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B1 verb #5,500 most common 11 min read

مالیدن

malidan
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips مالیدن in 30 Seconds
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

مالیدن in 30 Seconds

  • Malidan is the Persian verb for 'to rub'.
  • It describes applying friction to clean, soothe, or warm.
  • Used in daily activities like cleaning, cooking, and personal care.
The Persian verb "مالیدن" (mâlidân) translates directly to "to rub" in English. It describes the action of moving one surface or object over another with pressure, often to clean, polish, soothe, or cause friction. This is a versatile verb used in a wide range of everyday situations, from simple domestic chores to more specific applications. It implies a repetitive or continuous motion, distinct from a single, forceful stroke. Think of the physical sensation of rubbing your hands together to warm them up, or scrubbing a stain off a piece of clothing. The word can also be used metaphorically, though its primary meaning is literal. For instance, one might "rub" a lamp to make a wish in a fairy tale, or in a more grounded sense, a doctor might "rub" a cream onto a sore muscle. The context will always clarify the specific nuance. The act of malidan is fundamental to many tasks, and understanding its various applications will greatly enhance your comprehension of spoken and written Persian. It’s a word that you’ll encounter frequently as you progress in your language learning journey, appearing in contexts ranging from cooking and cleaning to personal care and even descriptions of physical sensations. The gentle repetition of the action is key to its meaning. Consider the difference between simply touching something and actively rubbing it; malidan embodies this active, friction-generating movement. It’s a fundamental action that humans perform daily, often without much thought, but in Persian, it’s captured by this specific and useful verb. The feeling of relief from an itch, the effort of polishing a shoe, or the careful application of a balm all fall under the umbrella of "مالیدن". The word itself has a certain fluidity to its sound, which can perhaps evoke the smooth, gliding motion it describes. It’s a core verb for describing tactile interactions and physical processes. The intention behind the rubbing can vary greatly, from the gentle easing of discomfort to the vigorous effort required for deep cleaning. Therefore, paying attention to the surrounding words will help you discern the exact purpose of the 'malidan' action in any given sentence. It is a verb deeply embedded in the practicalities of life, making it an essential part of your Persian vocabulary.
Core Meaning
The action of applying friction by moving an object or surface repeatedly over another.
Usage Nuances
Can imply cleaning, soothing, polishing, or creating warmth through friction.
Common Verbs Associated
دست (hand), پارچه (cloth), کرم (cream), روغن (oil), صابون (soap).

من دست‌هایم را به هم می‌مالیدم تا گرم شوند. (Man dast-hâ-yam râ be ham mi-mâlidâm tâ garm shavand.) - I was rubbing my hands together to warm them up.

Mastering "مالیدن" (mâlidân) involves understanding its grammatical structure and common sentence patterns. As a verb, it conjugates according to tense, person, and number. The infinitive form is "مالیدن". In the present tense, the stem is "مال" (mâl), and in the past tense, it's "مالید" (mâlid). You'll frequently see it used with prepositions like "به" (be - to) or "روی" (ruy - on), indicating where the rubbing is happening. For example, "دست روی میز مالیدن" (dast ruy-e miz mâlidân) means "to rub a hand on the table." The direct object, what is being rubbed, often comes before the verb. The indirect object, or the recipient of the action, might be indicated by "را" (râ) if it's a specific object, or by prepositions. A common pattern involves using "هم" (ham) with "مالیدن" to indicate rubbing something against itself, like "دست به دست مالیدن" (dast be dast mâlidân) – rubbing hand against hand. When describing a continuous or habitual action in the past, the imperfect tense is used, as in "او داشت شیشه را می‌مالید" (u dâsht shisheh râ mi-mâlid) – He/She was rubbing the glass. In more descriptive sentences, you might find adverbs modifying the manner of rubbing, such as "به آرامی مالیدن" (be ârâmi mâlidân) – to rub gently. The verb can also be used transitively, where something is rubbed onto a surface, like "روغن روی پوست مالیدن" (roghan ruy-e pust mâlidân) – to rub oil onto the skin. The subject performing the action is typically the grammatical subject of the sentence. For instance, "کودک اسباب‌بازی را می‌مالید" (kudak asbâb-bâzi râ mi-mâlid) – The child was rubbing the toy. Understanding these patterns will allow you to construct your own sentences and interpret the actions described by "مالیدن" with greater accuracy. The choice of tense is crucial for conveying whether the action is a one-time event, ongoing, or habitual. The presence or absence of the direct object marker "را" can also subtly alter the focus of the sentence. Consider the object being acted upon – is it a body part, an object, or a surface? This will influence the surrounding vocabulary. The verb's simplicity belies its versatility in describing a wide array of physical interactions. It's a building block for describing many common activities.
Basic Sentence Structure
Subject + (Object + را) + Prepositional Phrase/Adverb + Verb
Present Tense Example
من دست‌هایم را می‌مالم. (Man dast-hâ-yam râ mi-mâlam.) - I rub my hands.
Past Tense Example
او پارچه را روی میز مالید. (U pârcheh râ ruy-e miz mâlid.) - He/She rubbed the cloth on the table.
Continuous Past Example
آنها فرش را می‌مالیدند. (Ânhâ farsh râ mi-mâlidand.) - They were rubbing the carpet.

