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Vocabulary
رقم زدن

B1 verb #4,000 most common 9 min read

رقم زدن

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips رقم زدن in 30 Seconds

Explanation رقم زدن in your Level:

At the A1 level, you might not use the verb 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan) yourself, but it is helpful to know that 'ragham' means 'number.' At this early stage, you are learning how to count and say simple things like 'I have two apples.' You won't see this verb in your basic textbooks because it is quite advanced in its usage. However, if you see it, just remember it has something to do with numbers or making something happen. For now, focus on the word 'ragham' (number) and the verb 'zadan' (to hit/strike). You will see 'zadan' in many other common phrases like 'piano zadan' (to play piano) or 'harf zadan' (to talk). Think of 'ragham zadan' as a more complex cousin of these simple verbs. It is like a secret code for 'making a big number happen.' Even though it is a B1 level word, knowing that Persian uses 'hitting' or 'striking' to mean 'doing' or 'performing' is a great first step in understanding how the language works. Don't worry about using it in your daily conversations yet; just recognize it as a 'strong' version of 'to do' or 'to make.'

As an A2 learner, you are starting to understand compound verbs better. You know that 'zadan' is used in many ways. You might encounter 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan) in simple news stories or sports reports. At this level, you should understand it as 'to achieve a score' or 'to set a record.' For example, if you see a headline about a football match, and it says 'Goli ra ragham zad,' you can understand that someone scored a goal. You are also learning about the object marker 'ra,' so you will notice it being used here: 'Record-ra ragham zad.' Start associating this verb with achievements. If someone does something great, like getting a 100 on a test, you might jokingly say they 'marked a good number.' It's a step up from 'neveshtan' (to write) or 'dorost kardan' (to make). You are beginning to see that Persian verbs can be very expressive. Try to remember this verb as part of a 'success' vocabulary. It's about doing something that people will notice and remember.

At the B1 level, this is a key verb for you to master. You are now moving beyond basic survival Persian into more expressive and professional language. 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan) is perfect for describing your goals, your achievements, and significant events. You should be able to use it to talk about your career, your studies, or even historical events you've read about. Instead of always saying 'ijad kard' (he created) or 'shod' (it became), you can use 'ragham zad' to show that an action had a specific, intentional outcome. For example, 'I want to shape a better future for myself' (می‌خواهم آینده بهتری برای خودم رقم بزنم). This level is all about nuance. You understand that this verb isn't for writing phone numbers; it's for 'marking' history or 'achieving' milestones. You can use it in writing essays or giving short presentations. It makes your Persian sound more natural and sophisticated. You should also be comfortable with its different tenses—past, present, and future—and how it interacts with direct objects. This is one of those 'power verbs' that elevates your speaking from 'basic' to 'intermediate.'

At the B2 level, you should be using 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan) fluently in various contexts, including business, politics, and literature. You understand the metaphorical weight it carries. You can use it to discuss complex topics like economic shifts or social changes. For example, you might analyze how a specific policy 'marked a new era' (dowre-ye jadidi ra ragham zad) for a country. You are also aware of the passive-like alternative 'ragham khordan' and when to use it to describe events from a more objective or observational perspective. Your vocabulary is rich enough to compare 'ragham zadan' with its synonyms like 'tahavvol ijad kardan' (to create a transformation) and explain why 'ragham zadan' might be a more poetic choice. You can handle the verb in complex sentence structures, including conditional sentences and relative clauses. You might even notice it in Persian poetry or contemporary novels, where it's used to describe the hand of fate or the power of the individual. At this stage, it's not just a word you know; it's a tool you use to add emphasis and drama to your narrative.

For a C1 learner, 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan) is a versatile instrument in your linguistic repertoire. You use it with precision to convey specific shades of meaning. You understand its historical and cultural connotations—how it resonates with the idea of 'destiny' (ghadar/ghadr) in Persian thought. You can use it in academic writing or high-level professional debates to describe the causal impact of certain variables. For instance, 'This variable marked the final result of the experiment.' You are sensitive to the register of the word; you know it's perfect for a formal speech but might be too 'heavy' for a casual chat over coffee unless used ironically. You can also identify and use idiomatic expressions that might incorporate this verb or similar concepts. Your mastery of Persian allows you to play with the verb, perhaps using it in a creative writing context to describe a character 'striking the numbers of their own life.' You are no longer just learning the word; you are exploring its depths and using it to express complex, abstract thoughts about human agency and the flow of time.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'رقم زدن' (ragham zadan). You understand its most subtle nuances and can use it in any stylistic context, from the most formal diplomatic communiqués to the most avant-garde literature. You are aware of its etymological roots and how the concept of 'striking a figure' has evolved through centuries of Persian literature. You can use it to engage in deep philosophical discussions about determinism versus free will—whether we 'mark' our fate or our fate is 'marked' for us. You can effortlessly switch between 'ragham zadan' and its most obscure synonyms to achieve the perfect rhetorical effect. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You might even use it in wordplay or complex metaphors that only a high-level speaker would appreciate. For you, the verb is part of a larger web of meaning that connects mathematics, history, and the human spirit. You are not just using a verb; you are participating in a long-standing linguistic tradition of describing how humans make their mark on the world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

