At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'vâqe'-bin' very often, but it is good to recognize it. Think of it as a way to say someone is 'smart' or 'serious' about things. At this stage, you can simply learn it as 'realistic'. You might hear a teacher say, 'Be realistic' when you say you want to learn Persian in one week! The sentence structure is simple: 'Man vâqe'-bin hastam' (I am realistic). You can use it like other adjectives you know, such as 'khub' (good) or 'bozorg' (big). Focus on the 'bin' part, which you will see in other words like 'durbin' (binoculars - literally 'far-seer'). This will help you remember that the word is about 'seeing' things. Don't worry about the complex grammar yet; just know it describes a person who doesn't just dream, but looks at the facts. It is a useful word for basic self-description or describing a friend.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'vâqe'-bin' to describe people's characters in more detail. You are moving beyond simple adjectives and can now say things like, 'My friend is a realistic person' (Dust-e man âdam-e vâqe'-bini ast). You should also learn the opposite: 'khiyâl-pardâz' (dreamer). This allows you to compare two people. For example, 'I am realistic, but my brother is a dreamer.' You might also encounter the word in simple reading texts about jobs or school. Remember the Ezafe construction: 'neghâh-e vâqe'-binâne' (a realistic look). At this level, you should practice using it with the verb 'budan' (to be) in different tenses, like 'Bâyad vâqe'-bin bâshi' (You must be realistic). It's a great word to add to your 'personality' vocabulary list.
By B1, you should be comfortable using 'vâqe'-bin' in conversations about plans and goals. This is the level where you start giving opinions. If a friend suggests an expensive trip, you can say, 'Let's be realistic about our money' (Biyâ dar mored-e pul-emân vâqe'-bin bâshim). You should also start using the adverbial/attributive form 'vâqe'-binâne' correctly. For example, 'In yek naqshe-ye vâqe'-binâne ast' (This is a realistic plan). You can use it to talk about the news or movies you've watched. If a movie has a happy ending that seems impossible, you can say it wasn't 'vâqe'-binâne'. At B1, you are also expected to understand the comparative form: 'vâqe'-bin-tar' (more realistic). This helps you weigh different options and argue your point of view more effectively in Persian.
At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'واقع‌بین'. You can use it to discuss complex topics like business strategies, political ideologies, and social issues. You understand that being 'vâqe'-bin' is often a professional requirement. You can use it with various prepositions like 'vâqe'-bin dar موردِ' (realistic about) or 'vâqe'-bin نسبت به' (realistic towards). You should also be able to distinguish it from related words like 'amal-garâ' (pragmatic) and 'haqiqat-bin' (truth-seeing). Your usage should be precise—using 'vâqe'-bin' for people's attitudes and 'vâqe'-binâne' for their methods or views. You can participate in debates where you balance 'ârmân-garâyi' (idealism) with 'vâqe'-bini' (realism). You are also familiar with common collocations like 'entezârât-e vâqe'-binâne' (realistic expectations) and can use them naturally in both writing and speaking.
At the C1 level, 'vâqe'-bin' becomes a tool for sophisticated analysis. You can use it to critique literature, analyze historical events, or discuss philosophical concepts. You might explore the tension between 'vâqe'-bini' and 'pessimism' (bad-bini) in a formal essay. You are comfortable with the noun form 'vâqe'-bini' (realism/being realistic) and the more academic 'vâqe'-gerâyi' (realism as a movement or philosophy). You can use the word in idiomatic contexts and understand its subtle implications in different social classes or professional fields. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use synonyms like 'maslahat-andish' (expedient/prudent) when 'vâqe'-bin' isn't quite specific enough. You can also use it to describe an author's 'realistic' style or a politician's 'realpolitik' approach without hesitation. Your command of the word allows you to use it with irony or sarcasm if the context demands it.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 'واقع‌بین'. You understand the historical evolution of the word and its place in the Persian linguistic landscape. You can use it in high-level academic writing or professional speeches with perfect precision. You are aware of the subtle cultural connotations—how 'vâqe'-bini' might be seen as a virtue in certain Iranian historical periods and a limitation in others. You can engage in deep philosophical discussions about the nature of reality ('vâqe'iyat') and how our 'vâqe'-bini' is shaped by language and culture. You can effortlessly switch between 'vâqe'-bin', 'vâqe'-binâne', 'vâqe'-gerâ', and 'haqiqat-bin' to convey the exact shade of meaning you intend. You are also able to identify and use classical Persian equivalents or poetic references that touch upon the theme of seeing the world as it truly is.

واقع بین in 30 Seconds

  • Vâqe'-bin means 'realistic'. It comes from 'vâqe'' (reality) and 'bin' (seeing).
  • It describes people who are practical and focus on facts rather than dreams.
  • Use 'vâqe'-bin' for people and 'vâqe'-binâne' for plans, views, or actions.
  • It is a highly valued trait in professional and practical Persian contexts.

The Persian word واقع‌بین (vâqe'-bin) is a compound adjective that essentially translates to 'realistic' or 'pragmatic' in English. It is formed by two distinct parts: واقع (vâqe'), which stems from the Arabic root for 'reality' or 'fact', and بین (bin), the present stem of the Persian verb دیدن (didan), meaning 'to see'. Therefore, a person who is واقع‌بین is literally a 'reality-seer'. This term is widely used in both formal and informal Persian to describe individuals who base their decisions, expectations, and outlooks on objective facts and practical possibilities rather than on idealistic dreams or unfounded fears.

