قربانی کردن in 30 Seconds

  • To give up something valuable for a purpose.
  • Often implies religious or significant personal cost.
  • Can be literal (animals) or figurative (time, life).
  • Conjugate 'kardan', not 'qorbāni'.

The Persian verb phrase قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) translates directly to 'to sacrifice' or 'to offer as a sacrifice'. It carries a deep sense of giving up something valuable, whether it's material possessions, time, comfort, or even one's life, for a greater cause, a deity, or a person. This phrase is used in various contexts, ranging from religious ceremonies and historical accounts to personal narratives of selflessness and difficult choices.

Religious Context
In religious traditions, particularly in Abrahamic faiths and ancient practices, qorbāni kardan is used to describe the act of offering an animal or other valuable item to God or a deity as a sign of devotion, atonement, or supplication. For example, during Eid al-Adha, Muslims worldwide engage in the ritual of sacrificing an animal to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Figurative Usage
Beyond literal sacrifices, qorbāni kardan is frequently used metaphorically to describe situations where individuals give up something important for the benefit of others or for a noble goal. This could involve sacrificing personal ambitions for family, giving up leisure time to help a friend, or enduring hardship for a future reward. It implies a significant cost and a strong sense of purpose behind the action.
Historical and Heroic Narratives
In stories of war, revolution, or great endeavors, individuals or groups might qorbāni kardan their lives or well-being for their country, their beliefs, or the freedom of others. These narratives often highlight the bravery and selflessness involved in such sacrifices.
Personal Choices
On a more personal level, one might qorbāni kardan their own desires or comfort for the sake of a loved one. For instance, a parent might sacrifice their sleep to care for a sick child, or a student might sacrifice social activities to focus on their studies to achieve a better future.

در دوران باستان، مردم حیوانات را برای خدایان قربانی می‌کردند.

In ancient times, people used to sacrifice animals for the gods.

Understanding qorbāni kardan requires recognizing the weight of what is being given up and the significance of the reason behind the sacrifice. It's a powerful verb that speaks to core human values like devotion, altruism, and resilience.

The verb phrase قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) is formed by the noun قربانی (qorbāni - sacrifice) and the verb کردن (kardan - to do/make). This structure is very common in Persian for creating new verbs. When constructing sentences, you'll conjugate the verb kardan according to the subject and tense, while qorbāni remains unchanged. Here are various ways to use it:

Past Tense Examples
من برای نجات او جانم را قربانی کردم. (Man barāye nejāt-e ū jānam rā qorbāni kardam.) - I sacrificed my life to save him/her. (Here, kardam is the first-person singular past tense of kardan).
آنها بخشی از زمین خود را برای ساخت مدرسه قربانی کردند. (Ānhā bakhshi az zamīn-e khod rā barāye sākht-e madrese qorbāni kardand.) - They sacrificed part of their land to build a school. (Kardand is the third-person plural past tense).
Present Tense Examples
ما همیشه آماده‌ایم تا برای وطنم قربانی کنیم. (Mā hamishe āmāde-im tā barāye vatanam qorbāni konim.) - We are always ready to sacrifice for our homeland. (Konim is the first-person plural present subjunctive, often used with 'tā' to express purpose or readiness).
او حاضر نیست هیچ چیزی را قربانی کند. (Ū hāzer nist hich chizi rā qorbāni konad.) - He/She is not willing to sacrifice anything. (Konad is the third-person singular present subjunctive).
Future Tense Examples
اگر لازم باشد، من منافع شخصی‌ام را قربانی خواهم کرد. (Agar lāzem bāshad, man manāfe'-e shakhsi-am rā qorbāni khāham kard.) - If necessary, I will sacrifice my personal interests. (Khāham kard is the first-person singular future tense).
Imperative Examples
برای رسیدن به موفقیت، گاهی باید از تفریحات خود قربانی کنید. (Barāye residan be movaffaqiyat, gāhi bāyad az tafrihāt-e khod qorbāni konid.) - To achieve success, sometimes you must sacrifice your own entertainment. (Konid is the second-person plural imperative/subjunctive).

آنها برای رسیدن به هدفشان، زمان زیادی را قربانی کردند.

They sacrificed a lot of time to reach their goal.

The preposition 'rā' is often used to mark the direct object of the sacrifice, especially when it's a specific noun (e.g., 'my life' - جانم را). When the sacrifice is more general or abstract, 'rā' might be omitted.

You'll encounter the phrase قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) in a variety of settings, reflecting its broad applicability from the sacred to the mundane. Its usage often carries a weight of significance, highlighting the value of what is being given up.

Religious Services and Sermons
During religious holidays like Eid al-Adha, discussions about the tradition of sacrifice are common. Clerics and religious scholars will often use qorbāni kardan when explaining the theological significance of the act, its historical roots, and its spiritual benefits. This is a primary context for the literal meaning of sacrifice.
Historical Documentaries and Literature
When discussing historical events, especially those involving war, martyrdom, or significant societal change, the concept of sacrifice is often central. Narrators in documentaries or authors in historical novels might use qorbāni kardan to describe soldiers giving their lives, leaders making difficult choices that cost them dearly, or communities enduring hardship for a greater good.
Family Conversations and Personal Anecdotes
In everyday conversations, people might use qorbāni kardan to talk about personal sacrifices made for family members. For example, a parent might say they 'sacrificed' their career aspirations for their children, or someone might mention how they 'sacrificed' their own comfort to help a sibling. This usage highlights the emotional and relational aspects of giving something up.
News Reports and Social Commentary
Journalists and commentators might use qorbāni kardan when discussing situations where individuals or groups have to give up something significant for the sake of public interest, social progress, or environmental protection. For example, a community might have to sacrifice its development plans for the preservation of a natural habitat.
Motivational Speeches and Writings
Inspirational content often emphasizes the idea that success requires sacrifice. Speakers and writers might encourage their audience to be willing to qorbāni kardan certain things – like laziness or distractions – in order to achieve their goals. This usage is about personal growth and ambition.