دکتر روی کمرم را با پماد مالید. (Doctor ruy-e kamar-am râ bâ pamâd mâlid.) - The doctor rubbed my back with ointment.

You'll hear "مالیدن" (mâlidân) in a multitude of real-life scenarios in Persian-speaking environments. In the home, it's common during cleaning. Imagine someone scrubbing a stubborn stain on a shirt: "این لکه را با صابون می‌مالد" (in lakkeh râ bâ sâbun mi-mâlad) – He/She is rubbing this stain with soap. Or when preparing food, someone might "روغن را روی ماهی مالیدن" (roghan râ ruy-e mâhi mâlidân) – to rub oil on the fish. In a kitchen setting, someone might be "دست‌ها را برای شستن می‌مالد" (dast-hâ râ barâye shostan mi-mâlad) – rubbing their hands to wash them. Personal care is another frequent domain. A mother might be "لوسیون را روی پای بچه می‌مالد" (lotion râ ruy-e pâ-ye bacheh mi-mâlad) – rubbing lotion on the child's foot. A person with a headache might "پیشانی‌اش را می‌مالد" (pishâni-ash râ mi-mâlad) – rubbing their forehead. In more medical contexts, a physiotherapist might instruct a patient to "عضله را به آرامی بمالید" (azoleh râ be ârâmi be-mâlid) – rub the muscle gently. Even in casual conversation about discomfort, you might hear: "کمرم درد می‌کند، دارم می‌مالم" (kamar-am dard mi-konad, dâram mi-mâlam) – My back hurts, I'm rubbing it. You might also hear it in discussions about polishing furniture or shoes: "کفش‌هایم را با واکس مالیدم" (kafsh-hâ-yam râ bâ vaks mâlidam) – I polished my shoes with wax. The word is also prevalent in descriptions of artistic processes, like a painter "رنگ را روی بوم می‌مالد" (rang râ ruy-e bum mi-mâlad) – rubbing paint onto the canvas. Children might be told: "دست‌هایت را روی هم بمال" (dast-hâ-yat râ ruy-e ham be-mâl) – Rub your hands together. The ubiquity of this action means the verb "مالیدن" is an indispensable part of everyday Persian communication. It's a verb that connects directly to physical experiences and practical tasks. You'll hear it in spoken interactions, in instructional videos, and in written guides for various activities. Even in informal settings, like chatting with friends, if someone is experiencing a minor ache or applying a product, "مالیدن" is likely to come up. The sound of the word itself is quite common in everyday Persian speech. It's a verb that bridges the gap between the abstract concept of language and the concrete reality of physical action.
Home and Cleaning
Scrubbing dishes, cleaning surfaces, removing stains.
Personal Care
Applying lotions, creams, oils; soothing aches.
Cooking
Marinating food, oiling pans.
Maintenance
Polishing shoes, waxing cars.

مادرم همیشه بعد از حمام بدنم را با روغن زیتون می‌مالد. (Mâdar-am hamisheh ba'd az hamâm badan-am râ bâ roghan-e zeytun mi-mâlad.) - My mother always rubs my body with olive oil after a bath.

Learners of Persian often make a few common mistakes when using "مالیدن" (mâlidân). One frequent error is confusing it with verbs that describe a single stroke or a different type of movement. For instance, using "زدن" (zadan - to hit/strike) when "مالیدن" is intended for rubbing. If you want to say "rubbing your hands," you should use "دست‌ها را مالیدن," not "دست‌ها را زدن." Another pitfall is misplacing the direct object marker "را" (râ). While "را" is used with specific, definite direct objects, it might be omitted in more general or indefinite contexts, or when the object is understood. However, beginners often overuse or underuse "را" with "مالیدن." For example, saying "او صابون مالیدن" instead of "او صابون را مالید" or "او صابون می‌مالد" might sound unnatural, depending on context. The correct usage often depends on whether the soap is a specific bar or a general concept. Incorrect verb conjugation is also common. Forgetting to conjugate the verb according to the subject's number and person, or using the wrong tense, can lead to misunderstandings. For instance, using the singular form for a plural subject, like "آنها دست را می‌مالد" instead of "آنها دست را می‌مالند." A subtler mistake involves the nuance of continuous action. While "می‌مالید" (mi-mâlid) correctly indicates a past continuous action, learners might incorrectly use the simple past "مالید" (mâlid) when a prolonged rubbing is meant. For example, "او شیشه را مالید" could mean he rubbed it once, whereas "او شیشه را می‌مالید" emphasizes the duration of the rubbing. Finally, some learners might use "مالیدن" in contexts where a more specific verb exists, like "لغزاندن" (laghzândan - to slide) or "فشردن" (feshordan - to press). While rubbing involves friction, it's distinct from sliding or pressing. Ensuring you use "مالیدن" for the specific action of applying friction is key. Paying attention to native speakers and practicing with feedback will help you avoid these common errors and use "مالیدن" accurately and naturally.
Confusion with 'زدن' (to hit)
Mistaking the continuous friction of 'مالیدن' for a single strike of 'زدن'.
Incorrect Use of 'را'
Misplacing or omitting the direct object marker 'را' with the object being rubbed.
Verb Conjugation Errors
Using incorrect verb endings for person, number, or tense.
Nuance of Continuous Action
Confusing the simple past with the past continuous when describing prolonged rubbing.
Overgeneralization
Using 'مالیدن' for actions better described by 'لغزاندن' (to slide) or 'فشردن' (to press).