Core Concept
The ability to assess a situation as it truly is, without the distortion of optimism or pessimism. It implies a sense of groundedness and maturity.

برای موفقیت در تجارت، باید واقع‌بین باشیم و تمام ریسک‌ها را در نظر بگیریم. (To succeed in business, we must be realistic and consider all the risks.)

In Persian culture, being واقع‌بین is often contrasted with being آرمان‌گرا (ârmân-garâ), which means 'idealistic'. While being an idealist is sometimes seen as noble, being realistic is highly valued in practical matters like finance, career planning, and conflict resolution. It is a trait associated with wisdom and experience. When someone tells you to be واقع‌بین, they are usually advising you to lower your expectations to a level that is achievable, or to stop ignoring the difficulties that lie ahead.

Social Nuance
In social settings, calling someone واقع‌بین can be a high compliment, suggesting they have a 'head on their shoulders'. However, if used in a dismissive tone, it can imply that the person lacks imagination or is too focused on the negative aspects of a situation.

او همیشه نگاهی واقع‌بینانه به زندگی دارد. (He always has a realistic view of life.)

The word is very common in modern Iranian media. You will hear it in political debates where commentators discuss 'realistic solutions' to economic problems. It is also a staple in psychological discourse, where 'realistic expectations' are discussed as a key to mental well-being. The suffix '-âne' can be added to make it an adverb or an attributive adjective (واقع‌بینانه), meaning 'realistically' or 'realistic' (referring to an object or idea rather than a person).

Common Collocation
The phrase دیدگاه واقع‌بینانه (realistic viewpoint) is one of the most frequent pairings you will encounter in written Persian.

بیا کمی واقع‌بین باشیم؛ این پروژه زمان بیشتری لازم دارد. (Let's be a bit realistic; this project needs more time.)

Historically, the concept of 'seeing the reality' has been a theme in Persian philosophy and poetry, though the specific modern term واقع‌بین is more contemporary in its usage. It reflects a shift towards modern pragmatism in the 20th century. Understanding this word is essential for B2 learners because it allows you to engage in discussions about strategy, personality, and social issues with precision. It moves beyond simple descriptors like 'good' or 'bad' and enters the realm of character analysis and intellectual evaluation.

یک مدیر واقع‌بین هیچ‌گاه وعده‌های توخالی نمی‌دهد. (A realistic manager never gives empty promises.)

Using واقع‌بین correctly requires an understanding of Persian adjective syntax. As an adjective, it typically follows the noun it modifies using the Ezafe construction (a short 'e' sound connecting the noun and adjective). For example, 'a realistic person' is آدمِ واقع‌بین (âdam-e vâqe'-bin). However, it is most frequently used as a predicate adjective with the verb 'to be' (بودن - budan) to describe a subject's state of mind or character.

Sentence Structure 1: Predicative
[Subject] + [واقع‌بین] + [Verb 'to be']. Example: او خیلی واقع‌بین است. (He is very realistic.)

ما باید در مورد هزینه‌ها واقع‌بین باشیم. (We must be realistic about the costs.)

When you want to describe an action or a thought process as being realistic, you should use the adverbial form واقع‌بینانه. This is a crucial distinction for B2 learners. Use واقع‌بین for people and واقع‌بینانه for things like plans, views, or decisions. For instance, you wouldn't say 'a realistic plan' as نقشه واقع‌بین; instead, you say نقشه واقع‌بینانه (naqshe-ye vâqe'-binâne).

Sentence Structure 2: Attributive (for things)
[Noun] + [Ezafe] + [واقع‌بینانه]. Example: تصمیم واقع‌بینانه (A realistic decision).

آن‌ها یک پیشنهاد واقع‌بینانه ارائه دادند. (They presented a realistic proposal.)

In more complex sentences, واقع‌بین can be used with prepositions like در موردِ (in regards to) or نسبت به (towards). This allows you to specify the area in which someone is being realistic. For example, 'realistic about the future' is واقع‌بین در مورد آینده. This level of detail is what separates intermediate speakers from advanced ones.

Furthermore, the word can be used in the comparative and superlative forms: واقع‌بین‌تر (more realistic) and واقع‌بین‌ترین (the most realistic). These are formed by adding the suffixes '-tar' and '-tarin' respectively. This is useful when comparing different people's approaches to a problem.

سارا واقع‌بین‌ترین عضو گروه ماست. (Sara is the most realistic member of our group.)

Finally, consider the negative form. While you can use غیرواقع‌بینانه for 'unrealistic' (usually for plans or ideas), for a person, you might say واقع‌بین نیست (is not realistic) or use an antonym like رویایی (dreamy/unrealistic). Mastering these variations ensures you can navigate any conversation about pragmatism with ease.

آیا فکر می‌کنی این هدف واقع‌بینانه است؟ (Do you think this goal is realistic?)

The word واقع‌بین is a staple of modern Persian across various domains. You are most likely to encounter it in environments where critical thinking and planning are paramount. In professional settings, such as corporate offices in Tehran or during business negotiations, it is used to ground discussions. Managers use it to manage expectations of their staff, and consultants use it to evaluate market trends.

Domain: Business & Finance
Used to describe market forecasts, budget planning, and project timelines. 'A realistic budget' (بودجه واقع‌بینانه) is a common phrase here.

گزارش‌های اقتصادی باید بر اساس تحلیل‌های واقع‌بینانه باشند. (Economic reports must be based on realistic analyses.)