در سخنرانی‌های انگیزشی، اغلب گفته می‌شود که برای موفقیت باید قربانی کنید.

In motivational speeches, it is often said that one must sacrifice to achieve success.

The phrase qorbāni kardan is a versatile tool in the Persian language, used to articulate the profound act of giving something up for a purpose, whether that purpose is divine, societal, or deeply personal.

While قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) is a common and useful phrase, learners sometimes make mistakes in its usage. These errors often stem from direct translation from English or a misunderstanding of the nuances of the Persian verb structure.

Incorrect Verb Conjugation
Mistake: Using the wrong form of 'kardan' (to do/make) or attempting to conjugate 'qorbāni' itself. For example, saying 'من قربانی کردم' (Man qorbāni kardam) is correct, but saying 'من قربانی‌ام کردم' (Man qorbāni-am kardam) incorrectly adds a possessive pronoun to the noun, or trying to conjugate 'qorbāni' like 'من قربانی می‌کنم' (Man qorbāni mikonam) without the 'kardan' part. The correct structure is always 'qorbāni' + conjugated form of 'kardan'.
Correct: من جانم را قربانی کردم. (Man jānam rā qorbāni kardam.) - I sacrificed my life. The verb 'kardam' is correctly conjugated.
Misunderstanding the Object of Sacrifice
Mistake: Not clearly indicating what is being sacrificed, or using incorrect prepositions. Sometimes learners might say 'من قربانی کردم برای خانواده' (Man qorbāni kardam barāye khānevādeh) which is vague. The phrase usually requires a direct object or a clear indication of what is being given up.
Correct: من برای خانواده‌ام وقتم را قربانی کردم. (Man barāye khānevādeh-am vaghtam rā qorbāni kardam.) - I sacrificed my time for my family. Here, 'vaghtam rā' (my time) is the direct object, and 'barāye khānevādeh-am' specifies the beneficiary.
Confusing with 'Qorbān' (Offer/Devotion)
Mistake: Using the noun 'qorbān' (which can mean an offering, devotion, or even a dear one) in place of the verb phrase 'qorbāni kardan'. For example, saying 'او به خدا قربان کرد' (Ū be khodā qorbān kard) which doesn't make grammatical sense for the act of sacrificing. 'Qorbān' can be used in phrases like 'جان به قربان تو کردن' (jān be qorbān-e to kardan - to offer one's life for someone), but the core verb is still 'kardan'.
Correct: او جان خود را به قربان دوستش کرد. (Ū jān-e khod rā be qorbān-e doostash kard.) - He offered his life for his friend. (Here, 'be qorbān-e' is a prepositional phrase indicating devotion, but the action is still framed around 'kardan'). The main verb for 'to sacrifice' is 'qorbāni kardan'.
Overuse in Inappropriate Contexts
Mistake: Using qorbāni kardan for minor inconveniences or small concessions that don't carry the weight of a true sacrifice. For instance, saying 'من برای رفتن به سینما صبحانه را قربانی کردم' (Man barāye raftan be sinemā sobhāneh rā qorbāni kardam - I sacrificed breakfast to go to the cinema) might sound overly dramatic unless the breakfast was particularly important or the cinema trip was exceptionally consequential.
Better Alternative: For minor things, simpler verbs like 'ترك كردن' (tark kardan - to leave/give up) or 'گذشتن' (gozashtan - to pass/give up) might be more appropriate, depending on the context.

اشتباه رایج این است که فعل 'قربانی کردن' را به اشتباه صرف کنند.

A common mistake is to incorrectly conjugate the verb 'to sacrifice'.

By being mindful of these common pitfalls, learners can use qorbāni kardan more accurately and effectively in their Persian conversations and writings.

The concept of sacrifice is expressed in various ways in Persian, with قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) being the most direct and common term. However, other words and phrases can convey similar meanings, often with slightly different connotations or in specific contexts. Understanding these alternatives enriches your vocabulary and allows for more nuanced expression.

فدا کردن (fadā kardan)
Meaning: To sacrifice, to offer oneself or something valuable, often implying devotion, love, or a heroic act. It's very close to qorbāni kardan but can sometimes carry a stronger sense of self-offering or martyrdom.
Comparison: While both mean sacrifice, fadā kardan can be more personal and emotive, often used when someone sacrifices themselves for another person or a cause they deeply believe in. Qorbāni kardan is broader and can include material sacrifices or ritualistic offerings.
Example: او جان خود را برای نجات کودکان فدا کرد. (Ū jān-e khod rā barāye nejāt-e kodakān fadā kard.) - He sacrificed his life to save the children. (This emphasizes the heroic self-offering).
از دست دادن (az dast dādan)
Meaning: To lose, to miss out on. This is a more general term for loss and doesn't inherently imply a deliberate act of sacrifice, but it can be used in contexts where a sacrifice leads to a loss.
Comparison: Az dast dādan focuses on the outcome (loss), whereas qorbāni kardan focuses on the action (giving up). You might sacrifice something (qorbāni kardan) and as a result, lose it (az dast dād).
Example: او برای رسیدن به موقع به قطار، شام را از دست داد. (Ū barāye residan be movaqqe' be qatār, shām rā az dast dād.) - To arrive at the train on time, he missed his dinner. (This is a loss, not necessarily a sacrifice in the same vein as qorbāni kardan).
صرف نظر کردن (sarfe nazar kardan)
Meaning: To forgo, to waive, to give up on something. This implies letting go of a right, a claim, or a desire.
Comparison: Sarfe nazar kardan is often used for giving up on abstract things like plans, ideas, or rights, whereas qorbāni kardan can involve more tangible things or significant personal costs. It's a less intense form of 'giving up'.
Example: من از حق خود صرف نظر کردم تا صلح برقرار شود. (Man az haqq-e khod sarfe nazar kardam tā solh barqarār shavad.) - I waived my right so that peace could be established. (This is giving up a claim, not necessarily a deep sacrifice).
گذشت کردن (gozasht kardan)
Meaning: To forgive, to let go, to pass over. In some contexts, it can mean to give up something, but its primary meaning is forgiveness.
Comparison: This is generally not a direct synonym for sacrifice. However, in a very loose sense, forgiving someone might involve 'giving up' your anger or desire for revenge, which could be seen as a form of personal sacrifice, but it's not the primary meaning.
Example: او از اشتباهات من گذشت. (Ū az eshtebāhāt-e man gozasht.) - He forgave my mistakes. (This clearly means forgiveness).

