At the A1 level, you don't need to worry about the deep political or philosophical meanings of 'قدرت داشتن'. Just think of it as 'to have strength'. You might use it to talk about a superhero or a very strong person. It's a compound verb made of 'ghodrat' (power) and 'dâshtan' (to have). Remember that 'dâshtan' is a special verb in Persian that doesn't use the 'mi-' prefix in the present tense. So you say 'man ghodrat dâram' (I have power). You can use it to describe animals like lions or elephants. It's a good way to start learning how two words can come together to make one meaning in Persian. Keep it simple and use it for physical things you can see.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'قدرت داشتن' to describe not just physical strength, but also basic abilities. You might say 'این ماشین قدرت زیادی دارد' (This car has a lot of power). You are learning to connect nouns with adjectives. You can also use it in the negative to say 'من قدرت ندارم' when you feel weak or unable to lift something. You should also practice the past tense: 'او قدرت داشت' (He had power). Start noticing how this word appears in simple stories or descriptions of famous people. It's a step up from just saying someone is 'strong' (ghavi), as it focuses on the possession of that strength as a quality.
At the B1 level, you should begin using 'قدرت داشتن' in more abstract contexts. You can talk about the power of a government, a boss at work, or the power of a certain law. You will also start using it with the 'Ezafe' construction, like 'قدرتِ انتخاب' (the power of choice). You can explain why someone is successful by saying 'او قدرتِ تصمیم‌گیری دارد' (He has the power of decision-making). At this level, you should be comfortable conjugating the verb in various tenses, including the present perfect (قدرت داشته است). You are moving from concrete physical descriptions to social and functional descriptions of power and ability.
At the B2 level (your current level), you are expected to use 'قدرت داشتن' with nuance. You should understand the difference between 'ghodrat' (power), 'zoor' (force), and 'eqtedâr' (authority). You can use this verb to discuss complex topics like political systems, the impact of technology on society, or psychological resilience. You should be able to use it in subordinate clauses, such as 'او می‌خواست قدرتی داشته باشد که جهان را تغییر دهد' (He wanted to have a power that would change the world). You are also learning common collocations like 'قدرتِ اجرایی' (executive power) or 'قدرتِ خرید' (purchasing power). Your usage should reflect an understanding of both formal and informal registers.
At the C1 level, your use of 'قدرت داشتن' should be sophisticated and precise. You can use it to analyze literary texts or discuss philosophical concepts like 'the will to power'. you should be able to distinguish between 'having power' and 'exercising power' ( اعمالِ قدرت). You can use the verb in complex hypothetical sentences and conditional moods. You should also be familiar with more formal synonyms and when to use them instead of 'ghodrat dâshtan' to vary your vocabulary. Your speech and writing should show that you understand the subtle social implications of who 'has power' in Iranian culture and how that power is expressed through language.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'قدرت داشتن'. You can use it in highly formal academic writing, legal contexts, or classical poetry analysis. You understand the historical evolution of the word and its resonance in Persian history (from the power of the Shahs to modern political structures). You can use it ironically, metaphorically, or in highly technical ways (such as in physics or advanced engineering). You are also aware of the cultural taboos or sensitivities surrounding the discussion of power in different social circles. Your mastery allows you to use the word with such natural ease that you can play with its meaning to create emphasis, humor, or deep emotional impact.

قدرت داشتن in 30 Seconds

  • A compound verb meaning to possess power, strength, or authority.
  • Used in physical, political, and psychological contexts.
  • Formed by 'ghodrat' (power) + 'dâshtan' (to have).
  • Essential for B2 learners to discuss influence and capability formally.

The Persian compound verb قدرت داشتن (ghodrat dâshtan) is a cornerstone of expressing capability, authority, and physical strength. At its core, it combines the noun 'قدرت' (power, strength, or authority), which has Arabic roots, with the auxiliary verb 'داشتن' (to have). Unlike the simple modal verb 'توانستن' (to be able to), which often refers to a specific instance of capability, ghodrat dâshtan implies a more permanent state of possessing the means or the right to act. In social and political contexts, it refers to the possession of influence or official authority. For instance, a manager in a company 'قدرت دارد' to make decisions, or a nation 'قدرت دارد' to influence global markets. In a physical sense, it describes the inherent strength of an individual or a machine.

Political Context
Used to describe leaders, institutions, or laws that hold the mandate to govern or enforce rules. It often appears in news broadcasts when discussing the balance of power between nations or political parties.

