سبزی فروشی
سبزی فروشی in 30 Seconds
- A 'sabzi forushi' is a Persian greengrocer or vegetable shop, essential for buying the fresh ingredients used in almost every Iranian meal.
- The word is a compound of 'sabzi' (vegetables) and 'forushi' (selling/shop), highlighting its specific focus on green produce and herbs.
- In Iranian culture, the local vegetable shop acts as a social hub where neighbors meet and interact while selecting seasonal produce.
- For language learners, it is a high-frequency A2-level word used for giving directions, planning meals, and practicing shopping-related Persian phrases.
The term سبزی فروشی (sabzi forushi) is a foundational noun in the Persian language, specifically within the Iranian cultural context. It literally translates to 'greenery selling' or 'vegetable selling,' but it refers most commonly to the physical establishment of a greengrocer or a vegetable shop. Unlike the sterile aisles of a modern Western supermarket, a traditional Persian sabzi forushi is a sensory explosion of vibrant colors, earthy smells, and social interaction. People use this word daily because fresh vegetables and herbs, known collectively as sabzi, are the cornerstone of the Iranian diet. Whether one is preparing Ghormeh Sabzi (herb stew) or the essential Sabzi Khordan (fresh herb platter served with every meal), a trip to this shop is mandatory.
- Literal Meaning
- The word is a compound of 'sabzi' (vegetables/herbs) and 'forushi' (the act or place of selling).
ببخشید، نزدیکترین سبزی فروشی کجاست؟ (Excuse me, where is the nearest greengrocer?)
In a broader sense, sabzi forushi can also refer to the occupation itself. If someone asks, 'What is your father's job?' one might reply, 'He is in the business of vegetable selling.' However, the physical shop is the primary association. In Iranian neighborhoods, the local shopkeeper often knows his customers by name, offering advice on which herbs are the freshest today or which tomatoes are best for making paste. This makes the shop a community hub where news and gossip are exchanged alongside bundles of parsley and cilantro.
- Social Context
- Shopping here involves 'ta'arof' (ritual politeness) and often a bit of bargaining or friendly banter.
آقا رضا در سبزی فروشی کار میکند. (Agha Reza works in the vegetable shop.)
The importance of this word cannot be overstated for an A2 learner. It is one of the first 'place' nouns you will need when navigating a city. It represents a move from general vocabulary to specific cultural practice. When you say you are going to the sabzi forushi, you aren't just saying you are buying food; you are participating in the rhythm of Iranian domestic life, which prioritizes fresh, seasonal produce over frozen or canned alternatives.
امروز سبزی فروشی خیلی شلوغ بود. (The greengrocer was very busy today.)
- Seasonal Usage
- The stock in a sabzi forushi changes dramatically with the seasons, from garlic scapes in spring to heavy squashes in winter.
مادرم هر روز به سبزی فروشی محله میرود. (My mother goes to the neighborhood vegetable shop every day.)
این سبزی فروشی همیشه سبزیهای تازهای دارد. (This greengrocer always has fresh vegetables.)
Using 'سبزی فروشی' in a sentence requires an understanding of Persian sentence structure, which is typically Subject-Object-Verb (SOV). Since this is a noun indicating a place, it often follows prepositions like 'be' (to), 'dar' (in), or 'az' (from). For a beginner, the most common use case is expressing the intention to go there. For example, 'Man be sabzi forushi miravam' (I am going to the vegetable shop). As you progress, you will use it to describe locations or actions taking place within that environment.
- Directional Use
- When going 'to' the shop, use the preposition 'به' (be).
باید برای خرید پیاز به سبزی فروشی بروم. (I must go to the vegetable shop to buy onions.)
Another frequent usage involves the 'Ezafe' construction, which links nouns. For instance, if you want to say 'the door of the vegetable shop,' you would say 'dar-e sabzi forushi.' This is crucial for describing specific shops or their attributes. You might also find yourself using the word when giving directions: 'Go straight until you see the vegetable shop on the corner.' This practical application makes it a high-frequency term in urban Persian.
- Locational Use
- When something is 'at' or 'in' the shop, use 'در' (dar) or 'توی' (tuye - informal).
او را در سبزی فروشی دیدم. (I saw him in the vegetable shop.)
In more complex sentences, 'sabzi forushi' can act as the subject. 'The vegetable shop is closed' becomes 'Sabzi forushi baste ast.' Notice how the noun stays the same regardless of its role as subject or object, which is a relief for English speakers used to complex declensions. However, pay attention to the plural form: 'sabzi forushi-ha' (vegetable shops), used when discussing the variety of shops in a city or market.
همه سبزی فروشیهای این خیابان گران هستند. (All the vegetable shops on this street are expensive.)
- Buying Experience
- Use 'az' (from) when you are buying something from the shop.
این سیبزمینیها را از سبزی فروشی خریدم. (I bought these potatoes from the vegetable shop.)
