پرسیدن in 30 Seconds
- Core verb: 'to ask' (پرسیدن).
- Used for seeking information.
- Essential for basic communication.
- Conjugation is key.
- Usage Examples
- Asking for a name: اسم someone را پرسیدن (Asm-e kasi ra pore-si-dan) - To ask someone's name.
- Asking for directions: راه را پرسیدن (Rah ra pore-si-dan) - To ask for directions.
- Asking about health: حال someone را پرسیدن (Hal-e kasi ra pore-si-dan) - To ask how someone is.
من میخواهم چیزی بپرسم.
I want to ask something.
لطفاً نام شما را بپرسید.
Please ask your name.
- Etymology
- The word "پرسیدن" originates from Middle Persian and has roots in Old Persian. It is related to the concept of seeking or inquiring.
من از او آدرس را پرسیدم.
I asked him for the address.
- Basic Structure
- Subject + (Object + را) + پرسیدن (conjugated).
من نام شما را پرسیدم.
I asked your name.
- Asking About Time
- To ask for the time, you can use "ساعت" (sa'at - hour/time). Example: ساعت چند است؟ را از کسی پرسیدن (Sa'at chand ast? ra az kasi pore-si-dan) - To ask someone what time it is.
او ساعت را از من پرسید.
He asked me for the time.
- Asking for Information
- You can ask for any piece of information. Example: من اطلاعاتی را پرسیدم (Man ettela'ati ra pore-si-dam) - I asked for some information.
شما چه چیزی را میپرسید?
What are you asking?
- Asking Opinions
- While "نظر" (nazar - opinion) is often used, "پرسیدن" can be used to ask for someone's opinion. Example: من نظر او را پرسیدم (Man nazar-e ou ra pore-si-dam) - I asked his opinion.
او از من نظرش را پرسید.
He asked me for his opinion.
آیا میتوانید از او بپرسید که کی میآید؟
Can you ask him when he is coming?
- Daily Conversations
- Imagine walking into a shop: "ببخشید، قیمت این چقدر است؟" (Bebakhshid, gheymat-e in cheghadr ast? - Excuse me, how much is this?). The shopkeeper might reply, "چی را میخواهید بپرسید?" (Chi ra mi-khahid be-por-sid? - What do you want to ask?). Or when meeting a friend: "سلام، چطوری؟" (Salam, chetori? - Hi, how are you?). You might respond, "خوبم، شما چطور؟" (Khoobam, shoma chetor? - I'm fine, how about you?). This is a form of asking about well-being, often implied but rooted in the concept of "پرسیدن".
مادرم همیشه از من حال پدرم را میپرسد.
My mother always asks about my father's well-being.
- Formal Settings
- In a job interview: "شما چه سوالاتی دارید که میخواهید بپرسید?" (Shoma che so'alati darid ke mi-khahid be-por-sid? - What questions do you have that you want to ask?). Or in a classroom setting: "استاد، من یک سوال دارم که میخواهم بپرسم." (Ostad, man yek so'al daram ke mi-khaham be-por-sam - Professor, I have a question that I want to ask).
در مورد این موضوع، من از شما چند نکته را میپرسم.
Regarding this topic, I will ask you a few points.
- Media and News
- News reports often feature interviews: "خبرنگار از مسئولین سوالاتی را پرسید." (Khabar-negâr az mas'oolin so'alati ra pore-sid - The reporter asked questions of the officials). Television shows might have hosts asking guests questions: "مجری از مهمان برنامه سوالی پرسید." (Mojri az mehmân-e barnâmeh so'ali pore-sid - The host asked the guest a question).
لطفاً از او بپرسید که کی میآید.
Please ask him when he is coming.
من از معلمم در مورد درس سوالی پرسیدم.
I asked my teacher a question about the lesson.
- Incorrect Conjugation
- Mistake: Using the infinitive form "پرسیدن" when a conjugated form is needed. For example, saying "من پرسیدن" instead of "من پرسیدم" (I asked) or "من میپرسم" (I ask).
- Correct: Always conjugate the verb based on the subject and tense. For past tense, use stems like "پرسید" (porsid) and for present tense, use stems like "پرس" (pors) with appropriate endings.
Incorrect: من کتاب را پرسیدن.
Correct: من کتاب را پرسیدم.
- Misuse of 'را' (ra)
- Mistake: Omitting 'را' when it's typically used with a direct object, or using it unnecessarily.
- Correct: "را" is usually placed after the direct object when asking a specific thing. For example, "نام شما را" (your name - specific) is correct, but "نام" (name - general) might not always take 'را'.
Incorrect: من نام پرسیدم.
Correct: من نام شما را پرسیدم.
- Confusion with Similar Verbs
- Mistake: Confusing "پرسیدن" with verbs that mean to tell or to say, like "گفتن" (goftan - to say/tell).