دولت برای تغییر قوانین قدرت دارد.
(The government has the power to change the laws.)

Physical Strength
In sports or daily life, it refers to muscle power or the capacity of a machine to perform work. It is more formal than 'zoor dâshtan' (having brute force).

این موتور برای کشیدن بارهای سنگین قدرت کافی دارد.
(This engine has enough power to pull heavy loads.)

Psychologically, this verb is also used to describe mental resilience or the 'willpower' to overcome obstacles. If someone says 'من قدرت دارم که با این مشکل روبرو شوم' (I have the power to face this problem), they are expressing a deep-seated inner strength. It is a word that conveys stability and potential rather than just a fleeting ability. In literature, it often contrasts with 'za'f' (weakness), creating a dichotomy between those who lead and those who follow. Understanding the nuances of this word allows a learner to navigate Persian discourse on ethics, politics, and self-improvement with greater sophistication.

Using قدرت داشتن correctly requires understanding its grammatical structure as a compound verb. The noun 'قدرت' remains static, while 'داشتن' is conjugated according to the subject and tense. For example, in the past tense, it becomes 'قدرت داشت' (he/she had power), and in the future, 'قدرت خواهد داشت' (he/she will have power). It is frequently followed by a prepositional phrase or a subordinate clause starting with 'که' to specify what the power is for.

With Infinitives
Often, you will see 'قدرتِ [Infinitive] داشتن'. For example, 'قدرتِ نه گفتن' (the power to say no). This is a very common way to describe specific skills or psychological traits.

او قدرتِ رهبری یک گروه بزرگ را دارد.
(He has the power/ability of leading a large group.)

Negation
To negate, add 'نـ' to the beginning of the conjugated 'داشتن'. 'قدرت ندارد' (He does not have power). This is used to express helplessness or lack of authority.

ما در برابر این طوفان هیچ قدرتی نداریم.
(We have no power against this storm.)

When describing a person's status, you might say 'او فردی است که در جامعه قدرت دارد' (He is an individual who has power in society). Here, 'قدرت' acts as a general attribute. If you are comparing two people, you would say 'قدرت او بیشتر از من است' (His power is more than mine). The versatility of this verb makes it essential for discussing hierarchy, physics, and personal agency. It's also worth noting that 'قدرت داشتن' can be modified by adjectives like 'کافی' (sufficient), 'بیکران' (limitless), or 'محدود' (limited) to provide more detail about the nature of the power possessed.

You will encounter قدرت داشتن in a variety of registers, from the high-brow language of political analysis to the everyday talk of gym enthusiasts. In Iranian news broadcasts (like IRIB), the word is ubiquitous when discussing international relations, nuclear energy (energy-ye hasteh-i), or executive mandates. Politicians often use it to defend their actions or to criticize the overreach of their opponents. In academic settings, specifically in sociology or political science, the concept of 'having power' is analyzed through various lenses, often using this exact phrase.

News & Media
Listen for phrases like 'کشورهای دارای قدرت' (countries possessing power) or 'قدرت‌های جهانی' (world powers).

کدام نهاد قدرتِ اجرایی بیشتری دارد؟
(Which institution has more executive power?)

Literature & Philosophy
In classical and modern Persian literature, 'ghodrat' is often personified or discussed as a corrupting or divine force. Rumi and Hafez might discuss the 'power' of love or the 'power' of the Creator.

عشق قدرتی دارد که کوه‌ها را جابجا می‌کند.
(Love has a power that moves mountains.)

If you are in a gym in Tehran, you might hear a trainer say 'باید قدرت پاهایت را بیشتر کنی' (You must increase the power of your legs). Here, the word is used in a purely physical, health-oriented context. Similarly, in technology reviews, a tech expert might discuss the 'power' of a new processor. The word's adaptability across these diverse domains—from the metaphysical to the mechanical—makes it one of the most useful verbs for a B2-level learner to master. It allows you to move beyond simple descriptions and start discussing the underlying forces that drive the world around you.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make when using قدرت داشتن is confusing it with the simple verb توانستن (tavânestan - to be able to). While 'can' often translates to 'tavânestan', 'ghodrat dâshtan' is specifically about the *possession* of power. For example, if you say 'من نمی‌توانم بیایم' (I cannot come), it's a simple statement of inability. If you say 'من قدرتِ آمدن ندارم', it sounds much more dramatic, as if you lack the physical or legal strength to move.

