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A1 preposition #300 most common 12 min read

مثل

mesl Top 300

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips مثل in 30 Seconds

Explanation مثل in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'mesl' is used for very basic, concrete comparisons. You will use it to describe physical similarities between people or objects. For example, 'He is like me' or 'The apple is like a ball'. The focus here is on the Ezafe construction (mesl-e). Students learn to attach 'mesl-e' to simple nouns and pronouns. It's a vital tool for expanding your descriptive power when you have a limited vocabulary. You don't need complex grammar to use 'mesl' effectively; you just need a subject, the word 'mesl-e', and the thing you are comparing it to. It helps you express preferences and make simple observations about the world around you. At this stage, you should practice saying 'mesl-e man' (like me), 'mesl-e to' (like you), and 'mesl-e in' (like this).

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'mesl' to describe actions and manners, not just physical appearance. You might say 'He runs like a horse' or 'She sings like a bird'. You also start using 'mesl' to give examples in a list, similar to 'such as' in English. For instance, 'I like colors like red and blue'. This level also introduces the common phrase 'mesl-e hamisheh' (like always), which is essential for daily conversation. You become more comfortable with the word order and the consistent use of the Ezafe. You also start to distinguish 'mesl' from 'shabih' (similar) in basic contexts, understanding that 'mesl' is more of a direct comparison of nature or behavior.

At the B1 level, 'mesl' is used for more abstract comparisons and idiomatic expressions. You will encounter phrases like 'mesl-e inke' (it seems as if), which allows you to express opinions and hypotheses. You might say, 'It looks like they are late' or 'It seems like he is angry'. You also start to understand the cultural weight of 'mesl' in proverbs (zarb-ol-masal). Your use of 'mesl' becomes more nuanced, allowing you to describe feelings and complex situations. For example, 'Life is like a journey'. You also begin to recognize 'mânand' as a more formal alternative in reading materials, though you still primarily use 'mesl' in speech.

At the B2 level, you use 'mesl' with greater precision and variety. You can handle complex sentences where 'mesl' introduces a clause or a detailed analogy. You are comfortable using 'mesl' in debates and discussions to provide evidence or clarify points. You also start to use the plural form 'amsâl' (the likes of) in more sophisticated contexts. Your understanding of 'mesl' includes its role in Persian rhetoric and how it can be used for emphasis or irony. You can distinguish between 'mesl', 'mânand', and 'shabih' with ease, choosing the right word for the right register (formal vs. informal). You also start to appreciate the use of 'mesl' in modern Persian literature and film.

At the C1 level, 'mesl' is used with stylistic flair. You understand its historical roots and its relationship with Arabic 'mithl'. You can use 'mesl' in academic writing and formal speeches, often pairing it with other comparative structures for rhetorical effect. You are also familiar with the more obscure and literary synonyms like 'cho' and 'choun' and can use them appropriately in creative writing. Your understanding of 'mesl' includes its use in classical Persian philosophy and theology, where parables and similitudes are central. You can analyze the use of 'mesl' in poetry and explain the subtle differences in meaning it conveys in different historical periods.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'mesl' and all its variants. You can navigate the most complex literary texts, from the Shahnameh to modern avant-garde poetry, understanding every nuance of comparison. You can use 'mesl' to create intricate metaphors and allegories in your own writing. You are also aware of the dialectal variations of 'mesl' across the Persian-speaking world (Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan). Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker. You can engage in deep linguistic discussions about the evolution of the word and its role in the Persian identity. For you, 'mesl' is not just a word, but a profound tool for conceptualizing the universe.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

مثل in 30 Seconds

Mesl means 'like' or 'as' and is used for comparisons.
It almost always needs the Ezafe sound 'e' (mesl-e).
It can be used for physical appearance, behavior, or giving examples.
It is a very common Arabic loanword used in all levels of Persian.

