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A2 verb #2,000 most common 12 min read

معلوم بودن

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'معلوم بودن' primarily as a fixed phrase to express basic comprehension or to state that something is obvious. The focus is on recognizing the third-person singular forms: 'معلوم است' (malum ast - it is clear) and its negative counterpart 'معلوم نیست' (malum nist - it is not clear). Learners at this stage do not need to worry about complex conjugations or subordinate clauses. Instead, they learn to use it as a simple response in everyday dialogues. For example, if a teacher asks if a concept is understood, the student can reply 'بله، معلوم است' (Yes, it is clear). In colloquial Persian, they will quickly encounter the contracted form 'معلومه' (malume), which is essential for sounding natural when agreeing enthusiastically with someone, akin to saying 'Of course!' or 'Obviously!'. The vocabulary at this level is highly concrete, so 'معلوم بودن' is often paired with simple nouns or pronouns, such as 'این معلوم است' (This is clear). The primary goal is to build passive recognition and basic active usage in highly predictable, routine contexts, laying the groundwork for more complex syntactic structures in later stages. Understanding the difference between 'it is known' and 'it is not known' is a crucial survival skill for navigating simple conversations, asking for directions, or confirming plans.
At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'معلوم بودن' more independently and in slightly more complex structures. They move beyond simple fixed phrases and start constructing impersonal sentences using the complementizer 'که' (ke - that). They learn the pattern 'معلوم است که...' (It is clear that...) followed by a simple indicative clause, such as 'معلوم است که او خسته است' (It is clear that he is tired). Crucially, A2 learners are introduced to the past tense form 'معلوم بود' (it was clear) and the future 'معلوم خواهد شد' (it will become clear), allowing them to discuss clarity across different timeframes. They also begin to use the preposition 'از' (az - from) to indicate the source of evidence, as in 'از صدایش معلوم است' (It is clear from his voice). A significant grammatical milestone at this level is recognizing that the negative form 'معلوم نیست' often introduces uncertainty, though full mastery of the subsequent subjunctive mood is usually reserved for B1. However, they should start noticing that native speakers change the verb form after 'معلوم نیست'. The focus remains on everyday, practical situations: discussing weather, confirming schedules, expressing opinions about people's moods, and navigating daily logistics where facts are either known or unknown.
At the B1 level, the usage of 'معلوم بودن' expands significantly as learners tackle more complex syntax and abstract concepts. The most critical development is the active and accurate use of the subjunctive mood following the negative form. Learners must confidently produce sentences like 'معلوم نیست که فردا باران ببارد' (It is not clear if it will rain tomorrow), understanding that the uncertainty inherent in 'معلوم نیست' necessitates the subjunctive 'bebarad'. They also learn to use interrogative words within these clauses, such as 'معلوم نیست کی می‌آید' (It is not clear when he is coming). At this stage, learners differentiate 'معلوم' from similar adjectives like 'مشخص' (specified) and 'واضح' (lucid), choosing the correct word based on the context. They begin to use 'معلوم شدن' (to become clear/known) as an active process of discovery or revelation, moving beyond just describing a static state. The contexts become broader, encompassing discussions about news, future plans, hypothetical situations, and personal relationships. Learners are expected to understand and produce sentences with varying degrees of certainty, using adverbs like 'کاملاً' (completely) or 'تقریباً' (almost) to modify 'معلوم بودن', adding nuance and precision to their spoken and written Persian.
At the B2 level, learners wield 'معلوم بودن' with a high degree of fluency and nuance, integrating it seamlessly into complex, multi-clause sentences. They can use it to express subtle epistemic modality, indicating exactly how confident they are about a piece of information. They are comfortable with advanced tenses, such as the present perfect 'معلوم شده است' (it has become clear) and the past perfect 'معلوم شده بود' (it had become clear), using them to narrate sequences of events where information is gradually revealed. At this level, learners engage with authentic media—news reports, opinion pieces, and literature—where 'معلوم بودن' is used in formal registers. They understand its role in rhetorical strategies, such as stating an obvious fact to build an argument ('همانطور که معلوم است...' - As is clear...). Furthermore, B2 learners are adept at using idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms involving the verb, such as 'معلوم نیست چه خبره' (It's not clear what's going on - used for chaotic situations). They can effortlessly switch between the formal 'معلوم است' and the colloquial 'معلومه' depending on the social context, demonstrating sociolinguistic competence and a deep understanding of Persian pragmatics.
At the C1 level, the use of 'معلوم بودن' is characterized by absolute precision, stylistic elegance, and a deep understanding of its cultural and literary resonances. Learners at this stage do not merely use the verb to state facts; they use it to manipulate discourse, express subtle irony, or construct sophisticated academic arguments. They are fully aware of the etymological roots of 'malum' and can appreciate its usage in classical Persian poetry and philosophical texts, where it often contrasts with the 'unknown' (majhul) or the 'hidden' (gheybi). In contemporary usage, C1 learners can employ 'معلوم بودن' in highly formal legal or administrative contexts, understanding phrases like 'شرایط قرارداد باید کاملاً معلوم و معین باشد' (The conditions of the contract must be completely clear and defined). They also master the passive and impersonal nuances, using it to distance themselves from a statement or to present an opinion as an objective, universally acknowledged truth. Their speech and writing exhibit a native-like command of collocations, effortlessly pairing 'معلوم' with a wide range of adverbs and prepositions to convey exact shades of meaning, demonstrating a mastery of Persian syntax and semantics.
At the C2 level, the learner's command of 'معلوم بودن' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They possess an intuitive grasp of the verb's most subtle pragmatic functions, using it to convey sarcasm, subtle threats, profound philosophical truths, or delicate diplomacy. They can play with the word's morphology and syntax for rhetorical effect, perhaps using archaic or highly literary constructions in appropriate contexts. At this level of mastery, the focus is on the unspoken implications of 'معلوم بودن'. A C2 speaker knows exactly when leaving something 'namalum' (unknown) is a deliberate communicative strategy. They can effortlessly navigate the complex interplay between 'معلوم بودن' and other verbs of cognition and perception, choosing the absolute perfect word for the specific emotional and intellectual resonance they wish to achieve. Their understanding encompasses the entire historical and cultural weight of the concept of 'clarity' and 'knowledge' in the Persian-speaking world, allowing them to engage in the highest levels of literary criticism, philosophical debate, and sophisticated social commentary using this fundamental linguistic building block.
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

