At the A1 level, you only need to know 'qors' as 'pill.' It is a basic survival word. You should be able to say 'I need a pill' (Man qors mikhaam) or 'I ate a pill' (Man qors khordam). It's one of the first words you learn in the health category. You will see it on medicine bottles and hear it when people talk about being sick. Focus on the 'pill' meaning and the verb 'khordan' (to eat).
At A2, you start combining 'qors' with common adjectives and types. You should know 'qors-e sarpard' (headache pill) and 'qors-e vitaminst' (vitamin pill). You also learn the plural 'qors-hā' and how to use numbers with it, like 'do ta qors' (two pills). You begin to see the word in simple compound sentences, like 'The doctor gave me a pill because I was sick.'
By B1, you should understand the metaphorical use of 'qors' as 'firm' or 'solid.' You will encounter phrases like 'del-am qors shod' (I became reassured). You also learn more specific medical terms like 'qors-e jooshan' (effervescent tablet) and 'qors-e mosakken' (painkiller). You can explain why you are taking the pill and describe its effects using more complex grammar.
At B2, you use 'qors' in more formal contexts. You might read about the 'qors-e mah' (the disc of the moon) in literature or hear 'qors-e nan' in a cultural documentary. You understand the nuance between 'qors' and synonyms like 'mohkam' or 'sabet.' You can discuss health issues more fluently, including dosage instructions and pharmaceutical types.
At C1, you appreciate the poetic and historical roots of the word. You can use 'qors' in sophisticated metaphors regarding stability, character, and celestial bodies. You are comfortable with technical uses in engineering or old-fashioned Persian. You understand how the word's meaning has shifted from 'disc' to 'pill' over centuries and can use it in idiomatic expressions effortlessly.
At C2, your mastery is near-native. You can identify 'qors' in classical Persian poetry where it might describe the sun's majesty. You understand subtle puns or wordplay involving its various meanings. You can write technical medical reports or literary essays using the word in its most precise or most evocative forms, perfectly matching the register of your audience.

قرص in 30 Seconds

  • A 'qors' is primarily a medical pill or tablet used for health treatments.
  • It comes from the concept of a disc-shaped object, like the moon or a loaf of bread.
  • In Persian, you 'eat' (khordan) a pill rather than 'taking' it.
  • Metaphorically, it means 'firm' or 'solid,' describing both physical structures and emotional confidence.

The Persian word قرص (qors) is a fundamental noun that every learner should master early in their journey. At its most basic level, it refers to a small, solid dose of medication, commonly translated as 'pill' or 'tablet.' However, the linguistic journey of this word is far more interesting than a simple medical term. In Persian, the word originates from the concept of a 'disc' or a 'round object.' This geometric foundation explains why you will see it used in contexts ranging from astronomy to bakery. When a Persian speaker says 'qors,' they are usually talking about medicine, but the physical shape—round and solid—is the underlying logic of the word.

Medical Context
In a pharmacy (darukhaneh) or a doctor's office, 'qors' is the standard term for oral solid medication. It is distinct from 'sharbate' (syrup) or 'ampul' (injection). If you have a headache, you ask for a 'qors-e sarpard' (headache pill) or a 'qors-e mosakken' (painkiller).
Shape and Form
Because 'qors' implies a disc shape, it is used for 'qors-e nan' (a loaf or round of bread) and 'qors-e qamar' (the disc of the moon). This demonstrates how Persian uses physical characteristics to categorize objects.

دکتر برای من سه قرص در روز تجویز کرد.
(The doctor prescribed three pills a day for me.)

The word is also used as an adjective to mean 'firm,' 'solid,' or 'steady.' When someone says 'del-am qors ast' (my heart is firm), they mean they are confident or reassured. This metaphorical leap from a solid physical tablet to a solid emotional state is a hallmark of Persian poetic thought. You might hear it in business contexts where a 'qors' agreement is one that is binding and reliable. Understanding this duality helps learners transition from A1 medical vocabulary to more advanced metaphorical Persian.

او با اطمینان و قرص صحبت می‌کرد.
(He was speaking with confidence and firmness.)