آیا سبزی فروشی امروز باز است؟ (Is the vegetable shop open today?)
You will hear 'سبزی فروشی' in several distinct environments, ranging from domestic planning to urban navigation. The most common place is within the home. Iranian families plan their meals around what is fresh, so you'll often hear: 'Go to the sabzi forushi and get some herbs for the stew.' It's a word embedded in the domestic routine. In the streets, especially in older neighborhoods or 'mahallehs,' the signboards will clearly state 'Sabzi Forushi' or 'Miveh va Sabzi Forushi' (Fruit and Vegetable Shop).
- In the Kitchen
- Used when deciding what to cook based on what's available at the shop.
لیست خرید را بردار و به سبزی فروشی برو. (Take the shopping list and go to the greengrocer.)
In television series or Iranian cinema, the 'sabzi forushi' is a classic setting for realistic dialogue. It’s where characters meet by chance, complain about inflation, or discuss local news. In these contexts, the word represents the pulse of ordinary life. If you are listening to Persian podcasts or news reports about the economy, you might hear it mentioned in discussions about the 'gheymat-e sabzijat' (price of vegetables) at the local shops. It is a bellwether for the cost of living.
- Giving Directions
- Used as a landmark because these shops are often distinctive and well-known in the area.
خانه ما دقیقا روبروی سبزی فروشی است. (Our house is exactly opposite the vegetable shop.)
Finally, you will hear it in marketplaces. Even in a large 'Bazaar,' there is a specific section for these shops. Vendors might call out their produce, but the general area is referred to as the 'sabzi forushi' section. For a language learner, hearing this word signifies a transition into the practical, everyday world of Persian speakers. It's not just a textbook word; it's a word you will use to survive and thrive in a Persian-speaking environment.
در مسیر برگشت، از سبزی فروشی کمی نعنا بخر. (On the way back, buy some mint from the vegetable shop.)
این محله سبزی فروشی خوبی ندارد. (This neighborhood doesn't have a good vegetable shop.)
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 'sabzi forushi' with 'miveh forushi' (fruit shop). While many shops in Iran sell both, a 'sabzi forushi' specifically implies a focus on vegetables and, crucially, leafy herbs. If you go to a dedicated 'miveh forushi' asking for a specific obscure herb like 'shanbalileh' (fenugreek), they might not have it, whereas a 'sabzi forushi' certainly will. Another mistake is grammatical: forgetting the 'i' at the end. 'Sabzi forush' (without the final 'i') refers to the person (the greengrocer), while 'sabzi forushi' refers to the place or the trade.
- The 'Person' vs. 'Place' Error
- Confusing 'Sabzi forush' (the man) with 'Sabzi forushi' (the shop).
اشتباه: من به سبزی فروش میروم. (Wrong: I am going to the vegetable seller person.)
Pronunciation is another area where learners trip up. The 'gh' sound in some related words (like 'gheymat' - price) is tricky, but in 'sabzi forushi,' the challenge is often the 'u' sound. It is a long 'oo' sound as in 'food,' not a short 'u.' Some learners also struggle with the 'zh' vs 'z' sound, but 'sabzi' is a clear 'z.' Furthermore, learners often forget that 'sabzi' is used as a collective noun. You don't usually say 'sabzi-ha' when buying a bunch of different herbs; you just say 'sabzi' to cover the whole category.
- Preposition Pitfall
- Using 'dar' (in) when you mean 'to' (be). Ensure you use 'be' for movement.
درست: من به سبزی فروشی رفتم. (Correct: I went to the vegetable shop.)
Lastly, learners sometimes use 'supermarket' for everything. While a supermarket does sell vegetables, in Iran, the 'sabzi forushi' is a distinct cultural and commercial entity. Using the specific word shows a higher level of fluency and cultural awareness. Don't call the corner vegetable stall a 'supermarket'; it's a 'sabzi forushi.' This distinction matters because the quality and variety of herbs at a dedicated shop are usually far superior to what you'd find in a plastic-wrapped container at a large chain store.
نباید سبزی فروشی را با سوپرمارکت اشتباه گرفت. (One shouldn't mistake the greengrocer for a supermarket.)
او در تلفظ کلمه سبزی فروشی دقت نمیکند. (He is not careful in pronouncing the word 'sabzi forushi'.)
While 'sabzi forushi' is the most common term, there are several related words you should know to expand your vocabulary. Understanding the nuances between these terms will help you sound more like a native speaker. The most immediate relative is 'miveh forushi' (fruit shop). In many cases, these are combined into 'miveh va sabzi forushi.' Then there is the 'baqqali' (grocery store), which is an older term for a small shop that sells dry goods, but sometimes carries a limited selection of vegetables. Knowing which one to use depends on what you are looking for.
- Sabzi Forushi vs. Miveh Forushi
- 'Sabzi' focuses on greens/vegetables; 'Miveh' focuses on fruits. Most shops today are a hybrid.