معلوم بودن in 30 Seconds

  • Means 'to be clear' or 'to be known'.
  • Used heavily in everyday conversation.
  • Negative form (معلوم نیست) means 'it's unknown'.
  • Often followed by 'که' (that) to state a fact.

The Persian compound verb 'معلوم بودن' (malum budan) is a fundamental lexical item in the Persian language, representing the concept of something being known, clear, evident, or obvious to an observer or a group of people. To truly understand this verb, we must break down its morphological and etymological components. The word 'معلوم' (malum) is an Arabic loanword, specifically a passive participle derived from the triconsonantal root 'ilm (ع-ل-م), which relates to knowledge, science, and awareness. In its passive form, it literally translates to 'that which is known' or 'the known entity'. When combined with the Persian auxiliary verb 'بودن' (budan), meaning 'to be', it forms a compound verb that functions primarily as a state or condition of clarity. This verb is deeply embedded in both formal and informal Persian, serving as a primary tool for expressing epistemic modality and evidentiality. When a speaker uses this verb, they are making a claim about the truth value and the visibility of a particular fact or situation. It is not merely about physical visibility, but rather cognitive and intellectual clarity. For instance, a mathematical solution can be 'malum', just as a person's bad intentions can be 'malum'. The versatility of this verb allows it to bridge the gap between tangible evidence and abstract comprehension. In everyday discourse, it often carries an implicit consensus; if something is 'malum', it is generally accepted as a factual reality by the interlocutors. Furthermore, the verb can take on various nuances depending on its syntactic environment, intonation, and pragmatic context. It can express absolute certainty, resigned acceptance, or even sarcastic acknowledgment. Understanding the multifaceted nature of 'معلوم بودن' is crucial for learners aiming to achieve fluency, as it unlocks a vast array of expressive possibilities in Persian communication. The cognitive semantics of this verb suggest a transition from the unknown to the known, a shedding of light on a previously obscure subject. It is a linguistic manifestation of human cognition's desire for certainty and order.

Morphological Structure
Composed of the Arabic passive participle 'malum' (known) and the Persian infinitive 'budan' (to be).
Semantic Core
Represents the state of being cognitively or visually accessible, lacking ambiguity or secrecy.
Pragmatic Function
Used to establish common ground, assert facts, or express the obviousness of a situation in conversation.

جواب این سوال کاملاً معلوم است.

از چهره‌اش معلوم بود که دروغ می‌گوید.

هنوز معلوم نیست که فردا چه خواهد شد.

برای همه معلوم است که او مقصر است.