رقم زدن in 30 Seconds

To achieve a significant figure, score, or milestone in sports or finance.
To actively shape, determine, or create a major outcome, destiny, or historical event.
A formal compound verb used in news, sports commentary, and professional contexts.
Implies agency and the intentional creation of a lasting impact or record.

The Persian compound verb رقم زدن (ragham zadan) is a fascinating linguistic construct that bridges the gap between the concrete world of mathematics and the abstract realm of destiny and achievement. At its most basic level, the word ragham means a digit, a number, or a figure, while zadan is a versatile auxiliary verb meaning to hit, strike, or perform. When combined, they literally suggest the act of 'striking a figure' or 'marking a number.' However, in modern Persian, its usage has evolved far beyond simple bookkeeping. It is most frequently employed to describe the act of achieving a significant score, reaching a statistical milestone, or, more poetically, shaping the course of history or one's fate. Imagine a football player who scores a winning goal; the commentator might say he 'marked a new number' for his team. This verb implies an active, decisive role in bringing a specific outcome into existence. It is not a passive occurrence; it is an intentional act of creation or accomplishment. Whether you are talking about a company reaching a million dollars in profit or a revolutionary movement changing the destiny of a nation, this verb captures the essence of transformative action. It is found in sports journalism, financial reports, and high-level political discourse, making it a versatile tool for any intermediate learner. In the context of numbers, it suggests that the figure achieved is noteworthy or record-breaking. In the context of life, it suggests that the individual is the architect of their own path. This duality is what makes it so powerful in the Persian language.

Literal Meaning: To strike or mark a digit/number.
Figurative Meaning: To determine, shape, or create a significant outcome or destiny.
Sports Usage: To achieve a score or set a new record in a competition.

تیم ما توانست پیروزی بزرگی را در تاریخ ورزش کشور رقم بزند.

Translation: Our team managed to mark/achieve a great victory in the history of the country's sports.

او با تلاش خود، سرنوشت جدیدی برای خانواده‌اش رقم زد.

Translation: With his effort, he shaped/created a new destiny for his family.

این شرکت در سال گذشته سود بی‌سابقه‌ای را رقم زد.

Translation: This company achieved/recorded an unprecedented profit last year.

دانشمندان امیدوارند آینده‌ای روشن برای بشریت رقم بزنند.

Translation: Scientists hope to shape a bright future for humanity.

قهرمان داستان با شجاعت خود، پیروزی نهایی را رقم زد.

Translation: The hero of the story, with his courage, brought about the final victory.

Using رقم زدن correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure as a compound verb. The noun 'ragham' remains static, while the verb 'zadan' conjugates to match the subject and tense. Because it is a transitive verb, it almost always takes a direct object—the thing that is being achieved or shaped. For example, if you are talking about a record (rekord), you would say 'rekord ra ragham zad' (He/She set the record). It is important to note the use of the object marker 'ra' in these sentences. The verb is particularly effective when you want to sound professional or impactful. In a business meeting, instead of saying 'we made a lot of money,' you might say 'we achieved a high figure of profit,' using this verb to add a layer of sophistication. It is also used frequently in the passive voice in news headlines, such as 'A new chapter in history was marked' (Fasle jadidi dar tarikh ragham khord). Note that in the passive or intransitive sense, 'zadan' can change to 'khordan' (to be struck/marked), though 'ragham zadan' itself is the active form you will use most. When constructing sentences, think about the magnitude of the event. Small, everyday actions like 'making tea' would never use this verb. It is reserved for events that have a measurable or significant impact. Whether it is a statistical achievement in a laboratory or a life-changing decision, 'ragham zadan' implies that a mark has been left on the world. You can use it in the past tense to describe completed achievements, in the present to describe ongoing efforts to change a situation, or in the future to express goals and aspirations. The richness of this verb lies in its ability to make the speaker sound determined and the action sound monumental.

Active Construction: [Subject] + [Object] + را + رقم زد. (e.g., Ali record-ra ragham zad.)
Future Intent: می‌خواهم آینده‌ام را خودم رقم بزنم. (I want to shape my own future.)
Passive Alternative: رقم خوردن (To be marked/to occur significantly).