Confusing with 'Zoor'
Learners often use 'ghodrat' when they mean 'zoor' (brute force). 'Zoor' is often negative or purely physical, while 'ghodrat' is more neutral or positive and can be abstract.

❌ او با قدرت در را باز کرد.
✅ او با زور در را باز کرد.
(He forced the door open.)

Incorrect Prepositions
English speakers often try to use 'for' (barâye) after power, but in Persian, the Ezafe (-e) or the preposition 'dar' (in) is often more natural.

❌ قدرت برای انجام کار
قدرتِ انجامِ کار
(The power to do the work.)

Another mistake is using 'ghodrat' to mean 'energy'. If you are tired and have no energy, you should use 'enerzhi' or 'tavân', not 'ghodrat'. Saying 'ghodrat nadâram' in that context would imply you've lost your fundamental strength or authority, rather than just being sleepy. Lastly, ensure you conjugate 'dâshtan' correctly in the negative—many beginners forget that the 'mi-' prefix is not used with 'dâshtan' in the present tense (it's 'nadâram', not 'nemIdâram'), and this applies to the compound 'ghodrat dâshtan' as well.

Persian is rich with synonyms for 'power' and 'ability', each with its own specific nuance. Depending on whether you are talking about politics, physics, or personal skill, you might choose a different word. Understanding these alternatives will help you reach a C1/C2 level of fluency where you can select the perfect word for the context.

Tavânâyi (توانایی)
Focuses on 'ability' or 'capability'. Use this for skills, like the ability to speak a language or solve a math problem. It is more about talent than authority.
Niru (نیرو)
Often refers to physical 'force' or 'energy'. Used in physics (Force = Niru) or when talking about the 'armed forces' (niru-hâ-ye mosallah).
Eqtedâr (اقتدار)
This is 'authority' or 'prestige'. It is specifically used for political or moral authority that is recognized by others. A leader might have 'ghodrat' (raw power) but lack 'eqtedâr' (legitimate authority).

او تواناییِ عجیبی در حل مسائل دارد.
(He has a strange ability to solve problems.)

When you want to emphasize the 'potential' or 'capacity' to do something, 'Zarfiyat' (ظرفیت) is another useful word. For example, 'ظرفیتِ تولید' (production capacity). If you are talking about 'influence', 'Nofuz' (نفوذ) is the correct term. 'He has a lot of power in the office' could be 'او در اداره قدرت زیادی دارد', but if you mean he influences people's opinions, 'او در اداره نفوذ زیادی دارد' is better. By learning these distinctions, you can avoid the 'one-word-fits-all' trap and express yourself with the precision of a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'ghodrat' is also used as a male first name in Iran, symbolizing strength and authority.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡod.ræt dɒːʃ.tæn/
US /ɡod.ræt dæʃ.tæn/
Stress is on the last syllable of 'ghodrat' and the last syllable of the conjugated verb stem.
Rhymes With
Shorat dâshtan Lazzat dâshtan Sor'at dâshtan Hermat dâshtan Zahmat dâshtan Ne'mat dâshtan Hikmat dâshtan Ghimat dâshtan
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'gh' as a hard 'G'.
  • Not making the 'â' in 'dâshtan' long enough.
  • Stress on the first syllable of 'ghodrat'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts but requires context to distinguish nuances.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct conjugation of 'dâshtan' and use of Ezafe.

Speaking 3/5

Common in speech, though 'mitavânam' is often used for simple ability.

Listening 3/5

Easily heard in news and formal discussions.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

داشتن توانستن قوی بدن دولت

Learn Next

اعمالِ قدرت اقتدار مشروعیت نفوذ سلطه

Advanced

هژمونی ژئوپلیتیک رهبری پتانسیل ظرفیت

Grammar to Know

Compound Verbs with 'Dâshtan'

In the present tense, 'dâshtan' does not take 'mi-'. (دارم, نه می‌دارم)

Ezafe Construction

قدرتِ (ghodrat-e) linking the noun to a following noun or infinitive.

Subjunctive Mood

Used after expressions of necessity or desire involving power. (باید قدرت داشته باشم)

Negation of 'Dâshtan'

Add 'na-' to the stem. (ندارم)

Preposition 'Bar'

Used for 'power over'. (قدرت بر مردم)

Examples by Level

1

پیل قدرت زیادی دارد.

The elephant has a lot of power.

Simple present tense of 'dâshtan'.

2

من قدرت دارم.

I have power.

