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B2 adjective 9 min read

کارا

kara

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips کارا in 30 Seconds

Explanation کارا in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'kārā' often, but you might hear it. Think of it as a fancy way of saying 'good' or 'working well'. If you have a toy or a pen that works perfectly, a teacher might say it is 'kārā'. It comes from the word 'kār' which you already know means 'work'. So, 'kārā' is just something that is 'full of work power'. You can remember it by thinking: 'This thing does the kār (work) in a great way!' At this stage, just recognize that it is a positive word used for tools and machines. You won't be expected to use it in your own basic sentences yet, but knowing it helps you understand more advanced speakers.

At the A2 level, you are starting to talk about your daily routine and simple jobs. You can use 'kārā' to describe a simple tool that helps you. For example, 'This app is kārā' (In Persian: In barnaame kārā ast). It's a step up from just saying 'khub' (good). It shows you are beginning to understand the quality of how things work. You might see this word on the packaging of household items or in simple instructions. It is usually used with the verb 'ast' (is). Try to use it when you are talking about your study habits or the tools you use for learning Persian. If a dictionary helps you learn fast, you can call it a 'kārā' dictionary.

At the B1 level, you are moving into more professional and social topics. You should start using 'kārā' to describe methods and processes. Instead of saying 'a good way to learn', you can say 'a kārā way to learn' (ravesh-e kārā). You are now expected to understand that 'kārā' is more specific than 'mofid' (useful). At this level, you can also use the comparative form 'kārā-tar' (more efficient). For example, 'This new method is more efficient than the old one'. You will encounter this word in news articles about technology or health. It's a key word for expressing your opinion about how things can be improved in a workplace or school environment.

At the B2 level, 'kārā' is a core part of your vocabulary. You should use it naturally in discussions about economics, management, and technology. You understand that it specifically refers to 'efficiency'—getting the most output with the least input. You can use it to describe abstract systems like 'an efficient market' (bāzār-e kārā) or 'efficient management' (modiriyat-e kārā). You should also be comfortable with the noun form 'kārāyi' (efficiency) and the negative 'nākārā' (inefficient). At this level, you can use 'kārā' to synthesize complex ideas in essays or presentations, showing that you can evaluate the quality of a system or a person's performance with precision.

At the C1 level, you use 'kārā' with nuance and stylistic flair. You can distinguish it from 'mo'asser' (effective) and 'bahre-var' (productive) in academic writing or professional debates. You recognize its use in classical-style modern prose and technical journals. You can discuss the 'efficiency' of linguistic structures or the 'kārā' nature of a specific poetic meter. You are also aware of the word's etymological roots and how it fits into the broader family of 'kār' words. Your usage of 'kārā' reflects a deep understanding of Persian administrative and scientific registers. You can use it to critique complex socio-political structures, often using it in collocations like 'kārāyi-ye eqtesādi' (economic efficiency).

At the C2 level, 'kārā' is a tool for precision in your most advanced discourse. You can use it to explore philosophical concepts of utility or to provide expert-level analysis in specialized fields like engineering, law, or economics. You understand the subtle connotations it carries in different historical periods of modern Persian. You can use it in highly formal speeches or when translating complex English technical texts into Persian, ensuring the distinction between 'efficiency' and 'effectiveness' is perfectly maintained. Your mastery of 'kārā' and its derivatives allows you to speak with the authority of a native expert, using the word to define the very parameters of success and performance in any given context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

کارا in 30 Seconds

Kārā means efficient or effective, focusing on getting results without waste.
It is a formal word used in business, science, and professional settings.
The root 'kār' means work, and 'kārā' means 'capable of doing work well'.
Its opposite is 'nākārā', which means inefficient or ineffective.

The Persian word کارا (kārā) is a sophisticated adjective that translates most directly to 'efficient' or 'effective' in English. It is a derivative of the root word کار (kār), which means 'work' or 'task'. By adding the suffix '-ā', the word transforms from a simple noun into an active adjective describing something or someone that possesses the inherent quality of performing work successfully and productively. In the landscape of Persian vocabulary, کارا occupies a space between mere functionality and high-level performance. It is not just that something 'works' (which would be کار می‌کند); it is that it works in a manner that optimizes resources, time, and effort.