Incorrect: من دست زدم. (Man dast zadam.) Correct: من دست‌هایم را مالیدم. (Man dast-hâ-yam râ mâlidam.)

While "مالیدن" (mâlidân) is the primary verb for rubbing, Persian offers other words that describe similar or related actions, each with its own nuance. One close alternative is "ساییدن" (sâyidan), which also means to rub, but often implies a more abrasive or vigorous friction, like grinding or polishing something hard. For example, "سنگ را روی هم سایید" (sang râ ruy-e ham sâyid) – He rubbed the stones together, suggesting a grinding motion. "مالیدن" is generally gentler and more versatile. Another related verb is "لمس کردن" (lams kardan), meaning "to touch." While touching can be a precursor to rubbing, it lacks the element of friction and repetitive motion inherent in "مالیدن." You might "لمس کردن" a surface, but you "مالیدن" it. For actions involving spreading or smearing a substance, "پخش کردن" (pakhsh kardan) or "کشیدن" (keshidan) might be used. For instance, "کرم را روی صورت کشید" (krem râ ruy-e surat keshid) – He spread the cream on his face. Here, "کشیدن" implies a gliding motion to cover an area, which can overlap with "مالیدن" but focuses more on application over a surface. In the context of cleaning, "شستن" (shostan) means "to wash," and often involves "مالیدن" as part of the washing process. You "شستن" dishes, and you might "شستن" them by "مالیدن" them with a sponge. For actions like polishing, "براق کردن" (barâq kardan) or "جلادادن" (jell dâdan) might be used, which describe the result of rubbing (making something shiny), rather than the action itself. "مالیدن" is the action that leads to the shine. In a medical context, "ماساژ دادن" (mâsâzh dâdan) is "to massage," which is a specific type of rubbing for therapeutic purposes, often involving kneading and deeper pressure than general "مالیدن." When describing the sensation of something irritating, one might say "می‌خارد" (mi-khârad - it itches), and the natural response is to "مالیدن" the itchy spot. Understanding these distinctions allows for more precise and nuanced expression in Persian. While "مالیدن" is a good general term, these alternatives offer greater specificity for particular types of friction, spreading, or therapeutic actions.
مالیدن (Mâlidân)
General term for rubbing; implies friction, often for cleaning, soothing, or warming.
ساییدن (Sâyidan)
More abrasive rubbing, grinding, or polishing; implies harder surfaces or more vigorous action.
لمس کردن (Lams Kardan)
To touch; lacks the friction and repetitive motion of rubbing.
پخش کردن / کشیدن (Pakhsh Kardan / Keshidan)
To spread or smear; focuses on covering a surface with a substance.
شستن (Shostan)
To wash; often involves rubbing as part of the washing process.
ماساژ دادن (Mâsâzh Dâdan)
To massage; a specific therapeutic type of rubbing.

او دست‌هایش را به هم می‌مالید، اما برای تمیز کردن، باید آنها را می‌شست. (U dast-hâ-yash râ be ham mi-mâlid, ammâ barâye tamiz kardan, bâyad ânhâ râ mi-shost.) - He was rubbing his hands together, but to clean them, he had to wash them.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The sound of 'مالیدن' itself can feel somewhat smooth and repetitive, perhaps echoing the action it describes. The verb has remained remarkably consistent in its meaning throughout the history of the Persian language, highlighting the enduring importance of the action it represents.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mɒːlɪdæn/
US /mɑːlɪdɑːn/
The primary stress falls on the first syllable: MA-li-dân.
Rhymes With
بالیدن (bâlidân - to grow) نالیدن (nâlidân - to lament) خندیدن (khandidan - to laugh, has a similar ending sound) خریدن (kharidan - to buy, has a similar ending sound) شنیدن (shenidan - to hear, has a similar ending sound) دیدن (didan - to see, has a similar ending sound) نوشیدن (nooshidan - to drink, has a similar ending sound) پوشیدن (pooshidan - to wear, has a similar ending sound)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'â' sound too short, like the 'a' in 'cat'.
  • Not differentiating between the short 'i' and a long 'ee' sound.
  • Incorrectly stressing the last syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The verb 'مالیدن' is common and its meaning is usually clear from context. However, understanding the nuances and distinguishing it from similar verbs requires practice.

Writing 3/5

Correctly conjugating the verb and using it in appropriate sentence structures, especially with direct objects and prepositions, can be challenging for learners.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation and using the verb spontaneously in conversation, particularly in varied contexts, requires practice.