او توانست با این گل، پیروزی تیمش را رقم بزند.

Translation: He was able to secure (mark) his team's victory with this goal.

سیاست‌های جدید اقتصادی، تحول بزرگی را رقم زده‌اند.

Translation: The new economic policies have brought about (marked) a great transformation.

If you turn on an Iranian news channel like IRINN or listen to a sports broadcast on Radio Varzesh, you will hear رقم زدن almost daily. Sports commentators are particularly fond of it. When a weightlifter breaks a world record, the announcer won't just say 'he broke the record'; they will say 'he marked a new figure for the world' (rekorde jadidi ra baraye jahan ragham zad). This adds a sense of drama and permanence to the achievement. In political and social contexts, you'll hear it during election cycles. Politicians often promise to 'shape a better future' (ayandeye behtari ra ragham bezanand) for the voters. It is a word of agency and power. You will also encounter it in historical documentaries where narrators describe how certain battles or decisions 'shaped the history of the region.' In the world of finance, it appears in reports describing market trends or company growth. For instance, 'The tech sector marked a significant growth this quarter.' Even in literature and motivational speaking, it is used to encourage people to take control of their lives. A life coach might tell their audience, 'You are the ones who mark your own destiny.' Because it sounds more formal and impactful than synonyms like 'ijad kardan' (to create) or 'anjam dadan' (to do), it is preferred in any context where the speaker wants to emphasize the importance or the lasting effect of an action. It is not a slang word, but it is very common in standard, educated speech and media Persian.

News Media: Reporting on major events, diplomatic breakthroughs, or economic shifts.
Sports Commentary: Describing goals, records, and tournament victories.
Motivational Speaking: Encouraging individuals to take charge of their life and future.

گزارشگر گفت: این بازیکن امشب تاریخ‌سازی کرد و رکوردی بی‌نظیر را رقم زد.

Translation: The reporter said: This player made history tonight and achieved (marked) a unique record.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with رقم زدن is using it for trivial or mundane actions. Because the word 'ragham' (digit) is involved, some might think it's a direct substitute for 'writing a number' or 'doing math.' For example, if you are simply writing your phone number on a piece of paper, you would use 'neveshtan' (to write), not 'ragham zadan.' Using 'ragham zadan' for such a small task would sound unintentionally dramatic or even comical to a native speaker. Another mistake is confusing it with 'shomordan' (to count). While both involve numbers, 'shomordan' is the process of counting items, whereas 'ragham zadan' is about the *achievement* of a total or the creation of an outcome. Additionally, learners sometimes forget the object marker 'ra' (را). Since this verb is almost always transitive, the 'ra' is crucial for grammatical correctness in standard Persian. For instance, saying 'oo rekord ragham zad' is less correct than 'oo rekord-ra ragham zad.' There is also a nuance between 'ragham zadan' and 'ijad kardan' (to create). While you can 'create' a problem (moshkel ijad kardan), you generally don't 'ragham zadan' a problem unless it's a massive, history-altering disaster. 'Ragham zadan' usually carries a connotation of a significant, often positive or at least monumental achievement. Finally, be careful with the passive form. Learners often try to force 'ragham zadan' into a passive structure using 'shodan,' but in many contexts, native speakers prefer 'ragham khordan' (to be struck/marked) to describe events that unfolded. Understanding these subtle boundaries will help you use the verb with the precision of a native speaker.

Mistake: Trivial Tasks: Don't use it for writing a simple number. Use 'neveshtan' instead.
Mistake: Missing 'Ra': Always include the object marker when referring to a specific record or fate.
Mistake: Confusion with Counting: 'Shomordan' is to count; 'Ragham zadan' is to achieve/shape.

When you want to express the idea of creating or achieving something, Persian offers several alternatives to رقم زدن, each with its own flavor. The most common synonym is ایجاد کردن (ijad kardan), which means 'to create' or 'to bring about.' While 'ijad kardan' is neutral and can be used for anything from creating a file on a computer to creating a new law, 'ragham zadan' is more evocative and suggests a milestone. Another close relative is به وجود آوردن (be vojud avardan), meaning 'to bring into existence.' This is often used for physical things or abstract concepts like 'bringing about change.' However, 'ragham zadan' specifically implies that a certain *level* or *figure* has been reached. For achievements in sports or business, ثبت کردن (sabt kardan), meaning 'to record' or 'to register,' is a frequent alternative. You 'register' a record in the books, but you 'mark' (ragham zadan) a record to emphasize the feat itself. In the context of destiny, تعیین کردن (ta'yin kardan), meaning 'to determine' or 'to specify,' is often used. While 'ta'yin kardan' is more clinical and administrative, 'ragham zadan' is more poetic and dramatic. For example, a judge 'determines' a sentence, but a hero 'shapes' (ragham zadan) the fate of a nation. Understanding these differences allows you to choose the word that best fits the 'weight' of the situation you are describing. If you want to sound like a news anchor or a storyteller, 'ragham zadan' is your best bet. If you want to be direct and simple, 'ijad kardan' or 'anjam dadan' (to do/perform) will suffice.