Etymological Root: Derived from the Middle Persian 'kārag', emphasizing the capacity to act or produce a result. It suggests a state of being active rather than passive.
Modern Usage: In contemporary Iran, you will encounter this word in professional evaluations, economic discussions, and technological reviews to describe systems or individuals who achieve maximum output.

Understanding کارا requires looking at the nuance of productivity. In English, we often distinguish between 'effective' (doing the right things) and 'efficient' (doing things right). In Persian, while مؤثر (mo'asser) leans heavily toward 'effective', کارا leans toward 'efficient', though it often bridges both concepts in general conversation. It implies a lack of waste. A مدیر کارا (efficient manager) is one who doesn't just finish the project, but does so without burning out the team or overspending the budget.

ما به یک سیستم حمل و نقل کارا برای کاهش ترافیک نیاز داریم.

Translation: We need an efficient transport system to reduce traffic.

When people use this word, they are often making a value judgment. Calling a solution کارا is a high compliment in Iranian business culture. It suggests that the solution is well-thought-out and sustainable. It is frequently paired with nouns like روش (method), نیروی انسانی (human resources), and ابزار (tool). For instance, an 'efficient tool' (ابزار کارا) is one that makes a difficult task feel effortless due to its superior design.

In a broader philosophical sense, کارا represents the ideal of Persian craftsmanship—where the utility of an object meets its peak potential. Whether discussing a software algorithm that processes data in milliseconds or a traditional agricultural technique that saves water, the label کارا signifies excellence in operation. It is a word of the B2 level because it moves beyond the basic vocabulary of 'good' or 'bad' into the realm of professional and qualitative assessment.

این موتور جدید بسیار کارا است و سوخت کمی مصرف می‌کند.

Translation: This new engine is very efficient and consumes little fuel.

Using کارا correctly involves placing it as an adjective after the noun it modifies, following the standard Persian Ezafe construction. For example, to say 'efficient method', you say روشِ کارا (ravesh-e kārā). It is a versatile word that can describe abstract concepts like 'policies' or concrete objects like 'machinery'. Because it is an adjective, it can also be used with the verb 'to be' (بودن) to form a complete predicate.

With Human Subjects: When describing a person, it implies they are productive and capable. 'او کارمند بسیار کارایی است' (He is a very efficient employee).
With Abstract Systems: Used in economics: 'بازار کارا' (Efficient market). This describes a system where all information is reflected in prices.

One of the most common ways to see کارا used is in comparative and superlative forms. To say 'more efficient', you add the suffix -tar to get کاراتر (kārā-tar). To say 'the most efficient', you add -tarin to get کاراترین (kārā-tarin). These forms are essential for making evaluations and comparisons in professional reports or academic essays.

ما باید کاراترین راه حل را انتخاب کنیم.

Translation: We must choose the most efficient solution.

In formal writing, کارا is often paired with the noun کارایی (kārā-yi), which means 'efficiency' or 'effectiveness'. For instance, 'افزایش کارایی' (increasing efficiency). When you want to describe a lack of efficiency, you use the prefix nā- to create the antonym ناکارا (nākārā), meaning 'inefficient'. This is a very common way to criticize a bureaucratic process or a failing technology.

Finally, consider the register. کارا is a 'literary' and 'formal' word. In very casual street slang, people might just say ردیف (radif) or اوکی (okay) to mean something works well. However, in any setting where you want to sound educated—such as a university, a job interview, or a news broadcast—کارا is the precise term you need. It conveys a sense of professional authority and analytical clarity.

آیا این استراتژی در درازمدت کارا خواهد بود؟

Translation: Will this strategy be effective in the long term?

The word کارا is a staple of the Persian professional and intellectual landscape. If you tune into an Iranian news channel like IRINN or BBC Persian, you will hear it during segments on the economy, technology, and government policy. It is the go-to word for experts discussing how to improve the national grid, the banking system, or the education sector. It suggests a level of technical competence that simpler words lack.

In the Workplace: Managers use it during performance reviews. 'شما در مدیریت زمان بسیار کارا هستید' (You are very efficient in time management).
In Academic Lectures: Professors in engineering or management science use 'kārā' to describe optimized algorithms or organizational structures.

