derived from two Persian words: 'del' (دل), meaning 'heart,' and 'gerefteh' (گرفته), the past participle of the verb 'gereftan' (گرفتن), meaning 'to take' or 'to catch'. The literal translation is 'heart taken' or 'heart caught'.

Original meaning: The original meaning implies that the heart has been 'taken' or 'captured' by sadness or a heavy feeling, suggesting an involuntary emotional state.

Indo-Iranian, specifically Persian (Farsi).

Cultural Context

It's a gentle way to express sadness. Avoid using it lightly if someone is experiencing severe depression, where more specific terms might be needed. However, for everyday low spirits, it's perfectly appropriate and empathetic.

In English-speaking cultures, similar expressions exist like 'feeling blue', 'having a heavy heart', or 'being down in the dumps', which capture the essence of 'del gerefteh'.

Persian poetry (e.g., Hafez, Saadi) frequently uses 'del' to express complex emotions, including melancholy. Iranian cinema often portrays characters experiencing 'del gerefteh' in dramas and romantic films. Traditional Persian music, especially instrumental pieces or vocal ballads, often evokes feelings associated with 'del gerefteh'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Discussing personal feelings after a sad event.

  • دلم گرفت.
  • خیلی غمگین شدم.
  • این خبر مرا دل گرفته کرد.

Describing the mood of a place or weather.

  • هوا دلگیر است.
  • فضای خانه دل گرفته بود.
  • این منظره مرا دل گرفته می‌کند.

Checking on a friend's well-being.

  • چرا دلت گرفته؟
  • حالت خوب است؟ دل گرفته‌ای؟
  • اگر دلت گرفته، بیا صحبت کنیم.

Expressing general low spirits.

  • کمی دل گرفته ام.
  • امروز احساس دل گرفتگی دارم.
  • حوصله ندارم چون دلم گرفته.

Reflecting on past experiences.

  • آن روزها دلم می‌گرفت.
  • یادم می‌آید که دلم گرفته بود.
  • دل گرفتگی آن دوره طولانی بود.

Conversation Starters

"How do you feel today? Are you feeling 'del gerefteh'?"

"What kind of things make you feel 'del gerefteh'?"

"Can you describe a time when you felt 'del gerefteh'?"

"What do you do when you feel 'del gerefteh'?"

"Is there a difference between feeling 'del gerefteh' and being 'ghamgin' in Persian?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a situation where you felt 'del gerefteh'. What were the circumstances, and how did it affect you?

Write about the difference between 'del gerefteh' and 'del shekasteh' based on your understanding. Provide examples.

Imagine you are advising someone who is feeling 'del gerefteh'. What tips would you give them?

Reflect on the role of weather or music in evoking feelings of 'del gerefteh' for you.

How does the Persian expression 'del gerefteh' compare to similar expressions in your native language?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The literal translation of 'del gerefteh' is 'heart taken' or 'heart caught'. The word 'del' (دل) means 'heart', and 'gerefteh' (گرفته) is the past participle of the verb 'gereftan' (گرفتن), meaning 'to take' or 'to catch'. This literal meaning hints at the idiomatic sense of the heart being weighed down by sadness.

No, 'del gerefteh' typically describes a temporary feeling of sadness, melancholy, or low spirits. It is not generally used to refer to clinical depression ('afsordegi'). If someone is experiencing prolonged and severe sadness, it's important to consider more serious conditions.

Yes, it can sometimes describe an atmosphere or weather that feels somber or melancholic, which in turn might make people feel 'del gerefteh'. For example, 'hoav-e emruz delgir ast va del-am ra migirad' (today's weather is somber and makes my heart heavy).

You can use it as an adjective: 'Man del gerefteh hastam' (I am downhearted). Or you can use the verb form: 'Delam gereft' (My heart became heavy). You can also inquire: 'Chera del-et gerefteh?' (Why are you downhearted?).

'Ghamgin' is a general term for 'sad'. 'Del gerefteh' often implies a more specific kind of sadness – a feeling of heaviness in the heart, melancholy, or low spirits, which might be less intense than deep sorrow but more pervasive than simple unhappiness.

No, 'del gerefteh' exclusively refers to negative emotions like sadness and melancholy. It is never used to describe excitement or joy.

It is quite versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it leans towards expressing personal feelings and is very common in everyday conversation. In very formal writing, you might see more literary synonyms, but 'del gerefteh' is widely understood and accepted.

You can say 'In [thing] del-am ra gereft' (This [thing] took my heart/made me downhearted). For example, 'In khabar del-am ra gereft' (This news made me downhearted).

The noun form is 'del gereftegi' (دل گرفتگی), which means melancholy, sadness, or low spirits.

While Persian culture deeply personifies animals, 'del gerefteh' is primarily used for humans to describe complex emotional states. You might say an animal looks 'narahat' (upset) or 'ghamgin' (sad), but 'del gerefteh' is usually reserved for human emotional depth.

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