Listening 3/5

Recognizing 'مالیدن' in natural speech, especially when spoken quickly or in conjunction with other words, can be difficult initially.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

دست (dast - hand) پارچه (pârcheh - cloth) صابون (sâbun - soap) کرم (krem - cream) روغن (roghan - oil)

Learn Next

ساییدن (sâyidan - to grind, rub abrasively) لمس کردن (lams kardan - to touch) شستن (shostan - to wash) پاک کردن (pâk kardan - to clean, wipe off)

Advanced

ماساژ دادن (mâsâzh dâdan - to massage) جلادادن (jell dâdan - to polish) براق کردن (barâq kardan - to make shiny)

Grammar to Know

Past Continuous Tense (Imperfect)

او داشت شیشه را می‌مالید. (He/She was rubbing the glass.) - Used for ongoing actions in the past.

Direct Object Marker 'را'

من لکه را با صابون مالیدم. (I rubbed the stain with soap.) - Used with definite direct objects.

Imperative Mood

این پارچه را بمال. (Rub this cloth.) - Used for commands or instructions.

Purpose Clauses with 'تا'

دست‌هایم را مالیدم تا گرم شوند. (I rubbed my hands so they would get warm.) - Explains the reason for the action.

Adverbs of Manner

او به آرامی مالید. (He/She rubbed gently.) - Describes how the action is performed.

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Examples by Level

1

دست‌هایم را می‌مالم.

I am rubbing my hands.

Simple present tense, first person singular.

2

کودک صورتش را مالید.

The child rubbed his face.

Simple past tense, third person singular.

3

این پارچه را بمال.

Rub this cloth.

Imperative mood, second person singular.

4

او به پنجره مالید.

He/She rubbed against the window.

Simple past tense with preposition 'به'.

5

صابون را به دستم مالیدم.

I rubbed soap on my hand.

Simple past tense with object and preposition.

6

می‌خواهم کفش‌هایم را بمالم.

I want to rub my shoes.

Modal verb 'want' + infinitive.

7

او پیراهنش را مالید.

He/She rubbed his/her shirt.

Simple past tense, third person singular.

8

اینجا را بمالید.

Rub here.

Imperative mood, polite second person.

1

او داشت شیشه را می‌مالید.

He/She was rubbing the glass.

Past continuous tense.

2

با پارچه روی میز را مالید.

He/She rubbed the table with a cloth.

Simple past tense with instrumental phrase.

3

کرم را روی پایش مالید.

He/She rubbed the cream on his/her leg.

Simple past tense with object and location.

4

دست‌هایم را به هم می‌مالم تا گرم شوند.

I rub my hands together so they get warm.

Purpose clause with 'تا'.

5

لطفاً این لکه را بمالید.

Please rub this stain.

Polite imperative with 'لطفاً'.

6

آنها داشتند فرش را می‌مالیدند.

They were rubbing the carpet.

Past continuous tense, plural subject.

7

من موهایم را با شامپو می‌مالم.

I rub my hair with shampoo.

Present continuous tense, action of washing hair.

8

او انگشتش را روی نقاشی مالید.

He/She rubbed his/her finger on the painting.

Simple past tense with body part and object.

1

پس از ورزش، عضلاتم را با روغن ماساژ دادم.

After exercising, I massaged my muscles with oil.

Use of 'ماساژ دادن' which involves rubbing.

2

برای تمیز کردن این لکه، باید آن را با صابون خوب بمالی.

To clean this stain, you must rub it well with soap.

Modal verb 'باید' (must) with imperative.

3

او خسته بود و پیشانی‌اش را به آرامی می‌مالید.

He/She was tired and was gently rubbing his/her forehead.

Past continuous with adverb 'به آرامی' (gently).

4

قبل از خواب، کرم مرطوب کننده را روی دست‌هایم می‌مالم.

Before sleeping, I rub moisturizer on my hands.

Present tense, habitual action.

5

او سعی کرد شیشه را بمالد تا بخار آن پاک شود.

He/She tried to rub the glass so that the steam would be removed.

Infinitive of purpose with 'تا'.

6

کودک به شیشه ماشین می‌مالید و منظره بیرون را تماشا می‌کرد.

The child was rubbing against the car window and watching the view outside.

Past continuous, describing simultaneous actions.

7

این پماد را روی محل گزش حشره بمالید.

Rub this ointment on the insect bite area.

Polite imperative, medical context.

8

با حرکات دایره‌ای، روغن را روی چوب بمالید.

With circular motions, rub the oil onto the wood.

Imperative with descriptive phrase for motion.

1

برای از بین بردن زنگار، فلز را با خمیر مخصوص مالیدند.

To remove the rust, they rubbed the metal with a special paste.

Purpose clause with 'برای' and infinitive.

2

او عادت داشت که قبل از خواب، کتاب‌هایش را گردگیری کند و جلدشان را بمالد.

He had a habit of dusting his books before sleep and rubbing their covers.

Habitual past action described with 'داشت'.

3

دکتر گفت که باید این کرم را روزی دو بار روی ناحیه دردناک بمالم.

The doctor said I should rub this cream on the painful area twice a day.

Reported speech, recommendation.