The Persian word مثل (pronounced 'mesl') is a cornerstone of comparison in the Persian language. At its most basic level, it translates to 'like' or 'as' in English. However, its utility extends far beyond simple comparison, acting as a bridge between concepts, appearances, and behaviors. When you use this word, you are essentially drawing a parallel between two entities. In the linguistic landscape of Iran, 'mesl' is ubiquitous, appearing in everything from high-brow classical poetry to the most casual street slang. It is an Arabic loanword that has been fully integrated into the Persian grammatical system, specifically through the use of the Ezafe construction. This means that in almost every instance, you will hear it as 'mesl-e', where the 'e' sound links it to the following noun or pronoun. For a beginner, mastering 'mesl' is like unlocking a superpower because it allows you to describe things you don't yet have the specific vocabulary for by comparing them to things you do know. For example, if you don't know the word for 'crimson', you might say 'like blood' (مثل خون). This versatility makes it one of the top 100 most useful words for any student of the Persian language. Beyond its literal meaning, it also carries a sense of 'example' or 'proverb', which is why the Persian word for proverb is 'zarb-ol-masal'. When Iranians use 'mesl', they are often appealing to a shared understanding or a common visual. It is not just a preposition; it is a tool for building mental imagery. In social contexts, it is used to show empathy ('I am like you'), to describe family resemblances ('He is like his father'), or to set standards ('Do it like this'). The word is also central to Persian aesthetics, which values metaphor and simile highly. Whether you are reading the works of Rumi or ordering food in a bustling Tehran bazaar, 'mesl' will be your constant companion. It is important to note that while it is a loanword, its pronunciation in Persian is distinct from its Arabic root, focusing on a soft 's' sound and a clear 'l'. Understanding the nuances of 'mesl' also involves understanding the Persian concept of 'mânand', which is a more formal synonym. While 'mânand' is beautiful in literature, 'mesl' is the king of the spoken word. It is the glue that holds comparative sentences together.

Grammatical Function: It functions as a preposition that almost always requires the Ezafe (the short 'e' sound) to connect to the object of comparison.

او مثل برادر من است. (He is like my brother.)

Social Context: Used frequently in 'Taarof' (Persian etiquette) to humble oneself or compliment others through comparison.

غذای شما مثل غذای رستوران است. (Your food is like restaurant food.)

Register: Primarily neutral to informal, though perfectly acceptable in formal speech. In very high literature, 'mânand' or 'cho' might be preferred.

تهران مثل یک جنگل است. (Tehran is like a forest.)

صدای او مثل فرشته‌هاست. (Her voice is like the angels.)

این لباس مثل مال من است. (This dress is like mine.)

Using مثل correctly requires an understanding of the Ezafe construction, which is the most critical grammatical hurdle for English speakers. In English, we say 'like him' or 'like a car'. In Persian, we say 'mesl-e u' or 'mesl-e mâshin'. The short 'e' sound acts as a hook. Without this hook, the sentence sounds disjointed and incorrect. Let's break down the sentence structure. Typically, 'mesl' comes before the noun or pronoun it is comparing. For example, 'Man mesl-e to hastam' (I am like you). Here, 'man' is the subject, 'mesl-e' is the preposition with Ezafe, 'to' is the object of comparison, and 'hastam' is the verb. One interesting aspect of 'mesl' is how it interacts with possessive pronouns. You can say 'mesl-e man' (like me), 'mesl-e to' (like you), 'mesl-e mâ' (like us), and so on. In more colloquial Persian, specifically the Tehrani dialect, you might hear 'mesl-e' shortened or blended with the following word, but for learners, maintaining the clear 'e' is the safest path to being understood. Another common usage is in the phrase 'mesl-e inke', which translates to 'it seems as if' or 'it looks like'. This is a complex sentence starter that allows you to express uncertainty or observation. For example, 'Mesl-e inke bârân mi-âyad' (It looks like it's going to rain). This demonstrates that 'mesl' isn't just for comparing two nouns; it can also introduce entire clauses. Furthermore, 'mesl' can be used to provide examples. If you are listing things, you can say 'mesl-e...' to mean 'such as'. For instance, 'I like fruits like apples and oranges' would be 'Man miveh-hâ râ doust dâram, mesl-e sib va porteghâl'. This usage is identical to the English 'like' in the sense of 'for example'. It is also important to distinguish 'mesl' from 'shabih'. While 'mesl' is a general preposition for 'like', 'shabih' is an adjective meaning 'similar'. You would say 'In do mâshin shabih-e ham hastand' (These two cars are similar to each other), but you would use 'mesl' for a direct comparison of quality or manner. Another advanced usage involves the word 'mesl' in the plural: 'amsâl'. This is used to mean 'the likes of' or 'and such'. For example, 'Ali va amsâl-e u' (Ali and the likes of him). However, for A1 and A2 levels, focusing on the singular 'mesl-e' is the priority. When using 'mesl' to describe an action, it often follows the verb or describes the manner of the verb. 'He runs like a deer' (Ou mesl-e âhu midavad). Notice how the word order remains relatively flexible, but 'mesl-e' always stays attached to the noun it modifies.

The Ezafe Rule: Always append the short 'e' sound to 'mesl' unless it's the very last word in a sentence (which is rare).

او مثل یک قهرمان رفتار کرد. (He acted like a hero.)

Comparison of Manner: Use 'mesl' to describe how someone does something, not just what they look like.

بنویس مثل من. (Write like me.)