Daily Life
In modern Iran, you will see 'qors-e jooshan' (effervescent tablets) everywhere. These are popular vitamin supplements that fizz in water. Knowing this word is essential for navigating any supermarket or drugstore.

In summary, while you start with the 'pill' definition, remember that 'qors' is about stability, roundness, and solidity. Whether you are dealing with a headache, looking at the moon, or making a firm promise, this word will be your constant companion in the Persian-speaking world.

Using قرص (qors) correctly requires understanding the verbs that typically accompany it. In English, we 'take' medicine. In Persian, the most common verb is khordan (to eat). This is a crucial distinction for beginners. If you say 'man qors migiram,' it sounds like you are physically picking up a pill or receiving it from someone, not necessarily consuming it for health reasons.

Common Verb Pairings
1. Khordan (To Eat): The standard way to say you are taking medication.
2. Tajviz Kardan (To Prescribe): Used by doctors.
3. Andakhtan (To Drop): Often used for putting a pill in water (like an effervescent one).

من باید هر شب یک قرص خواب بخورم.
(I have to take one sleeping pill every night.)

When describing the type of pill, Persian uses the 'Ezafe' construction (the short 'e' sound connecting words). For example, 'qors-e dardan' (pain pill) or 'qors-e vitaminst' (vitamin pill). If you are referring to a specific brand or chemical, that also follows the Ezafe: 'qors-e Aspirin.'

این قرص خیلی قوی است؛ مواظب باش.
(This pill is very strong; be careful.)

In more formal or literary contexts, 'qors' can describe the sun or moon. 'Qors-e khorshid' (the solar disc) is a beautiful way to describe the sun's appearance. In these cases, the word functions as a measure of shape rather than a medical object. Furthermore, in construction or engineering, 'qors' can refer to a washer or a flat circular component.

Sentence Structure Patterns
[Subject] + [Quantity] + [Qors] + [Verb].
Example: 'Sara do qors khord' (Sara ate two pills).
[Subject] + [Qors-e] + [Type] + [Verb].
Example: 'Ali qors-e sarpard kharid' (Ali bought a headache pill).

Lastly, consider the negative. 'Man qors nemikhoram' can mean 'I don't take pills' (as a general habit) or 'I am not taking the pill' (right now). Context determines the timeframe, as Persian present continuous and simple present often share the same form in casual speech.

If you are in an Iranian city, you will most likely hear قرص (qors) in three primary locations: the pharmacy, the home, and in metaphorical conversations about reliability. Iran has a robust pharmaceutical industry, and 'qors' is a household word. You'll hear mothers telling children, 'Qors-et-o khordi?' (Did you eat your pill?).

At the Pharmacy (Darukhaneh)
You will hear pharmacists asking, 'Qors-e irani mikhaid ya khareji?' (Do you want Iranian or foreign pills?). This is a common distinction made in Iran regarding the source of medication.
In the Kitchen
When someone is baking or buying traditional bread like Barbari or Sangak, 'qors' refers to the unit of bread. 'Do qors nan-e sangak' means two large loaves of Sangak bread.

پدرم همیشه با حرف‌هایش دلم را قرص می‌کند.
(My father always makes my heart firm/reassured with his words.)

In social settings, the metaphorical use is pervasive. If you are making a deal, a Persian speaker might say, 'Jay-e payat-o qors kon' (Make your footing firm), meaning ensure your position is secure before proceeding. This usage is common in business, sports, and politics. It’s a way of describing stability and lack of doubt.

امشب قرص ماه کامل است.
(Tonight the disc of the moon is full.)

You might also hear it in technical fields. A computer technician might refer to a 'qors-e sakht' (hard disc), though 'hard drive' is more common now. However, the conceptual link remains. In jewelry, a round-cut gem might be described by its 'qors.' The word is ubiquitous because it describes a basic geometric reality that applies to many objects.

Colloquialism
Sometimes used in slang to refer to illegal substances (ecstasy, etc.), similar to how 'pill' is used in English slang. Context is key here!