من به میوه فروشی رفتم اما سبزی نداشت. (I went to the fruit shop but it didn't have vegetables.)
For bulk buying, Iranians use 'Meydan-e Tar-e Bar' (fresh produce market). These are large, often government-regulated markets where prices are lower but you have to buy in larger quantities. Another modern alternative is 'Hypermarket' or 'Supermarket.' These are large Western-style stores. However, for 'sabzi khordan' (the fresh herbs eaten with meals), people still prefer the 'sabzi forushi' because the herbs are often bunched by hand and kept misted with water, staying much fresher than those in plastic bags.
- Baqqali (بقالی)
- A traditional small grocer. They might have a basket of onions or potatoes, but they aren't a full sabzi forushi.
در قدیم، بقالیها همه چیز میفروختند. (In the old days, grocers sold everything.)
If you are looking for specifically cleaned and chopped vegetables (very popular in modern Iran for making stews), you might look for a 'Sabzi-ye Amadeh' (ready-made vegetable) shop. These specialized 'sabzi forushi' variants save time by washing, drying, and mincing the herbs for you. This is a great term to know if you are living in an Iranian city and want to cook complex dishes without the hours of prep work. Using these different terms correctly shows that you understand the modern Iranian lifestyle.
از سبزی فروشی سبزی قورمه خریدم. (I bought Ghormeh herbs from the vegetable shop.)
قیمتها در میدان ترهبار ارزانتر است. (Prices are cheaper at the fresh produce market.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
In ancient times, 'sabzi' specifically referred to the herbs used for medicine and cooking, while other vegetables had different names. Today, 'sabzi' covers everything from spinach to parsley.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'sabzi' as 'sub-zi' (rhyming with 'hub'). It should be a flat 'a'.
- Making the 'u' in 'forushi' too short. It must be a long 'oo' sound.
- Swapping the 'f' and 'v' sounds.
- Forgetting the final 'i' sound, making it 'sabzi forush'.
- Putting the stress at the beginning of the word.
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read as it follows standard compound rules.
Requires remembering the 'ye' at the end and the 'forush' root.
Flows well, though the 'u' sound needs to be long.
Clear and distinct, rarely confused with other words.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Compound Noun Formation
Noun (Sabzi) + Noun of Action (Forushi) = Place of business.
Ezafe Construction
Sabzi forushi-ye [Adjective/Owner].
Prepositional Usage
Be (to) for destination, Az (from) for origin.
Pluralization with -ha
Sabzi forushi-ha (Vegetable shops).
Indefinite marker -i
Sabzi forushi-yi (A certain vegetable shop).
Examples by Level
این یک سبزی فروشی است.
This is a vegetable shop.
Simple identification using 'ast' (is).
سبزی فروشی کجاست؟
Where is the vegetable shop?
Basic question word 'koja' (where).
من به سبزی فروشی میروم.
I am going to the vegetable shop.
Present continuous tense of 'raftan' (to go).
سبزی فروشی بسته است.
The vegetable shop is closed.
Adjective 'baste' (closed) following the noun.
او در سبزی فروشی است.
He/She is in the vegetable shop.
Preposition 'dar' (in) used for location.
سبزی فروشی بزرگ است.
The vegetable shop is big.
Basic adjective 'bozorg' (big).
ما به سبزی فروشی رفتیم.
We went to the vegetable shop.
Simple past tense of 'raftan'.
آن سبزی فروشی دور است.
That vegetable shop is far.
Demonstrative pronoun 'an' (that).
من از سبزی فروشی سیبزمینی خریدم.
I bought potatoes from the vegetable shop.
Using 'az' (from) to show the source of a purchase.
آیا سبزی فروشی پیاز دارد؟
Does the vegetable shop have onions?
Question using 'dashtan' (to have).
سبزی فروشی نزدیک خانه ما است.
The vegetable shop is near our house.
Ezafe construction 'khane-ye ma' (our house).
امروز سبزی فروشی خیلی شلوغ بود.
The vegetable shop was very busy today.
Adverb 'kheyli' (very) modifying 'sholugh' (busy).
او هر روز به سبزی فروشی میرود.
He goes to the vegetable shop every day.
Habitual action in the present tense.
این سبزی فروشی سبزیهای تازهای دارد.
This vegetable shop has fresh vegetables.
Plural 'sabzi-ha' with the adjective 'tazeh' (fresh).
میتوانید یک سبزی فروشی خوب پیدا کنید؟
Can you find a good vegetable shop?
Modal verb 'tavanestan' (can) with the infinitive.
قیمتها در این سبزی فروشی ارزان است.
Prices in this vegetable shop are cheap.
Plural subject 'gheymat-ha' (prices).
اگر به سبزی فروشی رفتی، کمی نعنا بخر.
If you go to the vegetable shop, buy some mint.
Conditional sentence with the past tense used for 'if'.
من ترجیح میدهم از سبزی فروشی محله خرید کنم.