4

با پارچه نرم، سطح چوبی را به آرامی مالید تا براق شود.

With a soft cloth, he gently rubbed the wooden surface until it became shiny.

Subordinate clause of result with 'تا'.

5

فکر می‌کنم این لکه با مالیدن پاک نمی‌شود.

I think this stain will not be removed by rubbing.

Gerundial phrase 'با مالیدن' (by rubbing).

6

او سعی کرد با مالیدن دست‌هایش به یکدیگر، گرمایشان را حفظ کند.

He tried to preserve their warmth by rubbing his hands together.

Gerundial phrase describing method.

7

هنرمند رنگ‌ها را با انگشتانش روی بوم می‌مالید.

The artist was rubbing the colors onto the canvas with his fingers.

Past continuous, artistic context.

8

اگر احساس خارش کردید، آن ناحیه را به آرامی بمالید.

If you feel an itch, gently rub that area.

Conditional sentence with imperative.

1

برای احیای بافت چرم، آن را با روغن مخصوصی مالیدند و اجازه دادند جذب شود.

To revive the leather's texture, they rubbed it with a special oil and let it absorb.

Complex sentence structure, passive voice implied.

2

این نوع پارچه با مالیدن زیاد، ممکن است نخ‌کش شود.

This type of fabric may become snagged with excessive rubbing.

Modal verb 'ممکن است' (may) + passive verb.

3

او عادت داشت که هر شب، شمع‌ها را قبل از روشن کردن، با پارچه‌ای پاک کند و کمی بمالد.

He had a habit of wiping the candles with a cloth before lighting them and rubbing them slightly.

Complex sentence describing a routine.

4

متخصص پوست توصیه کرد که کرم ضد آفتاب را به صورت و گردن به طور کامل بمالم.

The dermatologist recommended that I apply sunscreen completely to my face and neck.

Reported command/recommendation.

5

این شیء باستانی با مالیدن مداوم دست بازدیدکنندگان، دچار فرسایش شده است.

This ancient artifact has suffered erosion from the continuous rubbing of visitors' hands.

Passive voice, noun phrase 'مالیدن مداوم'.

6

برای نرم کردن چرم خشک، ابتدا آن را با آب مرطوب کرده و سپس با دست می‌مالیم.

To soften dry leather, we first moisten it with water and then rub it with our hands.

Sequential actions described with 'ابتدا' and 'سپس'.

7

او با حرکاتی ظریف، رنگ‌ها را روی بوم می‌مالید تا بافت دلخواه را ایجاد کند.

With delicate movements, he was rubbing the colors onto the canvas to create the desired texture.

Adverbial phrase describing manner, purpose clause.

8

توصیه می‌شود که این محصول را به صورت دورانی بمالید.

It is recommended that you apply this product in a circular motion.

Impersonal passive construction.

1

فرسودگی ناشی از مالیدن مکرر، ظاهر اصلی بنای تاریخی را مخدوش کرده است.

The wear resulting from repeated rubbing has marred the original appearance of the historical monument.

Complex noun phrase 'فرسودگی ناشی از مالیدن مکرر'.

2

برای دستیابی به جلای مطلوب، سطح فلز را با ترکیبی از مواد ساینده و روغنی مالیدند.

To achieve the desired luster, they rubbed the metal surface with a combination of abrasive and oily substances.

Purpose clause with 'برای دستیابی به' and complex object.

3

او با مهارتی وصف‌ناپذیر، رنگ‌ها را روی بوم می‌مالید، گویی که جان به کالبد اثر می‌دمید.

With indescribable skill, he was rubbing the colors onto the canvas, as if breathing life into the artwork.

Figurative language, simile with 'گویی که'.

4

این فرآیند شامل مالیدن آرام بتن با ماله مخصوص برای صاف کردن سطح آن است.

This process involves gently rubbing the concrete with a special trowel to flatten its surface.

Gerundial phrase 'مالیدن آرام بتن' as part of a definition.

5

مالیدن پیوسته دست‌ها به یکدیگر، نه تنها گرما تولید می‌کند، بلکه تنش را نیز کاهش می‌دهد.

Continuously rubbing one's hands together not only generates warmth but also reduces tension.

Correlative conjunction 'نه تنها... بلکه' (not only... but also).

6

پس از ساعت‌ها مالیدن سنگ‌ها، کارگران توانستند نقوش ظریف را نمایان کنند.

After hours of rubbing the stones, the workers were able to reveal the delicate carvings.

Temporal clause with 'پس از' and infinitive phrase.

7

استفاده نادرست و مالیدن بیش از حد می‌تواند به پوست آسیب برساند.

Incorrect use and excessive rubbing can damage the skin.

Noun phrases 'استفاده نادرست' and 'مالیدن بیش از حد'.

8

او با ظرافتی مثال‌زدنی، خمیر را روی سطح پهن می‌کرد و سپس با دست می‌مالید.

With exemplary delicacy, she spread the dough and then rubbed it with her hands.

Adverbial phrases of manner.