'فدا کردن' و 'قربانی کردن' هر دو به معنی از دست دادن چیزی ارزشمند هستند، اما 'فدا کردن' گاهی بار عاطفی بیشتری دارد.

'Fada kardan' and 'qorbāni kardan' both mean to lose something valuable, but 'fada kardan' sometimes carries more emotional weight.

Mastering these related terms will allow you to express the concept of sacrifice and giving up with greater precision in Persian.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The concept of 'qurbān' or sacrifice to achieve closeness with the divine is found across many ancient religions, not just Abrahamic ones. The Persian term 'qorbāni kardan' has broadened its scope to include secular acts of sacrifice.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡʊɾbɒːniː kærˈdæn/
US /ɡʊɾbɑːniː kɑrˈdɑn/
qorbāni (stress on 'bā'), kardan (stress on 'dā')
Rhymes With
bāni dāni khāni māni shāni tāni vāni zāni dādan khādan rādān sāzān
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'q' as a hard 'g' or 'k'. It's a softer, guttural sound.
  • Not rolling the 'r' sound.
  • Incorrect stress placement, particularly on 'kardan'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The phrase itself is straightforward, but understanding the nuances of sacrifice requires comprehending the context, which can range from simple personal choices to complex religious or historical narratives. Advanced readings might involve figurative language and deep philosophical implications.

Writing 3/5

Conjugating 'kardan' correctly in various tenses and moods is key. Learners need to be precise about what is being sacrificed and why, using appropriate sentence structures and vocabulary to convey the intended meaning.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of 'qorbāni' can be challenging. More importantly, using the phrase appropriately in conversation requires understanding the social and emotional weight of sacrifice, ensuring it doesn't sound trivial or overly dramatic.

Listening 3/5

Distinguishing between literal and figurative sacrifices, and understanding the speaker's intent, is crucial. The phrase can appear in formal speeches, casual chats, religious contexts, or historical discussions.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

کردن (kardan) جان (jān) وقت (vaght) مال (māl) برای (barāye)

Learn Next

فدا کردن (fadā kardan) ایثار (īsār) محرومیت (mahrumiyat) گذشت (gozasht) فداکاری (fadākāri)

Advanced

شهادت (shahādat) مصلحت (maslahat) ایثارگری (īsārgari) خودفداکاری (khod-fadākāri) ریاضت (riyāzat)

Grammar to Know

Using 'rā' with direct objects

من جانم را قربانی کردم. (I sacrificed my life.) - 'Jānam' (my life) is the direct object and takes 'rā'.

The use of 'bāyad' + infinitive

ما باید برای رسیدن به هدفمان قربانی کنیم. (We must sacrifice to reach our goal.)

The subjunctive mood after 'tā' (in order to)

او وقتش را قربانی کرد تا بتواند کمک کند. (He sacrificed his time so that he could help.)

Forming compound verbs with 'kardan'

Many verbs in Persian are formed by a noun + 'kardan', like 'qorbāni kardan', 'sohbat kardan' (to talk), 'fikr kardan' (to think).

Passive voice construction

آن حیوان قربانی شد. (That animal was sacrificed.) - Using the verb 'shodan' (to become) after the past participle.

Examples by Level

1

من چیزی را قربانی کردم.

I sacrificed something.

Simple past tense of 'kardan'.

2

آنها قربانی کردند.

They sacrificed.

Third-person plural past tense.

3

او قربانی کرد.

He/She sacrificed.

Third-person singular past tense.

4

ما قربانی کردیم.

We sacrificed.

First-person plural past tense.

5

آن حیوان قربانی شد.

That animal was sacrificed.

Passive voice, 'shod' is past tense of 'shodan' (to become).

6

آنها برای خدا قربانی کردند.

They sacrificed for God.

Using 'barāye' (for) to indicate the beneficiary.

7

او جانش را قربانی کرد.

He/She sacrificed his/her life.

Using 'rā' to mark the direct object 'jānesh' (his/her life).

8

این یک قربانی بود.

This was a sacrifice.

Using the noun 'qorbāni' and the verb 'bud' (was).

1

کشاورز بخشی از محصولش را برای کمک به فقرا قربانی کرد.

The farmer sacrificed part of his harvest to help the poor.

Past tense, specifying the object and beneficiary.

2

برای رسیدن به هدف، باید از راحتی خود قربانی کنی.

To reach the goal, you must sacrifice your comfort.

Present subjunctive, 'bāyad' (must) + verb.

3

آنها در گذشته برای آزادی قربانی‌های زیادی دادند.

They made many sacrifices for freedom in the past.

Using 'qorbāni' as a noun, and 'dādand' (gave) as part of the idiom 'qorbāni dādan' (to make sacrifices).

4

او حاضر نیست هیچ چیزی را قربانی کند.

He/She is not willing to sacrifice anything.

Present subjunctive, negating the action.

5

پدرم همیشه می‌گفت که برای خانواده باید قربانی کرد.

My father always said that one must sacrifice for the family.

Using 'bāyad' + infinitive verb.

6

این قربانی کوچک، اما مهم بود.