Another major area is the news and political commentary. Iranian news anchors and political analysts frequently use واقع‌بین to describe diplomatic strategies or economic policies. In the context of international relations, 'political realism' is translated as واقع‌گرایی سیاسی, but in general talk, a politician might be praised for being واقع‌بین about the country's challenges.

In personal life and psychology, the word appears in advice-giving. Self-help books in Persian (which are very popular) often have chapters on 'how to be more realistic' to avoid disappointment. You'll hear it in family settings when parents talk to their children about their university choices or career paths. It is the language of 'tough love' and practical wisdom.

Domain: Education & Parenting
Used to guide students toward achievable goals. 'Realistic expectations from children' (انتظارات واقع‌بینانه از کودکان).

پدرم همیشه به من می‌گفت که در انتخاب شغل واقع‌بین باشم. (My father always told me to be realistic in choosing a job.)

Lastly, you will find it in literature and film reviews. Critics might describe a movie's portrayal of social life as واقع‌بینانه, meaning it depicts life as it is, without sugar-coating. This is often seen as a mark of high artistic quality in the Iranian cinema tradition, which is famous for its 'neo-realism'.

این فیلم تصویر واقع‌بینانه‌ای از مشکلات جوانان ارائه می‌دهد. (This film presents a realistic picture of youth problems.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning واقع‌بین is confusing it with the word for 'truthful' (راستگو - râstgu). While both words deal with 'truth' in a sense, واقع‌بین refers to a practical perception of reality, whereas راستگو refers to the moral act of not lying. You can be a liar but still be realistic about your chances of getting caught!

Mistake 1: Confusing Realistic with Truthful
Don't use واقع‌بین to mean 'honest'. Use it to mean 'practical' or 'grounded'.

اشتباه: او واقع‌بین است و دروغ نمی‌گوید. (Wrong: He is realistic and doesn't lie.)
درست: او واقع‌بین است و محدودیت‌هایش را می‌شناسد. (Right: He is realistic and knows his limitations.)

Another common error is the misuse of واقع‌بین (the person-focused adjective) and واقع‌بینانه (the object/idea-focused adjective or adverb). As mentioned in the grammar section, you cannot call a 'plan' واقع‌بین. This sounds unnatural to native speakers. Always add the '-âne' suffix when describing inanimate things or actions.

Mistake 2: The '-âne' Suffix Omission
Remember: آدمِ واقع‌بین (realistic person) but نگاهِ واقع‌بینانه (realistic look).

Learners also sometimes confuse واقع‌بین with بدبین (bad-bin), which means 'pessimistic'. While a realistic person might seem negative to an optimist, in Persian, these are two very different traits. بدبین is generally a negative trait (seeing only the bad), while واقع‌بین is a neutral or positive trait (seeing the truth). Avoid using them interchangeably in a professional context.

من بدبین نیستم، فقط دارم واقع‌بینانه فکر می‌کنم. (I am not pessimistic, I am just thinking realistically.)

Lastly, be careful with the word واقعی (vâqe'i). This means 'real' or 'actual' (e.g., 'real gold', 'the real story'). It is not the same as 'realistic'. Calling a person واقعی means they exist or are authentic, whereas calling them واقع‌بین means they have a realistic outlook. This is a subtle but important distinction for B2 level learners.

Mistake 3: واقع‌بین vs. واقعی
Use واقعی for 'real' (existence) and واقع‌بین for 'realistic' (attitude).

To enrich your Persian vocabulary, it's helpful to know words that are close in meaning to واقع‌بین but carry different nuances. The most direct synonym is حقیقت‌بین (haqiqat-bin). This also means 'one who sees the truth' but is often used in a more philosophical or spiritual context. While واقع‌بین is pragmatic, حقیقت‌بین can imply a deeper understanding of the essence of things.

Comparison: واقع‌بین vs. حقیقت‌بین
واقع‌بین: Pragmatic, focused on facts and outcomes.
حقیقت‌بین: Philosophical, focused on the underlying truth.

او نه تنها واقع‌بین است، بلکه انسانی حقیقت‌بین نیز هست. (He is not only realistic but also a person who sees the deeper truth.)

Another excellent alternative is عمل‌گرا (amal-garâ), which means 'pragmatist' or 'practical'. While a realistic person *sees* the world as it is, a pragmatist *acts* based on what works. These two often go hand-in-hand. If you are discussing someone's work style, عمل‌گرا might be more appropriate than واقع‌بین.

For a more formal or academic tone, you might use پراگماتیست (prâgmâtist), which is the transliterated word 'pragmatist'. This is common in political science and philosophy. However, in everyday speech, واقع‌بین remains the most natural choice. If you want to describe someone who is very 'down-to-earth', you can use the informal phrase خاکی (khâki), though this refers more to humility than to a realistic outlook.

Comparison: واقع‌بین vs. عمل‌گرا
واقع‌بین: Realistic (Mental state).
عمل‌گرا: Pragmatic (Action-oriented).

سیاستمداران باید واقع‌بین و عمل‌گرا باشند. (Politicians must be realistic and pragmatic.)

On the opposite side, knowing the antonyms is just as important. آرمان‌گرا (idealist) and خیال‌پرداز (dreamer) are the most common. A خیال‌پرداز is someone who is lost in their thoughts and often ignores reality, while an آرمان‌گرا is someone who strives for a perfect world, even if it's currently unattainable. Using these words in contrast will help you express complex ideas about human nature.