Listing Examples: Use 'mesl-e' to introduce examples in a list, equivalent to 'such as'.

ورزش‌هایی مثل فوتبال. (Sports like football.)

آیا تو هم مثل من خسته‌ای؟ (Are you tired like me too?)

او مثل همیشه دیر آمد. (He came late, like always.)

In the real world, مثل is the lifeblood of conversation. If you walk through a park in Isfahan or a shopping mall in Shiraz, you will hear it constantly. It is used to describe everything from the weather to political situations. One of the most common places you will hear it is in the context of storytelling. Iranians are natural storytellers, and they use 'mesl' to create vivid comparisons that bring their stories to life. For example, 'The wind was blowing like a giant's breath'. In the kitchen, you'll hear it when someone is teaching a recipe: 'Cut the onions like this' (مثل این). It is also deeply embedded in Persian proverbs. There is a saying, 'Mesl-e sag va gorbeh' (Like cats and dogs), used to describe people who are always fighting. Another one is 'Mesl-e ruz roushan ast' (It is as clear as day), used when something is obvious. In Iranian pop music, 'mesl' is a staple in lyrics about love and heartbreak. Singers often compare their beloved to the moon, flowers, or stars using 'mesl-e'. For example, 'Your eyes are like the sea'. In the digital world, on Iranian social media (Instagram and Telegram are huge), you'll see 'mesl' used in captions to compare current events to historical ones or to memes. It is also used in the phrase 'mesl-e hamisheh' (like always), which is a common way to sign off or comment on a recurring situation. In educational settings, teachers use 'mesl' to provide analogies for complex concepts. If you are learning Persian through movies, pay attention to how characters use 'mesl' to express frustration or admiration. 'You are acting like a child!' (مثل بچه ها). This word is also essential in the marketplace. When you are looking for a specific fabric or item, you might show a picture and say 'I want something like this' (مثل این می‌خوام). The word's versatility across all social strata—from the most educated professor to the local baker—makes it a truly democratic word. It doesn't belong to any one register; it belongs to the people. In religious contexts, 'mesl' is used in parables to explain spiritual truths. The Quranic influence on Persian also brings in many 'mesl' structures, as the Quran frequently uses parables (amthâl). Therefore, whether you are in a mosque, a cafe, or a classroom, 'mesl' is the bridge that connects the known to the unknown.

Daily Phrases: 'Mesl-e hamisheh' (Like always) and 'Mesl-e in' (Like this) are heard dozens of times a day.

همه چیز مثل قبل است. (Everything is like before.)

In the Market: Use it to compare products or prices: 'Mesl-e un yeki' (Like that other one).

یک پیراهن مثل این دارید؟ (Do you have a shirt like this?)

Emotional Expression: Used to express deep feelings: 'Mesl-e barf pâk' (Pure like snow).

قلبش مثل دریاست. (His heart is like the sea.)

او مثل یک بمب منفجر شد. (He exploded like a bomb.)

دنیا مثل چرخ و فلک است. (The world is like a Ferris wheel.)

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with مثل is omitting the Ezafe. In English, 'like' is a standalone word. In Persian, 'mesl' almost always needs that connecting 'e' sound. Saying 'mesl man' instead of 'mesl-e man' sounds unnatural and is a clear sign of a non-native speaker. Another common error is confusing 'mesl' with 'shabih'. While they are related, 'shabih' is an adjective and often requires the verb 'to be' (budan) and the preposition 'be' (to). For example, 'Man shabih-e to hastam' is correct, but 'Man mesl-e to hastam' is more common for 'I am like you'. If you say 'Man mesl-e to', it's a prepositional phrase, but 'shabih' describes a state of being. A third mistake is using 'mesl' when 'as' (in the capacity of) is intended. In English, we say 'I work as a teacher'. In Persian, you should not use 'mesl' here. You would use 'be onvân-e' (in the title of). If you say 'Man mesl-e mo'allem kâr mikonam', it means 'I work in a manner similar to a teacher', not that you actually are one. This is a subtle but important distinction. Additionally, learners sometimes forget that 'mesl' is an Arabic loanword and might try to pluralize it using Persian rules (mesl-hâ), which is rare. The Arabic plural 'amsâl' is used in specific contexts. Another pitfall is the word order. While Persian is somewhat flexible, 'mesl-e' must always precede the noun it is comparing. You cannot put the noun first and then 'mesl'. For example, 'To mesl-e gol hasti' (You are like a flower) is correct, but 'To gol mesl hasti' is nonsensical. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'mesl-e inke'. Learners often forget the 'inke' part and just say 'mesl-e', which doesn't work to mean 'it seems'. 'Mesl-e bârân mi-âyad' is wrong; it must be 'Mesl-e inke bârân mi-âyad'. Understanding these common traps will help you sound much more fluent and natural. Remember, the Ezafe is your best friend when using 'mesl'. If you're in doubt, add the 'e' sound!