This sacrifice was small, but important.

Using the noun 'qorbāni' with adjectives.

7

ما باید از تفریحاتمان قربانی کنیم تا پول جمع کنیم.

We must sacrifice our entertainment to save money.

Present subjunctive with 'tā' (in order to).

8

آنها بدون هیچ تردیدی خود را قربانی کردند.

They sacrificed themselves without any hesitation.

Reflexive pronoun 'khod rā' (themselves) with the verb.

1

در طول جنگ، بسیاری از سربازان جان خود را برای دفاع از وطن قربانی کردند.

During the war, many soldiers sacrificed their lives to defend the homeland.

Past tense, complex sentence structure with purpose clause.

2

گاهی اوقات برای رسیدن به موفقیت‌های بزرگ، لازم است که از برخی خواسته‌های شخصی قربانی کنیم.

Sometimes, to achieve great success, it is necessary to sacrifice some personal desires.

Using 'lāzem ast ke' (it is necessary that) + subjunctive verb.

3

والدین اغلب وقت و انرژی خود را برای فرزندانشان قربانی می‌کنند.

Parents often sacrifice their time and energy for their children.

Present tense, habitual action.

4

او حاضر نبود حتی یک ریال از درآمدش را برای این پروژه قربانی کند.

He was not willing to sacrifice even one Rial of his income for this project.

Past negative with 'hastad nabud' (was not) + subjunctive verb.

5

در مراسم مذهبی، حیوانات را به عنوان قربانی به درگاه الهی تقدیم می‌کنند.

In religious ceremonies, animals are offered to the divine as sacrifices.

Using 'be onvān-e qorbāni' (as a sacrifice) and the verb 'taqdim mikonand' (they present/offer).

6

اگر بخواهیم این میراث فرهنگی را حفظ کنیم، باید از برخی توسعه‌ها قربانی کنیم.

If we want to preserve this cultural heritage, we must sacrifice some developments.

Conditional sentence structure ('agar' - if) + 'bāyad' + verb.

7

این تصمیم به قیمت از دست دادن موقعیت شغلی‌اش تمام شد، اما او حاضر بود این قربانی را بدهد.

This decision cost him his job position, but he was willing to make this sacrifice.

Idiomatic expression 'be qeymat-e ... tamām shodan' (to cost) and 'qorbāni dādan' (to make a sacrifice).

8

هنرمندان اغلب برای خلق آثار ماندگار، زندگی عادی خود را قربانی می‌کنند.

Artists often sacrifice their ordinary lives to create lasting works.

Present tense, habitual action.

1

فدا کردن منافع شخصی برای رفاه عمومی، یکی از اصول اساسی جامعه مدنی است.

Sacrificing personal interests for public welfare is one of the fundamental principles of civil society.

Using 'fadā kardan' as a gerund (verbal noun) and 'refāh-e 'omumi' (public welfare).

2

در طول تاریخ، بسیاری از رهبران برای حفظ استقلال کشورشان، جان خود را قربانی کرده‌اند.

Throughout history, many leaders have sacrificed their lives to preserve their country's independence.

Present perfect tense ('karde-and') indicating past actions with present relevance.

3

اگرچه این انتخاب دشوار بود، اما او پذیرفت که برای آینده فرزندانش، از شغل رویایی خود قربانی کند.

Although this choice was difficult, he accepted that he had to sacrifice his dream job for his children's future.

Complex sentence with 'agarche' (although) and infinitive verb.

4

فرهنگ ایثار و از خودگذشتگی، که در آن افراد حاضرند برای دیگران قربانی کنند، در جامعه ما ارزش والایی دارد.

The culture of self-sacrifice and altruism, where individuals are willing to sacrifice for others, holds great value in our society.

Using abstract nouns like 'īsār' (self-sacrifice) and 'khodgozashtegi' (altruism).

5

بسیاری معتقدند که موفقیت پایدار، نیازمند قربانی کردن مداوم تمایلات آنی است.

Many believe that lasting success requires the continuous sacrifice of immediate desires.

Using 'niyāzmand-e' (requires) followed by a verbal noun.

6

این انتخاب، هرچند سخت، راه را برای فرصت‌های جدید باز کرد؛ قربانی‌ای که ارزشش را داشت.

This choice, though difficult, paved the way for new opportunities; a sacrifice that was worth it.

Appositive phrase describing the sacrifice.

7

در جوامع سنتی، گاهی اوقات رسم بود که برای جلب رضایت الهی، حیوانات را قربانی کنند.

In traditional societies, it was sometimes customary to sacrifice animals to gain divine favor.

Using 'rasm bud ke' (it was customary that) + subjunctive verb.

8

اقتصاددانان هشدار می‌دهند که صرفاً با قربانی کردن رفاه فعلی نمی‌توان به رشد اقتصادی پایدار دست یافت.

Economists warn that sustainable economic growth cannot be achieved merely by sacrificing current welfare.

Using 'ba' (by) + verbal noun, and 'nemītavān ... dast yāft' (cannot achieve).

1

فلسفه ایثارگری مستلزم درک عمیقی از ارزش‌های انسانی است، جایی که فرد حاضر است برای سعادت دیگران، وجود خود را نیز قربانی کند.

The philosophy of altruism entails a deep understanding of human values, where an individual is willing to sacrifice their very existence for the happiness of others.

Complex sentence structure, abstract philosophical concepts.

2

تاریخ بشریت مملو از داستان‌هایی است که در آن قهرمانان، با قربانی کردن خود، مسیر تاریخ را تغییر داده‌اند.

Human history is replete with stories where heroes, by sacrificing themselves, have altered the course of history.

Using 'mamlū az' (replete with) and the gerund 'qorbāni kardan'.

3

بسیاری از مصلحان اجتماعی، برای تحقق آرمان‌های خود، مجبور به قربانی کردن آرامش و امنیت شخصی خویش بوده‌اند.