- Correct: "پرسیدن" is for seeking information, while "گفتن" is for providing information. You ask a question (پرسیدن) and someone tells you the answer (گفتن).
Incorrect: من از او جواب را گفتم.
Correct: من از او جواب را پرسیدم.
Incorrect: او سوال گفت.
Correct: او سوالی پرسید.
- سوال کردن (so'al kardan)
- Meaning: To ask a question. This is a more literal translation of "to ask a question." It's often used in more formal or written contexts, but "پرسیدن" is generally preferred in spoken Persian for its simplicity and breadth.
- Comparison: "پرسیدن" is broader and can encompass asking for information, permission, or even asking someone to do something. "سوال کردن" specifically refers to posing a question.
- Example: من از او سوالی کردم. (Man az ou so'ali kardam.) - I asked him a question. (Less common than: من از او سوالی پرسیدم.)
او همیشه سوالات زیادی میپرسد.
He always asks many questions.
- جستجو کردن (josteju kardan)
- Meaning: To search for, to look for. While not a direct synonym for asking, it's related when you are trying to find information.
- Comparison: You might "search" for information online or in a book, but you "ask" a person for information. The intention is similar (to find out), but the method differs.
- Example: من اطلاعات را در اینترنت جستجو کردم. (Man ettela'at ra dar internet josteju kardam.) - I searched for the information on the internet. (You wouldn't say "پرسیدم" here).
او به دنبال جواب میگشت، اما بهتر بود از کسی بپرسد.
He was looking for the answer, but it would have been better if he had asked someone.
- درخواست کردن (darkhâst kardan)
- Meaning: To request, to ask for (something to be done or given).
- Comparison: This is used when you are asking for a favor or making a request, rather than seeking information. "پرسیدن" is about knowledge, "درخواست کردن" is about action or possession.
- Example: من از او یک لیوان آب درخواست کردم. (Man az ou yek livân âb darkhâst kardam.) - I requested a glass of water from him. (You wouldn't say "پرسیدم" here).
او از رئیسش درخواست افزایش حقوق کرد.
He requested a salary increase from his boss.
How Formal Is It?
"با اجازه، مایلم در خصوص این موضوع سوالی را مطرح نمایم."
"من از شما میپرسم که آیا وقت دارید؟"
"هی، چطوری؟ یه چیزی میخواستم بپرسم."
"مامان، میتونم یه سوال بپرسم؟"
"ببینم، این داستان چیه؟ میشه یه چیزی پرسید؟"
Fun Fact
The root of 'پرسیدن' is shared with words in other Indo-European languages that relate to asking or seeking, though the direct cognates might be distant. For instance, the Proto-Indo-European root *perk- might be related to concepts of asking or inquiring.
Pronunciation Guide
- Misplacing stress: Stressing the first or last syllable instead of the second.
- Pronouncing 'p' with aspiration: Like the 'p' in 'pot', instead of the softer, unaspirated sound.
- Incorrect 'r' sound: Using an English 'r' instead of the rolled or tapped Persian 'r'.
Difficulty Rating
This is a very basic and frequent verb. Recognizing it in reading is straightforward, especially in A1-A2 level texts. Its meaning is usually clear from context.
Using 'پرسیدن' correctly in writing requires understanding its conjugation and the use of 'را'. For beginners, getting the past tense and present tense forms right is the main challenge.
Producing the verb in spoken Persian is essential for basic conversation. Learners should focus on pronunciation and correct conjugation in real-time.
Hearing and understanding 'پرسیدن' in spoken Persian is usually easy due to its high frequency and clear pronunciation in most contexts.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Conjugation of Present Tense Verbs
The present stem of 'پرسیدن' is 'پرسـ'. For 'من', it becomes 'میپرسم' (mi-porsam). For 'تو', it's 'میپرسی' (mi-porsi).
Conjugation of Past Tense Verbs
The past stem of 'پرسیدن' is 'پرسیدـ'. For 'من', it becomes 'پرسیدم' (porsidam). For 'او', it's 'پرسید' (porsid).
Use of the particle 'را' (ra)
'را' typically follows the direct object when it is specific. 'من نام شما را پرسیدم' (I asked your name) is correct because 'your name' is specific.
Indirect Questions
When asking about someone else's question: 'او از من پرسید که چرا دیر کردهام.' (He asked me why I was late.)
The Subjunctive Mood (for polite requests/commands)
'لطفاً سوالی بپرسید.' (Please ask a question.) uses the subjunctive form 'بپرسید' (be-porsid).
Examples by Level
اسم شما چیست؟
What is your name?
This is a direct question, the verb 'to ask' is implied.
من میخواهم یک سوال بپرسم.
I want to ask a question.