The 'As' vs 'Like' Trap: Don't use 'mesl' for professional roles (e.g., 'as a doctor'). Use 'be onvân-e' instead.

اشتباه: من مثل دکتر کار می‌کنم. (Wrong for 'I work as a doctor')

Ezafe Omission: Never say 'mesl' followed by a noun without the 'e' sound linking them.

درست: مثلِ خورشید. (Correct: Like the sun.)

Confusing with 'Shabih': 'Shabih' is an adjective (similar), 'mesl' is a preposition (like). They are often interchangeable but have different grammatical requirements.

او مثل مادرش است. (She is like her mother.)

این رنگ مثل آبی است. (This color is like blue.)

او مثل یک بچه گریه کرد. (He cried like a baby.)

While مثل is the most common way to say 'like', Persian offers several beautiful alternatives depending on the register and context. The most prominent alternative is 'mânand'. This is a pure Persian (Farsi) word, whereas 'mesl' is Arabic. 'Mânand' is more formal and is frequently used in literature, formal writing, and news broadcasts. It also uses the Ezafe: 'mânand-e'. For example, 'Mânand-e koushesh-hâ-ye gozashteh' (Like past efforts). Another alternative is 'cho' or 'choun', which are very literary and poetic. You will find these in the poems of Hafez and Saadi. They often mean 'like' or 'as' but carry a much heavier emotional and artistic weight. For example, 'Cho daryâ' (Like the sea). Then there is 'shabih', which we've mentioned. It means 'similar' or 'resembling'. It is an adjective. You would use it when focusing on the physical or structural resemblance between two things. 'In do aks shabih-e ham hastand' (These two photos are similar to each other). Another useful phrase is 'be mesâbeh-e', which is very formal and translates to 'in the likeness of' or 'as'. It is used in academic or legal Persian. For example, 'In ghânun be mesâbeh-e yek râhnamâst' (This law is like a guide). In colloquial speech, you might also hear 'eyne' (exactly like). This is very common in Tehran. 'Eyne man' means 'exactly like me' or 'just like me'. It's more emphatic than 'mesl'. For example, 'In pirâhan eyne mâl-e mane' (This shirt is exactly like mine). Understanding these alternatives allows you to adjust your 'Persian flavor'—from the everyday 'mesl' to the poetic 'cho' or the emphatic 'eyne'. Choosing the right word shows a deep understanding of the language's texture.

Mesl vs. Mânand: 'Mesl' is everyday and versatile; 'mânand' is formal and literary.

او مانند یک سرباز جنگید. (He fought like a soldier - Formal.)

Poetic Comparison: 'Cho' and 'Choun' are reserved for poetry and high literature.

چو شب تاریک. (Like the dark night - Poetic.)

Emphatic Comparison: 'Eyne' is the colloquial go-to for 'just like'.

عینِ خودش است. (It's just like him/itself.)

او مثل کوه استوار است. (He is as steady as a mountain.)

این غذا مثل سم است! (This food is like poison! - Hyperbole.)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

While the Arabic 'mithl' uses the 'th' sound (interdental fricative), Persian speakers changed it to a 's' sound because the 'th' sound does not exist in the Persian phonological system.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mesl/

US /mesl/

The stress is typically on the first syllable, though it's a single-syllable word.

Rhymes With

Fesl (season - dialectal) Nesl (generation) Vasl (connection) Fasl (chapter/season) Asl (origin) Ghasl (ritual washing) Nasl (lineage) Fazl (virtue)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'mis-l' (like 'miss'). It should be 'mesl'.
Dropping the 'l' sound at the end.
Adding an extra vowel at the end when not using Ezafe.
Confusing the pronunciation with the Arabic 'mithl' (with a 'th' sound).
Not connecting the Ezafe 'e' smoothly to the next word.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize once you know the script.

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, but remember the Ezafe is usually not written but spoken.

Speaking 2/5

Requires practice to get the Ezafe 'e' sound natural.

Listening 2/5

Easy to hear, though it can blend with the next word in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

من (man) تو (to) هست (hast) است (ast) این (in)

Learn Next

مانند (mânand) شبیه (shabih) مثلاً (masalan) مثال (mesâl) چون (choun)

Advanced

به مثابه (be mesâbeh) تمثیل (tamsil) نظیر (nazir) همتا (hamtâ) ماننده (mânandeh)

Grammar to Know

Ezafe Construction

Mesl-e (short e) + Noun.