Common Collocations

دست‌ها را مالیدن
روی چیزی مالیدن
با پارچه مالیدن
لکه را مالیدن
روغن مالیدن
به آرامی مالیدن
کمی مالیدن
خوب مالیدن
به حرکات دایره‌ای مالیدن
مالیدن دست به دست

Common Phrases

دست‌هایت را به هم بمال.

— Rub your hands together.

هوا سرد است، دست‌هایت را به هم بمال.

روی زخم بمال.

— Rub on the wound.

این پماد را روی زخم بمال تا زود خوب شود.

کمی مالیدم.

— I rubbed it a little.

لکه را با پارچه کمی مالیدم اما پاک نشد.

به آرامی بمالید.

— Rub gently.

این کرم را به آرامی روی پوستتان بمالید.

خوب مالیدی!

— You rubbed it well!

چه خوب این لکه را پاک کردی! خوب مالیدی!

اینجا را بمال.

— Rub here.

اگر درد داری، اینجا را بمال.

روغن را مالید.

— He/She rubbed the oil.

او روغن را روی چوب مالید تا براق شود.

با پارچه مالید.

— He/She rubbed with a cloth.

او گرد و غبار را با پارچه مالید.

دارم می‌مالم.

— I am rubbing.

کمرم درد می‌کند، دارم می‌مالم.

باید بمالی.

— You must rub.

این لکه سمج است، باید خوب بمالی.

Often Confused With

مالیدن vs ساییدن (sâyidan)

'مالیدن' is general rubbing, while 'ساییدن' implies more abrasive friction, like grinding or polishing hard materials.

مالیدن vs لمس کردن (lams kardan)

'لمس کردن' is simply touching, lacking the friction and repetitive motion of 'مالیدن'.

مالیدن vs فشار دادن (feshâr dâdan)

'فشار دادن' is pressing, a static application of force, whereas 'مالیدن' involves motion across a surface.

Idioms & Expressions

"آب از دست و صورت مالیدن"

— To be extremely busy, to have a lot of work to do; implies constantly wiping hands and face due to exertion.

امروز آنقدر کار داشتم که آب از دست و صورتم مالیدم.

Informal
"دست به دیوار مالیدن"

— To be in a desperate situation, to try anything and everything to survive or achieve something, even resorting to questionable means.

برای پرداخت اجاره، دست به دیوار مالیده بود.

Informal
"چشم مالیدن"

— To rub one's eyes, usually due to tiredness or irritation.

بعد از ساعت‌ها مطالعه، چشم‌هایم را مالیدم.

Neutral
"کف دست مالیدن"

— To rub one's palms together, often in anticipation, excitement, or to warm hands.

او از هیجان کف دست‌هایش را می‌مالید.

Neutral
"روی چیزی مالیدن"

— To apply something to a surface, often with a rubbing motion, like applying cream or oil.

کرم ضد آفتاب را روی پوست صورتش مالید.

Neutral
"چکمه مالیدن"

— To polish boots; a literal action that can sometimes be used figuratively for making an effort or preparing for something.

قبل از رفتن به مهمانی، چکمه‌هایش را مالید.

Neutral
"دستمال مالیدن"

— To wipe with a cloth; can imply thorough cleaning or polishing.

او میز را با دستمال مالید تا برق بیفتد.

Neutral
"زمین مالیدن"

— To rub against the ground, often used to describe animals or children playing or rolling on the floor.

بچه گربه روی زمین می‌مالید و بازی می‌کرد.

Informal
"پنبه مالیدن"

— To rub with cotton; can be used literally for applying something or figuratively for smoothing something out.

او پنبه را روی چوب مالید تا صاف شود.

Neutral
"کف مالیدن"

— To rub the floor, often implies cleaning or scrubbing.

او کف آشپزخانه را با کف مالید.

Informal

Easily Confused

مالیدن vs ساییدن

Both mean to rub and involve friction.

'مالیدن' is a broader term for rubbing, often gentler and for various purposes like cleaning, soothing, or warming. 'ساییدن' implies a more vigorous, abrasive, or grinding action, often used for polishing hard surfaces or materials, or when significant friction is needed.

برای تمیز کردن شیشه از 'مالیدن' استفاده می‌کنیم، اما برای تیز کردن چاقو از 'ساییدن' تیغه روی سنگ استفاده می‌کنیم.

مالیدن vs لمس کردن

Both involve contact with a surface.

'لمس کردن' simply means to touch or feel something, which is a brief, non-friction contact. 'مالیدن' requires a repetitive motion across a surface, creating friction. You can 'لمس کردن' a wall, but you 'مالیدن' it to clean it.

دستش را به دیوار 'لمس کرد' اما برای پاک کردن گچ، دیوار را 'مالید'.

مالیدن vs کشیدن (برای پخش کردن)

Both can describe applying something to a surface.

'کشیدن' when used for spreading (like cream) implies a smooth gliding motion to cover an area. 'مالیدن' emphasizes the friction and the rubbing action itself, which might be more vigorous or focused on cleaning/soothing. For example, you 'کشیدن' (spread) jam on bread, but you 'مالیدن' (rub) cream on dry skin.

او مربا را روی نان 'کشید'، اما لوسیون را روی دستش 'مالید'.