رقم زدن vs. ایجاد کردن: 'Ragham zadan' is for milestones and destiny; 'Ijad kardan' is for general creation.
رقم زدن vs. ثبت کردن: 'Sabt kardan' focuses on the act of recording; 'Ragham zadan' focuses on the act of achieving.
رقم زدن vs. تعیین کردن: 'Ta'yin kardan' is administrative/decisive; 'Ragham zadan' is impactful/transformative.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"این کنفرانس می‌تواند فصلی نوین در همکاری‌های بین‌المللی رقم بزند."

Neutral

"او با تلاش زیاد، موفقیت بزرگی را رقم زد."

Informal

"دمش گرم، عجب رکوردی رقم زد!"

Child friendly

"تو می‌توانی با درس خواندن، آینده خوبی برای خودت رقم بزنی."

Slang

"ترکوند و یه برد خفن رقم زد."

Fun Fact

The English word 'rack' in 'rack up points' is a conceptual parallel to 'ragham zadan', though they are not etymologically related.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ræ.ˈɡæm zæ.ˈdæn/

US /ræ.ˈɡɑːm zæ.ˈdæn/

The primary stress is on the last syllable of the noun 'ra-GHAM' and the last syllable of the verb 'za-DAN'.

Rhymes With

Adam (human) Ghadam (step) Alam (flag) Ghalam (pen) Sanam (idol) Haram (sanctuary) Karam (generosity) Varam (swelling)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'gh' as a hard 'g' like in 'go'.
Stress on the first syllable of 'ragham'.
Mixing up the 'a' sounds (short 'a' vs long 'a').
Merging the two words into one without a slight pause.
Mispronouncing the 'z' as a 'j' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in headlines once you know 'ragham' and 'zadan'.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct use of 'ra' and understanding which nouns it collocates with.

Speaking 4/5

A bit formal for casual speech, but great for sounding sophisticated.

Listening 3/5

Very common in media; easy to pick out in sports or news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

رقم (digit) زدن (to hit) عدد (number) نوشتن (to write) ساختن (to build)

Learn Next

سرنوشت (destiny) تحول (transformation) حماسه (epic) ثبت کردن (to register) ایجاد کردن (to create)

Advanced

مقدر شدن (to be predestined) تکوین یافتن (to be formed/evolved) به منصه ظهور رساندن (to bring to fruition) محقق ساختن (to make a reality) ترسیم کردن (to portray/draw)

Grammar to Know

Compound Verbs with 'Zadan'

حرف زدن، پیانو زدن، رقم زدن

Direct Object Marker 'Ra'

او رکورد را رقم زد.

Subjunctive Mood for Intent

می‌خواهم آینده‌ام را رقم بزنم.

Present Perfect for Recent Achievements

او پیروزی بزرگی را رقم زده است.

Passive Construction with 'Khordan'

سرنوشت او اینگونه رقم خورد.

Examples by Level

او یک رقم نوشت.

He wrote a digit.

A1 students learn 'ragham' as a simple noun for 'digit'.

این رقم چند است؟

What is this number?

Using 'ragham' in a basic question.

من ارقام را دوست دارم.

I like digits/numbers.

Simple plural form of 'ragham'.

او رقم را زد.

He struck the number (literal).

Literal use of the compound parts.

رقم یک بزرگ است.

The number one is big.

Basic adjective-noun agreement.

او ارقام را می‌شناسد.

He knows the digits.

Simple present tense.

ما رقم زدیم.

We marked/hit the number.

Simple past tense, first person plural.

آیا این رقم است؟

Is this a digit?

Basic interrogative.

تیم ما یک گل رقم زد.

Our team scored (marked) a goal.

A2 usage focusing on sports achievements.

او رکورد جدیدی رقم زد.

He set (marked) a new record.

Using 'record' as the object.

آنها پیروزی را رقم زدند.

They achieved (marked) the victory.

Plural subject with past tense.

او آینده‌اش را رقم می‌زند.

He is shaping (marking) his future.

Present continuous sense of shaping destiny.

این بازی سرنوشت را رقم زد.

This game determined (marked) the fate.

Using 'sarnevesht' (fate) as the object.