You will also find کارا frequently in the titles of books and articles. A book titled مدیریت کارا (Efficient Management) would be a typical find in a Tehran bookstore. It is also used in advertising for high-tech products. A vacuum cleaner might be marketed as having a فیلتر کارا (efficient filter), or a new car might be praised for its مصرف سوخت کارا (efficient fuel consumption). In these contexts, it signals 'modernity' and 'quality'.

تحقیقات نشان می‌دهد که این روش تدریس بسیار کارا است.

Translation: Research shows that this teaching method is very effective.

In political discourse, کارا is often used as a critique or a promise. A candidate might promise a دولت کارا (efficient government) to contrast themselves with a perceived 'lazy' or 'wasteful' predecessor. Here, the word takes on a moral weight—suggesting that being efficient is a duty to the public. It is a word that demands respect because it implies that the speaker values results over rhetoric.

Even in literature, though less common than in technical fields, کارا can be used to describe a sharp mind or a potent weapon. A 'kārā' sword would be one that strikes true and fast. However, its primary domain remains the modern world of work, science, and social organization. If you want to impress an Iranian colleague, using کارا instead of the more generic خوب (good) will immediately elevate your speech.

این نرم‌افزار برای ویرایش ویدیو خیلی کارا به نظر می‌رسد.

Translation: This software seems very efficient for video editing.

One of the most frequent mistakes for English speakers learning Persian is confusing کارا (kārā) with other words that sound similar or share the same root. The root کار (kār) is incredibly prolific in Persian, giving birth to dozens of words. A common error is using کاری (kāri) when you mean کارا. کاری usually relates to 'business' or 'vocational' (like سفر کاری - business trip), whereas کارا is strictly about the quality of performance.

Confusion with 'Mo'asser': Learners often use 'mo'asser' (effective) and 'kārā' (efficient) interchangeably. While often similar, 'mo'asser' focuses on the impact, while 'kārā' focuses on the process and resource management.
Mispronunciation: Ensure you don't shorten the final 'ā'. It is a long vowel. Pronouncing it as 'kāre' would change the meaning to 'work of...' or 'a work'.

Another mistake is using کارا to describe people in a way that sounds robotic or overly technical. While you can call a person کارا, it is more common to describe their actions or their roles as کارا. If you want to say someone is 'hardworking', use کوشا (kushā) or پشتکار (posht-e kār). کارا specifically highlights their efficiency—the fact that they don't waste time—rather than just their effort level.

اشتباه: او یک دوست کارا است. (Incorrect usage for personal relationships).

Note: You wouldn't call a friend 'efficient' in a social context; it sounds like they are a tool.

Furthermore, learners sometimes forget that کارا is a formal word. Using it in a very casual setting, like while hanging out at a cafe, might sound a bit stiff or academic. In those cases, words like خوب (good) or عالی (excellent) are more natural. However, if the conversation turns to technology or work, کارا becomes perfectly appropriate again.

Lastly, be careful with the negative form ناکارا. It is a strong word. Calling someone's work ناکارا is a direct criticism of their professional competence. In Persian culture, where politeness (ta'arof) is important, you might want to soften such a critique by saying چندان کارا نیست (it isn't very efficient) instead of the blunt ناکارا است.

درست: این سیستم برای نیازهای ما کارا نیست.

Translation: This system is not efficient for our needs.

To truly master the use of کارا, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Persian has a rich vocabulary for describing utility and effectiveness, and choosing the right word can change the entire tone of your sentence. Here are the most important comparisons:

کارا (Kārā) vs. مؤثر (Mo'asser): Kārā is 'efficient' (process-oriented, low waste). Mo'asser is 'effective' (result-oriented, impactful). A medicine is mo'asser, but a factory is kārā.
کارا (Kārā) vs. مفید (Mofid): Mofid means 'useful'. It is a broader, simpler word. A book can be mofid (useful), but a search algorithm is kārā (efficient).
کارا (Kārā) vs. بهره‌ور (Bahre-var): Bahre-var means 'productive'. It is often used in economic contexts regarding labor or land. While kārā is about the 'how', bahre-var is about the 'yield'.

When you want to describe something that is 'capable' or 'competent', you might use توانمند (tavānmand). While کارا can describe a person's output, توانمند describes their internal power and skills. In a professional bio, you might say someone is a مدیر توانمند و کارا (a capable and efficient manager), combining both their skill and their results.