I prefer to shop at the neighborhood vegetable shop.
Verb 'tarjih dadan' (to prefer) with the subjunctive.
سبزی فروشی که دیروز رفتم، خیلی تمیز بود.
The vegetable shop that I went to yesterday was very clean.
Relative clause using 'ke' (that/which).
باید قبل از شام به سبزی فروشی بروم.
I must go to the vegetable shop before dinner.
Prepositional phrase 'ghabl az' (before).
در سبزی فروشی، انواع مختلفی از کلم وجود دارد.
In the vegetable shop, there are various types of cabbage.
Phrase 'anva-e mokhtalef' (various types).
او در سبزی فروشی کار میکند تا پول در بیاورد.
He works in the vegetable shop to earn money.
Purpose clause using 'ta' (so that/to).
وقتی به سبزی فروشی رسیدم، باران شروع شد.
When I arrived at the vegetable shop, it started to rain.
Time clause using 'vaqti' (when).
این سبزی فروشی به خاطر گوجهفرنگیهایش معروف است.
This vegetable shop is famous for its tomatoes.
Phrase 'be khater-e' (because of/for).
با وجود افزایش قیمتها، سبزی فروشی هنوز شلوغ است.
Despite the increase in prices, the vegetable shop is still busy.
Concession phrase 'ba vojud-e' (despite).
صاحب سبزی فروشی با مشتریانش خیلی صمیمی است.
The owner of the vegetable shop is very friendly with his customers.
Noun 'saheb' (owner) linked via Ezafe.
او تصمیم گرفت یک سبزی فروشی کوچک راه بیندازد.
He decided to set up a small vegetable shop.
Compound verb 'rah andakhtan' (to set up/launch).
سبزی فروشیهای سنتی در حال ناپدید شدن هستند.
Traditional vegetable shops are disappearing.
Progressive tense 'dar hal-e' (in the process of).
مشتریان از کیفیت محصولات این سبزی فروشی راضی هستند.
Customers are satisfied with the quality of this shop's products.
Adjective 'razi' (satisfied) with the preposition 'az'.
او تمام وقت خود را در سبزی فروشی میگذراند.
He spends all his time in the vegetable shop.
Verb 'gozardan' (to spend time).
به نظر میرسد سبزی فروشی امروز محصولات جدیدی آورده است.
It seems the vegetable shop has brought in new products today.
Phrase 'be nazar mi-rasad' (it seems).
سبزی فروشی محلی ما همیشه بهترین سبزی خوردن را دارد.
Our local vegetable shop always has the best 'sabzi khordan'.
Superlative 'behtarin' (the best).
نقش سبزی فروشی در تعاملات اجتماعی محله غیرقابل انکار است.
The role of the vegetable shop in neighborhood social interactions is undeniable.
Complex noun phrase as subject.
تحولات اقتصادی باعث شده که سبزی فروشیها با چالشهای جدی روبرو شوند.
Economic shifts have caused vegetable shops to face serious challenges.
Causal construction 'ba'es shode ke' (has caused that).
او با ظرافت خاصی سبزیهای سبزی فروشی را چیده بود.
He had arranged the vegetables in the shop with a particular elegance.
Adverbial phrase 'ba zerafat-e khassi' (with special elegance).
بوی سبزی تازه از دوردستها از سمت سبزی فروشی به مشام میرسید.
The scent of fresh herbs could be smelled from afar, coming from the vegetable shop.
Passive/Literary construction 'be masham mi-resid'.
بسیاری از نوستالژیهای کودکی من در آن سبزی فروشی قدیمی شکل گرفت.
Many of my childhood nostalgias were formed in that old vegetable shop.
Subject 'nostalgi-ha' (nostalgias) with plural verb.
مدیریت یک سبزی فروشی در این شرایط اقتصادی کار آسانی نیست.
Managing a vegetable shop in these economic conditions is not an easy task.
Gerund-like use of 'modiriyat' (management).
او چنان از سبزی فروشی محلهشان تعریف میکرد که گویی بهشتی روی زمین است.
He praised their neighborhood vegetable shop as if it were a paradise on earth.
Comparative 'gouyi' (as if) with the subjunctive.
تنوع رنگ در سبزی فروشی، الهامبخش بسیاری از نقاشان بوده است.
The variety of colors in the vegetable shop has inspired many painters.
Compound adjective 'elham-bakhsh' (inspiring).
واکاوی ساختار اقتصادی سبزی فروشیهای خرد، نیازمند بررسیهای دقیقتری است.
Analyzing the economic structure of small-scale vegetable shops requires more precise investigations.
Formal academic vocabulary like 'vakavi' (analysis).
سبزی فروشی در ادبیات معاصر ایران، نمادی از زیست روزمره و پیوندهای انسانی است.
The vegetable shop in contemporary Iranian literature is a symbol of daily life and human bonds.