Prepositional Phrases

Mesl acts as the head of the phrase.

Pronoun Enclitics

Mesl-am (like me - informal/rare) vs Mesl-e man.

Comparative Adjectives

Mesl is used for similes, not for '-er' comparisons (which use 'tar').

Clause Introduction

Mesl-e inke + verb.

Examples by Level

او مثل من است.

He is like me.

Uses 'mesl-e' with the pronoun 'man'.

این سیب مثل توپ است.

This apple is like a ball.

Simple comparison of two nouns.

مثل این بنویس.

Write like this.

Use of 'mesl' to show manner.

او مثل برادرم است.

He is like my brother.

Comparison of relationship.

ماشین او مثل ماشین من است.

His car is like my car.

Possessive nouns with 'mesl'.

آسمان مثل دریا آبی است.

The sky is blue like the sea.

Comparison of color.

او مثل یک فرشته است.

She is like an angel.

Metaphorical comparison.

این غذا مثل سم است.

This food is like poison.

Hyperbolic comparison.

او مثل یک قهرمان می‌دود.

He runs like a hero.

Comparison of an action (verb).

من میوه‌هایی مثل پرتقال را دوست دارم.

I like fruits like oranges.

Using 'mesl' to give examples.

مثل همیشه دیر آمدی.

You came late, like always.

Common phrase 'mesl-e hamisheh'.

او مثل پدرش مهربان است.

He is kind like his father.

Comparison of personality traits.

صدای او مثل موسیقی است.

Her voice is like music.

Abstract comparison of sound.

این اتاق مثل زندان است.

This room is like a prison.

Descriptive comparison.

مثل یک مرد رفتار کن.

Act like a man.

Imperative sentence with 'mesl'.

او مثل برق رفت.

He left like lightning (very fast).

Idiomatic comparison of speed.

مثل اینکه باران می‌بارد.

It seems as if it is raining.

Use of 'mesl-e inke' to express a hunch.

زندگی مثل یک سفر است.

Life is like a journey.

Philosophical comparison.

او مثل یک حرفه‌ای صحبت می‌کند.

He speaks like a professional.

Comparison of skill level.

مثل سگ و گربه با هم دعوا می‌کنند.

They fight like cats and dogs.

Common Persian idiom.

همه چیز مثل قبل است.

Everything is like before.

Comparison of states over time.

او مثل یک کتاب باز است.

He is like an open book.

Idiom for transparency.

مثل اینکه او را قبلاً دیده‌ام.

It seems like I've seen him before.

Expressing a vague memory.

او مثل کوه پشت من ایستاده است.

He stands behind me like a mountain (supports me).

Idiom for support.

او مثل یک رهبر واقعی عمل کرد.

He acted like a true leader.

Evaluation of behavior.

این مسئله مثل روز روشن است.

This issue is as clear as day.

Idiom for obviousness.

او مثل ماهی از دستم سر خورد.

He slipped through my fingers like a fish.

Idiom for being elusive.

دنیا مثل چرخ و فلک است؛ گاهی بالا و گاهی پایین.

The world is like a Ferris wheel; sometimes up and sometimes down.

Complex metaphorical comparison.

او مثل همیشه با اعتماد به نفس بود.

He was confident, like always.

Adverbial use of 'mesl-e hamisheh'.

مثل اینکه دنیا به آخر رسیده است.

It's as if the world has come to an end.

Hyperbolic expression of despair.

او مثل یک قهرمان در تاریخ ماندگار شد.

He remained in history like a hero.

Formal historical comparison.

این فیلم مثل یک کابوس بود.

This movie was like a nightmare.

Subjective comparison of experience.

او مثل یک فیلسوف به مسائل می‌نگرد.

He looks at issues like a philosopher.

Comparison of intellectual approach.

سخنان او مثل آبی بر آتش بود.

His words were like water on fire (calmed the situation).

Sophisticated idiomatic comparison.

او مثل یک استاد، تمام جزئیات را توضیح داد.

He explained all the details like a master.

Comparison of expertise.

مثل اینکه او از تمام رازهای ما باخبر است.

It seems as though he is aware of all our secrets.

Complex clause with 'mesl-e inke'.

او مثل یک هنرمند، زندگی‌اش را خلق کرد.

He created his life like an artist.

Creative metaphorical comparison.

این بنا مثل نگینی در دل کویر می‌درخشد.

This building shines like a gem in the heart of the desert.

Literary and descriptive comparison.

او مثل یک سایه، همه جا همراه من بود.

He was with me everywhere like a shadow.

Comparison of constant presence.