او توانست عدد بزرگی رقم بزند.

He was able to achieve (mark) a large number.

Using 'tavanestan' (to be able) with the verb.

ما باید موفقیت را رقم بزنیم.

We must achieve (mark) success.

Using the modal 'bayad' (must).

او با تلاش خود تغییر را رقم زد.

With his effort, he brought about (marked) change.

Using 'ba' (with) to show means.

او با این حرکت، تاریخ را رقم زد.

With this move, he shaped (marked) history.

B1 focus on historical/monumental impact.

شرکت ما سود زیادی را رقم زده است.

Our company has achieved (marked) a lot of profit.

Present perfect tense usage.

می‌خواهم برای خودم زندگی بهتری رقم بزنم.

I want to create (mark) a better life for myself.

Subjunctive mood after 'می‌خواهم'.

این قهرمان رکوردی جهانی رقم زد.

This hero set (marked) a world record.

Adjective 'jahani' (world) modifying 'record'.

تصمیم او تحول بزرگی را رقم خواهد زد.

His decision will bring about (mark) a great transformation.

Future tense usage.

آنها توانستند سرنوشت جنگ را رقم بزنند.

They were able to determine (mark) the fate of the war.

Compound object 'sarnevesht-e jang'.

این هنرمند سبک جدیدی را رقم زد.

This artist created (marked) a new style.

Using 'sabk' (style) as the object.

او با شجاعت خود پیروزی نهایی را رقم زد.

With his courage, he secured (marked) the final victory.

Focus on the cause (courage) leading to the outcome.

سیاست‌های جدید اقتصادی، دورانی طلایی را رقم زدند.

The new economic policies marked a golden era.

B2 usage with abstract time periods like 'dowran-e talayi'.

او با قلم خود، انقلابی در ادبیات رقم زد.

With his pen, he created (marked) a revolution in literature.

Metaphorical use of 'ghalam' (pen) as a tool of change.

این کشف علمی، آینده بشریت را رقم خواهد زد.

This scientific discovery will shape (mark) the future of humanity.

High-level scientific context.

برخی معتقدند که ما سرنوشت خود را رقم می‌زنیم.

Some believe that we shape (mark) our own destiny.

Complex sentence structure with 'mo'taghedand ke'.

او در آخرین لحظه، نتیجه بازی را رقم زد.

In the last moment, he determined (marked) the game's result.

Focus on timing and decisive action.

این قرارداد تجاری، سود هنگفتی را رقم زد.

This business contract brought about (marked) a massive profit.

Using 'hongofat' (massive) for emphasis.

تلاش‌های صلح‌طلبانه، فصلی جدید در روابط رقم زد.

Peaceful efforts marked a new chapter in relations.

Metaphorical 'fasl' (chapter).

او با فداکاری‌اش، حماسه‌ای را رقم زد.

With his sacrifice, he created (marked) an epic.

Using 'hamaseh' (epic) for grand achievements.

نخبگان جامعه با اندیشه‌های خود، مسیر تاریخ را رقم می‌زنند.

The elites of society shape (mark) the course of history with their thoughts.

C1 usage in social and philosophical discourse.

این بحران می‌تواند فاجعه‌ای جبران‌ناپذیر را رقم بزند.

This crisis could bring about (mark) an irreparable disaster.

Using 'jobran-napazir' (irreparable) for high stakes.

او چنان رکوردی رقم زد که تا سال‌ها شکسته نخواهد شد.

He set such a record that it won't be broken for years.

Consecutive clause with 'chonan... ke'.

تعاملات فرهنگی، پیوندهای عمیقی را میان ملت‌ها رقم زده است.

Cultural interactions have forged (marked) deep bonds between nations.

Using 'peyvand' (bond) in a diplomatic context.

شاعر با کلام خود، فضایی معنوی را رقم می‌زند.

The poet creates (marks) a spiritual atmosphere with his words.

Abstract artistic creation.

این انتخابات می‌تواند تغییرات ساختاری بزرگی را رقم بزند.

This election could bring about (mark) major structural changes.

Political science terminology 'sakhtari' (structural).

او با پشتکار خود، موفقیتی چشمگیر را رقم زد.

With his perseverance, he achieved (marked) a striking success.

Using 'cheshmgir' (striking/eye-catching).

هنر می‌تواند آینده‌ای صلح‌آمیز را رقم بزند.

Art can shape (mark) a peaceful future.

Abstract potential of art.

تقدیر چنین رقم زده بود که آنها دوباره یکدیگر را ببینند.

Fate had so ordained (marked) that they should meet again.

C2 usage with 'taghdir' (fate/destiny) as the subject.

او با نگاهی ژرف، پارادایم جدیدی را در علم رقم زد.