For English speakers learning Persian, the most frequent error with قرص (qors) is the choice of verb. As mentioned, we say 'take a pill,' but Persians 'eat' (khordan) a pill. Using 'gereftan' (to take/get) is a literal translation that sounds unnatural to native ears.

The 'Take' vs. 'Eat' Trap
Incorrect: 'Man qors migiram.' (I am getting a pill).
Correct: 'Man qors mikhoram.' (I am taking/eating a pill).

اشتباه: من یک قرص نوشیدم.
(Mistake: I drank a pill. Even if you use water, you 'eat' the pill.)

Another common mistake is confusing 'qors' with 'daru.' While 'qors' is a specific form (pill), 'daru' is the general word for medicine. If you are taking a liquid syrup, you cannot call it a 'qors.' Beginners often use 'qors' as a catch-all for any medicine, which can lead to confusion at the pharmacy.

Pluralization can also be tricky. In English, we always say 'two pills.' In Persian, when a number precedes the noun, the noun stays singular. 'Do qors' is correct; 'Do qors-hā' is grammatically incorrect in this context. This is a rule that applies to all Persian nouns, but it's frequently forgotten with everyday items like medicine.

Confusing Formats
Learners often call a 'capsule' a 'qors.' While they are both solid, Persian speakers usually distinguish them. A 'capsule' is 'kapsul.' Using 'qors' for a capsule isn't a huge error, but it shows a lack of precision.

نباید قرص را با شکم خالی بخوری.
(You shouldn't take the pill with an empty stomach.)

Finally, the word 'qors' meaning 'firm' is an adjective. Some students try to use it as a noun to mean 'firmness' (which would be 'qorsi' or 'estehkam'). Remember: 'qors' is the thing (pill/disc) or the quality (firm), but the state of being firm requires a suffix.

To truly master the vocabulary of health and medicine, you need to know the alternatives to قرص (qors). Persian has several words that describe different forms of medication and different types of solid objects.

Medical Alternatives
  • Kapsul (کپسول): A capsule. Used exactly like in English.
  • Sharbate (شربت): Syrup or liquid medicine.
  • Ampul (آمپول): An injection or vial.
  • Poodr (پودر): Powdered medicine.
  • Daru (دارو): The general term for 'medicine' or 'drug.'

آیا این دارو به صورت قرص است یا شربت؟
(Is this medicine in the form of a pill or a syrup?)

When 'qors' is used to mean 'firm,' there are several synonyms depending on the context. If you mean 'strong' physically, you might use 'mohkam' (محکم). If you mean 'stable' or 'fixed,' you could use 'sabet' (ثابت). 'Qors' carries a specific nuance of being 'solidly set' or 'unwavering.'

Physical Shape Alternatives
  • Dayereh (دایره): A circle. This is the geometric term, whereas 'qors' is the physical object that is circular.
  • Safeh (صفحه): A plate or a sheet. Used for flat things like a DVD or a page, but 'qors' implies more thickness/solidity.

او کپسول را به قرص ترجیح می‌دهد.
(He prefers capsules to pills.)

In the context of bread, you might hear 'chaneh' (چانه), which refers to a ball of dough before it's baked into a 'qors' (loaf). Understanding these stages of bread-making can help you navigate an Iranian bakery like a local. By expanding your vocabulary beyond just 'qors,' you gain a much finer control over how you describe the world around you in Persian.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"پزشک معالج، مصرف روزانه یک عدد قرص را الزامی دانست."

Neutral

"من باید قرص‌هایم را سر وقت بخورم."

Informal

"یه قرص داری به من بدی؟ سرم داره می‌ترکه."

Child friendly

"بیا این قرص کوچولو رو بخور تا زود خوب بشی."

Slang

"طرف قرصیه، اصلاً تو حال خودش نیست."

Fun Fact

While it started as a description of shape (like a loaf of bread), the medical meaning 'pill' became dominant in modern times due to the shape of early tablets.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɢors/
US /ɢɔrs/
The stress is on the single syllable of the word.
Rhymes With
پورس (pors) خورس (khors - rare) برس (bors) درس (dars - partial) ترس (tars - partial) پرس (pors) خرس (khors - partial) مرس (mors)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'q' as a simple 'k'.
  • Adding an extra vowel between 'r' and 's' (e.g., goros).
  • Making the 'o' sound like 'oo'.
  • Softening the 'q' into a 'gh' too much.
  • Ignoring the uvular nature of the initial consonant.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize; common in all texts.