او میان آرمان‌گرایی و واقع‌بینی تعادل برقرار کرده است. (He has established a balance between idealism and realism.)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"جناب مدیر، ما نیازمند یک تحلیل واقع‌بینانه از وضعیت بازار هستیم."

Neutral

"او همیشه سعی می‌کند در زندگی واقع‌بین باشد."

Informal

"بابا واقع‌بین باش، این ماشین دیگه راه نمیره!"

Child friendly

"باید واقع‌بین باشیم؛ ما نمی‌توانیم مثل پرنده‌ها پرواز کنیم."

Slang

"فاز واقع‌بینی برداشته!"

Fun Fact

The 'bin' root is ancient and appears in many Persian compounds related to sight and insight, showing the importance of 'vision' in Persian thought.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /vɒː.ɢeʔ.biːn/
US /vɑː.ɢeʔ.bin/
The primary stress is on the last syllable: bin.
Rhymes With
دیربین (dir-bin) دوربین (dur-bin) باریک‌بین (bârik-bin) نکته‌بین (nokte-bin) حق‌بین (haqq-bin) جهان‌بین (jahân-bin) خوش‌بین (khosh-bin) بدبین (bad-bin)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'vâqe' as 'vake' (using a 'k' sound instead of 'q').
  • Pronouncing 'bin' like 'bin' (trash can) with a short 'i' instead of a long 'ee'.
  • Omitting the glottal stop between 'vâqe' and 'bin'.
  • Putting stress on the first syllable.
  • Confusing the 'â' sound with a short 'a' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Easy to recognize because of the common 'vâqe'' and 'bin' parts.

Writing 6/5

Requires remembering the glottal stop and the '-âne' suffix for objects.

Speaking 5/5

The 'q' sound can be tricky for English speakers to master.

Listening 4/5

Common in media and discussions, making it easy to spot.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

واقع (Reality/Fact) دیدن (To see) آدم (Person) نگاه (View/Look) بودن (To be)

Learn Next

واقع‌گرایی (Realism) آرمان‌گرا (Idealist) مصلحت (Expediency) منطقی (Logical) عمل‌گرا (Pragmatic)

Advanced

پراگماتیسم عینیت (Objectivity) ذهنیت (Subjectivity) تبیین (Explanation) استدلال (Reasoning)

Grammar to Know

Ezafe Construction

آدمِ واقع‌بین (âdam-e vâqe'-bin)

Adjective to Adverb with '-âne'

واقع‌بینانه (vâqe'-binâne)

Comparative and Superlative Suffixes

واقع‌بین‌تر، واقع‌بین‌ترین

Subjunctive with 'Bâyad'

باید واقع‌بین باشیم (subjunctive 'bâshim')

Noun formation with '-i'

واقع‌بینی (vâqe'-bini)

Examples by Level

1

او یک مرد واقع‌بین است.

He is a realistic man.

Simple adjective use with the Ezafe 'e' sound.

2

من واقع‌بین هستم.

I am realistic.

First-person singular with the verb 'to be'.

3

آیا تو واقع‌بین هستی؟

Are you realistic?

Simple question structure.

4

ما باید واقع‌بین باشیم.

We must be realistic.

Use of 'bâyad' (must) with the subjunctive 'bâshim'.

5

او واقع‌بین نیست.

He/She is not realistic.

Negative form of the verb 'to be'.

6

برادرم خیلی واقع‌بین است.

My brother is very realistic.

Using 'kheyli' (very) to modify the adjective.

7

یک معلم واقع‌بین.

A realistic teacher.

Noun-adjective phrase.

8

بیا واقع‌بین باشیم.

Let's be realistic.

Imperative/Exhortative form.

1

دوست من آدم واقع‌بینی است.

My friend is a realistic person.

The 'i' at the end of 'vâqe'-bin-i' is the 'yâ-ye vahdat' (a/an).

2

او همیشه واقع‌بینانه فکر می‌کند.

He/She always thinks realistically.

Adverbial use of 'vâqe'-binâne'.

3

این یک هدف واقع‌بینانه است.

This is a realistic goal.

Using the '-âne' form for an inanimate noun (goal).

4

من می‌خواهم واقع‌بین باشم.

I want to be realistic.

Use of 'mikhâham' (I want) with the subjunctive.

5

پدرم از من می‌خواهد واقع‌بین باشم.

My father wants me to be realistic.

Complex sentence with a subordinate clause.

6

او واقع‌بین‌تر از من است.

He is more realistic than me.

Comparative form with '-tar'.

7

ما به یک نگاه واقع‌بینانه نیاز داریم.

We need a realistic look/view.

Using 'niyâz dâshtan' (to need).

8

آیا این قیمت واقع‌بینانه است؟

Is this price realistic?

Applying the adjective to a business concept.

1

اگر واقع‌بین باشی، می‌بینی که این کار سخت است.

If you are realistic, you will see that this job is hard.

Conditional sentence (Type 1).

2

او به خاطر نگاه واقع‌بینانه‌اش موفق شد.

He succeeded because of his realistic view.

Using 'be khâter-e' (because of).

3

باید بین رویاها و واقع‌بینی تعادل ایجاد کنیم.

We must create a balance between dreams and realism.

Noun form 'vâqe'-bini' (realism).

4

او واقع‌بینانه‌ترین فرد در خانواده ماست.

He is the most realistic person in our family.

Superlative form with '-tarin'.

5

این فیلم تصویر واقع‌بینانه‌ای از جنگ ارائه می‌دهد.

This movie provides a realistic picture of war.

Using 'erâ'e dâdan' (to provide/present).