Complex abstract nouns like 'ziyst-e ruzmareh' (daily living).
حتی در مدرنترین نقاط شهر، سبزی فروشیها همچنان هویت سنتی خود را حفظ کردهاند.
Even in the most modern parts of the city, vegetable shops have still preserved their traditional identity.
Concessive 'hatta dar...' (even in...).
تقابل میان هایپرمارکتهای زنجیرهای و سبزی فروشیهای محلی، بحرانی هویتی ایجاد کرده است.
The confrontation between chain hypermarkets and local vegetable shops has created an identity crisis.
Abstract noun 'taqabol' (confrontation/opposition).
زبان زرگری و اصطلاحات خاص میان شاگردان سبزی فروشی، دنیایی موازی را پدید آورده است.
The secret language and specific idioms among vegetable shop apprentices have created a parallel world.
Use of 'zaban-e zargari' (secret/coded language).
او با نگاهی پدیدارشناسانه به تحلیل فضای سبزی فروشی و تعاملات درون آن پرداخت.
He analyzed the space of the vegetable shop and the interactions within it from a phenomenological perspective.
Adverbial 'ba negahi padidar-shenasaneh' (with a phenomenological look).
استحاله سبزی فروشیهای سنتی به واحدهای بستهبندی مکانیزه، سیری گریزناپذیر به نظر میرسد.
The transformation of traditional vegetable shops into mechanized packaging units seems like an inevitable path.
Formal noun 'estehaleh' (transformation/metamorphosis).
در لایههای پنهان یک سبزی فروشی ساده، میتوان نبض زندگی یک ملت را لمس کرد.
In the hidden layers of a simple vegetable shop, one can feel the pulse of a nation's life.
Metaphorical use of 'nabz-e zendegi' (pulse of life).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Is the vegetable shop open? Used to check operating hours.
برو ببین سبزی فروشی باز است یا نه.
— What should I buy from the vegetable shop? Used when asking for a shopping list.
عزیزم، از سبزی فروشی چی بخرم؟
— The vegetable shop is busy. Used to describe a crowded place.
الان نرو، سبزی فروشی خیلی شلوغه.
— Do you know the address of the vegetable shop? Used for navigation.
ببخشید، شما آدرس سبزی فروشی این محل رو میدونید؟
— The vegetable shop at the top of the alley. A common way to identify a specific shop.
من از همون سبزی فروشی سر کوچه خریدم.
— The prices at the vegetable shop have gone up. A common complaint about inflation.
متأسفانه قیمتهای سبزی فروشی خیلی بالا رفته.
— It's a clean vegetable shop. Used for recommendation.
حتماً از اونجا خرید کن، سبزی فروشی خیلی تمیزیه.
— The vegetable shop apprentice/helper. Refers to the staff.
شاگرد سبزی فروشی کیسهها را برایم آورد.
— The vegetable shop is closed/on holiday. Used when a shop is not operating.
امروز جمعه است و سبزی فروشی تعطیله.
— I saw you in the vegetable shop. Used in casual conversation.
دیروز توی سبزی فروشی دیدمت ولی سرت شلوغ بود.
Often Confused With
This is the person (seller), while 'sabzi forushi' is the shop.
This is a fruit shop. While they overlap, 'sabzi' focuses on greens.
Flower shop. 'Gol' (flower) can sound like other words to a beginner.
Idioms & Expressions
— To start a vegetable business. Can sometimes be used metaphorically to mean creating a mess of greens or starting a small, humble venture.
او بعد از بازنشستگی یک سبزی فروشی راه انداخت.
Informal— Literally 'the color and face of a vegetable shop'. Used to describe something very colorful or vibrant.
لباسش مثل رنگ و روی سبزی فروشی شاد است.
Informal/Poetic— As busy as a vegetable shop. Used to describe a chaotic or very crowded place.
اتاقش مثل سبزی فروشی شلوغ و پلوغ است.
Slang— Idle gossip or 'small talk' typically heard at a greengrocer's.
باز هم نشستی و داری حرفهای سبزی فروشی میزنی؟
Informal/Derogatory— To act like a vegetable seller, sometimes implying being loud or haggling too much.
اینجا جای سبزی فروشی کردن نیست، آرام باش.
Informal— From the greengrocer to the butcher. Meaning everywhere or covering all bases of daily life.
همه جا را گشتم، از سبزی فروشی تا قصابی.
Informal— To give a very low or 'market' price for something.
او به من قیمت سبزی فروشی داد، خیلی ارزان بود.
Informal— To be the person everyone knows and goes to for news (like a shopkeeper).
او مثل سبزی فروشی محله، از همه چیز خبر دارد.
Informal— To smell like fresh herbs, often used after someone has been cleaning or cooking with many vegetables.
تمام لباسم بوی سبزی فروشی گرفته است.
Informal— To be at the bottom of the hierarchy or just starting out in a trade.
من از شاگردی سبزی فروشی شروع کردم و حالا تاجر هستم.