مالیدن vs شستن

Often performed together; rubbing is usually part of washing.

'شستن' is the general act of cleaning with water or liquid, while 'مالیدن' is the specific action of applying friction, which is often a component of 'شستن'. You 'شستن' dishes, and you might 'مالیدن' them with a sponge as part of the process.

ظرف‌ها را با آب 'شست' و بعد با اسکاچ 'مالید' تا تمیز شوند.

مالیدن vs ماساژ دادن

Both involve rubbing for therapeutic or relaxing purposes.

'ماساژ دادن' is a specific type of rubbing, often involving kneading, deeper pressure, and a focus on muscles for relaxation or physical therapy. 'مالیدن' is a more general term for rubbing and can be used for simpler actions like warming hands or applying lotion.

دکتر کمرم را 'ماساژ داد'، اما من فقط دست‌هایم را برای گرم شدن 'مالیدم'.

Sentence Patterns

A1

Subject + Object + را + Verb (Present)

من دست‌هایم را می‌مالم.

A1

Imperative (Singular)

اینجا را بمال.

A2

Subject + Object + را + Verb (Past)

او شیشه را مالید.

A2

Subject + Prepositional Phrase + Verb

او روی میز را مالید.

B1

Subject + Object + را + Adverb + Verb

او لکه را به آرامی مالید.

B1

Subject + Object + را + Verb (Past Continuous)

آنها فرش را می‌مالیدند.

B2

Purpose Clause with 'تا'

دست‌ها را مالیدم تا گرم شوند.

B2

Gerundial Phrase as Instrument

با مالیدن لکه پاک شد.

Word Family

Nouns

مالش (mâlesh - rubbing, massage)
مالیدنی (mâlidani - something to be rubbed)

Verbs

مالیدن (mâlidân - to rub)

Related

ساییدن (sâyidan - to grind, to rub abrasively)
لمس کردن (lams kardan - to touch)
فشار دادن (feshâr dâdan - to press)
لغزاندن (laghzândan - to slide)
شستن (shostan - to wash)
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How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Confusing 'مالیدن' with 'زدن' (to hit). → Correctly use 'مالیدن' for rubbing and 'زدن' for striking.

    'مالیدن' describes a continuous friction, while 'زدن' is a single strike or impact. Saying 'دست زدن' would mean clapping or hitting hands, not rubbing them for warmth.

  • Incorrect conjugation of the verb. → Ensure the verb ending matches the subject's person and number (e.g., 'من می‌مالم', 'آنها می‌مالند').

    Persian verbs must agree with the subject. Failing to do so leads to grammatical errors. Forgetting the prefix 'می-' in the present tense is also common.

  • Overusing or omitting the direct object marker 'را'. → Use 'را' with specific, definite direct objects (e.g., 'من لکه را مالیدم'), and consider omitting it for general or indefinite objects (though using it is often safer for learners).

    The correct placement and usage of 'را' are crucial for sentence structure and clarity in Persian. Incorrect usage can make sentences sound unnatural.

  • Using 'مالیدن' for actions other than rubbing. → Use 'مالیدن' only for the action of applying friction by rubbing. For spreading, use 'کشیدن' or 'پخش کردن'; for touching, use 'لمس کردن'.

    Generalizing the meaning of 'مالیدن' can lead to incorrect word choice. Ensure the action described truly involves rubbing.

  • Confusing the simple past with the past continuous. → Use the simple past 'مالید' for a completed action and the past continuous 'می‌مالید' for an ongoing action in the past.

    Misusing these tenses can alter the meaning of the sentence, implying a single rub when a prolonged action was intended, or vice versa.

Tips

Verb Conjugation Practice

Practice conjugating 'مالیدن' in all tenses (present, past, future) and persons. This will help you use it accurately in sentences.

Master the 'â' Sound

The 'â' sound in 'مالیدن' is a long 'ah' sound, like in 'father'. Practice this sound to pronounce the word correctly.

Distinguish from Similar Verbs

Understand the subtle differences between 'مالیدن', 'ساییدن', 'لمس کردن', and 'شستن' to choose the most appropriate verb for the action you want to describe.

Create Visual Associations

Imagine specific scenarios where 'مالیدن' is used, like rubbing your hands together on a cold day or rubbing lotion onto your skin. Visualizing these actions helps solidify the word's meaning.

Everyday Actions

'مالیدن' is a verb for a very common physical action. Think about how often you rub things in your daily life and try to express those actions in Persian.

Sentence Building

Write sentences using 'مالیدن' with different subjects, objects, and adverbs. For example: 'من دست‌هایم را با آب گرم مالیدم.' (I rubbed my hands with warm water.)

Listen for Context

When listening to Persian, pay attention to the context in which 'مالیدن' is used. This will help you understand its nuances and common collocations.

Use in Conversation

Don't be afraid to use 'مالیدن' in conversation. Start with simple sentences and gradually incorporate it into more complex descriptions.