Writing 2/5

The 'q' (ق) and 's' (ص) require specific spelling attention.

Speaking 2/5

Requires mastering the uvular 'q' sound.

Listening 1/5

Clear sound and distinct from most other common words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

دارو آب خوردن مریض دکتر

Learn Next

کپسول شربت نسخه داروخانه درد

Advanced

استحکام مواضع پایداری تصلب مُدَوّر

Grammar to Know

Ezafe Construction

قرصِ مسکن (qors-e mosakken)

Object Marker 'ra'

قرص را خوردم.

Numbers and Singular Nouns

سه قرص (not سه قرص‌ها)

Compound Verbs

قرص کردن (to make firm)

Present Habitual Tense

من هر روز قرص می‌خورم.

Examples by Level

1

من قرص می‌خورم.

I take a pill.

Uses present habitual tense.

2

این قرص کوچک است.

This pill is small.

Simple adjective-noun agreement.

3

آیا قرص داری؟

Do you have a pill?

Simple question with 'dashtan'.

4

او یک قرص خورد.

He/She ate (took) a pill.

Simple past tense.

5

مادرم قرص می‌خواهد.

My mother wants a pill.

Subject-verb agreement.

6

قرص کجاست؟

Where is the pill?

Interrogative sentence.

7

من دو قرص دارم.

I have two pills.

Number + singular noun.

8

این قرص سفید است.

This pill is white.

Colors and nouns.

1

دکتر به من قرص داد.

The doctor gave me a pill.

Indirect object usage.

2

من قرص سردرد می‌خواهم.

I want a headache pill.

Ezafe construction (qors-e sarpard).

3

هر روز یک قرص بخور.

Take one pill every day.

Imperative mood.

4

این قرص‌ها برای شماست.

These pills are for you.

Plural demonstrative 'in-ha'.

5

قرص را با آب بخورید.

Take the pill with water.

Prepositional phrase 'ba ab'.

6

او قرص‌هایش را فراموش کرد.

He forgot his pills.

Possessive suffix -esh.

7

قرص ویتامین برای سلامتی خوب است.

Vitamin pills are good for health.

General statement.

8

باید این قرص را بخری.

You must buy this pill.

Modal verb 'bayad'.

1

بعد از شنیدن خبر، دلم قرص شد.

After hearing the news, I felt reassured (my heart became firm).

Idiomatic use of qors.

2

این قرص جوشان را در آب بینداز.

Drop this effervescent tablet in water.

Specific noun phrase.

3

او با گام‌های قرص راه می‌رفت.

He was walking with firm steps.

Adjectival use.

4

دکتر تجویز کرد که قرص مسکن مصرف کنم.

The doctor prescribed that I consume painkillers.

Formal verb 'masraf kardan'.

5

بدون قرص خواب نمی‌توانم بخوابم.

I cannot sleep without a sleeping pill.

Negative modal.

6

این قرص عوارض جانبی دارد.

This pill has side effects.

Abstract noun 'avarez'.

7

او یک قرص نان تازه خرید.

He bought a fresh loaf of bread.

Measure word usage.

8

قرص ماه در آسمان می‌درخشید.

The disc of the moon was shining in the sky.

Literary usage.

1

باید جای پای خود را در این شرکت قرص کنی.

You must make your position firm in this company.

Metaphorical expression.

2

این قرص‌ها باید دور از دسترس کودکان باشند.

These pills must be kept out of reach of children.

Passive/Formal instruction.

3

او با لحنی قرص و محکم صحبت کرد.

He spoke with a firm and solid tone.

Hendiadys (two words for one meaning).

4

تاثیر این قرص بعد از یک ساعت شروع می‌شود.

The effect of this pill starts after one hour.

Complex subject phrase.

5

پزشک دوز قرص‌ها را افزایش داد.

