مراعات کردن
مراعات کردن in 30 Seconds
- To observe rules, laws, or social norms.
- To be considerate of someone's feelings or situation.
- A formal compound verb used in public and private life.
- Essential for polite social interaction in Persian culture.
The Persian verb مراعات کردن (mora'at kardan) is a sophisticated compound verb that translates to 'to observe,' 'to respect,' 'to maintain,' or 'to take into consideration.' Rooted in the Arabic triliteral root R-'-Y (ر-ع-ی), which fundamentally relates to 'watching over' or 'tending to' (like a shepherd tending a flock), the word carries a weight of mindfulness and social responsibility. In a Persian context, it isn't just about following a rule blindly; it is about being aware of the environment, the feelings of others, and the established social order. When you use this word, you are often describing the act of adjusting your behavior to be in harmony with a specific standard or person's condition. For example, in a library, you 'observe' silence not just because it's a rule, but because you are being mindful of others' need for quiet.
- Social Etiquette
- In Iranian culture, 'mora'at' is central to the concept of 'Adab' (etiquette). It involves showing deference to elders, being quiet when someone is sleeping, or not eating in front of someone who is fasting. It is the active practice of social intelligence.
لطفاً آرام صحبت کنید و حال همسایهها را مراعات کنید.
The frequency of this word increases in formal and semi-formal settings. While a child might be told to 'be good,' an adult is reminded to 'observe the state' (mora'at-e haal) of others. It implies a level of maturity and the ability to perceive subtle social cues. It is used extensively in legal, ethical, and interpersonal discussions. If you are in a hospital, you will see signs asking you to 'mora'at' the silence. If you are driving, you are expected to 'mora'at' the rights of other drivers. It is a verb of 'looking out' for the balance of the situation.
- Legal Context
- In law, it refers to the strict adherence to protocols, clauses, or human rights. A judge might say the defendant did not observe the regulations.
همه شهروندان موظف به مراعات قوانین راهنمایی و رانندگی هستند.
Furthermore, the word is often paired with 'haal' (state/condition). 'Mora'at-e haal-e kasi ra kardan' means to take someone's difficult situation into account. If a friend is going through a breakup, you 'mora'at' them by not talking about your own happy relationship too much. This nuance of empathy is what separates 'mora'at' from more clinical terms like 're'ayat' (though they are often used as synonyms in modern Persian, 'mora'at' feels slightly more interpersonal and 're'ayat' slightly more technical).
- Spiritual Dimension
- In Sufi literature, 'mora'at' refers to guarding one's heart against distractions and maintaining a state of presence before the Divine. It is the constant watching of one's inner state.
او همیشه ظاهر و باطن را مراعات میکرد.
Using مراعات کردن correctly requires understanding its role as a compound verb. It consists of the noun 'mora'at' and the auxiliary verb 'kardan' (to do/to make). In Persian grammar, the object of 'mora'at' usually appears with the preposition 'ra' (if it's a specific object) or is connected via an Ezafe construction. For example, 'mora'at-e qavanin' (observance of laws). Because it's a B1 level word, learners should focus on its conjugation in past, present, and imperative forms, which follow the standard patterns of 'kardan'.
- Imperative (Giving Commands)
- When asking someone to be considerate or to follow a rule, use 'mora'at kon' (informal) or 'mora'at konid' (formal). It sounds polite yet firm.
نظم را مراعات کنید!
In the present continuous, it describes an ongoing act of consideration. 'Daram mora'at mikonam' (I am being considerate). This is often used to justify one's behavior. If someone asks why you aren't playing music, you might say, 'Daram mora'at-e hamsayeh-ha ra mikonam' (I am being considerate of the neighbors). The placement of 'ra' after the entire noun phrase is crucial for grammatical accuracy. You are essentially 'doing' the 'consideration' of the neighbors.
- Past Tense (Reporting)
- Used to describe how rules were followed or how respect was shown in the past. 'Mora'at kard' (He/She observed).