With a profound gaze, he established (marked) a new paradigm in science.

Using academic terms like 'paradigm'.

این فیلسوف، سرنوشت اندیشه غربی را رقم زد.

This philosopher shaped (marked) the fate of Western thought.

High-level intellectual history context.

اراده جمعی مردم، سقوط استبداد را رقم زد.

The collective will of the people brought about (marked) the fall of tyranny.

Political philosophy context 'erade-ye jam'i' (collective will).

او با ایثار خود، برگی زرین در تاریخ رقم زد.

With his self-sacrifice, he marked a golden page in history.

Idiomatic 'bargh-e zarrin' (golden page).

تکنولوژی نوین، زیست‌جهان متفاوتی را برای ما رقم زده است.

Modern technology has shaped (marked) a different lifeworld for us.

Phenomenological term 'zist-jahan' (lifeworld).

شعر حافظ، پیوندی ناگسستنی میان عشق و عرفان رقم زده است.

Hafez's poetry has forged (marked) an unbreakable bond between love and mysticism.

Literary analysis context.

او با تصمیمی متهورانه، پیروزی ناممکنی را رقم زد.

With a daring decision, he achieved (marked) an impossible victory.

Using 'motahvaraneh' (daring/reckless).

Common Collocations

رکورد رقم زدن

سرنوشت رقم زدن

تاریخ رقم زدن

پیروزی رقم زدن

سود رقم زدن

تحول رقم زدن

آینده رقم زدن

نتیجه رقم زدن

حماسه رقم زدن

فاجعه رقم زدن

Common Phrases

رقم زدن سرنوشت

— To determine one's fate. It implies taking control of one's life.

هر کسی مسئول رقم زدن سرنوشت خویش است.

رقم زدن رکورد

— To set a new record. Used mostly in sports and data.

او توانست در دو میدانی رکورد جدیدی رقم بزند.

رقم زدن تاریخ

— To make history. Used for events that change the course of time.

این پیروزی، تاریخ جدیدی برای کشور رقم زد.

رقم زدن آینده

— To shape the future. Often used in motivational contexts.

بیایید با هم آینده‌ای روشن رقم بزنیم.

رقم زدن پیروزی

— To secure a victory. Used when a specific action leads to winning.

مهارت او پیروزی تیم را رقم زد.

رقم زدن شکست

— To cause a defeat. Used when an action leads to losing.

این اشتباه، شکست تلخی را رقم زد.

رقم زدن تحول

— To bring about a transformation. Used for major changes.

تکنولوژی تحول بزرگی در زندگی ما رقم زده است.

رقم زدن خاطره

— To create a memory. Used for significant life events.

آن شب خاطره‌ای زیبا برای ما رقم زد.

رقم زدن حماسه

— To create an epic feat. Used for heroic or legendary acts.

مردم با حضور خود حماسه‌ای دیگر رقم زدند.

رقم زدن نتیجه

— To determine the final result. Used for decisive moments.

داور با سوت خود نتیجه را رقم زد.

Often Confused With

رقم زدن vs نوشتن (neveshtan)

Don't use 'ragham zadan' for just writing down a number on paper.

رقم زدن vs شمردن (shomordan)

Counting is 'shomordan'; achieving a total is 'ragham zadan'.

رقم زدن vs زدن (zadan)

On its own, 'zadan' means 'to hit'. Only in this compound does it mean 'to achieve/shape'.

Idioms & Expressions

"برگی زرین رقم زدن"

— To create a 'golden page' in history, meaning a very proud and honorable achievement.

او با قهرمانی خود برگی زرین در تاریخ ورزش رقم زد.

Formal/Literary

"تقدیر رقم زدن"

— To have destiny ordain something. Often used to describe events beyond human control.

تقدیر چنین رقم زده بود که ما با هم آشنا شویم.

Literary/Poetic

"فصلی نو رقم زدن"

— To mark a new chapter. Used for fresh starts or major shifts.

این توافق فصلی نو در روابط دو کشور رقم زد.

Formal/Journalistic

"حماسه‌ای ماندگار رقم زدن"

— To create an eternal epic. Used for legendary achievements.

شهدا حماسه‌ای ماندگار در تاریخ رقم زدند.

Formal/Patriotic

"رکوردی بی‌نظیر رقم زدن"

— To set a unique record. Used for unprecedented feats.

او در کنکور رکوردی بی‌نظیر رقم زد.

Neutral/Formal

"آینده‌ای متفاوت رقم زدن"

— To shape a different future. Used for transformative actions.

آموزش می‌تواند آینده‌ای متفاوت برای کودکان رقم بزند.