آیا معلوم است کی می‌رسند؟

The syntactic behavior of 'معلوم بودن' (malum budan) is highly versatile, allowing it to function in several distinct grammatical constructions. The most prevalent usage is in impersonal constructions, where the verb is conjugated in the third person singular (معلوم است / malum ast) and is followed by a subordinate clause introduced by the complementizer 'که' (ke), meaning 'that'. For example, 'معلوم است که او نمی‌آید' (It is clear that he is not coming). In this structure, the entire 'ke' clause acts as the logical subject of the sentence. This impersonal usage is the standard way to express general truths, evident facts, or logical deductions. Another common structure is the personal construction, where a specific noun or pronoun serves as the subject. For instance, 'نتیجه امتحان معلوم است' (The result of the exam is known). Here, 'نتیجه امتحان' is the subject, and 'معلوم است' functions as the predicate adjective and copula. The verb can be conjugated across all tenses and moods, providing a rich tapestry of temporal and modal expressions. In the past tense, 'معلوم بود' (it was clear) indicates a state of clarity that existed previously. The future tense, 'معلوم خواهد شد' (it will become clear), is often used to express hope, anticipation, or a warning about future revelations. The negative form, 'معلوم نیست' (it is not clear / it is unknown), is particularly interesting because it frequently governs the subjunctive mood in subsequent clauses, reflecting the inherent uncertainty of the situation. For example, 'معلوم نیست که او فردا بیاید' (It is not clear if he will come tomorrow - note the subjunctive 'biayad'). Furthermore, 'معلوم بودن' can be modified by various adverbs of degree to intensify or mitigate the clarity, such as 'کاملاً معلوم است' (it is completely clear) or 'تا حدودی معلوم است' (it is somewhat clear). In colloquial speech, the intonation plays a critical role. A rising intonation turns the statement into a question ('معلوم است؟' - Is it clear?), while a sharp, falling intonation can convey sarcasm or frustration. Mastering these syntactic patterns and their associated nuances is essential for any learner wishing to construct complex, native-like sentences in Persian. The verb's ability to seamlessly integrate into both simple and complex sentences makes it an indispensable tool in the Persian grammatical arsenal.

Impersonal Construction
Used with 'ke' (that) to introduce a fact: 'معلوم است که...' (It is clear that...).
Personal Construction
Used with a specific subject: 'این موضوع معلوم است' (This matter is clear).
Subjunctive Trigger
The negative form 'معلوم نیست' often requires the following verb to be in the subjunctive mood due to uncertainty.

از حرف‌هایش معلوم است که ناراحت است.

هنوز نتیجه آزمایش معلوم نیست.

فردا همه چیز معلوم خواهد شد.

اگر معلوم شود که تو بودی، وای به حالت!

کاملاً معلوم بود که او خسته است.

The ubiquity of 'معلوم بودن' (malum budan) in the Persian language means that learners will encounter it across a vast spectrum of contexts, ranging from the most informal street conversations to highly formal academic and journalistic discourse. In everyday spoken Persian, it is an absolute staple. You will hear it in casual debates, gossip, and daily planning. For instance, when friends are discussing weekend plans and someone asks if a notoriously flaky friend is joining, the response might be 'معلوم نیست!' (It's not clear / Who knows!). In its contracted colloquial form, 'معلومه!' (malume), it functions as an emphatic confirmation, equivalent to 'Duh!' or 'Obviously!' in English. Moving up the register, in news broadcasts and journalistic writing, the verb is frequently employed to report on unfolding events or investigations. News anchors might say, 'هنوز علت حادثه معلوم نیست' (The cause of the incident is not yet known), using the verb to maintain objectivity while acknowledging missing information. In legal and administrative contexts, 'معلوم بودن' is used to define parameters, establish facts, and clarify stipulations within contracts or official documents. For example, a contract might state that the duties of each party must be 'معلوم' (clear/specified). In the realm of Persian literature and poetry, the concept of the 'known' versus the 'unknown' is a recurring philosophical theme. Classical poets often play with the root 'ilm to contrast human ignorance with divine omniscience, using 'malum' to denote the limits of human comprehension. Furthermore, in educational settings, teachers use it constantly to check for understanding ('معلوم شد؟' - Is it clear? / Did you understand?) or to state axioms in mathematics and science. The verb also features prominently in Persian proverbs and idiomatic expressions, deeply embedding it in the cultural psyche. Because it traverses all levels of formality, mastering 'معلوم بودن' is not just about learning a vocabulary word; it is about acquiring a cultural key that unlocks participation in diverse social spheres in Iran and the broader Persian-speaking world. Its presence is felt everywhere, making it one of the highest-frequency compound verbs a learner will encounter.

Everyday Conversation
Used constantly to express certainty, uncertainty, or to agree enthusiastically with an obvious statement.
Journalism and News
Employed to report on the status of investigations, missing information, or confirmed facts in an objective tone.
Academic and Legal
Used to define clear parameters, state proven hypotheses, or clarify contractual obligations.

تو اخبار گفتند هنوز آمار دقیق معلوم نیست.

بچه‌ها، آیا این فرمول برای همه معلوم شد؟

- میای بریم سینما؟ - معلومه که میام!

در قرارداد باید میزان حقوق کاملاً معلوم باشد.

از وضعیت بازار معلوم است که قیمت‌ها بالا می‌رود.