آنها همیشه ادب را در حضور بزرگترها مراعات میکردند.
One of the most common constructions is 'mora'at-e haal-e kasi ra kardan'. This means 'to go easy on someone' or 'to take someone's situation into account.' For instance, a teacher might 'mora'at' a student who has been ill by giving them more time on an assignment. In this sense, the verb moves from 'observing' to 'accommodating.' It is a very useful phrase in negotiations or when asking for a favor. 'Lotfan mora'at-e ma ra bokonid' (Please go easy on us/take our situation into account).
- Negative Form
- To say someone is being disrespectful or ignoring rules, use 'mora'at nakardan'. It implies a lack of social awareness.
او اصلاً بهداشت را مراعات نمیکند.
You will encounter مراعات کردن in a variety of real-life scenarios in Iran and Persian-speaking communities. It is a staple of public announcements. If you are on the Tehran Metro, you might hear an automated voice asking passengers to 'mora'at' the yellow safety line. In schools, teachers constantly use this word to remind students to maintain 'nazm' (order) and 'enshebāt' (discipline). It is the language of the 'public sphere'—wherever individual behavior meets collective standards.
- In the Media
- News anchors often use it when discussing international treaties or environmental protocols. 'Keshvar-ha bayad mo'ahedat-e zist-mohiti ra mora'at konand' (Countries must observe environmental agreements).
در اخبار شنیدم که همه باید فاصلهگذاری اجتماعی را مراعات کنند.
In family settings, 'mora'at' is used when discussing interpersonal boundaries. A parent might tell an older sibling to 'mora'at' the younger one because they are small and don't know better. It is also used during the month of Ramadan. Even those who do not fast are expected to 'mora'at' those who do by not eating or drinking in public. This 'cultural observation' is a deep-seated value. It shows that you are part of the community and respect its shared rhythms.
- In Literature and Art
- The term 'Mora'at-e Nazir' is a famous literary device in Persian poetry (imagery of related things like 'rose' and 'nightingale'). While technically a noun phrase, it stems from the same idea of 'observing' the relationship between things.
شاعرا در این غزل مراعات نظیر را به خوبی به کار برده است.
You will also hear it in business negotiations. If a client is late on a payment, a polite manager might say, 'Ma mora'at-e shoma ra kardim, vali digar nemitavanim sabr konim' (We have been considerate of your situation, but we can't wait anymore). Here, it serves as a soft way to address a difficult topic. It frames the speaker as a patient and respectful person, which is highly valued in Persian communication styles.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing مراعات کردن (mora'at kardan) with رعایت کردن (re'ayat kardan). While they are 90% interchangeable in modern speech, there is a subtle difference in 'flavor.' 'Re'ayat' is often used for technical rules (like traffic laws or hygiene), whereas 'mora'at' has a stronger emotional and interpersonal connotation. Using 're'ayat' when you should use 'mora'at' (like when talking about a grandmother's feelings) can sound a bit robotic or cold.
- Mistake: Using the wrong preposition
- Learners often try to use 'be' (to) or 'az' (from) with 'mora'at'. Correct: 'Mora'at-e [Object] ra kardan'. The 'ra' is essential for specific objects.
Incorrect:
به قوانین مراعات کن. Correct: قوانین را مراعات کن.
Another common error is forgetting the 'haal' (state) when you want to say 'be considerate of someone.' You can't just 'mora'at' a person as a direct object in the same way you 'mora'at' a rule; you usually 'mora'at' their *state* or their *rights*. Saying 'I observed him' (O ra mora'at kardam) sounds like you were literally watching him, whereas 'I was considerate of him' should be 'Mora'at-e haal-e o ra kardam'. This distinction is vital for sounding like a native speaker.
- Overusing Formality
- Using 'mora'at kardan' in very casual settings with close friends might sound a bit stiff. In those cases, people might just say 'be fekr-e mani?' (are you thinking of me?) or 'havaset hast?' (are you paying attention?).
در جمع دوستانه بهتر است بگوییم: «حواست به من باشد»، نه «حالم را مراعات کن».