او به دنبال راهی مؤثرتر و کاراتر برای انجام کارهاست.

Translation: He is looking for a more effective and efficient way to do things.

If you are looking for an antonym, ناکارآمد (nākārāmad) is another very common alternative to ناکارا. Both mean 'inefficient' or 'ineffective', but ناکارآمد is slightly more common in modern journalistic Persian when referring to government departments or failed policies. Using ناکارآمد often implies that the thing in question is 'broken' or 'non-functional' in its current state.

In summary, choose کارا when you want to emphasize the smart use of resources. Choose مؤثر for impact, مفید for general utility, and بهره‌ور for high-volume production. By distinguishing between these terms, you will sound like a native speaker who understands the nuances of the language.

این ابزار مفید است، اما برای این پروژه به اندازه کافی کارا نیست.

Translation: This tool is useful, but it's not efficient enough for this project.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"ارتقای کارایی سیستم‌های اداری در اولویت است."

Neutral

"این روش برای مطالعه خیلی کارا است."

Informal

"این برنامه واقعاً کاراست، حتماً نصبش کن."

Child friendly

"این مداد جادویی خیلی کاراست و زود تکالیفت رو تموم می‌کنه!"

Slang

"دمت گرم، عجب ترفند کارایی بود!"

Fun Fact

The root 'kār' is a cognate with the English word 'create' and the Sanskrit 'karma'. So, when you say 'kārā', you are linguistically related to the concept of 'karma'!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kɑːˈrɑː/

US /kɑːˈrɑː/

The stress is typically on the final syllable: kā-RĀ.

Rhymes With

دارا (dārā) سارا (sārā) کارا (kārā) یارا (yārā) مارا (mārā) آرا (ārā) پارا (pārā) گوارا (govārā)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'a' as a short 'e' (like 'kāre').
Swapping the vowels and saying 'karā' (short first a).
Over-emphasizing the 'r' so it sounds like two syllables.
Muttering the end of the word.
Confusing it with 'kār-hā' (works).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Easy to read once the root 'kār' is known.

Writing 5/5

Requires understanding of the suffix '-ā'.

Speaking 6/5

Pronunciation of long vowels is key.

Listening 5/5

Common in news and professional speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

کار (work) خوب (good) کردن (to do) بودن (to be) روش (method)

Learn Next

کارایی (efficiency) مؤثر (effective) بهره‌وری (productivity) بهینه‌سازی (optimization) فرآیند (process)

Advanced

استهلاک بازدهی تخصیص منابع مزیت نسبی پویایی

Grammar to Know

Ezafe Construction

روشِ کارا (ravesh-e kārā)

Comparative Suffix -tar

کاراتر (kārā-tar)

Superlative Suffix -tarin

کاراترین (kārā-tarin)

Negation with nā-

ناکارا (nākārā)

Abstract Noun Suffix -i

کارایی (kārā-yi)

Examples by Level

این مداد کارا است.

This pencil is efficient (works well).

Simple Subject + Adjective + Verb 'ast'.

ماشین او کارا نیست.

His/her car is not efficient.

Negative 'nist' is used to negate 'kārā'.

آیا این راه کارا است؟

Is this way/path efficient?

Question form using 'āyā'.

یک ابزار کارا بخرید.

Buy an efficient tool.

Imperative verb 'bekharid' with an adjective.

این ساعت خیلی کارا است.

This watch is very efficient.

Adverb 'kheyli' (very) modifying the adjective.

کتابِ کارا کجاست؟

Where is the efficient (useful) book?

Ezafe 'e' connects noun and adjective.

او کارا کار می‌کند.

He/she works efficiently.

Here 'kārā' acts as an adverb modifying 'kār mikonad'.

این چراغ کارا است.

This lamp is efficient.

Basic descriptive sentence.

این برنامه برای گوشی من کارا است.

This app is efficient for my phone.

Use of 'barāye' (for) to show purpose.

روشِ کارایی برای درس خواندن پیدا کن.

Find an efficient method for studying.

Indefinite 'i' added to 'kārā' (kārā-yi).

او یک کارگرِ کارا است.

He is an efficient worker.

Describing a person's work quality.

این جاروبرقی بسیار کارا است.

This vacuum cleaner is very efficient.