While 'معلوم بودن' (malum budan) is a highly frequent verb, it presents several pitfalls for learners of Persian, particularly those translating directly from English or other European languages. One of the most common semantic mistakes is confusing 'معلوم' (malum) with 'مشخص' (moshakhas). While both can be translated as 'clear' or 'evident', 'مشخص' carries a stronger nuance of being 'specified', 'defined', or 'distinct', whereas 'معلوم' leans more towards being 'known' or 'obvious to the mind'. For example, you would say 'تاریخ جلسه مشخص شد' (The date of the meeting was specified/set), rather than 'معلوم شد', although the latter is sometimes used loosely in colloquial speech. Another frequent error involves the syntactic structure following the negative form 'معلوم نیست' (it is not clear). Learners often fail to use the subjunctive mood in the subsequent clause. For instance, translating 'It is not clear if he is coming', a learner might incorrectly say 'معلوم نیست اگر او می‌آید' (using the indicative 'miayad' and the literal 'agar' for if). The correct Persian structure requires the conjunction 'که' (ke) or 'آیا' (aya) and the subjunctive verb: 'معلوم نیست که بیاید' (It is not clear that he might come). Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the prepositions associated with this verb. To say 'It is clear to me', the correct preposition is 'برای' (baraye), resulting in 'برای من معلوم است'. Using 'به' (be - to) is incorrect in this context. Another subtle mistake is overusing 'معلوم بودن' when 'واضح بودن' (vazeh budan) might be more appropriate. 'واضح' specifically refers to visual or logical clarity (lucidity), whereas 'معلوم' is broader. For example, 'تصویر واضح است' (The picture is clear) is better than 'تصویر معلوم است'. Finally, learners must be careful with the pronunciation of the Arabic letter 'ع' (ayn) in 'معلوم'. While in standard Iranian Persian it is pronounced as a glottal stop or a slight lengthening of the preceding vowel, ignoring it completely can make the word sound flat and non-native. Paying attention to these nuances, particularly the subjunctive trigger and the distinction from similar adjectives, will significantly elevate a learner's accuracy and naturalness when using this essential Persian verb.

Confusing with Moshakhas
Using 'malum' (known) when 'moshakhas' (specified/defined) is the more precise term for dates, times, or exact details.
Forgetting the Subjunctive
Failing to use the subjunctive mood after 'معلوم نیست که' (It is not clear that...), which requires a subjunctive verb due to uncertainty.
Wrong Preposition
Using 'به' (to) instead of 'برای' (for) when saying 'It is clear to someone' (برای من معلوم است).

❌ اشتباه: معلوم نیست اگر او می‌آید.
✅ درست: معلوم نیست که او بیاید.

❌ اشتباه: به من معلوم است.
✅ درست: برای من معلوم است.

❌ اشتباه: تصویر تلویزیون معلوم نیست.
✅ درست: تصویر تلویزیون واضح نیست. (Though malum is understood, vazeh is better for visual clarity).

❌ اشتباه: ساعت جلسه معلوم شد.
✅ درست: ساعت جلسه مشخص شد. (Better usage for specifying time).

❌ اشتباه: او معلوم کرد که...
✅ درست: او روشن کرد که... / او توضیح داد که... (Malum kardan is rarely used for 'to clarify'; use roshan kardan).

The semantic field of clarity, evidence, and knowledge in Persian is rich and nuanced, offering several synonyms and related terms to 'معلوم بودن' (malum budan). Understanding these alternatives allows learners to express themselves with greater precision and stylistic variety. The most immediate synonym is 'واضح بودن' (vazeh budan). Derived from Arabic, 'واضح' specifically denotes lucidity and visual or logical clarity. You would use 'واضح' when talking about a clear picture, a clear voice, or a highly logical argument that is easy to follow. Another critical related word is 'مشخص بودن' (moshakhas budan). This translates more closely to 'being specified', 'distinct', or 'determined'. It is the preferred term when dealing with exact details, schedules, boundaries, or specific identities. For instance, 'The date is specified' is 'تاریخ مشخص است'. A more literary and poetic synonym is 'آشکار بودن' (ashkara budan) or 'پیدا بودن' (peyda budan). These Persian-origin words carry a sense of something being manifest, revealed, or visible to the eye. 'آشکار' often contrasts with 'پنهان' (hidden), implying that a secret has been brought into the light. 'پیدا' is very common in colloquial speech to mean 'visible' or 'apparent', as in 'از دور پیدا بود' (It was visible from afar). For highly formal or academic contexts, 'مبرهن بودن' (mobarhan budan) means 'to be proven' or 'demonstrated', used when a fact is established through rigorous evidence. Similarly, 'بدیهی بودن' (badihi budan) means 'to be axiomatic' or 'self-evident', used for logical truths that require no proof. Finally, 'روشن بودن' (roshan budan), which literally means 'to be bright' or 'turned on' (like a light), is frequently used metaphorically to mean 'clear' or 'understood', as in 'موضوع روشن است' (The matter is clear). While 'معلوم بودن' can often act as a general substitute for many of these terms, choosing the precise synonym based on whether the clarity is visual (واضح), specific (مشخص), revealed (آشکار), or logical (بدیهی) demonstrates a high level of language mastery and cultural fluency.