First person singular.

3

آیا تو قدرت داری؟

Do you have power?

Question form.

4

شیر قدرت دارد.

The lion has power.

Third person singular.

5

ما قدرت داریم.

We have power.

First person plural.

6

او قدرت ندارد.

He doesn't have power.

Negative form.

7

این ماشین قدرت دارد.

This car has power.

Inanimate subject.

8

آنها قدرت داشتند.

They had power.

Simple past tense.

1

این موتور قدرت کافی ندارد.

This motor doesn't have enough power.

Using 'kâfi' (enough).

2

قهرمانان همیشه قدرت دارند.

Heroes always have power.

Plural subject with 'hamisheh'.

3

او برای بلند کردن جعبه قدرت داشت.

He had the power to lift the box.

Past tense with a purpose.

4

آیا این باتری قدرت دارد؟

Does this battery have power?

Using 'ghodrat' for energy.

5

من قدرتِ زیادی در دست‌هایم دارم.

I have a lot of power in my hands.

Possessive Ezafe.

6

پدرم قدرتِ بدنی خوبی دارد.

My father has good physical power.

Compound noun 'ghodrat-e badani'.

7

ما باید قدرت داشته باشیم.

We must have power.

Subjunctive mood after 'bâyad'.

8

کدام حیوان قدرتِ بیشتری دارد؟

Which animal has more power?

Comparative 'bishtar'.

1

رئیس‌جمهور قدرتِ امضای قوانین را دارد.

The president has the power to sign laws.

Political context.

2

او قدرتِ عجیبی در متقاعد کردن دیگران دارد.

He has a strange power in persuading others.

Abstract ability.

3

این دارو قدرتِ تسکین درد را دارد.

This medicine has the power to relieve pain.

Functional power.

4

آیا مردم عادی هم قدرت دارند؟

Do ordinary people also have power?

Social context.

5

او هرگز قدرتِ مقابله با ترس‌هایش را نداشت.

He never had the power to face his fears.

Psychological usage.

6

دولت باید قدرتِ اقتصادی خود را حفظ کند.

The government must maintain its economic power.

Economic context.

7

کلمات قدرتِ تغییر زندگی را دارند.

Words have the power to change life.

Metaphorical usage.

8

آنها قدرتِ نظامی بزرگی در منطقه دارند.

They have a great military power in the region.

Geopolitical context.

1

مدیر جدید قدرتِ تصمیم‌گیری نهایی را دارد.

The new manager has the final decision-making power.

Business authority.

2

رسانه‌ها قدرتِ شکل دادن به افکار عمومی را دارند.

Media has the power to shape public opinion.

Sociological usage.

3

او با وجود بیماری، هنوز قدرتِ اراده‌اش را حفظ کرده است.

Despite the illness, he has still maintained his willpower.

Complex sentence structure.

4

این سازمان قدرتِ اجرایی برای تغییر پروژه را ندارد.

This organization doesn't have the executive power to change the project.

Formal negation.

5

قدرتِ خرید مردم در سال‌های اخیر کاهش یافته است.

People's purchasing power has decreased in recent years.

Economic term 'ghodrat-e kharid'.

6

دانشجویان قدرتِ نقد کردنِ سیستم آموزشی را دارند.

Students have the power to criticize the educational system.

Infinitive as object.

7

آیا تکنولوژی قدرتِ کنترلِ انسان را دارد؟

Does technology have the power to control humans?

Philosophical question.

8

او قدرتِ تحملِ سختی‌های زیادی را داشت.

She had the power to endure many hardships.

Abstract endurance.

1

نهادهای مدنی باید قدرتِ نظارت بر دولت را داشته باشند.

Civil institutions must have the power to oversee the government.

High-level political discourse.

2

نویسنده قدرتِ بازآفرینیِ واقعیت را در داستانش دارد.

The author has the power to recreate reality in his story.

Literary theory.

3

این پیمان‌نامه به هیچ کشوری قدرتِ وتو نمی‌دهد.

This treaty gives no country the power of veto.

Diplomatic language.

4

او قدرتِ تحلیلِ مسائلِ پیچیده را به خوبی دارد.

He possesses the power of analyzing complex issues very well.

Cognitive ability.

5

قدرت داشتن به معنایِ سوءاستفاده از آن نیست.

Having power does not mean abusing it.

Ethical statement.

6

هنر قدرتِ نفوذ در لایه‌های عمیقِ روح را دارد.