Present tense, first person singular of 'پرسیدن'.
شما چه میپرسید؟
What are you asking?
Present tense, second person singular of 'پرسیدن'.
او آدرس را پرسید.
He/She asked for the address.
Past tense, third person singular of 'پرسیدن'.
لطفاً ساعت را بپرس.
Please ask the time.
Imperative form of 'پرسیدن'.
من از او حالش را پرسیدم.
I asked him/her how he/she was.
Past tense, first person singular of 'پرسیدن' with indirect object 'او'.
آنها نام کتاب را پرسیدند.
They asked the name of the book.
Past tense, third person plural of 'پرسیدن'.
آیا میتوانی از او بپرسی؟
Can you ask him/her?
Subjunctive mood, second person singular of 'پرسیدن'.
من از معلمم در مورد درس سوالی پرسیدم.
I asked my teacher a question about the lesson.
Past tense, first person singular, with 'سوال' (question) as the object.
او از من پرسید که چرا دیر کردهام.
He/She asked me why I was late.
Past tense, third person singular, with an indirect question.
ما از مردم در مورد بهترین رستوران شهر پرسیدیم.
We asked people about the best restaurant in town.
Past tense, first person plural, asking for recommendations.
لطفاً از نگهبان بپرسید که در باز است.
Please ask the guard if the door is open.
Imperative form, used in a polite request.
چرا هیچ کس به سوالات من جواب نمیدهد؟
Why is no one answering my questions?
Implies that questions were asked ('پرسیده شد').
او همیشه جزئیات را میپرسد.
He/She always asks for details.
Present tense, third person singular, indicating a habitual action.
من از شما یک توصیه میپرسم.
I ask you for a piece of advice.
Present tense, first person singular, asking for advice.
آیا شما از او پرسیدید که کی میآید؟
Did you ask him/her when he/she is coming?
Past tense, second person singular, with an indirect question.
قبل از شروع، مایلم چند نکته را از شما بپرسم.
Before starting, I would like to ask you a few points.
Subjunctive mood, first person singular, formal tone.
وقتی به مقصد رسیدم، از راننده آدرس دقیق را پرسیدم.
When I reached my destination, I asked the driver for the exact address.
Past tense, first person singular, specific information requested.
او در مورد آینده شغلی خود از مشاور سوالاتی پرسید.
He/She asked the counselor questions about his/her career future.
Past tense, third person singular, formal context.
چگونه میتوانم از قیمت دقیق این کالا مطمئن شوم؟ باید از فروشنده بپرسم.
How can I be sure of the exact price of this item? I must ask the seller.
Implies the action of asking.
این موضوع پیچیده است، بهتر است از متخصص بپرسیم.
This matter is complicated, it's better to ask an expert.
Present tense, first person plural, suggesting seeking expert opinion.
او با لحنی کنجکاو، جزئیات بیشتری را پرسید.
With a curious tone, he/she asked for more details.
Past tense, third person singular, describing the manner of asking.
من از او پرسیدم که آیا او در این پروژه همکاری خواهد کرد.
I asked him/her whether he/she would collaborate on this project.
Past tense, first person singular, with a conditional indirect question.
لطفاً بپرسید که جلسه ساعت چند شروع میشود.
Please ask what time the meeting starts.
Imperative form, used in a request.
قبل از اتخاذ هرگونه تصمیم، لازم است که تمامی جوانب امر را از متخصصان مربوطه بپرسیم.
Before making any decision, it is necessary that we ask the relevant experts about all aspects of the matter.
Present tense, first person plural, formal and emphasizing thoroughness.
خبرنگار در نشست خبری، سوالات چالشبرانگیزی از مقامات پرسید.
In the press conference, the reporter asked challenging questions of the officials.
Past tense, third person singular, describing a formal event.
او با وجود تردید، برای شفافسازی بیشتر، موضوع را دوباره پرسید.
Despite his hesitation, he asked the matter again for further clarification.
Past tense, third person singular, indicating repetition for clarity.
در طول تحقیقات، ما به دنبال اطلاعاتی بودیم که بتوانیم از شاهدان بپرسیم.
During the investigation, we were looking for information that we could ask the witnesses.
Past tense, first person plural, related to an investigation.
اینکه چرا او چنین تصمیمی گرفت، سوالی است که باید از خودش پرسید.
Why he made such a decision is a question that must be asked of himself.
Passive implication, the question needs to be directed to the person.
او با دقت به پاسخها گوش داد و سپس سوالات تکمیلی را پرسید.
He listened carefully to the answers and then asked follow-up questions.
Past tense, third person singular, indicating a thorough inquiry.
من از راهنمای تور پرسیدم که آیا امکان بازدید از بخشهای خصوصی وجود دارد.
I asked the tour guide if it was possible to visit the private sections.