واضح بودن (Vazeh budan)
To be lucid or visually/logically clear. Best for images, sounds, or easy-to-understand explanations.
مشخص بودن (Moshakhas budan)
To be specified, distinct, or determined. Best for dates, times, rules, and exact details.
آشکار / پیدا بودن (Ashkara / Peyda budan)
To be manifest, revealed, or visible. Often used in contrast to being hidden or secret.

تفاوت بین این دو کاملاً واضح است.

هنوز زمان دقیق پرواز مشخص نیست.

دشمنی او با ما کاملاً آشکار است.

این یک حقیقت بدیهی است و نیازی به اثبات ندارد.

مسئله برای همه روشن است، جای بحث نیست.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

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Informal

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Slang

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Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Examples by Level

1

این کتاب معلوم است.

This book is known/clear.

Simple subject + adjective + copula 'ast'.

2

جواب معلوم است.

The answer is clear.

Using 'malum' to mean obvious or correct.

3

معلوم نیست.

It is not clear / I don't know.

Negative form 'nist' used independently.

4

بله، معلومه!

Yes, obviously!

Colloquial contraction 'malume' for 'malum ast'.

5

اسم او معلوم است.

His name is known.

Basic possession and state of being.

6

راه معلوم است.

The path is clear.

Literal, physical clarity.

7

آیا معلوم است؟

Is it clear?

Yes/No question using 'aya' or just intonation.

8

معلوم بود.

It was clear.

Introduction of the simple past tense 'bud'.

1

معلوم است که او خسته است.

It is clear that he is tired.

Impersonal construction with 'ke' (that).

2

از صورتش معلوم بود که ناراحت است.

It was clear from his face that he was sad.

Using 'az' (from) to show the source of evidence.

3

هنوز معلوم نیست کی می‌رسند.

It is not yet clear when they will arrive.

Using a question word (key - when) in the subordinate clause.

4

فردا هوا معلوم می‌شود.

The weather will become clear tomorrow.

Using 'mishavad' (becomes) for a change of state.

5

برای من معلوم نیست.

It is not clear to me.

Using the preposition 'baraye' (for/to).

6

کاملاً معلوم است که دروغ می‌گوید.

It is completely clear that he is lying.

Adding the adverb 'kamalan' (completely) for emphasis.

7

نتیجه امتحان فردا معلوم خواهد شد.

The exam result will be known tomorrow.

Future tense 'khahad shod'.

8

معلومه که دوستت دارم!

Obviously I love you!

Colloquial emphatic use of 'malume'.

1

معلوم نیست که فردا به مهمانی بیاید.

It is not clear if he will come to the party tomorrow.

'Malum nist' triggering the subjunctive 'biayad'.

2

وقتی حرف می‌زد، معلوم بود که استرس دارد.

When he was speaking, it was obvious that he had stress.

Combining past continuous context with 'malum bud'.

3

باید صبر کنیم تا حقیقت معلوم شود.

We must wait until the truth becomes known.

Using 'ta' (until) followed by the subjunctive 'shavad'.

4

از اول هم معلوم بود که این کار اشتباه است.

It was obvious from the beginning that this action was a mistake.

Using 'az aval ham' (even from the beginning) for emphasis.

5

معلوم نیست چرا اینقدر عصبانی است.

It is not clear why he is so angry.

Embedding a 'chera' (why) clause.

6

اگر معلوم شود که تقصیر توست، جریمه می‌شوی.

If it becomes clear that it is your fault, you will be fined.

Conditional sentence with 'agar' and subjunctive 'shavad'.

7

تقریباً معلوم شده است که چه کسی برنده می‌شود.

It has become almost clear who will win.

Present perfect tense 'malum shode ast'.

8

هیچ چیز در این دنیا کاملاً معلوم نیست.

Nothing in this world is completely certain.

Using 'hich chiz' (nothing) with a negative verb.

1

با وجود تمام توضیحات، هنوز ابعاد مسئله به خوبی معلوم نیست.

Despite all the explanations, the dimensions of the issue are not yet well understood.

Formal vocabulary (abaad-e mas'ale) combined with 'malum nist'.

2

معلوم شد که تمام آن شایعات بی‌اساس بوده‌اند.

It turned out that all those rumors had been baseless.

'Malum shod' used as 'it turned out', followed by past perfect.

3

از شواهد پیداست و کاملاً معلوم است که جنایتی رخ داده است.

It is apparent from the evidence and completely clear that a crime has occurred.

Pairing 'peydast' and 'malum ast' for rhetorical emphasis.

4

معلوم نیست چه بر سر آن تمدن باستانی آمده است.

It is unknown what befell that ancient civilization.