Many social reformers have been forced to sacrifice their personal peace and security to realize their ideals.

Using 'majbūr be' (forced to) + infinitive verb.

4

فرهنگ مدرن گاهی فردگرایی را بیش از حد ترویج می‌دهد، به طوری که مفهوم قربانی کردن برای منافع جمعی کمرنگ شده است.

Modern culture sometimes promotes individualism excessively, such that the concept of sacrificing for collective interests has become faint.

Using 'beh to-i ke' (such that) and 'kamrang shode ast' (has become faint).

5

در تحلیل‌های اقتصادی، گاهی لازم است که میان رفاه کوتاه‌مدت و سرمایه‌گذاری بلندمدت، دست به قربانی زد.

In economic analyses, it is sometimes necessary to make a sacrifice between short-term welfare and long-term investment.

Idiomatic phrase 'dast be qorbāni zad' (to make a sacrifice).

6

آنچه در مواجهه با بحران‌های زیست‌محیطی بیش از هر چیز اهمیت دارد، آمادگی برای قربانی کردن برخی از عادات مصرفی ناسالم است.

What is most important when facing environmental crises is the readiness to sacrifice some unhealthy consumption habits.

Complex structure with emphasis on 'ānche ... ahamiyat dārad' (what is important).

7

روحیه ایثارگری، که در آن فرد بدون چشمداشت منافع شخصی، جان یا مال خود را در راه هدف والاتری قربانی می‌کند، ستودنی است.

The spirit of altruism, where an individual sacrifices their life or property for a higher purpose without expecting personal gain, is praiseworthy.

Descriptive clause defining 'īsār' and 'qorbāni kardan'.

8

سیاستمداران اغلب در معرض این اتهام قرار می‌گیرند که منافع ملی را برای کسب قدرت، قربانی می‌کنند.

Politicians are often accused of sacrificing national interests for the sake of gaining power.

Passive voice construction 'dar ma'razz-e ... gharār migirand' (are exposed to the accusation).

1

فلسفه اگزیستانسیالیسم بر این نکته تأکید دارد که انسان در مواجهه با پوچی، مجبور به قربانی کردن معنای از پیش تعیین شده و خلق معنای شخصی خود است.

Existentialist philosophy emphasizes that in the face of absurdity, humans are compelled to sacrifice pre-determined meaning and create their own personal meaning.

Philosophical terminology, complex sentence structure.

2

در تراژدی‌های یونان باستان، اغلب قهرمانان ناگزیر بودند که برای جلوگیری از فاجعه‌ای بزرگتر، عزیزترین دارایی‌های خود را قربانی کنند.

In ancient Greek tragedies, heroes were often inevitably forced to sacrifice their dearest possessions to avert a greater catastrophe.

Literary context, specific historical/cultural reference.

3

بسیاری از نوآوران در طول تاریخ، با قربانی کردن جایگاه اجتماعی امن و ثبات مالی، راه را برای پیشرفت‌های علمی و تکنولوژیکی هموار کرده‌اند.

Many innovators throughout history, by sacrificing secure social standing and financial stability, have paved the way for scientific and technological advancements.

Abstract concepts related to innovation and societal progress.

4

جامعه‌شناسی مدرن، مفهوم قربانی کردن منافع فردی به پای آرمان‌های جمعی را در پرتو تحولات جهانی و جهانی‌شدن مورد بازنگری قرار می‌دهد.

Modern sociology re-examines the concept of sacrificing individual interests for collective ideals in light of global transformations and globalization.

Academic sociological terminology.

5

آنچه در مواجهه با چالش‌های اخلاقی پیچیده رخ می‌نماید، این است که گاهی اوقات، حفظ یک اصل، مستلزم قربانی کردن اصل دیگری است.

What emerges when confronting complex ethical challenges is that sometimes, preserving one principle necessitates the sacrifice of another principle.

Abstract ethical dilemmas, complex sentence structure.

6

مفهوم 'قربانی کردن' در ادبیات عرفانی، اغلب به معنای فنا شدن در معشوق و رهایی از خودیت است.

The concept of 'sacrifice' in mystical literature often means annihilation in the beloved and liberation from the self.

Mystical and spiritual context, specific literary interpretation.

7

تحلیل‌گران سیاسی هشدار می‌دهند که رویکردهای کوتاه‌بینانه، که در آن منافع بلندمدت کشور قربانی منافع کوتاه‌مدت جناحی می‌شود، پیامدهای ویرانگری دارد.

Political analysts warn that short-sighted approaches, where the country's long-term interests are sacrificed for short-term factional gains, have devastating consequences.

Political analysis, nuanced vocabulary.

8

در نهایت، تاریخ گواه آن است که پیشرفت‌های بزرگ بشری، اغلب محصول جانفشانی‌ها و قربانی کردن‌های بی‌شماری بوده است.

Ultimately, history bears witness that great human advancements have often been the product of countless sacrifices and offerings.

Concluding statement, grand historical perspective.

Common Collocations

قربانی کردن جان (qorbāni kardan-e jān)
قربانی کردن وقت (qorbāni kardan-e vaght)
قربانی کردن مال (qorbāni kardan-e māl)
قربانی کردن منافع (qorbāni kardan-e manāfe')
قربانی کردن برای خدا (qorbāni kardan barāye khodā)
قربانی کردن خود (qorbāni kardan-e khod)
قربانی کردن آرامش (qorbāni kardan-e ārāmesh)
قربانی کردن آرزوها (qorbāni kardan-e ārezuhā)
قربانی کردن سلامتی (qorbāni kardan-e salāmati)
قربانی کردن یک اصل (qorbāni kardan-e yek aṣl)

Common Phrases

قربانی کردن جان

— To sacrifice one's life.

او برای نجات دیگران جانش را قربانی کرد.

قربانی کردن وقت

— To sacrifice one's time.