Past tense, first person singular, seeking permission/information.
لطفاً از ایشان بپرسید که آیا برای جلسه فردا آمادگی دارند.
Please ask him/her if they are prepared for tomorrow's meeting.
Imperative form, formal address ('ایشان').
در تحلیل روانشناختی، اغلب لازم است که انگیزههای پنهان فرد را از طریق پرسیدن سوالات عمیق و هدفمند کشف کنیم.
In psychological analysis, it is often necessary to uncover a person's hidden motivations by asking deep and targeted questions.
Present tense, first person plural, academic and psychological context.
پس از ارائه گزارش، حضار فرصت یافتند تا سوالات انتقادی خود را از سخنران بپرسند.
After the presentation, the audience had the opportunity to ask their critical questions of the speaker.
Past tense, third person plural, formal event.
او با ظرافت، اطلاعاتی را پرسید که به طور مستقیم به موضوع اصلی مربوط نمیشد، اما برای درک بهتر زمینه لازم بود.
Subtly, he/she asked for information that was not directly related to the main topic, but was necessary for better contextual understanding.
Past tense, third person singular, describing a nuanced approach to asking.
جامعهشناسان اغلب برای درک پویاییهای اجتماعی، از طریق نظرسنجیها و مصاحبهها، اطلاعاتی را از گروههای مختلف میپرسند.
Sociologists often gather information from various groups through surveys and interviews to understand social dynamics.
Present tense, third person plural, academic research context.
اینکه چرا برخی افراد تمایلی به پرسیدن سوال ندارند، خود موضوعی قابل تامل است.
Why some people are reluctant to ask questions is itself a topic worthy of consideration.
Focuses on the act of asking (or not asking).
در مواجهه با ابهامات، بهترین رویکرد این است که با صراحت سوالات خود را بپرسیم و منتظر پاسخ باشیم.
When faced with ambiguities, the best approach is to ask our questions frankly and await a response.
Present tense, first person plural, emphasizing directness.
من از او پرسیدم که آیا برنامههای بلندمدت خود را نهایی کرده است.
I asked him/her if he/she had finalized his/her long-term plans.
Past tense, first person singular, discussing future planning.
لطفاً از مدیر پروژه بپرسید که آیا بودجه کافی برای ادامه کار تخصیص یافته است.
Please ask the project manager if sufficient budget has been allocated for the continuation of the work.
Imperative form, formal context.
در فلسفه علم، پرسیدن سوالات بنیادین در مورد ماهیت دانش و معرفت، سنگ بنای پیشرفت نظری است.
In the philosophy of science, asking fundamental questions about the nature of knowledge and cognition is the cornerstone of theoretical progress.
Focuses on the abstract concept of 'asking fundamental questions'.
منتقدین هنری با طرح پرسشهای تأملبرانگیز، آثار را واکاوی میکنند و از هنرمند میپرسند تا لایههای عمیقتر اثر را آشکار سازد.
Art critics analyze works by posing thought-provoking questions and ask the artist to reveal the deeper layers of the piece.
Present tense, third person plural, sophisticated analysis.
او با مهارتی مثالزدنی، اطلاعاتی را پرسید که به ظاهر بیربط بود، اما در نهایت کلید حل معما را در اختیارمان قرار داد.
With exemplary skill, he/she asked for information that seemed irrelevant but ultimately provided us with the key to solving the puzzle.
Past tense, third person singular, highlighting strategic questioning.
برای دستیابی به درک جامع از یک پدیده پیچیده، لازم است که از زوایای گوناگون و با رویکردهای متفاوت سوال بپرسیم.
To achieve a comprehensive understanding of a complex phenomenon, it is necessary to ask questions from various angles and with different approaches.
Present tense, first person plural, emphasizing multifaceted inquiry.
اینکه چگونه میتوان فضایی امن برای پرسیدن سوالات جسورانه و حتی تابوشکنانه فراهم کرد، چالشی همیشگی در محیطهای آموزشی است.
How to create a safe space for asking bold and even taboo-breaking questions is a perennial challenge in educational environments.
Focuses on the environment for asking controversial questions.
در مذاکرات دیپلماتیک، پرسیدن سوالات درست در زمان مناسب میتواند سرنوشت توافقات را تغییر دهد.
In diplomatic negotiations, asking the right questions at the right time can change the fate of agreements.
Present tense, abstract concept, strategic questioning in high-stakes situations.
من از او پرسیدم که آیا با توجه به شواهد جدید، دیدگاه خود را بازنگری خواهد کرد.
I asked him/her if, in light of the new evidence, he/she would reconsider his/her viewpoint.
Past tense, first person singular, asking for reconsideration.
لطفاً از سخنران بخواهید که در پایان سخنرانی، فرصتی برای پرسیدن سوالات باقیمانده فراهم کنند.