Formal adverb 'besyār' used instead of 'kheyli'.

ما به وسایلِ کارا نیاز داریم.

We need efficient equipment/tools.

Plural noun 'vasāyel' with ezafe.

آیا این نقشه کارا بود؟

Was this map efficient (useful)?

Past tense 'bud' (was).

این لامپ‌ها کارا و کم‌مصرف هستند.

These lamps are efficient and low-consumption.

Compound adjectives joined by 'va' (and).

من یک راهِ کارا می‌خواهم.

I want an efficient way.

Direct object with 'rā'.

استفاده از انرژی خورشیدی بسیار کارا است.

Using solar energy is very efficient.

Gerund 'estefāde' as the subject.

این شرکت به دنبال کارمندانِ کارا می‌گردد.

This company is looking for efficient employees.

Present progressive 'mi-gardad'.

شما باید یک سیستمِ کارا طراحی کنید.

You must design an efficient system.

Modal verb 'bāyad' with subjunctive.

این روش نسبت به روش قبلی کاراتر است.

This method is more efficient than the previous one.

Comparative 'kārā-tar'.

کاراییِ این دستگاه عالی است.

The efficiency of this device is excellent.

Noun form 'kārāyi'.

ما نیازمندِ یک مدیریتِ کارا هستیم.

We are in need of an efficient management.

Formal phrase 'niyāzmand-e'.

این دارو برای درمانِ بیماری کارا به نظر می‌رسد.

This medicine seems effective/efficient for treating the disease.

Verb 'be nazar mi-rasad' (seems).

تکنولوژی‌های کارا به حفظ محیط زیست کمک می‌کنند.

Efficient technologies help protect the environment.

Plural subject and verb agreement.

بهینه‌سازی فرآیندها باعث می‌شود سیستم کاراتر شود.

Optimizing processes causes the system to become more efficient.

Causative structure 'bā'es mi-shavad'.

دولت باید سیاست‌های اقتصادیِ کارایی را اتخاذ کند.

The government must adopt efficient economic policies.

Formal verb 'at-tekhāz kardan'.

در یک بازارِ کارا، قیمت‌ها بازتاب‌دهنده تمام اطلاعات هستند.

In an efficient market, prices reflect all information.

Economic terminology.

او به دلیل رویکردِ کارایش در حل مشکلات معروف است.

He is famous for his efficient approach to problem-solving.

Pronominal suffix '-ash' attached to the adjective.

ناکارا بودنِ سیستمِ اداری باعث نارضایتی مردم شده است.

The inefficiency of the administrative system has caused public dissatisfaction.

Gerund phrase 'nākārā budan'.

ما باید به دنبال جایگزین‌های کارا برای سوخت‌های فسیلی باشیم.

We must look for efficient alternatives to fossil fuels.

Plural noun 'jāygozin-hā'.

این الگوریتم از نظر مصرف حافظه بسیار کارا است.

This algorithm is very efficient in terms of memory consumption.

Prepositional phrase 'az nazar-e'.

مدیر موفق کسی است که منابع را به صورت کارا توزیع کند.

A successful manager is someone who distributes resources efficiently.

Adverbial phrase 'be surat-e kārā'.

تحلیلِ کاراییِ سرمایه در پروژه‌های صنعتی الزامی است.

Analyzing capital efficiency in industrial projects is mandatory.

Academic noun phrase.

این نظریه بر مبنای فرضِ بازارهای کارا استوار است.

This theory is based on the assumption of efficient markets.

Formal expression 'bar mabnā-ye ... ostovār ast'.

عدم وجودِ یک ساختارِ کارا مانعِ پیشرفتِ سازمان می‌شود.

The absence of an efficient structure hinders the organization's progress.

Complex subject with 'adam-e vojud'.

استفاده‌ی کارا از منابعِ محدود، جوهرِ علمِ اقتصاد است.

The efficient use of limited resources is the essence of economics.

Philosophical/Academic tone.

این پژوهش به بررسیِ مدل‌های کاراتر در کشاورزی پایدار می‌پردازد.

This research examines more efficient models in sustainable agriculture.

Verb 'be barresi ... mi-pardāzad'.

شفافیتِ اطلاعاتی یکی از پیش‌شرط‌های اصلیِ یک سیستمِ کارا است.