InformalEasily Confused
Both relate to vegetables.
Sabzijat is the collective noun for 'vegetables' (the category), while sabzi forushi is the shop.
من سبزیجات را از سبزی فروشی خریدم.
Both mean fresh produce.
Tar-e bar is more formal and often refers to bulk produce; sabzi forushi is the retail shop.
میدان ترهبار خیلی بزرگتر از سبزی فروشی است.
Both are neighborhood shops.
Baqqali is a general grocer (dry goods); sabzi forushi is specialized for greens.
از بقالی برنج بخر و از سبزی فروشی نعنا.
Both mean shop.
Forushgah is a general term for any store; sabzi forushi is specific.
هر سبزی فروشی یک فروشگاه است.
Both are places to buy food.
Bazaar is a large market area containing many shops; sabzi forushi is one single shop.
در بازار سبزی فروشیهای زیادی هست.
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] به سبزی فروشی میرود.
علی به سبزی فروشی میرود.
من از سبزی فروشی [Item] خریدم.
من از سبزی فروشی سیر خریدم.
اگر [Condition]، به سبزی فروشی برو.
اگر وقت داری، به سبزی فروشی برو.
با اینکه [Contrast]، سبزی فروشی باز است.
با اینکه دیره، سبزی فروشی باز است.
به نظر میرسد که سبزی فروشی [Observation].
به نظر میرسد که سبزی فروشی محصولاتش را تمام کرده است.
در ورای ظاهر ساده سبزی فروشی، [Deep Thought].
در ورای ظاهر ساده سبزی فروشی، داستانی از تلاش نهفته است.
سبزی فروشی [Adjective] است.
سبزی فروشی دور است.
آیا سبزی فروشی [Item] دارد؟
آیا سبزی فروشی تره دارد؟
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very high in daily spoken Persian.
-
Using 'Sabzi Forush' for the shop.
→
Using 'Sabzi Forushi' for the shop.
'Forush' is the person; 'Forushi' is the place. Saying 'I am in the Sabzi Forush' sounds like you are standing inside a person.
-
Pronouncing 'Sabzi' like 'Sub-zee'.
→
Pronouncing it like 'Sab-zee' (flat 'a').
The 'a' in Persian 'sabz' is like the 'a' in 'cat' or 'apple', not the 'u' in 'bus'.
-
Using 'Supermarket' for a small vegetable stall.
→
Using 'Sabzi Forushi'.
While technically a shop, 'supermarket' implies a large store with aisles and barcodes. A small stall is always a 'sabzi forushi'.
-
Pluralizing 'Sabzi' when buying a bunch.
→
Keeping it singular: 'Sabzi kharidam'.
'Sabzi' acts as a collective noun for the herbs you buy. You only use 'sabzi-ha' if referring to different species of plants.
-
Forgetting the 'be' in 'Be sabzi forushi miravam'.
→
Always use 'be' (to) for destination.
In formal and correct learner Persian, the preposition is necessary for clarity of movement.
Tips
Freshness is Key
Always look for the 'sabzi' that is being misted with water; it's the freshest. Iranians judge a shop by how crisp its herbs are.
Use Agha/Khanom
When entering, say 'Salam Agha' to the shopkeeper. It builds rapport and is the standard polite greeting in these small businesses.
Weights
Produce is sold by the 'kilo'. If you want less, ask for 'neem kilo' (half kilo) or 'yek chaharom' (a quarter).
Place Suffix
The '-i' at the end of 'forushi' is a common pattern for shops. Learning this helps you guess the names of other shops like 'ketab-forushi' (bookshop).
Small Talk
Don't be afraid to ask 'Sabzi-ye emruz tazeh ast?' (Are today's vegetables fresh?). It's a standard conversation starter.
Pre-mixes
Ask for 'Sabzi-ye Ghormeh' or 'Sabzi-ye Ash'. The shopkeeper will give you a pre-proportioned mix of various herbs for those specific dishes.
Self-Service vs Service
In some shops, you pick your own; in others, the shopkeeper does it for you. Look for a 'dastkesh' (glove) or baskets to see the style.
Collective Nouns
Use 'sabzijat' when talking about vegetables as a food group in a healthy diet context, but 'sabzi' when you are actually at the shop.
Color Coding
Associate the word with the color green (sabz). Every time you see a green shop, say the word to yourself.
Morning Rush
If you want the best selection, go to the 'sabzi forushi' before 10 AM. By afternoon, the best leafy greens are often sold out.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'SABZI' as 'SUB-SEA' (but with an 'a'). Imagine a 'SUB-SEA' shop where everything is green like seaweed. That's your 'SABZI FORUSHI'.
Visual Association
Visualize a bright green neon sign shaped like a bunch of parsley hanging over a shop door. Inside, every basket is overflowing with different shades of green.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to name five things you can see in a 'sabzi forushi' in Persian without looking at a dictionary. Then, write a sentence about going there tomorrow.