Art has the power to penetrate the deep layers of the soul.

Metaphysical language.

7

قانون باید قدرتِ بازدارندگیِ لازم را داشته باشد.

The law must have the necessary deterrent power.

Legal terminology.

8

او چنان قدرتِ بیانی داشت که همه را مجذوب می‌کرد.

He had such power of expression that he fascinated everyone.

Rhetorical usage.

1

تبیینِ ساختارهایی که قدرتِ هژمونیک دارند، دشوار است.

Explaining structures that possess hegemonic power is difficult.

Academic/Sociological terminology.

2

قدرت داشتن در ساحتِ سیاست، مستلزمِ مشروعیت است.

Possessing power in the realm of politics requires legitimacy.

Philosophical/Formal.

3

او در آثارش به واکاویِ کسانی می‌پردازد که قدرتِ مطلق دارند.

In his works, he explores those who possess absolute power.

Literary criticism.

4

این نظریه بر این باور است که دانش خود قدرت دارد.

This theory believes that knowledge itself is power.

Epistemological context.

5

قدرت داشتن لزوماً به معنایِ داشتنِ اقتدار نیست.

Possessing power does not necessarily mean having authority.

Nuanced distinction.

6

تجلیِ قدرتِ الهی در تمامِ ارکانِ هستی مشهود است.

The manifestation of divine power is evident in all pillars of existence.

Theological/Mystical.

7

او هیچ‌گاه قدرتِ نهفته در سکوت را دست‌کم نمی‌گرفت.

He never underestimated the power hidden in silence.

Poetic/Philosophical.

8

قدرت داشتنِ بی‌حدومرز می‌تواند به فساد منجر شود.

Possessing limitless power can lead to corruption.

Political aphorism.

Common Collocations

قدرتِ خرید
قدرتِ اجرایی
قدرتِ نظامی
قدرتِ بدنی
قدرتِ تصمیم‌گیری
قدرتِ ماوراءالطبیعه
قدرتِ بیان
قدرتِ تمرکز
قدرتِ انتخاب
قدرتِ تخیل

Common Phrases

قدرت داشتن بر...

— To have power over someone or something.

او بر تمامِ کارمندان قدرت دارد.

قدرتِ مطلق داشتن

— To have absolute power.

هیچ‌کس نباید قدرتِ مطلق داشته باشد.

قدرتِ لازم را داشتن

— To have the necessary power.

ما قدرتِ لازم برای تغییر را داریم.

قدرتِ کافی داشتن

— To have enough power.

این باتری قدرتِ کافی ندارد.

قدرتِ خود را نشان دادن

— To show one's power.

او می‌خواست قدرتِ خود را نشان دهد.

در اوجِ قدرت داشتن

— To be at the peak of power.

او در اوجِ قدرت بود که استعفا داد.

قدرتِ دوباره یافتن

— To regain power.

او بعد از بیماری قدرتِ دوباره یافت.

قدرتِ نفوذ داشتن

— To have the power of influence.

کلمات او قدرتِ نفوذ دارند.

قدرتِ مقابله داشتن

— To have the power to resist or face.

ما قدرتِ مقابله با دشمن را داریم.

قدرتِ تحمل داشتن

— To have the power to endure.

او قدرتِ تحملِ درد را ندارد.

Often Confused With

قدرت داشتن vs توانستن

Tavânestan is 'to be able to' (a verb), while Ghodrat dâshtan is 'to possess power' (a state).

قدرت داشتن vs زور داشتن

Zoor is specifically physical force, often with a negative connotation of bullying.

قدرت داشتن vs انرژی داشتن

Enerzhi is used for vitality or electrical power, not authority.

Idioms & Expressions

"قدرت دستِ کسی بودن"

— To be the one in charge (power is in someone's hand).

الان قدرت دستِ کیست؟

Informal
"با تمامِ قدرت"

— With all one's might/power.

او با تمامِ قدرت دوید.

Neutral
"قدرت‌نمایی کردن"

— To flex one's muscles (show off power).

او فقط می‌خواست قدرت‌نمایی کند.

Neutral
"از موضعِ قدرت"

— From a position of power.

او همیشه از موضعِ قدرت حرف می‌زند.

Formal
"تشنه‌یِ قدرت بودن"

— To be thirsty for power.

او فردی تشنه‌یِ قدرت است.

Neutral
"قدرت گرفتن"

— To gain power/strength.

باد کم‌کم قدرت گرفت.