Information transparency is one of the main prerequisites of an efficient system.

Compound noun 'pish-shart'.

او با ذکاوتی کارا توانست بحران را مدیریت کند.

With an efficient intelligence, he was able to manage the crisis.

Metaphorical use of 'kārā'.

ساختارهای بوروکراتیکِ ناکارا مانعِ نوآوری می‌شوند.

Inefficient bureaucratic structures prevent innovation.

Adjective modifying complex nouns.

تلاقیِ تخصص و تجربه منجر به خلقِ راهکارهایی بی‌نهایت کارا می‌گردد.

The intersection of expertise and experience leads to the creation of infinitely efficient solutions.

Highly formal/literary vocabulary.

پارادایم‌های نوینِ مدیریتی بر افزایشِ حداکثریِ کارایی تأکید دارند.

New management paradigms emphasize the maximum increase in efficiency.

Use of 'paradigm' and 'hadd-aksari'.

ارزیابیِ انتقادیِ مکانیسم‌های ناکارا در تخصیصِ بودجه ضروری به نظر می‌رسد.

A critical evaluation of inefficient mechanisms in budget allocation seems necessary.

Nominalization and formal syntax.

در این جستار، ما به واکاویِ مؤلفه‌های یک نهادِ سیاسیِ کارا خواهیم پرداخت.

In this essay, we will explore the components of an efficient political institution.

Future tense with 'khāhim pardākht'.

بهینگیِ پارتو وضعیتی است که در آن تخصیصِ منابع به کاراترین شکلِ ممکن صورت گرفته است.

Pareto optimality is a state in which resource allocation has occurred in the most efficient way possible.

Technical economic definition.

زبان به مثابه‌ی یک سیستمِ نشانه‌شناختیِ کارا عمل می‌کند.

Language functions as an efficient semiotic system.

Linguistic/Philosophical context.

ضرورتِ گذار از متدهای سنتی به رویکردهای کارا در عصرِ دیجیتال غیرقابل انکار است.

The necessity of transitioning from traditional methods to efficient approaches in the digital age is undeniable.

Complex formal phrasing.

توسعه‌ی پایدار در گروِ بهره‌گیریِ کارا از پتانسیل‌های بومی است.

Sustainable development depends on the efficient utilization of local potentials.

Idiomatic formal phrase 'dar gerov-e'.

Common Collocations

روش کارا

سیستم کارا

مدیریت کارا

نیروی کارا

ابزار کارا

بازار کارا

مصرف کارا

ساختار کارا

الگوریتم کارا

پاسخ کارا

Common Phrases

به طور کارا

— Doing something in an efficient manner.

او کارها را به طور کارا انجام می‌دهد.

بسیار کارا

— Highly efficient.

این موتور بسیار کارا است.

چندان کارا نیست

— A polite way to say something is inefficient.

این برنامه چندان کارا نیست.

راه حل کارا

— An effective solution.

ما به دنبال یک راه حل کارا هستیم.

عملکرد کارا

— Efficient performance.

عملکرد کارای تیم ما.

فرایند کارا

— Efficient process.

اصلاح فرایند کارا.

تکنولوژی کارا

— Efficient technology.

سرمایه‌گذاری در تکنولوژی کارا.

رویکرد کارا

— Efficient approach.

رویکرد کارا به آموزش.

سازمان کارا

— Efficient organization.

ویژگی‌های یک سازمان کارا.

تولید کارا

— Efficient production.

تولید کارا در صنعت.

Often Confused With

کارا vs کاری

Kāri means 'vocational' or 'related to work' (e.g., a business trip), not 'efficient'.

کارا vs کارگر

Kārgar means 'worker' or sometimes 'effective' in a poetic sense, but 'kārā' is the standard adjective for efficiency.

کارا vs کاربرد

Kārboard means 'application' or 'usage', not the quality of efficiency itself.

Idioms & Expressions

"دستِ کارا"

— A capable or skilled hand (metaphorical).

او دستِ کارایی در نقاشی دارد.

Literary

"فکرِ کارا"

— A sharp, efficient mind.

او با فکر کارای خود مشکل را حل کرد.

Neutral

"قدمِ کارا"

— An effective step or action.

این اولین قدم کارا در مسیر صلح بود.