The Role of 'را'

Remember that 'را' is often used with the direct object when it's specific. 'من لکه را مالیدم' is generally preferred over 'من لکه مالیدم'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a person 'mâ-li-dân' (ma-li-dan) their hands together, making a 'ma-li' sound as they rub. Think of the 'ma-li' sound being like the 'my-lie' sound, and you are lying down and rubbing your tummy to feel better.

Visual Association

Picture a chef rubbing oil onto a piece of meat before cooking, or a mother rubbing lotion onto a baby's skin. Visualize the smooth, repetitive motion.

Word Web

Rubbing Friction Cleaning Soothing Polishing Warming Applying Motion

Challenge

Try to use 'مالیدن' in three different sentences describing actions you perform daily, like washing your hands, applying cream, or cleaning a surface. Focus on conjugating it correctly for the present and past tenses.

Word Origin

The word 'مالیدن' (mâlidân) likely originates from Proto-Iranian roots related to friction and smoothing. It shares commonalities with words in related languages that describe similar actions.

Original meaning: The core meaning has always been related to applying friction or smoothing surfaces.

Indo-European > Indo-Iranian > Iranian > Western Iranian > Persian.

Cultural Context

The verb itself is neutral. However, the context in which it is used can carry cultural or personal significance, such as applying medicinal balms or performing rituals.

In English, we use 'to rub' for a wide range of actions, from rubbing your eyes to rubbing a lamp for a genie. Persian's 'مالیدن' is similarly versatile.

The act of rubbing a lamp for a genie in fairy tales (though not a specific Persian idiom, the concept is universal). Traditional Persian medicine often involves applying herbal pastes or oils with a rubbing motion. The meticulous cleaning of homes during Nowruz involves extensive rubbing and polishing.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cleaning a surface

  • لکه را با پارچه بمال.
  • اینجا را خوب بمال تا تمیز شود.
  • با صابون مالیدم.

Applying creams or lotions

  • کرم را روی پوست بمال.
  • این پماد را شب‌ها بمال.
  • دست‌هایم را با لوسیون مالیدم.

Warming hands

  • دست‌هایم را به هم می‌مالم.
  • برای گرم شدن، دست‌ها را بمالید.
  • هوای سرد، دست‌ها را می‌مالید.

Personal comfort (e.g., soothing an itch)

  • خارش را می‌مالم.
  • اینجا را به آرامی بمال.
  • مالیدن باعث تسکین می‌شود.

Cooking preparation

  • روغن را روی مرغ بمال.
  • ادویه‌ها را روی گوشت مالید.
  • قبل از پخت، مواد را مالید.

Conversation Starters

"What did you rub today?"

"How do you usually clean stubborn stains?"

"Do you ever rub your hands together to warm them up?"

"What kind of creams do you apply to your skin?"

"Can you describe a time you had to rub something vigorously?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a daily chore that involves rubbing. Use the verb 'مالیدن' in your description.

Think about a time you felt discomfort and rubbed the affected area. Write about it using 'مالیدن'.

Imagine you are teaching someone how to clean a specific object. Explain the process using 'مالیدن'.

Write a short story where the act of rubbing plays a significant role.

Reflect on the different types of rubbing actions you perform in a week and how 'مالیدن' applies to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'مالیدن' is a general term for rubbing, often used for cleaning, soothing, or warming. 'ساییدن' implies a more abrasive or vigorous friction, like grinding or polishing hard materials. For instance, you would 'مالیدن' your hands to warm them, but you would 'ساییدن' a stone to shape it.

The direct object marker 'را' is typically used when the object being rubbed is specific and definite. For example, 'من لکه را مالیدم' (I rubbed the stain). If the object is general or indefinite, 'را' might be omitted in some contexts, but using it generally makes the sentence clearer for learners.

While its primary meaning is literal, 'مالیدن' can sometimes be used metaphorically, especially in idioms like 'آب از دست و صورت مالیدن' (to be extremely busy). However, in most everyday sentences, it refers to the physical act of rubbing.

You can often use 'روی' (on) or 'به' (to) with 'مالیدن'. For example, 'کرم را روی پوست بمال' (Rub the cream onto the skin) or 'روغن را به چوب بمال' (Rub the oil onto the wood).

The past continuous is formed using 'داشت' followed by the imperfect tense of the verb. For example, 'او داشت شیشه را می‌مالید' (He/She was rubbing the glass).

Yes, 'مالیدن' can be used for polishing shoes, especially when describing the action of rubbing polish onto the leather. However, verbs like 'جلادادن' or 'براق کردن' might describe the result (making them shiny) more directly.

You say 'چشم مالیدن' (cheshm mâlidân). For example, 'خسته بودم و چشم‌هایم را مالیدم.' (I was tired and rubbed my eyes.)

'شستن' means to wash, which usually involves water and detergent. 'مالیدن' is the act of rubbing, which is often a part of 'شستن', like scrubbing a dish with a sponge.

While some makeup application involves rubbing, more specific verbs like 'زدن' (to apply) or 'پخش کردن' (to spread) are often used for makeup. However, if the action is specifically about rubbing a product into the skin, 'مالیدن' could be applicable.

This is an idiom meaning to be in a desperate situation or to try anything to survive, implying resorting to extreme measures.

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