Formal/Educational

"سرنوشتی شوم رقم زدن"

— To mark a dark or ill-fated destiny.

جنگ سرنوشتی شوم برای آن منطقه رقم زد.

Literary

"پایانی خوش رقم زدن"

— To create a happy ending.

او تلاش کرد تا برای داستانش پایانی خوش رقم بزند.

Neutral

"تحولی بنیادین رقم زدن"

— To bring about a fundamental transformation.

این اختراع تحولی بنیادین در پزشکی رقم زد.

Academic/Formal

"شکستی سنگین رقم زدن"

— To cause a heavy defeat.

باران سنگین شکستی تلخ برای کشاورزان رقم زد.

Neutral/Journalistic

Easily Confused

رقم زدن vs ثبت کردن

Both are used for records.

'Sabt kardan' is the administrative act of recording; 'ragham zadan' is the act of achieving the feat.

او رکورد را ثبت کرد (He registered the record). او رکورد را رقم زد (He achieved/set the record).

رقم زدن vs ایجاد کردن

Both mean creating something.

'Ijad kardan' is general; 'ragham zadan' is for high-impact milestones.

او یک فایل ایجاد کرد (He created a file). او تحولی رقم زد (He shaped a transformation).

رقم زدن vs تعیین کردن

Both relate to determining outcomes.

'Ta'yin kardan' is about choosing/specifying; 'ragham zadan' is about the grand result.

زمان را تعیین کردیم (We determined the time). سرنوشت را رقم زدیم (We shaped fate).

رقم زدن vs انجام دادن

General 'to do' vs specific 'to achieve'.

'Anjam dadan' is just finishing a task; 'ragham zadan' is making a mark.

کار را انجام داد (He did the job). حماسه‌ای رقم زد (He created an epic).

رقم زدن vs کشیدن

Sometimes 'marking' is confused with 'drawing'.

'Keshidan' is for drawing lines/pictures; 'ragham zadan' is for figures and fates.

نقاشی کشید (He drew a painting). رکورد رقم زد (He set a record).

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] [Number] [Noun] ragham zad.

او دو گل رقم زد.

[Subject] [Record/Fate] ra ragham zad.

او رکورد را رقم زد.

[Subject] tavanest [Object] ra ragham bezanad.

تیم توانست پیروزی را رقم بزند.

[Event] [Chapter/Era] jadidi ra ragham zad.

این کشف فصلی جدید رقم زد.

Ba [Effort/Tool], [Result] ra ragham zadan.

با تلاش خود، موفقیت را رقم زدند.

[Subject] chonan [Object] ragham zad ke...

او چنان رکوردی رقم زد که همه تعجب کردند.

[Abstract Subject] masir-e [History/Life] ra ragham mi-zanad.

اندیشه، مسیر تاریخ را رقم می‌زند.

Taghdir bar in bud ke [Event] ragham bokhord.

تقدیر بر این بود که این دیدار رقم بخورد.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in media, moderately frequent in professional settings, low frequency in simple daily chats.

Common Mistakes

او شماره تلفنش را رقم زد. → او شماره تلفنش را نوشت.
You don't 'ragham zadan' a phone number; you just 'write' (neveshtan) it. 'Ragham zadan' is for milestones.
من رقم زدم که چند سیب داریم. → من شمردم که چند سیب داریم.
To count items is 'shomordan'. 'Ragham zadan' is about the achievement of a final figure or shaping an outcome.
او رکورد رقم زد. → او رکورد را رقم زد.
In standard Persian, when referring to a specific record, the object marker 'ra' is required.
آینده رقم شد. → آینده رقم خورد.
The passive/intransitive form of 'ragham zadan' is usually 'ragham khordan', not 'ragham shodan'.
او یک چای رقم زد. → او یک چای درست کرد.
Don't use this verb for minor, everyday actions like making tea. It's too dramatic and incorrect in this context.

Tips

Don't Forget 'Ra'

Since 'ragham zadan' usually takes a specific object like 'the record' or 'my destiny', always use the object marker 'ra' (را). For example: 'Record-ra ragham zad'.

Sports Enthusiasts

If you are watching an Iranian football match, listen for this verb whenever a major goal is scored or a team wins a championship. It's the narrator's favorite word.

Sound Sophisticated

Replace 'ijad kard' (created) with 'ragham zad' when talking about your career achievements in an interview. It makes you sound more determined and professional.

Historical Impact

When writing about history, use this verb to describe the actions of great leaders. It conveys the idea that they 'marked' the timeline of the world.

Fate vs. Will

Understand that 'ragham zadan' can be used for both what we do and what 'destiny' does. It's a key word in the Persian philosophical debate between free will and fate.