Formal

"زبانِ کارا"

— An effective or persuasive way of speaking.

او زبان کارایی برای متقاعد کردن دیگران دارد.

Neutral

"چشمِ کارا"

— An observant and efficient eye for detail.

او چشم کارایی در بازرسی دارد.

Literary

"طرحِ کارا"

— A well-thought-out plan.

این یک طرح کارا برای آینده است.

Neutral

"تیرِ کارا"

— A shot that hits its mark (metaphorical/literal).

سخنان او مانند تیری کارا بود.

Literary

"نسخه‌ی کارا"

— An effective prescription or solution.

این نسخه کارایی برای اقتصاد نیست.

Journalistic

"نفسِ کارا"

— A potent or influential presence/breath.

او نفس کارایی در میان شاگردانش دارد.

Mystical/Literary

"ابزارِ کارا در دستِ نادان"

— A powerful tool in the hands of a fool (proverbial).

تکنولوژی بدون اخلاق مانند ابزار کارا در دست نادان است.

Proverbial

Easily Confused

کارا vs مؤثر

Both translate to 'effective' in some contexts.

Mo'asser focuses on the end result or impact. Kārā focuses on the process and lack of waste.

The medicine was effective (mo'asser). The factory was efficient (kārā).

کارا vs مفید

Both are positive traits of tools.

Mofid is 'useful' (general). Kārā is 'efficient' (technical/optimized).

A hammer is useful (mofid). A pneumatic hammer is efficient (kārā).

کارا vs بهره‌ور

Both relate to work output.

Bahre-var is specifically 'productive' (yield-focused). Kārā is 'efficient' (process-focused).

A productive farm (bahre-var). An efficient irrigation system (kārā).

کارا vs کوشا

Both describe good workers.

Kushā means 'hardworking/diligent'. Kārā means 'efficient' (smart work).

He is hardworking (kushā). He is efficient (kārā).

کارا vs درست

Used for things that work.

Dorost means 'correct' or 'working (not broken)'. Kārā means 'working optimally'.

The watch is working (dorost). The watch is efficient (kārā).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] [Adjective] ast.

این ابزار کارا است.

[Noun]-e [Adjective]-tar.

روش کاراتر.

Barāye [Action], [Noun]-e [Adjective] niyāz dārim.

برای موفقیت، مدیریت کارا نیاز داریم.

Kārāyi-ye [Noun] dar [Context] barresi shod.

کارایی سیستم در آزمایش بررسی شد.

Behine-sāzi-ye [Noun] az tariq-e [Method] kārā-tar mi-gardad.

بهینه‌سازی فرآیند از طریق تکنولوژی کاراتر می‌گردد.

Āyā in [Noun] kārā ast?

آیا این نقشه کارا است؟

[Noun] be surat-e kārā [Verb].

او به صورت کارا کار می‌کند.

In [Noun] kārā nist.

این ماشین کارا نیست.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional and academic Persian; moderate in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'kāri' for 'efficient'. → Using 'kārā'.
'Kāri' means related to work/vocational. 'Kārā' means efficient.
Shortening the final vowel. → Pronouncing it as 'kārā' (long a).
Shortening it changes the word's grammatical function or meaning.
Using 'kārā' for medicine efficacy. → Using 'mo'asser'.
'Mo'asser' is for results (like medicine), 'kārā' is for processes (like machines).
Overusing 'kārā' in casual talk. → Using 'khub' or 'radif'.
'Kārā' is quite formal and can sound stiff in a cafe with friends.
Forgetting the ezafe. → Ravesh-e kārā.
In Persian, adjectives must be linked to nouns using the ezafe sound.

Tips

Root Recognition

Whenever you see 'kār' at the start of a word, think of 'work'. This will help you guess the meaning of words like kārā, kārmand, and kārkhāne.

Ezafe Usage

Remember the silent 'y' sound when saying 'kārā-ye'. It makes your Persian sound much more natural and fluid.

Formal Writing

Use 'kārā' instead of 'khub' in your Persian essays to instantly boost your CEFR level from B1 to B2.

Professionalism

Using 'kārā' in a job interview in Iran shows that you understand modern business terminology and value productivity.

Long A

Make sure both 'ā' sounds in 'kārā' are long. If you shorten them, it might sound like you are saying 'kare' (butter)!