Finally, learners sometimes confuse the active 'mora'at kardan' with the passive state of being observed. If a rule *is observed*, the verb changes to 'mora'at shodan'. Forgetting the auxiliary verb change can lead to sentences that mean 'the rule observed me' instead of 'the rule was observed by me.' Always ensure your 'kardan' (active) and 'shodan' (passive) are correctly applied to the subject of the sentence.
Persian is rich with synonyms for 'respect' and 'observation,' each with its own niche. Understanding the difference between مراعات کردن and its alternatives will elevate your Persian from functional to fluent. The most common synonym is رعایت کردن (re'ayat kardan). As mentioned, 're'ayat' is more about the 'letter of the law,' while 'mora'at' is more about the 'spirit of the law' and interpersonal empathy. If you are talking about hygiene (behdasht), use 're'ayat'. If you are talking about a grieving friend's feelings, use 'mora'at'.
- Comparison: Ehteram vs. Mora'at
- احترام گذاشتن (ehteram gozashtan) means 'to pay respect.' It is an outward sign of honor. 'Mora'at' is more about the internal act of being careful and considerate in one's actions.
ما به بزرگترها احترام میگذاریم و حالشان را مراعات میکنیم.
Another alternative is پاس داشتن (pas dashtan). This is a very formal, poetic, and Pure Persian (Farsi-ye Sareh) term. It means 'to cherish' or 'to guard,' often used for abstract values like 'the Persian language' or 'ancient traditions.' You wouldn't use 'pas dashtan' for traffic rules; it's too grand. Conversely, ملاحظه کردن (molavezeh kardan) is very close to 'mora'at' and is often used in polite business requests. 'Molavezeh' implies 'taking note' or 'considering' a factor before making a decision.
- Comparison: Tavajoh vs. Mora'at
- توجه کردن (tavajoh kardan) means 'to pay attention.' It is more about focus and perception. 'Mora'at' is the action that follows that attention.
به تابلوها توجه کنید و قوانین را مراعات کنید.
In very informal slang, you might hear people say 'shol kardan' (to loosen up/to let go), which is the opposite of 'mora'at' in a financial sense. If a shopkeeper 'mora'at's' you, they might give you a discount because you're a student. If they don't, they are 'sakht-gir' (strict). Thus, 'mora'at' also bridges into the concept of 'mercy' and 'leniency' in certain contexts, making it a truly multi-faceted word in the Persian lexicon.
Fun Fact
The root of this word is the same as the word for 'shepherd' (Ra'i) in Arabic. So, when you 'mora'at' someone, you are essentially 'shepherding' their feelings or the rules.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 't' in 'mora'at' too softly; it should be distinct.
- Confusing the vowel in 'ra' with 'ray'.
- Merging the two 'a' sounds in 'mora'at' into one long vowel.
- Putting stress on the first syllable 'mo'.
- Mispronouncing 'kardan' as 'kordan'.
Examples by Level
من حرف معلم را مراعات میکنم.
I observe what the teacher says.
Simple present tense with 'kardan'.
لطفاً سکوت را مراعات کنید.
Please observe the silence.
Imperative formal form.
او قوانین را مراعات کرد.
He observed the rules.
Simple past tense.
ما باید ادب را مراعات کنیم.
We must observe politeness.
Modal 'bayad' + subjunctive.
مراعات کن!
Be considerate!
Imperative informal.
آنها نظم را مراعات نمیکنند.
They do not observe the order.
Negative present tense.
آیا شما بهداشت را مراعات میکنید؟
Do you observe hygiene?
Question form.
مراعاتِ حالِ مادر لازم است.
Observing mother's state is necessary.
Noun + Ezafe construction.
در کتابخانه باید سکوت را مراعات کرد.
In the library, one must observe silence.
Impersonal 'bayad' construction.
او همیشه حال بیماران را مراعات میکند.
She always takes the patients' condition into account.
Present habitual.