مثل اینکه زمان در این روستا متوقف شده است.

It's as if time has stopped in this village.

Expressing a profound observation.

او مثل یک عارف، به وحدت وجود می‌اندیشد.

He thinks about the unity of existence like a mystic.

Philosophical and spiritual comparison.

این نظریه مثل یک شمشیر دو لبه است.

This theory is like a double-edged sword.

Advanced metaphorical idiom.

او مثل یک سیاستمدار کهنه‌کار، از پاسخ طفره رفت.

He dodged the answer like a veteran politician.

Comparison of strategic behavior.

مثل اینکه سرنوشت ما از قبل نوشته شده است.

It's as if our destiny has been written beforehand.

Fatalistic philosophical expression.

او مثل یک عقاب، از دور همه چیز را زیر نظر داشت.

He watched everything from afar like an eagle.

Comparison of keen observation.

این اثر هنری مثل یک آینه، جامعه را بازتاب می‌دهد.

This artwork reflects society like a mirror.

Sophisticated artistic analysis.

او مثل یک ققنوس، از خاکستر خود برخاست.

He rose from his ashes like a phoenix.

Mythological and literary comparison.

مثل اینکه تمام جهان در یک قطره آب خلاصه شده است.

It's as if the whole universe is summarized in a drop of water.

Deeply philosophical simile.

Common Collocations

مثل همیشه

مثل اینکه

مثل این

مثل قبل

مثل سگ و گربه

مثل برق

مثل ماه

مثل آدم

مثل آب خوردن

مثل یک خواب

Common Phrases

مثلِ من

— Like me. Used for personal comparison.

او مثل من فکر می‌کند.

مثلِ تو

— Like you. Used for personal comparison.

هیچ‌کس مثل تو نیست.

مثلِ این می‌ماند که...

— It's as if... Used to create an analogy.

این مثل این می‌ماند که در دریا دنبال سوزن بگردی.

مثلِ چی!

— Like what! (Used for emphasis, meaning 'very much').

ترسیده بود مثل چی!

مثلِ برق و باد

— Like lightning and wind. Meaning very fast.

زمان مثل برق و باد گذشت.

مثلِ ریگ

— Like pebbles. Meaning in great abundance (usually money).

مثل ریگ پول خرج می‌کند.

مثلِ شاخِ شمشاد

— Like a boxwood branch. Used to describe someone tall and handsome.

پسرش مثل شاخ شمشاد است.

مثلِ کنه

— Like a tick. Used for someone who is clingy.

مثل کنه به من چسبیده است.

مثلِ هلو

— Like a peach. Used for something very easy or someone very pretty.

امتحان مثل هلو بود.

مثلِ خر در گل ماندن

— To be stuck like a donkey in the mud. Meaning to be helpless.

توی این مسئله مثل خر در گل مانده‌ام.

Often Confused With

مثل vs مثلاً (masalan)

Masalan means 'for example' (adverb), while mesl-e means 'like' (preposition).

مثل vs شبیه (shabih)

Shabih is an adjective (similar), mesl is a preposition (like).

مثل vs مثال (mesâl)

Mesâl is a noun meaning 'example', mesl is the preposition.

Idioms & Expressions

"مثل آب خوردن"

— Extremely easy. Literally 'like drinking water'.

یاد گرفتن این آهنگ مثل آب خوردن است.

Informal

"مثل سگ و گربه"

— To fight constantly. Literally 'like cat and dog'.

زن و شوهر مثل سگ و گربه هستند.

Neutral

"مثل روز روشن"

— Perfectly obvious. Literally 'clear like the day'.

دروغ او مثل روز روشن است.

Neutral

"مثل ریگ پول خرج کردن"

— To spend money very freely. Literally 'spending money like pebbles'.

او مثل ریگ پول خرج می‌کند.

Informal

"مثل موش آب کشیده"

— To look soaking wet and miserable. Literally 'like a rinsed mouse'.

زیر باران مثل موش آب کشیده شدیم.

Informal

"مثل کبک سر در برف کردن"

— To ignore reality. Literally 'to put one's head in the snow like a partridge'.

نباید مثل کبک سرت را در برف کنی.

Neutral

"مثل فرفره چرخیدن"

— To be very active or fast. Literally 'to spin like a top'.

بچه مثل فرفره می‌چرخید.

Informal

"مثل اجل معلق"

— To appear suddenly and unpleasantly. Literally 'like suspended death'.

مثل اجل معلق بالای سرم ظاهر شد.

Informal

"مثل سیبی که از وسط دو نیم شده باشد"

— To be identical. Literally 'like an apple cut in half'.

او و برادرش مثل سیبی هستند که از وسط دو نیم شده باشد.