The Car Mnemonic

Remember: A 'Kār-ā' is an 'A-grade Car' that is efficient.

Kārā vs. Mo'asser

Think: Kārā = How it's done (Efficiency). Mo'asser = What it does (Effectiveness).

Office Talk

Use 'kārā' to describe software or tools you use at work. It's the perfect professional adjective.

Using Nākārā

Be careful with 'nākārā'; it's a strong critique. Use 'chandan kārā nist' to be more polite.

Economics

If you study economics, 'bāzār-e kārā' (efficient market) is a term you must know.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CAR' (kār) that is very 'A+' (ā). A 'CAR-A' is an efficient car that never breaks down and saves fuel.

Visual Association

Imagine a high-speed train moving perfectly on its tracks without any smoke or noise. That is the image of 'kārā'.

Word Web

Efficiency Work Productivity Optimization Result Tool System Success

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room that are 'kārā' and three that are 'nākārā' (inefficient). Say them out loud in Persian.

Word Origin

Derived from the Persian root 'kār' (work), which comes from Old Persian 'kar-' (to do/make). The suffix '-ā' is an ancient agentive/adjectival suffix meaning 'capable of' or 'possessing'.

Original meaning: Originally meant 'active', 'doer', or 'one who performs a task'.

Indo-European (Indo-Iranian branch).

Cultural Context

Calling a person 'kārā' is fine in a professional context, but in a romantic or very close friendship, it might sound cold or transactional.

English speakers might over-use 'good' (khub). Using 'kārā' helps bridge the gap between casual and professional English.

Used in management textbooks by Dr. Alvani. Commonly heard in 'Pāyesh', a famous Iranian economic TV show. Featured in the 'Dehkhoda' dictionary as a key adjective for utility.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meeting

گزارش کارایی
مدیریت کارا
کاهش هزینه‌ها
افزایش خروجی

Technology Review

مصرف باتری کارا
سرعت پردازش
رابط کاربری
بهینه‌سازی

Academic Essay

فرضیه بازارهای کارا
تحلیل داده‌ها
متدولوژی کارا
نتایج پژوهش

Environmental Discussion

انرژی‌های کارا
حفظ منابع
توسعه پایدار
بازیافت

Job Interview

مهارت‌های کارا
نظم و انضباط
تحقق اهداف
کار تیمی

Conversation Starters

"به نظر شما کاراترین راه برای یادگیری زبان چیست؟"

"آیا این نرم‌افزار جدید واقعاً کارا است؟"

"چطور می‌توانیم سیستم حمل و نقل شهری را کاراتر کنیم؟"

"در شغل شما، چه چیزی باعث می‌شود یک کارمند کارا باشد؟"

"آیا فکر می‌کنید کار در خانه کاراتر از کار در دفتر است؟"

Journal Prompts

امروز چه کارهای کارایی انجام دادید؟ بنویسید.

یک سیستم ناکارا در زندگی خود را توصیف کنید و بگویید چگونه آن را کارا می‌کنید.

آیا تکنولوژی زندگی ما را کاراتر کرده است یا شلوغ‌تر؟

تعریف شما از یک 'زندگی کارا' چیست؟

سه ابزار کارا که هر روز از آن‌ها استفاده می‌کنید را نام ببرید.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but mostly in a professional sense. You can say 'kārmand-e kārā' (efficient employee). It sounds a bit formal for friends.

They are very similar. 'Kārāmad' is slightly more common in modern Iranian media when discussing government or policy efficiency.

The noun is 'kārāyi' (کارایی). It is used in phrases like 'افزایش کارایی' (increasing efficiency).

Usually, 'mo'asser' (effective) is better for medicine. 'Kārā' would imply the medicine is produced efficiently, not necessarily that it cures you.

Yes, especially in news, books, and at the office. You won't hear it much in a playground or a grocery store.

As an adjective, it doesn't change. For 'efficient systems', you say 'system-hā-ye kārā'.

It has ancient roots, but its current usage in the sense of 'industrial efficiency' is modern.

The direct opposite is 'nākārā' (ناکارا). You can also use 'nākārāmad'.

In some technical or older contexts, yes, but in 99% of modern usage, it means 'efficient'.

Yes, it rhymes with 'dārā' (rich/having) and 'sārā' (a common name).