The physician increased the dosage of the pills.

Professional vocabulary.

6

این قرص برای کنترل فشار خون است.

This pill is for controlling blood pressure.

Purpose clause.

7

او همیشه قرص و استوار بر سر عقایدش می‌ماند.

He always remains firm and steadfast in his beliefs.

Character description.

8

قرص خورشید در افق پدیدار شد.

The solar disc appeared on the horizon.

Poetic imagery.

1

بنیان‌های این ساختمان بسیار قرص و محکم است.

The foundations of this building are very firm and solid.

Technical/Architectural context.

2

او با اتکا به وعده‌های قرص رئیس، استعفا داد.

Relying on the firm promises of the boss, he resigned.

Complex prepositional phrase.

3

در متون کهن، قرص به معنای هر شیء مدور به کار می‌رفت.

In ancient texts, 'qors' was used to mean any circular object.

Etymological discussion.

4

پایداری این رژیم بر ستون‌های قرص نظامی استوار است.

The stability of this regime is built on firm military pillars.

Political analysis.

5

او چنان قرص حرف می‌زد که کسی شک نکرد.

He spoke so firmly that no one doubted him.

Adverbial usage.

6

قرص کمر، نام یک داروی گیاهی سنتی است.

'Qors-e kamar' is the name of a traditional herbal medicine.

Cultural specific terminology.

7

شاعری قرص ماه را به روی یار تشبیه کرده است.

The poet has likened the disc of the moon to the beloved's face.

Literary analysis.

8

او از قرص‌های روان‌گردان برای فرار از واقعیت استفاده می‌کرد.

He used psychotropic pills to escape reality.

Social/Medical complexity.

1

صلابت و قرص بودن مواضع وی، تحسین همگان را برانگیخت.

The firmness and solidity of his positions elicited everyone's admiration.

Nominalized adjective cluster.

2

در هندسه اقلیدسی، قرص به فضای محصور در دایره اطلاق می‌شود.

In Euclidean geometry, 'qors' refers to the space enclosed within a circle.

Scientific definition.

3

او با عزم قرص، در پی احقاق حقوق پایمال شده‌اش برآمد.

With firm resolve, he sought to reclaim his trampled rights.

High-level legal/social register.

4

تلالو قرص مهر در سپیده‌دم، الهام‌بخش عارفان بوده است.

The radiance of the sun's disc at dawn has inspired mystics.

Archaic/Mystical vocabulary.

5

او به چنان درجه‌ای از اطمینان رسیده بود که گویی دلش قرص‌ترین کوه جهان است.

He had reached such a level of certainty as if his heart were the firmest mountain in the world.

Extended superlative metaphor.

6

فارماکولوژی مدرن بر تولید قرص‌هایی با آزادسازی تدریجی تمرکز دارد.

Modern pharmacology focuses on producing pills with gradual release.

Technical scientific register.

7

وی با استدلالی قرص، تمام فرضیات رقیب را باطل کرد.

With a solid argument, he invalidated all of the rival's hypotheses.

Intellectual/Academic context.

8

در این منظومه، قرص زمین چون گوهری در پهنه فضا می‌درخشد.

In this poem, the disc of the Earth shines like a jewel in the expanse of space.

Cosmological poetry.

Common Collocations

قرص مسکن
قرص خواب
قرص جوشان
قرص نان
قرص ماه
دل‌قرص
قرص و محکم
قرص ضدبارداری
قرص کمر
قرص خورشید

Common Phrases

قرص خوردن

— The act of taking a pill.

وقت قرص خوردن من است.

قرص دادن

— To give someone a pill (usually a doctor or caregiver).

پرستار به بیمار قرص داد.

قرص تجویز کردن

— To prescribe a pill.

پزشک قرص جدیدی تجویز کرد.

جای پای قرص

— A secure position or foundation.

او در سیاست جای پای قرصی دارد.

وعده قرص

— A firm and reliable promise.

او به من وعده قرص داد که می‌آید.

قرص صورت

— The round shape of a face.

قرص صورت او بسیار زیباست.

قرص آهن

— Iron supplement pill.