Neutral
"قدرت‌طلبی"

— Ambition for power.

قدرت‌طلبی او را کور کرده بود.

Formal
"قدرتِ پوشالی"

— Hollow/Fake power.

آنها فقط قدرتِ پوشالی دارند.

Informal/Political
"خرِ قدرت را سوار بودن"

— To be riding the donkey of power (to be in a high position).

او فکر می‌کند تا ابد سوارِ خرِ قدرت است.

Slang/Metaphorical
"در چنگالِ قدرت"

— In the claws of power.

او در چنگالِ قدرت اسیر شد.

Literary

Easily Confused

قدرت داشتن vs قوت

Sounds similar to Ghodrat.

Ghovvat refers to nourishment or a specific kind of strength, often used in religious or dietary contexts.

این غذا به بدن قوت می‌دهد.

قدرت داشتن vs اقتدار

Both mean power.

Eqtedâr is specifically legitimate authority or prestige.

او با اقتدار صحبت کرد.

قدرت داشتن vs سلطه

Both involve control.

Solteh is 'dominance' or 'hegemony', often negative.

سلطه بر کشورهای دیگر غلط است.

قدرت داشتن vs توان

Both mean ability.

Tavân is more about the internal capacity or endurance.

دیگر توانی برایم نمانده.

قدرت داشتن vs نفوذ

Both mean influence.

Nofuz is the ability to affect others' thoughts or actions without force.

او در قلب‌ها نفوذ دارد.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Subject] + قدرت + دارد.

فیل قدرت دارد.

A2

[Subject] + قدرتِ + [Noun] + دارد.

او قدرتِ بدنی دارد.

B1

[Subject] + قدرتِ + [Infinitive] + را دارد.

او قدرتِ رفتن را دارد.

B2

[Subject] + قدرت + دارد + که + [Subjunctive].

دولت قدرت دارد که مالیات را زیاد کند.

C1

[Concept] + قدرتِ + [Action] + را به [Someone] + می‌دهد.

ثروت به او قدرتِ نفوذ می‌دهد.

C2

در ساحتِ [Domain]، قدرت داشتن مستلزمِ [Requirement] است.

در ساحتِ سیاست، قدرت داشتن مستلزمِ مشروعیت است.

B1

[Subject] + هیچ قدرتی + ندارد.

او هیچ قدرتی در خانه ندارد.

B2

قدرتِ [Noun] + در حالِ [Increase/Decrease] است.

قدرتِ خریدِ مردم در حالِ کاهش است.

Word Family

Nouns

قدرت (Power)
قدرتمند (Powerful person)
مقتدر (Authoritative person)

Verbs

قدرت بخشیدن (To empower)
قدرت گرفتن (To gain power)

Adjectives

قدرتمند (Powerful)
بی‌قدرت (Powerless)
پرقدرت (High-powered)

Related

توانایی
نیرو
سلطه
حاکمیت
اجبار

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in news, medium-high in daily life.

Common Mistakes
  • من قدرت می‌دارم. من قدرت دارم.

    The verb 'dâshtan' does not use the 'mi-' prefix in the present tense.

  • او قدرت برای انجام کار دارد. او قدرتِ انجامِ کار را دارد.

    Using 'barâye' (for) is often an English calque. The Ezafe is more natural.

  • این قهوه قدرت زیادی دارد. این قهوه خیلی قوی است.

    Don't use 'ghodrat' for the strength of food or drink; use 'ghavi' (strong).

  • او با قدرت در را بست. او با شدت در را بست.

    If you mean 'forcefully' or 'violently', 'ba sheddat' is better than 'ba ghodrat'.

  • دولت قدرتِ وتو دارد. دولت قدرتِ وتو را دارد.

    Don't forget the object marker 'râ' if the power is specific and defined.

Tips

No 'mi-' in Present

Remember that 'ghodrat dâram' is correct. Never say 'ghodrat midâram'. This is a common mistake for beginners.

Ezafe is Key

To say 'power of...', always use the Ezafe: 'Ghodrat-e...'. For example, 'Ghodrat-e neveshtan' (Power of writing).

Politeness

When asking about someone's authority, using 'ghodrat' can be blunt. 'Mas'uliyat' (responsibility) is sometimes more polite.

Spoken Contraction

In Tehran, 'dârad' becomes 'dâre'. 'Ghodrat dâre' sounds more natural in a cafe than 'Ghodrat dârad'.