بچهها، لطفاً نوبت را مراعات کنید.
Children, please observe the turn (wait in line).
Vocative + Imperative.
من سعی میکنم قوانین رانندگی را مراعات کنم.
I try to observe the driving laws.
Compound verb with 'sa'y kardan'.
ما در مهمانی خیلی مراعات کردیم.
We were very considerate at the party.
Simple past plural.
چرا نظم کلاس را مراعات نمیکنی؟
Why don't you observe the class order?
Interrogative negative.
او به خاطر سن بالایش، مراعاتِ ما را میکند.
Because of his old age, he is considerate of us.
Prepositional phrase + object.
باید مراعاتِ حالِ همسایه را بکنیم.
We must take the neighbor's state into account.
Subjunctive 'bokonim'.
اگر همه مراعات کنند، شهر تمیز میماند.
If everyone is considerate/observant, the city stays clean.
Conditional type 1.
او به دلیل بیماری، باید رژیم غذایی را مراعات کند.
Due to illness, he must observe a diet.
Modal + Subjunctive.
مدیر مدرسه از دانشآموزان خواست که نظم را مراعات کنند.
The principal asked the students to observe order.
Reported speech.
در این شرایط سخت، باید بیشتر مراعاتِ هم را بکنیم.
In these hard conditions, we must be more considerate of each other.
Reciprocal 'ham'.
او هیچوقت حقوق دیگران را مراعات نمیکرد.
He never used to observe others' rights.
Past imperfect.
لطفاً در مصرف آب مراعات کنید.
Please be considerate in water consumption.
Prepositional phrase 'dar'.
او با مراعاتِ ادب، درخواستش را مطرح کرد.
With observance of politeness, he raised his request.
Adverbial phrase with 'ba'.
ما باید فاصلهی اجتماعی را در مترو مراعات کنیم.
We must observe social distancing in the metro.
Specific object with 'ra'.
عدمِ مراعاتِ قوانین میتواند عواقب سنگینی داشته باشد.
Failure to observe the laws can have heavy consequences.
Gerund construction as subject.
او در نگارش مقاله، تمام اصول علمی را مراعات کرده است.
In writing the article, he has observed all scientific principles.
Present perfect.
دولت باید حقوق اقلیتها را کاملاً مراعات کند.
The government must fully observe the rights of minorities.
Political/Formal context.
او همیشه جانبِ احتیاط را مراعات میکند.
He always observes the side of caution.
Idiomatic usage with 'janeb'.
مراعات نکردنِ بهداشت عمومی باعث بیماری میشود.
Not observing public hygiene causes disease.
Negative gerund.
آنها در طول مذاکرات، حریم خصوصی ما را مراعات کردند.
During the negotiations, they observed our privacy.
Specific abstract object.
باید بین آزادی و مسئولیت، تعادلی را مراعات کرد.
One must observe a balance between freedom and responsibility.
Philosophical usage.
او با مراعاتِ حالِ فقرا، بخشی از درآمدش را بخشید.
By taking the poor's state into account, he gave away part of his income.
Participial-like phrase.
مراعاتِ نظیر یکی از آرایههای ادبی پرکاربرد است.
Mora'at-e Nazir is one of the widely used literary devices.
Literary terminology.
او در برخورد با مخالفان، انصاف را مراعات میکرد.
In dealing with opponents, he used to observe fairness.
Ethical nuance.
قاضی دستور داد که تشریفات قانونی دقیقاً مراعات شود.
The judge ordered that legal formalities be strictly observed.
Passive subjunctive.
او همواره در پیِ مراعاتِ مصلحتِ عمومی بود.
He was always seeking to observe the public interest.
Complex noun phrase.
شاعر با مراعاتِ وزن و قافیه، غزل زیبایی سرود.
By observing meter and rhyme, the poet composed a beautiful ghazal.
Technical artistic usage.
بیتوجهی به مراعاتِ حریمِ شخصی، تبعات حقوقی دارد.
Inattention to the observance of privacy has legal consequences.
Double noun construction.