خانم‌ها باید قرص آهن مصرف کنند.

قرص سردرد

— Headache pill.

یک قرص سردرد به من بده.

قرص چربی

— Cholesterol pill.

او برای چربی خون قرص می‌خورد.

قرص معده

— Stomach/Antacid pill.

بعد از غذا قرص معده می‌خورم.

Often Confused With

قرص vs قرض

Means 'debt' or 'loan'. Sounds similar but ends in 'z' sound.

قرص vs قوس

Means 'arc' or 'curve'. Same starting letter but different meaning.

قرص vs خورس

Not a common word, but might be a mispronunciation.

Idioms & Expressions

"دل کسی قرص بودن"

— To be completely reassured or confident about something.

دلم قرص است که تو موفقی.

informal
"قرص و محکم"

— Extremely solid, unwavering, or very tightly secured.

در را قرص و محکم ببند.

neutral
"قرص قمر"

— Literally 'the disc of the moon,' used to describe a very beautiful face.

صورتش مثل قرص قمر می‌درخشد.

literary
"جای پای خود را قرص کردن"

— To establish oneself firmly in a position or job.

اول جای پایت را قرص کن، بعد اعتراض کن.

neutral
"حرفش قرص است"

— His word is his bond; he is reliable.

روی حرف او حساب کن، حرفش قرص است.

informal
"قرص شدن دل"

— To gain confidence after doubt.

با حرف‌های او دلم قرص شد.

neutral
"قرص و استوار"

— Standing firm against difficulties.

او در برابر مشکلات قرص و استوار ماند.

formal
"قرص ریختن"

— Slang for distributing pills (drugs).

در مهمانی قرص می‌ریختند.

slang
"قرص کمر"

— A metaphor for strength and virility, also a specific seed.

این غذا برای قرص کمر خوب است.

folk
"قرص خورشید"

— The majestic appearance of the sun.

قرص خورشید از پشت کوه برآمد.

poetic

Easily Confused

قرص vs کپسول

Both are solid medicines.

Qors is a compressed tablet; Kapsul has a gelatin shell.

این کپسول است، نه قرص.

قرص vs حبه

Both mean a small unit.

Habbe is usually for grains (sugar/garlic) or very small old-style pills.

یک حبه قند.

قرص vs دارو

Both relate to health.

Daru is medicine in general; Qors is specifically a pill.

او داروهای زیادی می‌خورد.

قرص vs دایره

Both relate to roundness.

Dayereh is the abstract circle; Qors is the physical disc.

دایره‌ای روی زمین کشید.

قرص vs محکم

Both mean firm.

Mohkam is more common for physical strength; Qors is for stability/confidence.

دیوار محکم است.

Sentence Patterns

A1

من [اسم] می‌خورم.

من قرص می‌خورم.

A2

[اسم] به من [اسم] داد.

دکتر به من قرص داد.

B1

دلم [صفت] شد.

دلم قرص شد.

B2

باید [اسم] را [قید] بخوری.

باید قرص را سر وقت بخوری.

C1

با اتکا به [اسم]، [فعل].

با اتکا به وعده قرص او، رفتم.

C2

چنان [صفت] بود که [جمله].

چنان قرص بود که کسی شک نکرد.

A1

این [اسم] [صفت] است.

این قرص سفید است.

B1

بدون [اسم] نمی‌توانم [فعل].

بدون قرص نمی‌توانم بخوابم.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Very high; used daily in various contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • من قرص گرفتم (for taking medicine) من قرص خوردم

    In Persian, you 'eat' medicine, you don't 'take/get' it in the English sense.

  • دو قرص‌ها دو قرص

    Nouns stay singular after a number in Persian.

  • نوشیدن قرص خوردن قرص

    Even though you use water, the action for a pill is 'eating' (khordan), not 'drinking' (nushidan).

  • Spelling it 'قرس' قرص

    The word must end with the letter 'Sad' (ص), not 'Sin' (س).

  • Using 'qors' for syrup شربت

    'Qors' only refers to solid tablets/pills.

Tips

Verb Choice

Always pair 'qors' with 'khordan' for taking medicine. It's the most natural way.