Please ask the speaker to provide an opportunity to ask remaining questions at the end of the lecture.
Imperative form, formal request for Q&A time.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— May I ask?
میتوانم بپرسم چرا این کار را کردی؟ (Mi-tavânam be-por-sam cherâ in kâr râ kardi?) - May I ask why you did this?
— Why are you asking?
چرا میپرسی؟ این موضوع به تو ربطی ندارد. (Cherâ mi-porsi? In mozu' be to rabti nadârad.) - Why are you asking? This matter does not concern you.
— To ask someone.
من این سوال را از او پرسیدم. (Man in so'âl râ az ou porsidam.) - I asked him this question.
— To ask something.
او از من چیزی نپرسید. (Ou az man chizi naporsid.) - He did not ask me anything.
— To ask a question.
لطفاً سوالات خود را بپرسید. (Lotfan so'âlât-e khod râ be-porsid.) - Please ask your questions.
— Can you ask?
آیا میتوانی از او بپرسی که کی میآید؟ (Âyâ mi-tavâni az ou be-porsi ke ki mi-âyad?) - Can you ask him when he is coming?
— What are you asking?
چه چیزی را میپرسی؟ منظورت چیست؟ (Che chizi râ mi-porsi? Manzuret chist?) - What are you asking? What do you mean?
— To ask for the answer.
او جواب سوال را پرسید. (Ou javâb-e so'âl râ porsid.) - He asked for the answer to the question.
— To ask a point/detail.
من یک نکتهای در مورد این موضوع پرسیدم. (Man yek nokte'i dar mored-e in mozu' porsidam.) - I asked a point regarding this matter.
— To ask permission.
او اجازه پرسیدن گرفت. (Ou ejâze-ye porsidan gereft.) - He asked for permission.
Often Confused With
'گفتن' means 'to say' or 'to tell', which is the act of providing information. 'پرسیدن' is the act of seeking information. They are antonyms in function.
'پاسخ دادن' means 'to answer', which is the response to a question. It's the counterpart to 'پرسیدن'.
While very similar and often interchangeable in meaning, 'سوال کردن' is more literally 'to do a question' and can sometimes sound more formal or specific than the general 'پرسیدن'.
Idioms & Expressions
— To ask someone something and not receive an answer; to be ignored or to face silence.
وقتی از او پرسیدم چرا رفته بود، او هیچ نگفت، انگار که از کسی چیزی پرسیده باشم و جواب نشنیده باشم.
colloquial— Said when asking a question and receiving no response or a completely irrelevant one, as if you asked a wall.
از او خواستم کمکم کند، اما فقط نگاهم کرد. مثل اینکه از دیوار پرسیدم.
colloquial— It's obvious; there's no need to ask. The answer is self-evident.
آیا هوا سرد است؟ با این همه لباس گرم، پرسیدن ندارد!
colloquial— To ask for its answer; to find out the result or consequence. Often used when someone's actions will have repercussions.
او فکر میکند میتواند هر کاری کند، اما بالاخره جوابش را خواهد پرسید.
colloquial— To ask about something trivial or unimportant, often implying a lack of serious engagement.
او فقط چیزهای بیاهمیت میپرسید و وارد بحث اصلی نمیشد.
colloquial— To ask for instructions or orders; to seek guidance on what to do.
سربازان منتظر بودند تا دستور پرسیدن کنند.
formal/military— To ask about someone's heart/feelings; to inquire about their emotional state or well-being in a deep, caring way.
مادرش همیشه از او دل میپرسید و سعی میکرد غمهایش را بفهمد.
poetic/literary— To ask for directions; to inquire about the way.
وقتی گم شدم، تنها کاری که توانستم بکنم این بود که راه را بپرسم.
common— To ask for an account or explanation; to demand an accounting for one's actions.
بعد از آن همه خسارت، بالاخره از او حساب پرسیدند.
colloquial/legal— To ask for the price; to inquire about the cost of something.
قبل از خرید، همیشه قیمت را میپرسم.
commonEasily Confused
Similar sound and function to 'پرسش' (question).
'پرسیدن' is the verb (to ask), while 'پرسش' is the noun (a question). You 'پرسیدن' a 'پرسش'.
من یک پرسش دارم که میخواهم بپرسم. (Man yek porsesh dâram ke mi-khaham be-porsam.) - I have a question that I want to ask.
Shares root with 'پرسشگر' (inquirer).
'پرسیدن' is the action of asking. 'پرسشگر' is the person who asks, the inquirer.
او یک پرسشگر است و همیشه سوال میپرسد. (Ou yek porseshgar ast va hamishe so'âl mi-porsad.) - He is an inquirer and always asks questions.
Can be confused with 'استفسار کردن' (to inquire formally).