6

او سعی می‌کند در مورد آینده واقع‌بین باشد.

He tries to be realistic about the future.

Using 'sa'y kardan' (to try).

7

نمی‌توانیم بدون یک برنامه واقع‌بینانه شروع کنیم.

We cannot start without a realistic plan.

Using 'bedun-e' (without).

8

واقع‌بین بودن همیشه آسان نیست.

Being realistic is not always easy.

Gerund-like use of 'vâqe'-bin budan'.

1

مدیران باید نسبت به توانایی‌های تیم خود واقع‌بین باشند.

Managers must be realistic about their team's abilities.

Using the preposition 'nesbat be' (towards/about).

2

تحلیلگران معتقدند که این پیش‌بینی‌ها واقع‌بینانه نیستند.

Analysts believe that these predictions are not realistic.

Reporting what others believe (mo'taqedand).

3

او با رویکردی واقع‌بینانه به حل مشکلات پرداخت.

He approached solving the problems with a realistic approach.

Using 'ruykard' (approach).

4

برای حل این بحران، به یک راهکار واقع‌بینانه نیاز داریم.

To solve this crisis, we need a realistic solution.

Using 'râhkâr' (solution/way out).

5

او توانست با دیدی واقع‌بینانه، محدودیت‌ها را بپذیرد.

He was able to accept the limitations with a realistic view.

Using 'paziroftan' (to accept).

6

واقع‌بینی سیاسی ایجاب می‌کند که با رقبا مذاکره کنیم.

Political realism requires that we negotiate with rivals.

Noun form as a subject of the verb 'ijâb kardan'.

7

او هیچ‌گاه اجازه نداد احساساتش بر واقع‌بینی‌اش غلبه کند.

He never let his emotions overcome his realism.

Using 'ghalabe kardan' (to overcome).

8

این یک ارزیابی واقع‌بینانه از وضعیت موجود است.

This is a realistic assessment of the current situation.

Using 'arzyâbi' (assessment).

1

در ادبیات مدرن، نویسنده سعی در بازنمایی واقع‌بینانه جامعه دارد.

In modern literature, the author tries to represent society realistically.

Formal academic phrasing.

2

او با درکی واقع‌بینانه از تاریخ، به تحلیل مسائل روز می‌پردازد.

With a realistic understanding of history, he analyzes current issues.

Using 'dark' (understanding) and 'tahlil' (analysis).

3

انتقاد او از پروژه، هرچند تند، اما کاملاً واقع‌بینانه بود.

His criticism of the project, though harsh, was completely realistic.

Use of 'harchand' (although) for contrast.

4

سیاست خارجی کشور باید بر بنیان‌های واقع‌بینانه استوار باشد.

The country's foreign policy must be based on realistic foundations.

Using 'ostovâr budan' (to be based/founded on).

5

او با واقع‌بینی تمام، از شرکت در رقابتی که شانسی در آن نداشت انصراف داد.

With total realism, he withdrew from a competition in which he had no chance.

Using 'enseraf dâdan' (to withdraw).

6

این رویکرد واقع‌بینانه، مانع از هدر رفتن منابع مالی شد.

This realistic approach prevented the wasting of financial resources.

Using 'mâne' shodan' (to prevent).

7

او همواره بین آرمان‌های انسانی و واقعیت‌های تلخ، نگاهی واقع‌بینانه دارد.

He always maintains a realistic view between human ideals and bitter realities.

Complex juxtaposition of 'ârmân' and 'vâqe'iyat'.

8

تحلیل او از بازار، واقع‌بینانه‌ترین سناریوی ممکن را ارائه کرد.

His market analysis presented the most realistic scenario possible.

Using 'senâriyo' (scenario).

1

واقع‌بینی در ساحت اندیشه، مستلزم گسست از پیش‌فرض‌های جزمی است.

Realism in the realm of thought requires a break from dogmatic assumptions.

High-level philosophical vocabulary.

2

او در خاطراتش، با صداقتی واقع‌بینانه به نقد عملکردهای گذشته خود می‌پردازد.

In his memoirs, he critiques his past actions with a realistic honesty.

Using 'naqd' (critique) and 'amal-kard' (performance/action).

3

دیپلماسی او بر محور واقع‌بینی سیاسی و حفظ منافع ملی می‌چرخید.

His diplomacy revolved around the axis of political realism and preserving national interests.

Metaphorical use of 'mehvar' (axis).

4

هنر او، تلفیقی از انتزاع و بازنمایی واقع‌بینانه از رنج‌های بشری است.

His art is a fusion of abstraction and realistic representation of human suffering.

Using 'talfiq' (fusion) and 'entezâ' (abstraction).

5

او با واقع‌بینی شگرفی، پیچیدگی‌های ژئوپلیتیک منطقه را تبیین کرد.

With remarkable realism, he explained the geopolitical complexities of the region.

Using 'tabyin kardan' (to explain/elucidate).

6

این جستار، به بررسی تقابل میان تخیل شاعرانه و واقع‌بینی فلسفی می‌پردازد.

This essay examines the confrontation between poetic imagination and philosophical realism.

Academic 'jostâr' (essay).

7

او هیچ‌گاه در دام خوش‌بینی کاذب نیفتاد و همواره واقع‌بین باقی ماند.

He never fell into the trap of false optimism and always remained realistic.

Idiomatic 'dar dâm oftâdan' (to fall into a trap).

8

فقدان نگاه واقع‌بینانه در برنامه‌ریزی‌های کلان، منجر به شکست پروژه‌های ملی گشت.