Specific Types

Learn 'qors-e mosakken' (painkiller) and 'qors-e sarpard' (headache pill) first.

Confidence

Use 'del-am qors shod' when you want to say you feel better about a situation.

The Q Sound

Don't let the 'q' sound like 'k'. Practice the deep throat sound to be understood.

Pharmacy Etiquette

Iranian pharmacies often sell pills individually or in strips, not just whole bottles.

The Letter Sad

Remember the word ends in 'ص' (Sad). This is a common spelling test word.

The Moon

Use 'qors-e mah' to describe a beautiful full moon in a poetic way.

Counting

Say 'do qors' not 'do qors-hā' when counting pills.

Firm Foundations

Use 'qors' to describe a solid plan or a firm building foundation.

Slang Warning

Be aware that 'qors' can refer to ecstasy in certain informal youth contexts.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'COARSE' (qors) round stone. It is solid, firm, and shaped like a big pill.

Visual Association

Imagine the full moon (qors-e mah) shrinking down until it becomes a small white pill (qors) on your tongue.

Word Web

Medicine Pill Disc Moon Bread Firm Solid Confidence

Challenge

Try to use 'qors' in two ways today: once for a medicine and once to describe someone's firm decision.

Word Origin

Borrowed from Arabic 'qurṣ' (قرص).

Original meaning: A round, flat cake or a disc-shaped object.

Semitic (Arabic) into Indo-European (Persian).

Cultural Context

Be careful using 'qors' in slang contexts as it can refer to illicit drugs (similar to 'pills' in English).

English speakers use 'take,' but Iranians use 'eat.' This is the biggest cultural-linguistic hurdle.

Classical poems comparing the moon to a 'qors-e simin' (silver disc). Modern Iranian medical dramas where 'qors' is central to the plot. Iranian proverbs about having a 'firm' (qors) footing in life.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Pharmacy

  • این قرص بدون نسخه است؟
  • بسته‌ای چند است؟
  • عوارض این قرص چیست؟
  • قرص مشابه دارید؟

At the Doctor

  • چه قرصی برای من نوشتید؟
  • باید قرص را با غذا بخورم؟
  • تا چند روز باید قرص بخورم؟
  • این قرص خواب‌آور است؟

In a Bakery

  • دو قرص نان می‌خواهم.
  • نان‌ها قرصی چند است؟
  • قرص نان داغ دارید؟
  • این قرص نان خیلی بزرگ است.

At Home

  • قرص‌هایت را خوردی؟
  • جعبه قرص کجاست؟
  • یک قرص مسکن به من بده.
  • دلم با حرفت قرص شد.

Astronomy/Poetry

  • قرص کامل ماه.
  • قرص خورشید در غروب.
  • صورتش مثل قرص قمر است.
  • درخشش قرص مهر.

Conversation Starters

"آیا تا به حال مجبور شده‌ای قرص‌های خیلی تلخی بخوری؟"

"به نظر تو قرص‌های ویتامین واقعاً تاثیر دارند؟"

"وقتی سردرد داری، ترجیح می‌دهی قرص بخوری یا استراحت کنی؟"

"آیا در کشور شما قرص نان به شکل خاصی است؟"

"چه چیزی باعث می‌شود در زندگی دلت قرص باشد؟"

Journal Prompts

درباره زمانی بنویسید که یک خبر باعث شد دلتان قرص شود و نگرانی‌تان از بین برود.

تفاوت‌های بین داروهای گیاهی و قرص‌های شیمیایی را از نظر خودتان شرح دهید.

اگر می‌توانستید یک 'قرص جادویی' برای یادگیری زبان اختراع کنید، آن قرص چه ویژگی‌هایی داشت؟

توصیف کنید که قرص ماه در یک شب کویری چگونه به نظر می‌رسد.

تجربه خود را از رفتن به یک داروخانه در یک کشور خارجی بنویسید.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is better to use 'khordan.' 'Gereftan' means to physically receive it, not to take it as medicine.

No, liquid medicine is called 'sharbate' (syrup).

It means 'I am confident' or 'I am reassured.' It's a very common idiom.