Neutral

"مثل خر کار کردن"

— To work very hard. Literally 'to work like a donkey'.

تمام روز مثل خر کار کردم.

Informal

Easily Confused

مثل vs مانند (mânand)

Both mean 'like'.

Mânand is Persian and formal; Mesl is Arabic and neutral/informal.

او مانند خورشید می‌درخشد (Formal).

مثل vs شبیه (shabih)

Both express similarity.

Shabih focuses on resemblance (adjective); Mesl is a general comparison (preposition).

او شبیه مادرش است.

مثل vs عینِ (eyne)

Both mean 'like'.

Eyne means 'exactly like' or 'identical'; Mesl is 'similar to'.

این پیرهن عینِ مالِ منه.

مثل vs به عنوانِ (be onvân-e)

English 'as' can be translated by both.

Be onvân-e is for roles/titles; Mesl is for comparison.

من به عنوان معلم کار می‌کنم.

مثل vs چون (choun)

Both mean 'like' in literature.

Choun is poetic and can also mean 'because' or 'when'.

چون گل خندان شد.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] مثلِ [Noun] است.

او مثلِ گل است.

[Verb] مثلِ [Noun].

بدو مثلِ آهو.

مثلِ اینکه [Clause].

مثلِ اینکه او می‌داند.

[Noun] مثلِ [Noun] [Adjective] است.

او مثلِ کوه استوار است.

مثلِ [Noun]، [Subject] [Verb].

مثلِ یک سرباز، او ایستادگی کرد.

تمثیلی مثلِ [Noun]...

تمثیلی مثلِ غار افلاطون...

مثلِ من/تو/او

مثلِ من باش.

مثلِ همیشه

مثلِ همیشه عالی بود.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Saying 'mesl man' instead of 'mesl-e man'. → مثلِ من (mesl-e man)
You must use the Ezafe (the short 'e' sound) to connect 'mesl' to the following noun or pronoun.
Using 'mesl' for a job role (e.g., 'I work like a teacher'). → به عنوانِ معلم (be onvân-e mo'allem)
In Persian, 'mesl' is for comparison, while 'be onvân-e' is for 'as' in the sense of a role or title.
Confusing 'mesl' with 'masalan'. → مثلاً (masalan) for 'for example'.
'Mesl' is a preposition; 'masalan' is an adverb. They are not interchangeable.
Using 'mesl' as a verb. → شبیه بودن (shabih budan) or 'mesl-e ... budan'.
'Mesl' is not a verb. You must use it with a verb like 'hastan' (to be).
Spelling 'mesl' with 'س' instead of 'ث'. → مثل (mesl)
Although it sounds like 's', it is written with the Arabic letter 'ث'.

Tips

Master the Ezafe

The most important tip for 'mesl' is to always include the 'e' sound. Practice saying 'mesl-e' as one unit until it becomes second nature. This will immediately improve your fluency.

Learn 'Mesl-e inke'

This phrase is a conversation lifesaver. It allows you to make guesses about what's happening without being 100% sure. It's the Persian equivalent of 'It seems like...'

Use Nature Similes

Iranians love comparing things to nature. Use 'mesl-e gol' (like a flower) for beauty or 'mesl-e daryâ' (like the sea) for generosity to sound more culturally attuned.

Don't Overthink 'Shabih'

If you're not sure whether to use 'mesl' or 'shabih', go with 'mesl'. It's more versatile and almost always correct in common comparisons.

Listen for 'Mes-le'

In fast speech, the 'l' and 'e' can blend. It might sound like 'mes-le' or even 'me-se'. Don't let the speed confuse you; it's still the same word.

Spelling with 'Se'

Remember that 'mesl' is written with 'ث' (se-ye se-noghteh). Even though it sounds like 's', using the wrong 's' in writing is a common spelling mistake.

Like Drinking Water

Use 'mesl-e âb khordan' when you want to say something is very easy. It's a very common and natural-sounding idiom.

Formal Situations

In a very formal speech or a letter, consider using 'mânand-e' instead of 'mesl-e' to show a higher level of Persian proficiency.

Arabic Roots

Knowing that 'mesl' comes from Arabic 'mithl' can help if you already know some Arabic, but remember the pronunciation change to 's'.

Daily Comparison

Try to make one comparison every day. 'Today is like yesterday', 'This coffee is like tea', etc. This builds the habit of using the word.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the word 'Mess'. If two things are in the same 'Mess', they are 'Mesl' (like) each other. Or think of 'Missile' - a missile is 'like' a rocket.

Visual Association

Imagine two identical twins standing next to each other. Above them, the word 'MESL' is written in big letters, connecting them.