'پرسیدن' is the general term for asking. 'استفسار کردن' is more formal and often used for seeking clarification on specific points or in official contexts.
من از او پرسیدم که کی میآید. (Man az ou porsidam ke ki mi-âyad.) - I asked him when he is coming. (General) vs. من از او در مورد جزئیات پروژه استفسار کردم. (Man az ou dar mored-e joz'iyât-e proje estefsâr kardam.) - I inquired of him about the project details. (Formal)
Can be confused with 'بازخواست کردن' (to question formally/interrogate).
'پرسیدن' is a neutral term for asking. 'بازخواست کردن' implies a more serious, often legal or disciplinary, questioning where someone is held accountable.
او از من پرسید که کجا بودم. (Ou az man porsid ke kojâ budam.) - He asked me where I was. (Neutral) vs. مقامات از او بازخواست کردند. (Maqâmât az ou bâzkhâst kardand.) - The authorities interrogated him. (Formal/Serious)
Similar sound to 'پوشیدن' (to wear).
These words have completely different meanings and origins. 'پرسیدن' means 'to ask', while 'پوشیدن' means 'to wear' or 'to cover'.
من یک پیراهن نو پوشیدم. (Man yek pirâhan-e no pushidam.) - I wore a new shirt. (Not related to asking).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + Object + را + پرسیدن (conjugated)
من نام شما را پرسیدم.
Subject + از + Indirect Object + پرسیدن (conjugated)
من از او پرسیدم.
Subject + Object + را + پرسیدن (conjugated) + که + Clause
او از من پرسید که چرا دیر کردهام.
Subject + از + Indirect Object + Object + را + پرسیدن (conjugated)
من از معلمم سوالی پرسیدم.
Subject + میخواهم + بپرسم
من میخواهم یک سوال بپرسم.
Subject + لطفاً + Object + بپرسید (imperative)
لطفاً آدرس را بپرس.
Subject + لازم است + که + Subject + Object + را + بپرسیم
لازم است که ما این موضوع را بپرسیم.
Subject + با + Noun + پرسیدن (conjugated)
او با دقت پرسید.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Using the infinitive 'پرسیدن' instead of a conjugated form.
→
من پرسیدم (I asked) or من میپرسم (I ask).
Verbs must be conjugated to agree with the subject and tense. The infinitive form is only used in certain grammatical structures.
-
Forgetting the particle 'را' with specific direct objects.
→
من نام شما را پرسیدم. (I asked your name.)
While not always mandatory, 'را' is very common with specific direct objects, making the sentence sound more natural.
-
Confusing 'پرسیدن' (to ask) with 'گفتن' (to say/tell).
→
من از او آدرس را پرسیدم. (I asked him for the address.)
'پرسیدن' is for seeking information, while 'گفتن' is for providing it. They are functionally opposite.
-
Incorrect pronunciation of the stress.
→
پرسیـ<mark class='bg-yellow-200 dark:bg-yellow-800 px-0.5 rounded'>ـدَن</mark> (pore-SEE-dan).
The stress on the second syllable is crucial for correct pronunciation and understanding.
-
Using 'پرسیدن' for requesting favors.
→
من از او کمک خواستم. (I asked him for help.)
For requests or asking for actions, verbs like 'خواستن' or 'درخواست کردن' are more appropriate than 'پرسیدن', which is mainly for information.
Tips
Master the Stems
Learn the present stem ('پرسـ') and past stem ('پرسیدـ') of 'پرسیدن'. This will make conjugating the verb in different tenses much easier. Practice forming sentences with various subjects and tenses.
Use 'را' Correctly
When asking about a specific object, remember to use the particle 'را' after it. For instance, 'من نام شما را پرسیدم' (I asked your name) is more natural than 'من نام شما پرسیدم'.
Focus on Stress
The stress in 'پرسیدن' falls on the second syllable: پرسیــدَن. Practicing this rhythm will make your pronunciation clearer and more native-like.
Learn Common Objects
Learn common things people ask about: 'اسم' (name), 'آدرس' (address), 'قیمت' (price), 'ساعت' (time), 'راه' (way). This will allow you to form practical questions immediately.
Indirect Questions
Learn how to form indirect questions using 'که' (ke - that) after the verb 'پرسیدن'. For example: 'او از من پرسید که چرا دیر کردهام.' (He asked me why I was late).
Observe Native Speakers
Pay attention to how native Persian speakers use 'پرسیدن' in movies, songs, and daily conversations. Note the context, the objects they ask about, and the surrounding phrases.
Write Your Own Questions
Write down five questions you would like to ask in Persian about everyday topics. Then, try to answer them yourself or have a tutor check them.
Distinguish from 'گفتن'
Always remember that 'پرسیدن' is for asking, and 'گفتن' is for telling. They are opposites in terms of information flow.