Using 'che bar sar-e... amade ast' (what happened to...).

5

تا زمانی که نتایج رسمی اعلام نشود، هیچ چیز معلوم نخواهد بود.

Until the official results are announced, nothing will be certain.

Complex conditional with negative subjunctive and future tense.

6

همان‌طور که از پیش معلوم بود، مذاکرات به بن‌بست رسید.

As was known beforehand, the negotiations reached a dead end.

Using 'haman-tor ke' (just as) to reference prior knowledge.

7

معلوم دار که در این راه سختی‌های زیادی خواهی کشید.

Know clearly that you will endure many hardships on this path.

Imperative use 'malum dar' (consider it known/be aware) - slightly literary.

8

او طوری رفتار می‌کند که انگار همه چیز از قبل معلوم بوده است.

He behaves as if everything had been known from the start.

Using 'engar' (as if) with the past perfect 'malum bude ast'.

1

در این برهه حساس، معلوم نیست که سیاست‌های اقتصادی چه پیامدهایی در پی خواهد داشت.

At this critical juncture, it is unclear what consequences the economic policies will entail.

Highly formal vocabulary (borhe-ye hassas, payamad) in a journalistic context.

2

اگرچه در ظاهر همه چیز آرام به نظر می‌رسد، اما باطناً معلوم است که بحرانی در راه است.

Although on the surface everything seems calm, internally it is evident that a crisis is on the way.

Contrasting 'zaheran' (outwardly) and 'batenan' (inwardly) with 'malum ast'.

3

معلوم گردید که ادعاهای مطروحه فاقد هرگونه وجاهت قانونی بوده است.

It was determined that the raised claims lacked any legal validity.

Using the highly formal 'gardid' instead of 'shod', and legal terminology.

4

از فحوای کلامش کاملاً معلوم بود که قصد کناره‌گیری دارد.

From the tenor of his speech, it was completely obvious that he intended to resign.

Using 'fahva-ye kalam' (tenor/gist of speech) as the source of evidence.

5

اینکه آیا این پروژه به سوددهی می‌رسد یا خیر، امری است که در آینده معلوم خواهد شد.

Whether this project will reach profitability or not is a matter that will become clear in the future.

Complex subject clause starting with 'inke aya...' (the fact of whether...).

6

معلوم نیست به چه دلیلی این اطلاعات حیاتی از گزارش نهایی حذف شده‌اند.

It is unclear for what reason this vital information was omitted from the final report.

Formal inquiry structure 'be che dalili' (for what reason).

7

با بررسی دقیق اسناد تاریخی، معلوم می‌شود که این روایت تحریف شده است.

With a careful examination of historical documents, it becomes evident that this narrative has been distorted.

Using a prepositional phrase (ba barresi-ye...) to set the condition for clarity.

8

چنانکه بر همگان معلوم و مبرهن است، توسعه پایدار نیازمند برنامه‌ریزی بلندمدت است.

As is clear and proven to everyone, sustainable development requires long-term planning.

Rhetorical pairing of synonyms 'malum o mobarhan' for strong assertion.

1

در هزارتوی سیاست، کمتر چیزی به آن وضوح که در بادی امر معلوم می‌نماید، استوار است.

In the labyrinth of politics, rarely is anything as solid as it appears clear at first glance.

Literary syntax, using 'malum minamayad' (appears clear) and 'badi-ye amr' (first glance).

2

معلوم نیست این سکوت سنگین، آبستن کدام طوفان سهمگین است.

It is unknown what terrible storm this heavy silence is pregnant with.

Highly poetic and metaphorical usage (abestan-e toofan - pregnant with a storm).

3

آنچه در این میان نامعلوم و در هاله‌ای از ابهام باقی مانده، نیت واقعی عاملان این رویداد است.

What remains unknown and shrouded in a halo of ambiguity in this midst is the true intention of the perpetrators of this event.

Using the negative adjective 'namalum' paired with 'hale-i az ebham' (halo of ambiguity).

4

چون نیک بنگری، معلومت شود که سرچشمه تمام این مصائب، جهل مرکب است.

When you look closely, it will become clear to you that the source of all these afflictions is compound ignorance.

Classical Persian structure 'malumat shavad' (it becomes clear to you) using enclitic pronoun.

5

بر هیچ عقل سلیمی پوشیده نیست و کاملاً معلوم است که این رویه به ترکستان ختم می‌شود.

It is hidden from no sound mind, and it is completely obvious, that this approach leads to nowhere (lit: ends in Turkestan).

Combining 'malum ast' with a famous Persian idiom (be Torkestan khatm mishavad).

6

معلوم داشتن این نکته ضروری است که در متون عرفانی، معنای ظاهری کلمات غالباً حجاب معنای باطنی‌اند.

It is necessary to make known this point that in mystical texts, the apparent meaning of words is often a veil for the inner meaning.