Formal Synonyms

In academic writing, use 'eqtedâr' if you mean legitimate authority recognized by a system.

Wrestling

If you watch Iranian wrestling (Koshti), you'll hear 'ghodrat' used to describe the athletes' strength constantly.

Check the Preposition

Use 'ghodrat bar' for 'power over someone'. Using 'ruye' is less formal and sometimes considered incorrect.

Arabic Root

If you know Arabic, connect it to 'Qadr' (destiny/power). It's the same root.

News Keywords

When you hear 'Ghodrat-hâ-ye jahâni', the speaker is talking about 'World Powers' (like the US, China, etc.).

Empowerment

To say 'to empower', use the verb 'ghodrat bakhshidan' (to give power).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Goat' (Ghodrat) that 'Dashed' (Dâshtan) through a wall because it had so much power.

Visual Association

Imagine a king sitting on a throne holding a glowing orb labeled 'قدرت'.

Word Web

Authority Strength Ability Control Influence Muscle Mandate Force

Challenge

Try to use 'ghodrat dâshtan' to describe three different things: a machine, a person, and a concept (like love).

Word Origin

A Persian compound verb. 'Ghodrat' is from the Arabic root Q-D-R (to measure, to be able). 'Dâshtan' is from Middle Persian 'dâštan', from Old Persian 'dārayati' (to hold/possess).

Original meaning: To hold the measure/ability.

Indo-European (Persian) + Afro-Asiatic (Arabic).

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing 'ghodrat' in political contexts in Iran, as it can be a sensitive topic depending on who is being described as having power.

In English, 'to have power' can sound slightly more aggressive than in Persian, where it is a very standard way to describe any kind of capability.

The concept of 'Velâyat-e Faqih' (Guardianship of the Jurist) in Iran centers on who has the 'ghodrat' to lead. Ferdowsi's Shahnameh is full of stories about heroes losing or gaining 'ghodrat'. Modern Iranian pop songs often use 'ghodrat' to describe the power of a lover's eyes.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

  • قدرتِ سیاسی
  • انتقالِ قدرت
  • توازنِ قدرت
  • قدرتِ حاکمه

Physics/Engineering

  • قدرتِ موتور
  • قدرتِ خروجی
  • اسبِ بخار
  • قدرتِ الکتریکی

Psychology

  • قدرتِ اراده
  • قدرتِ ذهن
  • قدرتِ درونی
  • قدرتِ تفکر

Business

  • قدرتِ بازار
  • قدرتِ چانه‌زنی
  • قدرتِ برند
  • قدرتِ مالی

Daily Life

  • قدرتِ بدنی
  • قدرتِ کلمات
  • قدرتِ عشق
  • قدرتِ تحمل

Conversation Starters

"به نظر شما چه کسی در جهان بیشترین قدرت را دارد؟"

"آیا تکنولوژی به انسان قدرتِ بیشتری داده است؟"

"چگونه می‌توان قدرتِ اراده را تقویت کرد؟"

"آیا پول همیشه با خود قدرت می‌آورد؟"

"قدرتِ کلمات را در زندگی خود چگونه حس می‌کنید؟"

Journal Prompts

درباره زمانی بنویسید که احساس کردید قدرتِ تغییرِ چیزی را دارید.

آیا داشتنِ قدرتِ زیاد همیشه خوب است؟ چرا؟

تفاوت بین قدرت و مهربانی را از دیدگاه خود شرح دهید.

اگر قدرتِ مطلق داشتید، اولین کاری که می‌کردید چه بود؟

نقشِ قدرت در روابطِ خانوادگی را چگونه می‌بینید؟

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, 'bargh' (electricity) or 'enerzhi' is used. However, you can say 'ghodrat-e bargh' when referring to the voltage or strength of the current in a technical sense.

No, it can be used for animals, machines, organizations, and even abstract concepts like 'the power of love' (ghodrat-e eshgh).

'Ghavi budan' means 'to be strong' (an adjective). 'Ghodrat dâshtan' means 'to have power' (a verb). The latter is more versatile for abstract or official power.

It is exactly 'Ghodrat-e kharid' (قدرتِ خرید). This is a very common economic term in Iran.

It is neutral. It depends on how the power is used. 'Ghodrat-e elâhi' (divine power) is positive, while 'ghodrat-talabi' (power-seeking) is often negative.

Yes, 'ghodrat-e erâdeh' (قدرتِ اراده) is the standard term for willpower.