Formal vs. Informal
While 'پرسیدن' is versatile, be aware that in very formal settings, 'استفسار کردن' might be used for specific inquiries. However, 'پرسیدن' is generally safe for most situations.
Ask, Ask, Ask!
The best way to learn is to practice. Don't hesitate to ask questions, whether it's about the language itself or anything else. The more you ask, the more you'll learn and improve.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person 'purring' (like a cat) to get your attention before they 'see' (سی) what you're doing and then ask you a question. 'Purr-see-dan'.
Visual Association
Picture someone pointing to their ear, then to their mouth, and then making a question mark gesture. The ear represents listening, the mouth represents speaking (asking), and the question mark is the act of asking.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to ask five different people five different things in Persian within a day. Record yourself asking and try to use 'پرسیدن' correctly in each instance.
Word Origin
The word 'پرسیدن' has ancient roots in the Iranian languages. It is derived from Middle Persian 'prsyťn' and ultimately from Old Persian 'parsa-'. This root is related to the concept of inquiry and seeking.
Original meaning: The original meaning was likely 'to inquire' or 'to seek knowledge'.
Indo-Iranian, specifically Iranian.Cultural Context
While asking questions is encouraged, it's important to be mindful of privacy and cultural taboos. Asking about personal finances, marital status (especially for unmarried individuals), or very personal matters might be considered intrusive depending on the relationship and context.
In English-speaking cultures, the act of asking is also fundamental, but the specific social norms around when and how to ask can vary. For example, directness in asking questions might be perceived differently across cultures.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Asking for directions in a city.
- ببخشید، این آدرس کجاست؟
- لطفاً راه را به من نشان دهید.
- چگونه میتوانم به میدان اصلی بروم؟
- آیا این مسیر درست است؟
Shopping in a bazaar or store.
- قیمت این چقدر است؟
- آیا این جنس را دارید؟
- میتوانم آن را ببینم؟
- تخفیف میدهید؟
Social greetings and inquiries.
- سلام، حال شما چطور است؟
- خانواده خوب هستند؟
- شما اهل کجا هستید؟
- شغلتان چیست؟
In a classroom or learning environment.
- استاد، من یک سوال دارم.
- آیا میتوانید این را دوباره توضیح دهید؟
- این کلمه چه معنایی دارد؟
- برای امتحان چه چیزهایی باید بخوانیم؟
Asking for basic information (time, date, etc.).
- ساعت چند است؟
- امروز چه روزی است؟
- تاریخ تولد شما کی است؟
- شماره تلفن شما چیست؟
Conversation Starters
"سلام! حالتان چطور است؟ امیدوارم روز خوبی داشته باشید."
"ببخشید، مزاحم شدم. میخواستم یک سوال بپرسم."
"شما اینجا زندگی میکنید؟ من تازه به این شهر آمدهام."
"این کتاب جالبی به نظر میرسد. در مورد چیست؟"
"هوا امروز خیلی خوب است، نه؟"
Journal Prompts
امروز چه سوالاتی در ذهن شما بود؟ آیا توانستید جوابشان را پیدا کنید؟
چه زمانی آخرین بار بود که از کسی سوالی پرسیدید و جوابش شما را شگفتزده کرد؟
چه سوالی است که همیشه دوست داشتهاید بپرسید اما فرصتش پیش نیامده؟
چه نوع سوالاتی باعث یادگیری بیشتر شما میشود؟ سوالات باز یا سوالات بسته؟
اگر میتوانستید از هر کسی در دنیا سوالی بپرسید، از او چه میپرسیدید و چرا؟
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe most common and versatile verb for 'to ask' in Persian is 'پرسیدن' (pore-si-dan). It's used in almost all situations where you need to inquire about something, from asking for directions to asking about someone's well-being. You'll hear and use it constantly in everyday conversation.
The past tense stem for 'پرسیدن' is 'پرسیدـ' (porsid-). You add personal endings to this stem. For example: 'من پرسیدم' (man porsidam - I asked), 'تو پرسیدی' (to porsidi - you asked), 'او پرسید' (ou porsid - he/she asked), 'ما پرسیدیم' (mâ porsidim - we asked), 'شما پرسیدید' (shomâ porsidid - you plural asked), 'آنها پرسیدند' (ânhâ porsidand - they asked).
'پرسیدن' is a general verb meaning 'to ask'. 'سوال کردن' literally means 'to do a question' and is often used in more formal or written contexts. In everyday spoken Persian, 'پرسیدن' is usually preferred due to its simplicity and broader usage. For example, 'من از او پرسیدم' (I asked him) is more common than 'من از او سوال کردم' (I did a question to him).