Using the infinitive 'malum dashtan' (to make known / to note) as the subject.

7

با وجود ادعاهای گزاف، در بوته آزمایش معلوم شد که عیار این فلز چندان هم بالا نیست.

Despite extravagant claims, in the crucible of testing it became clear that the purity of this metal is not that high.

Metaphorical use of 'bute-ye azmayesh' (crucible of testing) and 'ayar' (purity/caliber).

8

معلوم نیست تا کی باید تاوان این تصمیمات نسنجیده را پس بدهیم.

It is unclear how long we must pay the penalty for these ill-considered decisions.

Expressing deep frustration using 'ta key' (until when) and 'tavan pas dadan' (to pay the penalty).

Common Collocations

کاملاً معلوم بودن
از قبل معلوم بودن
معلوم نیست که
معلوم شدن
معلوم کردن
نتیجه معلوم است
دلیلش معلوم است
به خوبی معلوم بودن
برای همه معلوم بودن
هیچ چیز معلوم نیست

Common Phrases

معلومه!

معلوم نیست چه خبره

از قیافه‌اش معلومه

خدا می‌دونه و معلوم نیست

معلوم دار که

تا معلوم شود

همانطور که معلوم است

معلوم نیست کی

معلوم نیست کجا

معلوم نیست چرا

Often Confused With

معلوم بودن vs مشخص بودن (moshakhas budan) - To be specified/defined. Use 'moshakhas' for exact details like dates and times.

معلوم بودن vs واضح بودن (vazeh budan) - To be lucid/visually clear. Use 'vazeh' for image quality or clear speech.

معلوم بودن vs آشکار بودن (ashkara budan) - To be manifest/revealed. More literary, implies something was previously hidden.

Idioms & Expressions

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Easily Confused

معلوم بودن vs

معلوم بودن vs

معلوم بودن vs

معلوم بودن vs

معلوم بودن vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

nuances

Can range from objective scientific clarity to subjective, emotional obviousness depending on context and tone.

frequency

Extremely high. It is one of the top 100 most used verbs in spoken Persian.

exceptions

While 'معلوم نیست' usually takes the subjunctive, if it refers to a definitive past event that is simply unknown to the speaker, it can take the indicative past: 'معلوم نیست دیروز کجا رفت' (It is not clear where he went yesterday).

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'معلوم' to mean 'famous' instead of 'معروف'.
  • Forgetting to use the subjunctive verb after 'معلوم نیست که'.
  • Translating 'It is clear to me' as 'به من معلوم است' instead of the correct 'برای من معلوم است'.
  • Using 'معلوم' when 'مشخص' (specified) is needed for exact times and dates.
  • Mispronouncing the word by putting the stress on the first syllable instead of the second ('ma-LOOM').

Tips

Subjunctive Trigger

Always remember that 'معلوم نیست' (it is not clear) is a major trigger for the subjunctive mood. If you are talking about a present or future action that is uncertain, add the 'be-' prefix to the following verb. Example: معلوم نیست بیاید (It's not clear if he will come).

The Power of 'Malume'

To sound instantly more native, use 'معلومه' (malume) as a standalone response when someone asks you a question with an obvious 'yes' answer. It shows enthusiasm and fluency. For example: 'Are you hungry?' -> 'Malume!' (Obviously!).

Malum vs. Maruf

Do not confuse 'معلوم' (known/clear fact) with 'معروف' (famous/well-known person). You cannot say an actor is 'معلوم'; you must say they are 'معروف'. 'معلوم' is for facts, situations, and clarity.

Listen for the Preposition 'Az'

Native speakers frequently use 'از' (from) before stating the evidence. When you hear 'از...', get ready to hear 'معلوم است' shortly after. Example: 'Az cheh-rash malume' (From his face, it's obvious).

Formal Alternatives

If you are writing a formal essay or academic paper, try to substitute 'معلوم است' with 'بدیهی است' (it is axiomatic) or 'مبرهن است' (it is proven) to elevate your writing style and demonstrate advanced vocabulary.

Tense Agreement

Pay attention to the tense of 'بودن'. If the clarity existed in the past, use 'معلوم بود' (it was clear). If it is a realization happening now, use 'معلوم شد' (it became clear). This distinction is crucial for accurate storytelling.

Indirect Communication

Use 'معلوم است که اشتباه می‌کنی' (It is clear that you are making a mistake) instead of 'تو اشتباه می‌کنی' (You are wrong). The impersonal structure softens the blow and is culturally preferred in Persian conflict resolution.

The 'Namalum' Prefix

Learn the word 'نامعلوم' (namalum - unknown). It is incredibly useful for describing ambiguous situations, unknown callers (شماره نامعلوم), or uncertain futures. It functions as a standard adjective.

Intonation Matters

The phrase 'معلوم نیست' can mean a simple 'I don't know', but with a heavy sigh and a falling intonation, it conveys deep frustration or despair about a chaotic situation (e.g., the economy or bad management).