من وقتم را برای این پروژه قربانی کردم.

قربانی کردن برای موفقیت

— To sacrifice for success.

برای رسیدن به موفقیت، باید از خیلی چیزها قربانی کرد.

قربانی کردن منافع شخصی

— To sacrifice personal interests.

او منافع شخصی خود را برای رفاه خانواده قربانی کرد.

قربانی کردن به خاطر

— To sacrifice for the sake of (something/someone).

ما باید برای صلح، از برخی خواسته‌هایمان قربانی کنیم.

قربانی کردن خود

— To sacrifice oneself.

قهرمانان واقعی کسانی هستند که خود را قربانی می‌کنند.

قربانی کردن آرامش

— To sacrifice one's peace/comfort.

پدر و مادران آرامش خود را برای فرزندانشان قربانی می‌کنند.

قربانی کردن یک فرصت

— To sacrifice an opportunity.

او یک فرصت شغلی خوب را برای مراقبت از مادرش قربانی کرد.

قربانی کردن اصول

— To sacrifice principles.

نباید اصول اخلاقی را به خاطر منافع زودگذر قربانی کرد.

قربانی کردن حیوان

— To sacrifice an animal (often in a religious context).

در عید قربان، مسلمانان گوسفند قربانی می‌کنند.

Often Confused With

قربانی کردن vs فدا کردن (fadā kardan)

Very similar, often interchangeable, but 'fadā kardan' can imply a more personal, emotional, or heroic self-sacrifice, while 'qorbāni kardan' is broader and can include ritualistic offerings.

قربانی کردن vs قربانی (qorbāni - noun)

This is the noun form, meaning 'sacrifice' or 'offering'. It's important not to confuse the noun with the verb phrase 'qorbāni kardan'. For example, 'این یک قربانی بود' (This was a sacrifice) uses the noun, while 'او جانش را قربانی کرد' (He sacrificed his life) uses the verb phrase.

قربانی کردن vs قربان (qorbān)

This word can mean 'offering' or 'sacrifice' in a religious context, or it can be used affectionately as 'my dear' or 'my beloved'. It's also part of the idiom 'جان به قربان کسی کردن'.

Idioms & Expressions

"جان به قربان کسی کردن"

— To be willing to sacrifice one's life for someone; to be extremely devoted or loyal.

سربازان جان به قربان فرمانده خود کردند.

Literary/Emotive
"قربانی شدن (qorbāni shodan)"

— To become a victim; to be sacrificed. This is the passive form.

او در حادثه قربانی شد.

Neutral
"قربانی دادن (qorbāni dādan)"

— To make sacrifices; to suffer losses for a cause. Similar to 'qorbāni kardan' but emphasizes the act of giving and the resulting loss.

برای رسیدن به این هدف، ما قربانی‌های زیادی دادیم.

Neutral
"قربانی اول (qorbāni-ye avval)"

— The first sacrifice; often refers to the initial or most significant sacrifice made.

این پروژه قربانی اول بود که برای موفقیت انجام شد.

Figurative
"قربانی بلاگردان"

— A scapegoat; someone who takes the blame or punishment for others. Literally 'a sacrifice to ward off misfortune'.

او را به عنوان بلاگردان انتخاب کردند تا از گناهان دیگران پاک شود.

Figurative/Traditional
"قربانی تقدیر"

— A victim of fate; someone whose life is determined by destiny and often involves hardship.

او احساس می‌کرد که قربانی تقدیر است.

Literary/Philosophical
"قربانی پیشکش کردن"

— To offer a sacrifice as a gift or offering (often in a religious or ceremonial context).

در زمان‌های قدیم، مردم پیشکش‌های گرانبها قربانی می‌کردند.

Religious/Archaic
"قربانی در راه خدا"

— Sacrifice made in the path of God; a sacrifice for religious devotion or duty.

شهیدان، قربانی در راه خدا بودند.

Religious
"قربانی کردن خود برای دیگری"

— To sacrifice oneself for another person.

مادرش خود را برای نجات او قربانی کرد.

Emotive
"قربانی کردن اصول برای منافع"

— To sacrifice principles for benefits/gains.

او اصول خود را برای رسیدن به قدرت قربانی کرد.

Political/Ethical

Easily Confused

قربانی کردن vs فدا کردن

Both terms mean 'to sacrifice' and are often used interchangeably.

'Qorbāni kardan' is a more general term for sacrifice, including ritualistic offerings and giving up resources. 'Fadā kardan' often carries a stronger emotional weight, implying self-sacrifice, martyrdom, or deep devotion, especially when sacrificing one's life for a cause or a loved one.

او جان خود را برای نجات کودکان فدا کرد. (He sacrificed his life to save the children - emphasizes heroic devotion). او بخشی از درآمدش را برای کمک به نیازمندان قربانی کرد. (He sacrificed part of his income to help the needy - more general act of giving).

قربانی کردن vs ایثار کردن

Both involve giving up something for others.

'Qorbāni kardan' is the act of sacrifice itself, the giving up of something valuable. 'Īsār kardan' refers to the spirit or quality of altruism and selflessness, the willingness to make sacrifices for others without expecting personal gain. It's more about the disposition than the specific act.

او برای رسیدن به هدفش، سختی‌های زیادی را قربانی کرد. (He sacrificed many hardships to reach his goal - focuses on the act). روحیه ایثارگری او قابل ستایش است. (His spirit of altruism is commendable - focuses on the quality).

قربانی کردن vs از دست دادن

Sacrifice inherently involves loss, so 'az dast dādan' (to lose) can be a consequence.

'Qorbāni kardan' is a deliberate act of giving something up for a purpose. 'Az dast dādan' is simply the state of no longer having something, which can happen accidentally or as a result of sacrifice. The intention is key.

او ماشینش را قربانی کرد تا بتواند خانه بخرد. (He sacrificed his car so he could buy a house - deliberate act). ماشینش دزدیده شد و آن را از دست داد. (His car was stolen and he lost it - accidental loss).