You say 'qors-e mosakken.' 'Mosakken' means something that calms or alleviates.

It is originally Arabic but has been used in Persian for centuries with expanded meanings.

Yes, 'yek qors nan' is a common way to count round loaves of bread.

It is an effervescent tablet that dissolves in water, like Vitamin C tablets.

Yes, 'qors-hā,' but we use the singular with numbers (e.g., 'panj qors').

It's a uvular stop, made by touching the back of the tongue to the soft palate.

Sometimes, but 'safeh' or 'diske' is more common now.

Test Yourself 185 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Persian saying 'I take a pill every morning.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The doctor prescribed three pills for me.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Describe a full moon using the word 'qors'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Use the idiom 'del-am qors ast' in a sentence about an exam.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a dialogue at a pharmacy asking for a headache pill.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'He spoke with a firm and solid tone.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Explain what 'qors-e jooshan' is in Persian.

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writing

Write about the importance of taking pills on time.

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writing

Use 'qors' to describe the foundations of a house.

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writing

Translate: 'Vitamin pills are necessary for the body.'

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writing

Describe a beautiful person's face using 'qors-e qamar'.

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writing

Write a warning label for a medicine bottle in Persian.

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writing

Translate: 'I cannot sleep without a sleeping pill.'

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writing

Write a sentence about buying two loaves of bread.

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writing

Use 'qors' as an adjective to describe a decision.

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writing

Translate: 'The sun's disc disappeared behind the mountains.'

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writing

Write a short paragraph about a visit to the doctor.

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writing

Use the phrase 'jaye paye qors' in a business context.

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writing

Translate: 'This pill has many side effects.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'qors' and 'mohkam' together.

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speaking

Pronounce clearly: 'Qors'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I need a pill.' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Did you take your pills?' in informal Persian.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe the moon as being full using 'qors'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Practice the sentence: 'Del-am qors shod.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Two vitamin pills' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Take this pill with water.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Pronounce the compound: 'Qors-e mosakken'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'He speaks firmly.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain to a pharmacist you want a headache pill.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The doctor prescribed three pills.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice: 'Qors va mohkam'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I have a firm promise.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Pronounce: 'Qors-e jooshan'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Don't forget your pills.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'This pill is strong.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I take iron pills.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The moon is like a silver disc.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'Make your footing firm.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'One loaf of bread, please.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Identify the word 'qors' in this sentence: 'من دیروز سه قرص خوردم.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Which word did you hear? 'Qors' or 'Gharz'?

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listening

Is the speaker talking about medicine or bread? 'دو قرص نان بربری بده.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Is the speaker talking about medicine or the moon? 'قرص ماه امشب خیلی بزرگ است.'

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listening

What verb follows 'qors' in this clip? 'باید قرص بخوری.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

How many pills were mentioned? 'دکتر چهار قرص نوشت.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Does the person feel confident? 'حالا دلم قرص است.'

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listening

What type of pill is it? 'قرص مسکن لازم دارم.'

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listening

Is it a 'qors' or a 'kapsul'? 'این کپسول را بخور.'

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listening

Identify the adjective: 'او با عزم قرص ایستاد.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Where is the person? 'این قرص‌ها را از داروخانه گرفتم.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

Is the speaker happy? 'بالاخره جای پایم قرص شد.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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listening

What is the subject? 'قرص خورشید در حال غروب است.'

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listening

What is the problem? 'قرص‌هایم را در خانه جا گذاشتم.'

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listening

What is the advice? 'قرص را با شیر نخور.'

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error correction

من یک قرص نوشیدم.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: من یک قرص خوردم.

You 'eat' (khordan) a pill, you don't 'drink' (nushidan) it.

error correction

سه قرص‌ها در جعبه است.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: سه قرص در جعبه است.

Nouns are singular after a number.

error correction

او قرص سردرد گرفت.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: او قرص سردرد خورد.

Use 'khordan' for taking medicine.

error correction

دلم قرس شد.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: دلم قرص شد.

Spelling mistake: 'Sad' (ص) instead of 'Sin' (س).

/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

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