Word Origin
The word is a Persian compound. 'Sabz' comes from Middle Persian 'sapz', meaning green. 'Forush' comes from the verb 'forukhtan', which has roots in Old Persian 'fra-vaxsh' meaning to cause to grow or bring forth for sale.
Original meaning: Originally, it meant the act of selling green herbs, which were the primary 'vegetables' in the ancient Persian diet.
Indo-European -> Indo-Iranian -> Iranian -> West Iranian -> Persian.Cultural Context
No specific sensitivities, but be aware that bargaining (cheshm-o-ham-cheshmi) is less common in modern fixed-price shops but still happens in traditional ones.
In the UK, this is a 'Greengrocer'; in the US, it's a 'Vegetable Stand' or 'Produce Section', though standalone shops are rarer in US suburbs than in Iran.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Cooking a meal
- سبزی قورمه داری؟
- اینها تازه هستند؟
- یک کیلو پیاز بده.
- چقدر میشود؟
Asking for directions
- سبزی فروشی کجاست؟
- بعد از سبزی فروشی بپیچ چپ.
- نزدیک سبزی فروشی یک داروخانه هست.
- آیا این خیابان سبزی فروشی دارد؟
Complaining about prices
- چرا اینقدر گران است؟
- دیروز ارزانتر بود.
- سبزی فروشی دیگر قیمت بهتری دارد.
- تخفیف نمیدهید؟
Describing a neighborhood
- محله ما سبزی فروشی خوبی دارد.
- همه چیز نزدیک است، حتی سبزی فروشی.
- این سبزی فروشی خیلی قدیمی است.
- شبها سبزی فروشی زود میبندد.
Socializing
- در سبزی فروشی دیدمت.
- سلام آقای فروشنده، چطوری؟
- سبزیهای امروز عالی هستند.
- ببخشید، نوبت من است.
Conversation Starters
"ببخشید، شما میدانید نزدیکترین سبزی فروشی کجاست؟"
"آیا این سبزی فروشی معمولاً سبزیهای تازهای دارد؟"
"فکر میکنید قیمتها در این سبزی فروشی منصفانه است؟"
"شما همیشه از این سبزی فروشی خرید میکنید؟"
"میدانید سبزی فروشی چه ساعتی باز میکند؟"
Journal Prompts
امروز به سبزی فروشی رفتم و این چیزها را خریدم...
تفاوت بین سبزی فروشیهای ایران و فروشگاههای کشور من در این است که...
یک خاطره جالب از خرید در سبزی فروشی محلهتان بنویسید.
اگر صاحب یک سبزی فروشی بودید، چه محصولاتی میفروختید؟
چرا خرید از سبزی فروشیهای محلی برای جامعه مفید است؟
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Sabzi Forush' refers to the individual person who sells the vegetables (the greengrocer). 'Sabzi Forushi' refers to the actual shop or the business of selling vegetables. For example, you say 'I am going to the sabzi forushi' but 'I spoke to the sabzi forush'.
In modern Iran, most 'Sabzi Forushi' shops are actually 'Miveh va Sabzi Forushi' and sell both. However, a dedicated 'Sabzi Forushi' will have a much wider variety of fresh herbs (like basil, tarragon, and leeks) compared to a shop that focuses mostly on fruit.
In small neighborhood shops, bargaining (chaneh zadan) is less common for small amounts of vegetables. However, if you are buying in large quantities (e.g., for a party), you might ask for a small discount or a 'dasht' (a first-sale blessing). It's always best to observe other customers first.
They usually open very early in the morning (around 7 or 8 AM) to receive fresh stock from the central market. They often stay open until late in the evening (9 or 10 PM), though some might close for a few hours in the afternoon during the summer heat.
Some traditional shops only sell whole vegetables. However, many modern shops now offer 'sabzi-ye khord-shodeh' (chopped vegetables) in packages, specifically prepared for dishes like Ghormeh Sabzi or Ash.
You can point to the item and ask 'In kiloyi chand ast?' (How much is this per kilo?) or simply 'Gheymat-e in chand ast?' (What is the price of this?). The shopkeeper will usually give you the price in Tomans.
Yes, they usually provide thin plastic bags. However, it is becoming more common and appreciated to bring your own reusable fabric bag for environmental reasons.
'Sabzi Khordan' is a mix of fresh herbs eaten raw with meals. It's the most popular item at a 'Sabzi Forushi'. People are very picky about its freshness, so it's the item that shopkeepers mist with water most frequently.
It is a neutral word used in both everyday conversation and formal writing. On official documents, you might see 'vahed-e kasbi-ye tared-bar', but 'sabzi forushi' is the standard term used by everyone.
In large cities like Tehran, yes. In smaller towns, a 'Sabzi Forushi' might only carry traditional Iranian vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and various greens.