Recognizing the Root

When reading, if you see words with the letters ع-ل-م (ayn-lam-mim), like علم (science) or معلم (teacher), remember they all relate to 'knowledge'. This will help you guess the meaning of unfamiliar words in the same family.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a glowing LOOM (ma-LOOM) weaving a very CLEAR and OBVIOUS pattern. It is KNOWN to everyone what the pattern is.

Word Origin

Arabic passive participle 'مَعْلُوم' (ma'lūm) meaning 'known', integrated into Persian with the native auxiliary 'بودن' (budan) meaning 'to be'.

Cultural Context

No specific taboos, but saying 'معلومه که نه!' (Obviously not!) can sound very dismissive or rude if used with elders or superiors.

Universally understood across Iran, Afghanistan (Dari), and Tajikistan (Tajik), though pronunciation of the 'ayn' (ع) varies, being more pronounced in Dari and Tajik.

Highly versatile. 'معلوم است' is standard/formal. 'معلومه' is colloquial. 'معلوم می‌گردد' is hyper-formal/administrative.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"هنوز معلوم نیست برای تعطیلات کجا می‌رویم، شما چطور؟ (It's not clear yet where we are going for the holidays, how about you?)"

"از وضعیت ترافیک معلوم است که دیر می‌رسیم. (It's clear from the traffic that we'll arrive late.)"

"معلومه که این فیلم رو دیدم، شاهکاره! (Obviously I've seen this movie, it's a masterpiece!)"

"آیا معلوم شد که جلسه فردا ساعت چند است؟ (Did it become clear what time the meeting is tomorrow?)"

"معلوم نیست چرا اینقدر قیمت‌ها بالا رفته. (It's not clear why prices have gone up so much.)"

Journal Prompts

Write about a situation in your life where the outcome is currently 'معلوم نیست' (unknown).

Describe a time when it was 'کاملاً معلوم' (completely clear) that someone was lying to you.

What is a universal truth that is 'معلوم' (obvious) to everyone but often ignored?

Write a short dialogue where two people are arguing and one uses 'معلومه!' sarcastically.

Reflect on a historical event where the facts were hidden but eventually 'معلوم شد' (became known).

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'معلوم' is an adjective and can be used to modify nouns, though it's less common than the verb form. For example, 'یک شخص نامعلوم' (an unknown person) or 'به دلایل نامعلوم' (for unknown reasons). It can also be used as a noun in mathematics to mean 'the known variable'.

They mean exactly the same thing ('it is clear' or 'obviously'). 'معلوم است' is the standard, written, and formal pronunciation. 'معلومه' is the colloquial, spoken contraction. You should write 'معلوم است' in essays but say 'معلومه' when chatting with friends.

In Persian, uncertainty or doubt triggers the subjunctive mood. Because 'معلوم نیست' means 'it is not clear' or 'it is unknown', the action in the following clause is viewed as a possibility rather than a concrete fact, hence requiring the subjunctive (usually starting with the 'be-' prefix).

Yes, 'معلوم' is an Arabic loanword, specifically the passive participle of the root 'ilm (knowledge). However, it has been fully integrated into Persian for over a thousand years and is used with Persian auxiliary verbs and grammar rules. It is considered standard Persian vocabulary.

You can use the active form 'معلوم کردن' (malum kardan). However, in modern Persian, it is often more natural to use 'روشن کردن' (roshan kardan - to illuminate/clarify) or 'توضیح دادن' (tozih dadan - to explain) depending on the context.

Yes, but usually in a specific context. Saying 'او معلوم است' literally means 'he is known', but it's often used idiomatically in phrases like 'آدم معلوم‌الحالی است' (He is a person of known [usually bad] character). To say someone is famous, use 'معروف' (maruf).

To say something is clear *to* someone, use 'برای' (baraye - for): 'برای من معلوم است' (It is clear to me). To say something is clear *from* something (like evidence), use 'از' (az - from): 'از حرف‌هایش معلوم است' (It is clear from his words).

Yes, you can say 'کوه از اینجا معلوم است' (The mountain is visible/clear from here). However, 'پیدا است' (peyda ast) or 'دیده می‌شود' (dide mishavad - is seen) are also very common and sometimes preferred for purely physical visibility.

You can simply say 'معلوم است؟' (Malum ast?) with a rising question intonation. In a classroom setting, a teacher might ask 'معلوم شد؟' (Malum shod? - Did it become clear/understood?) or 'متوجه شدید؟' (Did you understand?).

'نامعلوم' (namalum) is the negative adjective form, meaning 'unknown', 'unclear', or 'anonymous'. It is formed by adding the Persian negative prefix 'نا' (na-) to the Arabic word 'معلوم'. For example, 'آینده نامعلوم' means 'an unknown/uncertain future'.

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