The 'Gh' Sound

Make sure your 'gh' in 'ragham' is a soft, voiced sound from the back of the throat, not a hard 'g'. It's similar to the French 'r'.

Formal Situations

This is a high-register verb. Use it in essays, speeches, and formal emails to add weight to your accomplishments.

Digit + Strike

Remember the literal parts: Ragham (Digit) + Zadan (Strike). Striking a digit on a scoreboard is how you achieve a score!

Ragham vs. Sabt

Use 'ragham zadan' for the *glory* of the achievement and 'sabt kardan' for the *paperwork* of the achievement.

Time Matters

This verb is often used in the past tense to look back at success, or the future tense to set ambitious goals.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Rocking' (Ragham) drummer 'Hitting' (Zadan) the drums to set a new 'Record'.

Visual Association

Visualize a giant pen 'striking' a number on a wall, turning that number into a golden gate (the future).

Word Web

Number Digit Score Fate History Achievement Milestone Record

Challenge

Try to use 'ragham zadan' in a sentence about your biggest achievement this year. Make sure to use 'ra'.

Word Origin

The word 'ragham' comes from Arabic root R-Q-M, meaning to mark, write, or point. It entered Persian and became the standard word for digits and figures.

Original meaning: To mark or to embroider patterns; later to write numbers.

Semitic root (Arabic) integrated into Indo-European (Persian) grammar.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a positive and empowering verb.

Similar to 'to forge' (as in forging a future) or 'to rack up' (as in racking up points).

Used in modern Iranian nationalistic songs about shaping the future. Commonly found in the memoirs of Iranian political figures. Frequent in the sports headlines of newspapers like 'Khabar Varzeshi'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Sports

رکورد زدن
پیروزی رقم زدن
نتیجه را تغییر دادن
قهرمانی کسب کردن

Business

سود رقم زدن
رشد اقتصادی
بازار را گرفتن
تولید انبوه

Politics

تاریخ رقم زدن
تحول ساختاری
آینده کشور
توافق‌نامه

Personal Growth

سرنوشت خود را ساختن
تغییر رقم زدن
هدف داشتن
پشتکار

History

واقعه تاریخی
تاثیرگذار بودن
فصل جدید
میراث

Conversation Starters

"به نظر تو، ما چطور می‌توانیم آینده بهتری برای خودمان رقم بزنیم؟"

"کدام ورزشکار ایرانی توانسته است بهترین رکورد را رقم بزند؟"

"آیا فکر می‌کنی تکنولوژی سرنوشت بشر را به خوبی رقم خواهد زد؟"

"بزرگترین موفقیتی که تا به حال در زندگی‌تان رقم زده‌اید چه بوده است؟"

"چگونه یک معلم می‌تواند آینده دانش‌آموزانش را رقم بزند؟"

Journal Prompts

درباره زمانی بنویسید که توانستید یک پیروزی کوچک اما مهم را در زندگی‌تان رقم بزنید.

اگر می‌توانستید تاریخ را دوباره رقم بزنید، کدام واقعه را تغییر می‌دادید؟

برنامه‌های شما برای رقم زدن یک سال موفقیت‌آمیز چیست؟

نقش شانس در رقم زدن سرنوشت انسان چقدر است؟

چگونه می‌خواهید با کارهایتان برگی زرین در تاریخ خانواده‌تان رقم بزنید؟

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that would sound very strange. For writing numbers on paper, always use 'neveshtan'. 'Ragham zadan' is for achievements and shaping the future.

It's a bit formal. You'll hear it more in news, sports, or when someone is talking seriously about their goals. In a casual chat, you might just say 'gol zad' (scored a goal) or 'movaffagh shod' (became successful).

'Gol zadan' is specifically for scoring a goal in sports. 'Ragham zadan' can be used for the goal, but it's more likely to be used for the *victory* that the goal caused, or for a *record* of goals.

Yes, 'ragham' usually refers to a single digit (0-9), but in this verb, it represents the whole concept of a figure, score, or even a 'mark' left on history.

You use the future auxiliary 'khaham': 'ragham khaham zad', 'ragham khahi zad', etc. It's often used for promising a bright future.

Yes, it can. While often positive, you can say someone 'marked a disaster' (faje'e ragham zad) or 'caused a defeat' (shekast ragham zad) if the event was significant.

The most common way to express the passive is 'ragham khordan'. For example, 'The victory was marked' would be 'piroozi ragham khord'.

Extremely common. Iranian newspapers love this verb for its dramatic and impactful sound.

Absolutely. It's a very professional way to describe reaching profit targets or achieving market growth.

The plural is 'argham'. You might see this in phrases like 'argham-e nujumi' (astronomical figures).