The lack of a realistic view in macro-planning led to the failure of national projects.

Using 'faghdân' (lack) and 'monjar shodan' (to lead to).

Common Collocations

نگاه واقع‌بینانه
انتظارات واقع‌بینانه
برنامه واقع‌بینانه
ارزیابی واقع‌بینانه
پیش‌بینی واقع‌بینانه
هدف واقع‌بینانه
رویکرد واقع‌بینانه
تصمیم واقع‌بینانه
بودجه واقع‌بینانه
تصویر واقع‌بینانه

Common Phrases

بیا واقع‌بین باشیم.

— Let's be realistic. Used to ground a conversation.

بیا واقع‌بین باشیم، ما نمی‌توانیم این خانه را بخریم.

کمی واقع‌بین باش!

— Be a little realistic! Often used as advice or a mild rebuke.

کمی واقع‌بین باش! تو نمی‌توانی یک‌شبه پولدار شوی.

از روی واقع‌بینی

— Out of realism / Based on a realistic view.

او این حرف را از روی واقع‌بینی زد، نه از روی دشمنی.

دور از واقع‌بینی

— Far from being realistic / Unrealistic.

این نقشه‌ها دور از واقع‌بینی هستند.

با حفظ واقع‌بینی

— While remaining realistic.

باید با حفظ واقع‌بینی، به آینده امیدوار باشیم.

واقع‌بینانه نگاه کردن

— To look at something realistically.

اگر واقع‌بینانه نگاه کنیم، شانس ما کم است.

در کمال واقع‌بینی

— With complete realism.

او در کمال واقع‌بینی، شکست را پذیرفت.

یک فرد کاملاً واقع‌بین

— A completely realistic person.

او یک فرد کاملاً واقع‌بین است و فریب نمی‌خورد.

عدم واقع‌بینی

— Lack of realism.

عدم واقع‌بینی باعث شکست آن‌ها شد.

واقع‌بین باش و عمل کن.

— Be realistic and act. A common motivational phrase.

فقط رویا نباف؛ واقع‌بین باش و عمل کن.

Often Confused With

واقع بین vs راستگو (Truthful)

Realistic is about perception; truthful is about not lying.

واقع بین vs واقعی (Real)

Realistic is an attitude; real describes existence.

واقع بین vs بدبین (Pessimistic)

Realistic is objective; pessimistic focuses only on the negative.

Idioms & Expressions

"پایت را روی زمین بگذار"

— Put your feet on the ground. Means to be realistic and stop dreaming.

دیگر بس است، پایت را روی زمین بگذار و واقع‌بین باش.

Informal
"در ابرها سیر کردن"

— To walk in the clouds. The opposite of being realistic.

او همیشه در ابرها سیر می‌کند و اصلاً واقع‌بین نیست.

Informal
"خواب دیدن برای کسی"

— To dream (unrealistically) for someone. Often implies having unrealistic expectations.

مادرم برای آینده من خواب‌های زیادی دیده، اما من واقع‌بین هستم.

Informal
"سنگ بزرگ علامت نزدن است"

— A big stone is a sign of not throwing. Means if you set unrealistic goals, you won't achieve anything.

این همه هدف بزرگ انتخاب نکن؛ سنگ بزرگ علامت نزدن است، واقع‌بین باش.

Proverb
"بی‌گدار به آب نزدن"

— Not going into the water without a plan/probe. Implies being realistic about risks.

او آدم واقع‌بینی است و بی‌گدار به آب نمی‌زند.

Neutral
"کلاه خود را قاضی کردن"

— To make one's hat the judge. To judge a situation realistically and honestly by oneself.

کلاهت را قاضی کن، آیا این خواسته واقع‌بینانه است؟

Informal
"دنبال نخود سیاه فرستادن"

— Sending someone for black chickpeas. Giving someone an unrealistic task to get rid of them.

آن‌ها با وعده‌های غیرواقع‌بینانه او را دنبال نخود سیاه فرستادند.

Informal
"نقشه روی آب کشیدن"

— Drawing a map on water. Making unrealistic plans that will fail.

تمام برنامه‌های او نقشه‌ای روی آب بود چون واقع‌بین نبود.

Literary
"دل به دریا زدن"

— To strike the heart to the sea. Sometimes the opposite of being realistic (taking a big risk).

گاهی باید واقع‌بینی را کنار گذاشت و دل به دریا زد.

Neutral
"حساب و کتاب داشتن"

— To have accounts and books. To be realistic and calculated.

او آدم واقع‌بینی است و تمام کارهایش حساب و کتاب دارد.

Informal

Easily Confused

واقع بین vs واقعی

Both share the root 'vâqe''.

Vâqe'i means 'actual' or 'real' (e.g., real gold). Vâqe'-bin means 'having a realistic outlook'.

این طلا واقعی است (This gold is real). او واقع‌بین است (He is realistic).

واقع بین vs حقیقی

Both translate to 'real' or 'true' in English.

Haqiqi often refers to legal or fundamental truth. Vâqe'-bin is a personality trait.

او صاحب حقیقی این خانه است (He is the true owner).

واقع بین vs بدبین

People often think being realistic means being negative.

Bad-bin always expects the worst. Vâqe'-bin expects what is likely based on facts.

من بدبین نیستم، فقط واقع‌بینم.

واقع بین vs خوش‌بین

Opposite attitudes.

Khosh-bin expects the best. Vâqe'-bin expects the probable.