قربانی کردن vs صرف نظر کردن

Both involve giving something up.

'Sarfe nazar kardan' means to forgo, waive, or give up a claim, plan, or desire. It's often less about a profound loss and more about letting go of something abstract or a right. 'Qorbāni kardan' implies a more significant cost, often involving tangible items, time, or even life, for a substantial purpose.

من از حق خود صرف نظر کردم. (I waived my right - giving up a claim). او برای کمک به خانواده‌اش، شغل رویایی‌اش را قربانی کرد. (He sacrificed his dream job to help his family - significant loss for a purpose).

قربانی کردن vs گذشت کردن

Both can involve letting go of something.

The primary meaning of 'gozasht kardan' is 'to forgive'. While forgiveness can involve letting go of anger (a form of personal sacrifice), it's not synonymous with 'qorbāni kardan'. 'Qorbāni kardan' refers to giving up something external or significant for a purpose.

او از اشتباهات من گذشت. (He forgave my mistakes). او برای رسیدن به این هدف، از تفریحات خود قربانی کرد. (He sacrificed his entertainment to reach this goal).

Sentence Patterns

A1

Subject + Object + را + قربانی کرد.

او جانش را قربانی کرد.

A2

Subject + برای + Beneficiary + Object + قربانی کرد.

آنها وقتشان را برای خانواده قربانی کردند.

B1

Subject + باید + قربانی کند.

ما باید از راحتی خود قربانی کنیم.

B1

اگر + Condition + ، + Subject + قربانی خواهد کرد.

اگر لازم باشد، من منافعم را قربانی خواهم کرد.

B2

Subject + معتقد است که + Subject + قربانی می‌کند.

او معتقد است که باید برای موفقیت قربانی کرد.

B2

Subject + قربانی کردن + Object + ، + Result.

قربانی کردن وقت، راه را برای پیشرفت باز کرد.

C1

Subject + مجبور بود + قربانی کند.

رهبر مجبور بود از برخی اصول قربانی کند.

C2

Infinitive Clause + مستلزم + قربانی کردن + Object.

حفظ صلح، مستلزم قربانی کردن برخی از خواسته‌ها است.

Word Family

Nouns

قربانی (qorbāni) - sacrifice
قربانی‌کننده (qorbāni-konande) - sacrificer

Verbs

قربانی کردن (qorbāni kardan) - to sacrifice

Adjectives

قربانی‌شده (qorbāni-shode) - sacrificed (past participle)

Related

فدا کردن (fadā kardan) - to sacrifice
ایثار (īsār) - altruism, self-sacrifice
جان (jān) - life, soul
مال (māl) - wealth, property
وقت (vaght) - time

How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Incorrectly conjugating 'qorbāni' instead of 'kardan'. من جانم را قربانی کردم.

    The verb to conjugate is 'kardan'. 'Qorbāni' is the noun. So, 'kardam' (past tense of 'kardan') is used, not a conjugation of 'qorbāni'.

  • Using 'qorbāni kardan' for trivial matters. او برای کمک به دوستش، وقتش را قربانی کرد.

    Using 'qorbāni kardan' for something like 'sacrificing breakfast to go to the cinema' sounds overly dramatic. It implies a significant loss for a greater purpose.

  • Confusing 'qorbāni kardan' with 'az dast dādan' (to lose). او برای رسیدن به هدف، از راحتی خود قربانی کرد.

    'Qorbāni kardan' is a deliberate act of giving something up. 'Az dast dādan' is simply losing something, which might not be intentional. The intention behind the act is key.

  • Not using 'rā' correctly with the object of sacrifice. او جانش را قربانی کرد.

    When the object of sacrifice is specific and definite (like 'jānam' - my life), the direct object marker 'rā' is often used. Omitting it can sometimes lead to ambiguity.

  • Confusing the verb phrase with the noun 'qorbāni'. آنها برای آزادی قربانی‌ها دادند.

    Using 'qorbāni' as a standalone verb or trying to conjugate it directly is incorrect. The phrase is always 'qorbāni kardan'. 'Qorbāni' itself is the noun (sacrifice).

Tips

Mastering the 'Q'

The Persian 'q' (ق) in 'qorbāni' is a voiced velar fricative, produced further back in the throat than the English 'g'. Practice by trying to make a 'g' sound while constricting your throat slightly. It's not a hard 'k' or a soft 'g', but a distinct sound.

Conjugate 'Kardan', Not 'Qorbāni'

Remember that 'qorbāni' is a noun meaning 'sacrifice'. The verb you conjugate is 'kardan' (to do/make), which forms the verb phrase 'qorbāni kardan'. Always conjugate 'kardan' based on the subject and tense.

Weight of the Word

Because 'qorbāni kardan' implies giving up something valuable, use it for situations that genuinely involve significant cost or a noble purpose. Overusing it for minor inconveniences can diminish its impact.

Cultural Significance

Understand that sacrifice holds deep cultural and religious significance in Persian-speaking societies. Acts of 'qorbāni' are often seen as noble and are highly respected, reflecting values of devotion, altruism, and resilience.

Link to 'Corban'

Connect 'qorbāni' to the English word 'corban' (an offering to God) and 'kardan' to 'carding' (shaping something). Imagine 'carding' your valuable possessions into a 'corban' to draw closer to the divine or a greater purpose.

Sentence Building

Practice creating sentences using 'qorbāni kardan' in different tenses and with various objects of sacrifice (time, money, life, dreams). This active recall will solidify your understanding and usage.

Distinguish from 'Sarfe Nazar Kardan'

While both involve giving something up, 'qorbāni kardan' implies a greater cost or significance than 'sarfe nazar kardan' (to forgo or waive), which is often used for plans or rights.