The particle 'را' (ra) is typically used after the direct object when it is specific. So, when you ask for a specific thing, you often use 'را'. For example: 'من نام شما را پرسیدم' (Man nâm-e shomâ râ porsidam - I asked your name). If the object is indefinite or more general, 'را' might be omitted, but using it with specific objects is very common and often sounds more natural.
While 'پرسیدن' is primarily for seeking information, it can sometimes be used in contexts that imply asking for permission, especially in informal speech. However, for more formal requests for permission, verbs like 'اجازه خواستن' (ejâze khâstan - to ask for permission) or 'درخواست کردن' (darkhâst kardan - to request) are more precise. For example, 'آیا میتوانم این را بپرسم؟' (Can I ask this?) might imply asking for permission to ask a question.
The most direct way is 'اسم شما چیست؟' (Esm-e shomâ chist?). If you want to use the verb 'پرسیدن', you could say: 'من اسم شما را میپرسم.' (Man esm-e shomâ râ mi-porsam - I am asking your name.) or 'میتوانم اسم شما را بپرسم؟' (Mi-tavânam esm-e shomâ râ be-porsam? - May I ask your name?).
Yes, 'استفسار کردن' (estefsâr kardan) is a more formal way to inquire, often used in official contexts. 'بازخواست کردن' (bâzkhâst kardan) means to question formally, often for accountability. 'جستجو کردن' (josteju kardan) means 'to search', which is related to finding information but not directly asking someone. 'پرسیدن' remains the most common and versatile.
The imperative form depends on the person. For 'تو' (you, singular informal), it's 'بپرس' (be-por). For 'شما' (you, plural or formal), it's 'بپرسید' (be-porsid). For example, 'لطفاً سوالی بپرس.' (Please ask a question - to one person) or 'لطفاً سوالی بپرسید.' (Please ask a question - to multiple people or formally).
The most common phrase is 'حال شما چطور است؟' (Hâl-e shomâ chetor ast?). You can also say 'چطوری؟' (Chetori? - informal, to one person). While not directly using 'پرسیدن', it's a common social inquiry, a form of asking about someone's state.
Primarily, 'پرسیدن' is for information. For asking for favors or requesting things, verbs like 'درخواست کردن' (darkhâst kardan - to request) or 'خواهش کردن' (khâhesh kardan - to ask/beg) are more appropriate. For example, 'من از او کمک خواستم' (I asked him for help) uses 'خواستن' (to want/ask for).
Test Yourself 142 questions
Write a sentence asking for someone's name.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence saying 'I asked for the address'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence asking why someone is late.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence asking about someone's well-being.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence asking for clarification on a complex topic.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence asking if someone is prepared for a meeting.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a reporter asking challenging questions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about needing to ask experts about all aspects of a matter.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about uncovering hidden motivations by asking deep questions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about asking questions from various angles for a comprehensive understanding.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about asking fundamental questions in the philosophy of science.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about how asking the right questions at the right time can change the fate of agreements in diplomatic negotiations.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
/ 142 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The Persian verb 'پرسیدن' (pore-si-dan) is the fundamental way to 'ask' for information. It's used in virtually all contexts where you need to inquire about something, from simple greetings to complex questions. Mastering its conjugation and common sentence structures, especially the use of 'را' with the object, is crucial for effective communication.
- Core verb: 'to ask' (پرسیدن).
- Used for seeking information.
- Essential for basic communication.
- Conjugation is key.
Master the Stems
Learn the present stem ('پرسـ') and past stem ('پرسیدـ') of 'پرسیدن'. This will make conjugating the verb in different tenses much easier. Practice forming sentences with various subjects and tenses.
Use 'را' Correctly
When asking about a specific object, remember to use the particle 'را' after it. For instance, 'من نام شما را پرسیدم' (I asked your name) is more natural than 'من نام شما پرسیدم'.
Focus on Stress
The stress in 'پرسیدن' falls on the second syllable: پرسیــدَن. Practicing this rhythm will make your pronunciation clearer and more native-like.
Learn Common Objects
Learn common things people ask about: 'اسم' (name), 'آدرس' (address), 'قیمت' (price), 'ساعت' (time), 'راه' (way). This will allow you to form practical questions immediately.
Related Content
Related Phrases
More communication words
اعلام کردن
A2To announce; to declare.
اعلامیه
A1A formal public statement or declaration; an announcement.
عبارت
A2Phrase; expression; statement.
عنوان
A2The name of a book, composition, or other artistic work; a title or heading.
عصر بخیر
A1Good evening.
عذرخواهی
A2An expression of regret for an offense or failure.
عذرخواهی کردن
A2To express regret for something one has done wrong.
عذرخواستن
A2To express regret for something wrong you have done.
آدرس دادن
A2To provide information about a location or residence.
آدرس دهی
A2The process of indicating the location of something, typically on mail or digitally.