او بیش از حد خوش‌بین است و واقع‌بین نیست.

واقع بین vs عملی

Both relate to being practical.

Amali means 'practical' or 'applied' (like a practical exam). Vâqe'-bin is about the mindset.

این یک راه حل عملی است.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Subject] واقع‌بین است.

او واقع‌بین است.

A2

باید واقع‌بین باشی.

تو باید واقع‌بین باشی.

B1

[Noun] واقع‌بینانه است.

این نقشه واقع‌بینانه است.

B2

با نگاهی واقع‌بینانه به [Noun]...

با نگاهی واقع‌بینانه به مشکلات، راه حل را پیدا کردیم.

C1

واقع‌بینی ایجاب می‌کند که [Clause]...

واقع‌بینی ایجاب می‌کند که هزینه‌ها را کاهش دهیم.

C1

ترکیبی از [Noun] و واقع‌بینی...

ترکیبی از شجاعت و واقع‌بینی باعث پیروزی شد.

C2

در ورای [Noun]، نگاهی واقع‌بینانه نهفته است.

در ورای این سخنان، نگاهی واقع‌بینانه نهفته است.

C2

تقابل میان [Noun] و واقع‌بینی...

تقابل میان سنت و واقع‌بینی در این کتاب مشهود است.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in professional and intellectual circles.

Common Mistakes
  • Calling a plan 'vâqe'-bin'. Calling a plan 'vâqe'-binâne'.

    Inanimate objects and abstract concepts take the '-âne' suffix.

  • Using 'vâqe'i' to mean realistic. Using 'vâqe'-bin'.

    'Vâqe'i' means real or authentic, not realistic in outlook.

  • Confusing 'vâqe'-bin' with 'râstgu'. Using 'vâqe'-bin' for pragmatic outlooks.

    'Râstgu' is about moral honesty, not practical assessment.

  • Missing the Ezafe in 'âdam-e vâqe'-bin'. Always use the 'e' sound to connect noun and adjective.

    Standard Persian grammar for modifying nouns.

  • Pronouncing 'bin' with a short 'i'. Pronounce it like 'seen'.

    Long vowels are crucial for meaning in Persian.

Tips

Adjective vs. Adverb

Remember to use 'vâqe'-bin' for people and 'vâqe'-binâne' for actions or things. This is the most common mistake for intermediate learners.

The 'Biyâ' Phrase

Start a sentence with 'Biyâ vâqe'-bin bâshim...' to sound incredibly natural in a debate or discussion.

Compound Power

Learning 'bin' will help you with dozens of other words like 'khosh-bin' (optimist) and 'bad-bin' (pessimist).

Professionalism

In a Persian job interview, describing yourself as 'vâqe'-bin' and 'amal-garâ' (pragmatic) is a winning combination.

Glottal Stop

Listen for the tiny pause between 'vâqe'' and 'bin'. It's subtle but helps distinguish the word clearly.

Noun Form

Use 'vâqe'-bini' as the subject of your sentence when writing about the importance of being realistic.

Binoculars

Associate 'bin' with 'binoculars'. It's about seeing the world clearly.

Opposites

Always keep 'ârmân-garâ' (idealist) in mind to help define 'vâqe'-bin' by contrast.

Realistic vs. Real

Never use 'vâqe'i' when you mean 'vâqe'-bin'. One is about existence, the other about perspective.

Daily Goal

Try to identify one 'vâqe'-binâne' goal every morning in Persian.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'vâqe'' as 'Fact' and 'bin' as 'Binoculars'. A 'vâqe'-bin' person uses their binoculars to see the facts clearly.

Visual Association

Picture a person standing on solid ground while everyone else is floating in colorful clouds. The person on the ground is the 'vâqe'-bin'.

Word Web

Reality Eyes Facts No Dreams Practical Grounded Logic Assessment

Challenge

Try to describe three people you know using 'vâqe'-bin', 'ârmân-garâ', and 'khiyâl-pardâz'. Then write one 'vâqe'-binâne' goal for your Persian studies.

Word Origin

A compound of the Arabic loanword 'واقع' (vâqi') and the Persian root 'بین' (bin).

Original meaning: Literally 'one who sees what is happening' or 'one who sees the facts'.

Indo-European (Persian) + Afroasiatic (Arabic root).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to call someone 'unrealistic' (gheyr-e vâqe'-binâne) if they are sharing a dream or a passion, as it can sound dismissive of their feelings.

In English, 'realistic' can sometimes sound slightly negative or discouraging. In Persian, 'vâqe'-bin' is almost always seen as a positive, mature attribute.

Sadegh Hedayat's works often deal with the harsh clash between 'vâqe'iyat' and 'khiyâl'. Modern Iranian cinema (e.g., Asghar Farhadi) is praised for its 'vâqe'-binâne' portrayal of social ethics. Political discourse regarding the 'Barjam' (Nuclear Deal) often centered on 'vâqe'-bini' vs. 'idealism'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Planning

  • بودجه واقع‌بینانه
  • تخمین واقع‌بینانه
  • اهداف واقع‌بینانه
  • تحلیل واقع‌بینانه

Personal Advice

  • بیا واقع‌بین باشیم
  • کمی واقع‌بین باش
  • نگاه واقع‌بینانه به زندگی
  • قبول واقعیت

Art and Film Criticism

  • تصویر واقع‌بینانه
  • سبک واقع‌بینانه
  • بازنمایی واقع‌بینانه
  • شخصیت‌های واقع‌بین