Word Web

Comparison Simile Example Proverb Like As Similar Pattern

Challenge

Try to describe five things in your room using 'mesl-e'. For example: 'The lamp is like the sun' (Lâmp mesl-e khorshid ast).

Word Origin

The word originates from the Arabic root 'm-th-l' (م ث ل), which relates to being like, resembling, or representing. It was adopted into Persian following the Islamic conquest and has since become a core part of the vocabulary.

Original meaning: Likeness, similitude, or model.

Semitic (Arabic) origin, integrated into Indo-European (Persian).

Cultural Context

Be careful when comparing people to animals using 'mesl'. While 'mesl-e shir' (like a lion) is a compliment, 'mesl-e khar' (like a donkey) can be offensive depending on the context.

English speakers often use 'like' as a filler word. In Persian, 'mesl' is rarely used as a filler; it almost always carries its literal comparative meaning.

The Quranic phrase 'Mathalu nurihi...' (The likeness of His light...), which is famous in Persian mystical literature. The poetry of Saadi, which is full of 'mesl' and parables. The common Iranian saying 'Mesl-e hamisheh' used in countless songs.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing People

مثلِ پدرش
مثلِ یک قهرمان
مثلِ فرشته
مثلِ بچه

Expressing Uncertainty

مثلِ اینکه...
مثلِ اینکه خوابم
مثلِ اینکه دیر شده
مثلِ اینکه می‌داند

Daily Routine

مثلِ همیشه
مثلِ دیروز
مثلِ قبل
مثلِ هر روز

Giving Examples

مثلِ سیب و گلابی
مثلِ فوتبال
مثلِ ایران
مثلِ این‌ها

Physical Comparison

مثلِ این
مثلِ آن
مثلِ هم
مثلِ مالِ من

Conversation Starters

"آیا تو هم مثل من خسته‌ای؟ (Are you tired like me?)"

"هوای اینجا مثل هوای شهر شماست؟ (Is the weather here like your city?)"

"آیا کسی را مثل او می‌شناسی؟ (Do you know anyone like him?)"

"چرا مثل همیشه خوشحال نیستی؟ (Why aren't you happy like always?)"

"این غذا مثل غذای مادرت است؟ (Is this food like your mother's food?)"

Journal Prompts

امروز چه کارهایی را مثل همیشه انجام دادی؟ (What things did you do today like always?)

دوست داری مثل چه کسی باشی؟ چرا؟ (Who do you want to be like? Why?)

یک خاطره بنویس که مثل یک رویا بود. (Write a memory that was like a dream.)

تفاوت‌های خودت را با برادر یا خواهرت بنویس (استفاده از مثل). (Write your differences with your sibling using 'mesl'.)

آینده را مثل چه چیزی تصور می‌کنی؟ (How do you imagine the future?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, in 99% of cases, 'mesl' requires the Ezafe (the 'e' sound) to connect to the next word. Without it, the sentence is grammatically incomplete. For example, 'mesl-e man' is correct, while 'mesl man' is not.

'Mesl-e' is a preposition meaning 'like' (e.g., 'like an apple'). 'Masalan' is an adverb meaning 'for example' (e.g., 'I like fruits, for example, apples'). You use 'masalan' to start a sentence or as a filler.

'Mesl' is neutral. It is used in both casual conversation and formal writing. However, in very high literature, you might see 'mânand' or 'cho' used instead to sound more poetic or purely Persian.

No. To say 'I like', you use the verb 'doust dâshtan'. 'Mesl' is only for comparison. For example, 'Man sib doust dâram' (I like apples) vs 'In porteghâl mesl-e sib ast' (This orange is like an apple).

You can use the word 'eyne' (عینِ) or 'daghighan mesl-e' (دقیقاً مثلِ). 'Eyne' is very common in spoken Persian to show an exact match.

It means 'it seems as if' or 'it looks like'. It's used to express a hunch or an observation about a situation. For example, 'Mesl-e inke bârân mi-âyad' (It looks like it's raining).

Yes, it comes from the Arabic word 'mithl'. However, it has been used in Persian for over a thousand years and is considered a core part of the language.

It is very rare. Usually, 'mesl' is followed by the object of comparison. You might hear it in a question like 'Mesl-e chi?' (Like what?), but it's almost always followed by something.

The plural is 'amsâl', but it's mostly used in formal phrases like 'Ali va amsâl-e u' (Ali and the likes of him). In daily life, you just use 'mesl' for both singular and plural comparisons.

It literally means 'striking a likeness' and is the Persian word for 'proverb'. Since proverbs compare a situation to a known story or image, they use the root of 'mesl'.