Identify the Object

When listening, pay attention to what is being sacrificed. Is it 'jān' (life), 'vaght' (time), 'māl' (money), or something more abstract like 'ārāmesh' (peace)? This will clarify the specific meaning.

Show, Don't Just Tell

Instead of just saying someone sacrificed, describe the act and its implications. For example, instead of 'He sacrificed his job', you could say 'He gave up his prestigious job, which he loved, to care for his sick mother.'

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'corban' (like a 'corpse' but holy) being 'dani' (given) to God. The 'corban dani' sounds like 'qorbāni kardan'. You're giving up something precious ('corban') to get closer to the divine ('dani').

Visual Association

Picture a shepherd offering his best sheep (a 'qorbāni') to a divine light in the sky. The sheep is being 'kardan' (made) into an offering.

Word Web

Sacrifice Offering Devotion Martyrdom Selflessness Giving up Religious rite Heroism

Challenge

Think of three things you value highly. Now, imagine a situation where you might have to 'qorbāni kardan' one of them for a very important reason. Write a short sentence in Persian describing this hypothetical sacrifice.

Word Origin

The word 'qorbāni' originates from the Arabic word 'qurbān' (قربان), which itself derives from the root 'q-r-b' (ق ر ب) meaning 'nearness' or 'proximity'. In religious contexts, a 'qurbān' was an offering made to draw closer to God.

Original meaning: An offering made to draw nearer to God.

Semitic (Arabic origin, adopted into Persian)

Cultural Context

The term 'qorbāni kardan' can evoke strong emotions, especially when referring to the sacrifice of life or significant personal suffering. It's important to use it respectfully and be mindful of the context, as it can be associated with religious rituals, historical events, or deeply personal acts of devotion and loss.

In English-speaking cultures, 'sacrifice' is also a significant concept, often associated with religious martyrdom, heroism in war, and personal giving for family or causes. However, the direct ritualistic aspect seen in some Persian contexts might be less common in everyday secular life.

The story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son, a cornerstone of Eid al-Adha. The concept of martyrdom ('shahādat') in Islamic history, where individuals sacrifice their lives for their faith. Numerous Persian epic poems and historical accounts detailing acts of sacrifice for national honor or religious duty.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Religious observances (e.g., Eid al-Adha)

  • قربانی کردن گوسفند
  • قربانی برای خدا
  • سنت قربانی

Discussions about historical events or heroism

  • قربانی کردن جان برای وطن
  • قربانیان جنگ
  • قهرمانانی که قربانی شدند

Personal relationships and family matters

  • قربانی کردن وقت برای فرزندان
  • قربانی کردن آرامش برای خانواده
  • او برای ما قربانی کرد

Achieving goals or success

  • قربانی کردن برای موفقیت
  • باید قربانی کرد
  • قربانی کردن راحتی

Ethical and philosophical discussions

  • قربانی کردن اصول
  • قربانی کردن منافع شخصی
  • معنای قربانی

Conversation Starters

"What's the biggest sacrifice you've ever made for someone else?"

"Do you think people today are more or less willing to sacrifice than in the past?"

"Can you think of a time when sacrificing something small led to a big positive outcome?"

"What's the difference between sacrificing and just giving up?"

"In your opinion, what makes a sacrifice meaningful?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a situation where you or someone you know had to make a significant sacrifice. What was given up, and what was the outcome?

Reflect on the concept of sacrifice in your own life. Are there areas where you feel you need to sacrifice more, or perhaps where you have sacrificed too much?

Explore the idea of sacrificing personal desires for collective good. Is this always a positive thing? When can it be detrimental?

Write about a fictional character who made a profound sacrifice. What motivated them, and what was the impact of their actions?

Consider the sacrifices made by your parents or guardians for you. How do you feel about those sacrifices now, and how can you honor them?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both mean 'to sacrifice'. 'Qorbāni kardan' is a more general term and can refer to ritualistic offerings or giving up resources for a cause. 'Fadā kardan' often implies a more heroic, emotional, or self-sacrificing act, particularly when it involves giving one's life for a loved one or a deeply held belief.

No, while it has strong religious connotations due to its origin and use in rituals, 'qorbāni kardan' is widely used in secular contexts to describe any act of giving up something valuable for a purpose, whether personal, societal, or national.

You conjugate the verb 'kardan' (to do/make) and attach it to the noun 'qorbāni' (sacrifice). For example, in the past tense, 'man qorbāni kardam' (I sacrificed), 'to qorbāni kardi' (you sacrificed), 'u qorbāni kard' (he/she sacrificed).

People often sacrifice their time, money, comfort, personal interests, dreams, or even their lives for a cause, a loved one, or a belief.

While technically possible, it's generally used for significant sacrifices. For minor concessions, simpler phrases like 'gozasht kardan' (to let go) or 'sarfe nazar kardan' (to forgo) might be more appropriate to avoid sounding overly dramatic.

The noun form is 'qorbāni' itself, meaning 'sacrifice' or 'offering'.

'Qorbāni shodan' is the passive form, meaning 'to be sacrificed' or 'to become a victim'. For instance, 'The animal was sacrificed' would be 'آن حیوان قربانی شد'.

Yes, 'barāye' (for) is often used to indicate the beneficiary or purpose of the sacrifice (e.g., 'qorbāni kardan barāye khānevādeh' - to sacrifice for the family). The direct object of the sacrifice is often marked with 'rā'.

In literature, it can be used literally or metaphorically to express deep devotion, heroism, or the tragic fate of characters. Phrases like 'jān be qorbān-e kasi kardan' (to be willing to sacrifice one's life for someone) are common.

'Dādan' means 'to give'. While you 'give' something when you sacrifice, 'qorbāni kardan' specifically implies that what is given up is valuable and is being relinquished for a significant reason, often involving loss or cost. In idioms like 'qorbāni dādan', 'dādan' is used as part of the phrase for 'to make sacrifices'.

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