Politics and News

  • واقع‌بینی سیاسی
  • راهکار واقع‌بینانه
  • رویکرد واقع‌بینانه
  • شرایط واقع‌بینانه

Psychology

  • انتظارات واقع‌بینانه
  • خودشناسی واقع‌بینانه
  • پذیرش واقع‌بینانه
  • دیدگاه واقع‌بینانه

Conversation Starters

"آیا فکر می‌کنی در زندگی باید همیشه واقع‌بین بود یا گاهی رویاپردازی هم لازم است؟"

"به نظر تو، واقع‌بین‌ترین فردی که می‌شناسی کیست؟"

"چگونه می‌توانیم بین آرمان‌گرایی و واقع‌بینی تعادل برقرار کنیم؟"

"آیا تا به حال شده که به خاطر واقع‌بین نبودن شکست بخوری؟"

"در شغل تو، واقع‌بینی چقدر اهمیت دارد؟"

Journal Prompts

امروز در چه موردی واقع‌بین بودی؟ آیا این به تو کمک کرد؟

یک لیست از اهداف واقع‌بینانه برای یادگیری زبان فارسی در ماه آینده بنویس.

تفاوت بین یک آدم واقع‌بین و یک آدم بدبین از نظر تو چیست؟

آیا ترجیح می‌دهی با یک آدم واقع‌بین دوست باشی یا یک آدم رویاپرداز؟ چرا؟

درباره زمانی بنویس که کسی به تو گفت 'واقع‌بین باش'. چه حسی داشتی؟

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, it is the standard Persian translation for 'realist' when describing a person's outlook. In academic contexts, 'vâqe'-gerâ' is also used to describe the philosophical or artistic movement of Realism. For everyday use, 'vâqe'-bin' is the most common and natural term.

No, you should use 'vâqe'-binâne' for objects, plans, or views. For example, 'yek naqshe-ye vâqe'-binâne' (a realistic plan). 'Vâqe'-bin' is reserved for people or their general character.

Generally, yes. It is associated with maturity, wisdom, and professional competence. However, in poetic or highly emotional contexts, it might be seen as a bit cold or lacking in imagination.

'Vâqe'iyat' refers to the facts of the world as they happen (reality). 'Haqiqat' often refers to a deeper, more permanent truth. A 'vâqe'-bin' person looks at 'vâqe'iyat'.

For a plan or idea, use 'gheyr-e vâqe'-binâne'. For a person, you would usually say 'vâqe'-bin nist' (is not realistic) or 'khiyâl-pardâz' (dreamer).

It is primarily an adjective. To use the noun 'realism' or 'the state of being realistic', you add 'i' to get 'vâqe'-bini'.

It is neutral. It is perfectly fine to use in a formal business letter, a news report, or a casual conversation with a friend.

It's a compound: 'vâqe'' (from Arabic 'waqi'' meaning happening/fact) + 'bin' (Persian present stem of 'didan' meaning to see).

It is a voiced uvular sound, similar to the French 'r' or the 'gh' in some languages, but produced by the back of the tongue hitting the soft palate.

There isn't a single slang word, but phrases like 'pâyat ruye zamin bâshe' (keep your feet on the ground) convey the same meaning informally.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a simple sentence: 'My brother is realistic.'

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writing

Translate: 'We need a realistic plan.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'vâqe'-bin' and 'ârmân-garâ'.

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speaking

Pronounce clearly: 'Biyâ vâqe'-bin bâshim.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify the word: 'vâqe'-bin'

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writing

Explain the importance of realism in business in one Persian sentence.

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writing

Write 'I am realistic' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'He is not realistic' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'Be realistic!' in Persian.

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writing

Translate: 'A realistic view of the future.'

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writing

Translate: 'We must avoid unrealistic goals.'

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speaking

Say: 'Vâqe'-bin'

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speaking

Say: 'Âdam-e vâqe'-bin'

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speaking

Say: 'Naqshe-ye vâqe'-binâne'

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speaking

Say: 'Biyâ vâqe'-bin bâshim'

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speaking

Say: 'Vâqe'-bini-ye siyâsi'

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listening

Listen and write: 'vâqe'-binâne'

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listening

Listen and write: 'vâqe'-bini'

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listening

Listen and write: 'gheyr-e vâqe'-binâne'

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listening

Listen and choose: 'vâqe'-bin' or 'khosh-bin'

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listening

Listen and choose: 'vâqe'-bin' or 'bad-bin'

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writing

Write 'You (singular) are realistic.'

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writing

Write 'We are realistic.'

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writing

Write 'They are realistic.'

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writing

Write 'It is a realistic goal.'

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writing

Write 'Realism is important in life.'

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writing

Write 'Realistic' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'Realistic person' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'Realistic plan' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'Realistically' in Persian.

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writing

Write 'Realism' in Persian.

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writing

Translate: 'He is realistic.'

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writing

Translate: 'They are not realistic.'

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writing

Translate: 'Is he realistic?'

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writing

Translate: 'A more realistic approach.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Reality and realism.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write 'Realistic' 3 times.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write 'Realistic person' 2 times.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write 'Realistic plan' 2 times.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write 'Realistically' 2 times.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write 'Realism' 2 times.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'vâqe''

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'bin'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'vâqe'-bin'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'vâqe'-binانه'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'vâqe'-بینی'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: vâqe'-bin

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: vâqe'-binâne

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: vâqe'-bini

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: vâqe'-gerâ

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: gheyr-e vâqe'-binâne

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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