It often uses 'bar' (over) when referring to control over others, or 'dar' (in) for a specific field.

You conjugate 'dâshtan' in the future: 'ghodrat khâhad dâsht' (He/she will have power).

Frequently. Classical poets use it to describe the power of God, fate, or the beloved.

It means 'absolute power', often used in political science to describe dictatorships.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Persian about a leader who has the power to change things.

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writing

Describe the physical power of an animal of your choice in Persian.

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writing

Explain why 'purchasing power' is important for a society in Persian.

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writing

Write a short paragraph about the 'power of words'.

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writing

Translate: 'He does not have the power to face his fears.'

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writing

Write a dialogue between two friends discussing who is stronger.

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writing

Describe a machine's power using 'ghodrat dâshtan'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'ghodrat-e erâdeh'.

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writing

Compare 'ghodrat' and 'eqtedâr' in two sentences.

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writing

Use 'ghodrat dâshtan' in the future tense in a sentence about technology.

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writing

Write a sentence about a historical king using the past tense.

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writing

Translate: 'We must have the power to say no.'

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writing

Explain the phrase 'power is knowledge' in your own words in Persian.

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writing

Write about a person you know who has a lot of 'ghodrat-e bayân'.

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writing

Describe a superhero's power in three sentences.

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writing

Write a sentence using the negation of 'ghodrat dâshtan' in the past.

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writing

How does 'ghodrat' affect relationships? Write a brief opinion.

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writing

Translate: 'The engine has enough power for this car.'

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writing

Write a sentence about the power of nature (like a storm).

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writing

Use the word 'ghodrat-talabi' in a sentence about a character in a book.

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speaking

Say 'I have the power' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'She has a lot of willpower' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The car has enough power' in Persian.

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speaking

Ask 'Who has the power to decide?' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'We don't have any power here' in Persian.

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speaking

Describe a lion's strength in one Persian sentence.

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speaking

Say 'Purchasing power is decreasing' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'He had the power to change his life' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Knowledge is power' in Persian.

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speaking

Ask 'Do you have the power to help me?' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'The government has executive power' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'I didn't have the power to say no' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'He is a powerful man' using the verb form.

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speaking

Say 'With all my power, I will try' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'This motor has 100 horsepower' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'Words have power' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'They will gain power next year' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'She has the power of imagination' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'No one has absolute power' in Persian.

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speaking

Say 'He regained his power after the illness' in Persian.

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listening

Listen and write: 'قدرتِ خریدِ مردم کم شده است.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'او قدرتِ زیادی در دست‌هایش دارد.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'آیا تو قدرتِ انجامِ این کار را داری؟'

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listening

Listen and write: 'ما هیچ قدرتی نداریم.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'او تشنه‌ی قدرت است.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'قدرتِ اراده‌ی او عالی است.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'فیل قدرتِ بدنیِ زیادی دارد.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'دولت قدرتِ اجرایی دارد.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'عشق قدرتی بی‌پایان دارد.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'آنها قدرتِ نظامی بزرگی دارند.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'او قدرتِ نه گفتن نداشت.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'این ماشین قدرتِ کافی ندارد.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'قدرتِ کلمات را دست‌کم نگیر.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'او در اوجِ قدرت بود.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'ما باید قدرت داشته باشیم.'

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error correction

او قدرتِ خریدِ زیادی می‌دارد.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: او قدرتِ خریدِ زیادی دارد.
error correction

من قدرت برای رفتن ندارم.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: من قدرتِ رفتن ندارم.
error correction

این چای قدرتِ زیادی دارد.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: این چای خیلی قوی است.
error correction

آنها قدرتِ نظامیِ بزرگی داشتند است.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: آنها قدرتِ نظامیِ بزرگی داشته‌اند.
error correction

او با قدرت در را باز کرد (meaning by force).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: او با زور در را باز کرد.
error correction

ما قدرتِ انتخابِ نداریم.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: ما قدرتِ انتخاب نداریم.
error correction

رئیس‌جمهور قدرتِ اجراییِ دارد.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: رئیس‌جمهور قدرتِ اجرایی دارد.
error correction

آیا تو قدرتِ نه گفتن را داری؟ (missing Ezafe).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: آیا تو قدرتِ نه گفتن را داری؟
error correction

او قدرتِ تمرکزِ ندارد.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: او قدرتِ تمرکز ندارد.
error correction

دولت قدرتِ وتو را دارد است.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: دولت قدرتِ وتو را دارد.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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