او در هر شرایطی، شأنِ انسانیِ خود را مراعات میکرد.
In every condition, he observed his own human dignity.
Abstract moral object.
مراعاتِ اصولِ اخلاقی در پژوهشهای علمی الزامی است.
Observance of ethical principles in scientific research is mandatory.
Formal academic requirement.
مراعاتِ ساحتِ قدسیِ هنر، وظیفهی هر هنرمندی است.
Observing the sacred realm of art is the duty of every artist.
Highly formal/philosophical.
او در سلوکِ معنویِ خود، مراعاتِ آدابِ طریقت را میکرد.
In his spiritual journey, he observed the etiquette of the path.
Mystical/Sufi terminology.
حکیمان بر مراعاتِ اعتدال در همهی امور تأکید داشتند.
Sages emphasized the observance of moderation in all affairs.
Historical/Wisdom literature.
مراعاتِ مقتضایِ حال، شرطِ اولِ بلاغت است.
Observing the requirements of the situation is the first condition of eloquence.
Rhetorical principle.
او با مراعاتِ ظرایفِ زبانی، متنی بیبدیل خلق کرد.
By observing linguistic subtleties, he created a peerless text.
Advanced stylistic usage.
در این توافقنامه، مراعاتِ منافعِ عالیهی ملی لحاظ شده است.
In this agreement, the observance of supreme national interests has been considered.
Diplomatic jargon.
او همواره در مراعاتِ عهد و پیمان، زبانزدِ خاص و عام بود.
He was always famous among everyone for observing his oaths and covenants.
Idiomatic 'zaban-zad'.
مراعاتِ حرمتِ کلام، از نشانههای خردمندی است.
Observing the sanctity of speech is a sign of wisdom.
Abstract philosophical subject.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To be lenient or considerate toward someone.
لطفاً مراعات حال من را بکنید، خستهام.
— To act in accordance with what is expedient or beneficial.
او مصلحت خانواده را مراعات کرد.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be gentle with someone's emotions.
کمی مراعات حال دل او را بکن، تازه شکست خورده.
Poetic/Emotional— A literary device using related terms.
لب و دندان در شعر مراعات نظیر هستند.
Academic— To respect someone's age/wisdom.
به خاطر ریشسفیدی او، مراعاتش را کردیم.
Cultural— To show gratitude or respect based on past favors.
او اصلاً مراعات چشم و رو را نمیکند.
Informal/Criticism— To respect the rights of other people (religious term).
مراعات حقالناس از واجبات است.
Religious— To be kind to someone who is exhausted.
مراعات حال خستهی ما را بکنید.
EmotionalWord Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
Word Origin
Borrowed from Arabic 'mura'ah' (مراعاة), which is the Form III verbal noun of the root R-'-Y (رعٰی). In Arabic, this form implies a reciprocal or intensive action of 'watching' or 'tending.'
Original meaning: Tending to a flock, guarding, or looking after the interests of another.
Semitic (root) / Indo-European (auxiliary verb).Summary
Mora'at kardan is the 'verb of mindfulness.' It blends the act of following a rule with the emotional intelligence of respecting a person's state. Example: 'Mora'at-e haal-e oo ra bokon' (Be considerate of his situation).
- To observe rules, laws, or social norms.
- To be considerate of someone's feelings or situation.
- A formal compound verb used in public and private life.
- Essential for polite social interaction in Persian culture.
Related Content
More family words
عاقد
B1Marriage officiant.
عضو بودن
B1To be a member (of a family).
عقد
B1Marriage contract; formal engagement ceremony.
عقد کردن
B1To get married; to formalize a marriage contract.
عمه
A1Paternal aunt; the sister of one's father.
عمه زاده
B1Paternal cousin (child of paternal aunt).
عمهزاده
B1Paternal aunt's child (cousin).
عمو
A1Paternal uncle; the brother of one's father.
عموزاده
A2A cousin (child of one's paternal uncle).
عنایت
B1Care; attention; favor; consideration.