Test Yourself 200 questions
جملهای بنویسید که در آن از 'سبزی فروشی' استفاده شده باشد.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
توصیف کنید که در یک سبزی فروشی چه چیزهایی میبینید.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
چرا سبزی فروشی در محله شما مهم است؟
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یک مکالمه کوتاه بین مشتری و صاحب سبزی فروشی بنویسید.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
تفاوت سبزی فروشی و سوپرمارکت را بنویسید.
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اگر بخواهید آدرس یک سبزی فروشی را بدهید، چه میگویید؟
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لیست خرید خود را برای سبزی فروشی بنویسید.
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درباره بوی سبزی فروشی یک جمله ادبی بنویسید.
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چگونه میتوان یک سبزی فروشی خوب پیدا کرد؟
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نقش سبزی فروشی در اقتصاد محلی چیست؟
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یک خاطره از خرید در سبزی فروشی بنویسید.
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آیا سبزی فروشیهای سنتی در حال تغییر هستند؟ توضیح دهید.
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توصیف کنید یک سبزی فروشی در فصل بهار چه شکلی است.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
چرا قیمتها در سبزی فروشی تغییر میکند؟
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یک شعار تبلیغاتی برای یک سبزی فروشی بنویسید.
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اگر در سبزی فروشی کار میکردید، چه میکردید؟
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اهمیت 'سبزی خوردن' در سبزی فروشی چیست؟
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درباره شاگرد سبزی فروشی یک داستان کوتاه (۳ جمله) بنویسید.
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سبزی فروشیهای بزرگ بهتر هستند یا کوچک؟ چرا؟
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یک جمله با 'سبزی فروشی' و 'ترازو' بنویسید.
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کلمه 'سبزی فروشی' را بلند تکرار کنید.
Read this aloud:
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بگویید: 'من به سبزی فروشی میروم.'
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بپرسید: 'سبزی فروشی کجاست؟'
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بگویید که از سبزی فروشی پیاز خریدید.
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توضیح دهید که سبزی فروشی محله شما چگونه است.
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بپرسید: 'آیا سبزی فروشی امروز باز است؟'
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بگویید: 'این سبزی فروشی خیلی شلوغ است.'
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از فروشنده بپرسید قیمت هویج چقدر است.
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بگویید: 'من سبزی فروشی را دوست دارم.'
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نام سه سبزی را که در سبزی فروشی میبینید بگویید.
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بگویید: 'سبزی فروشی نزدیک خانه ماست.'
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توضیح دهید چرا سبزیهای این مغازه تازه هستند.
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بگویید: 'باید برای شام به سبزی فروشی بروم.'
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بپرسید: 'نزدیکترین سبزی فروشی به اینجا کجاست؟'
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بگویید: 'سبزی فروشی سر کوچه بسته است.'
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از دوستتان بپرسید آیا چیزی از سبزی فروشی لازم دارد.
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بگویید: 'قیمتها در این سبزی فروشی بالا رفته است.'
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توصیف کنید که در سبزی فروشی چه بویی میآید.
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بگویید: 'شاگرد سبزی فروشی کیسهها را آورد.'
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بگویید: 'من میخواهم یک سبزی فروشی باز کنم.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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گوش دهید و بنویسید: 'من به سبزی فروشی میروم.'
کدام کلمه را شنیدید؟ 'سبزی فروشی' یا 'کتابفروشی'؟
گوش دهید: 'سبزی فروشی امروز تعطیل است.' آیا مغازه باز است؟
گوش دهید: 'از سبزی فروشی دو کیلو گوجه بخر.' چند کیلو گوجه؟
گوش دهید: 'سبزی فروشی سر کوچه خیلی ارزان است.' مغازه کجاست؟
گوش دهید و بنویسید: 'صاحب سبزی فروشی کجاست؟'
گوش دهید: 'قیمت پیاز در سبزی فروشی گران شده.' چه چیزی گران شده؟
گوش دهید: 'برادرم در سبزی فروشی کار میکند.' برادرم کجا کار میکند؟
گوش دهید: 'سبزی فروشیهای این شهر همیشه شلوغند.' وضعیت مغازهها چطور است؟
گوش دهید: 'باید برای خرید سبزی به سبزی فروشی برویم.' چرا باید به سبزی فروشی برویم؟
گوش دهید و بنویسید: 'این سبزی فروشی سبزیهای تازهای دارد.'
گوش دهید: 'سبزی فروشی روبروی بانک است.' مغازه کجاست؟
گوش دهید: 'فردا سبزی فروشی باز میشود.' مغازه کی باز میشود؟
گوش دهید: 'من سبزی فروشی را پیدا نکردم.' آیا او مغازه را پیدا کرد؟
گوش دهید: 'شاگرد سبزی فروشی خیلی سریع است.' شاگرد چطور است؟
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Summary
The word 'سبزی فروشی' (sabzi forushi) refers to a vegetable shop. It is a vital part of daily life in Iran because fresh herbs and vegetables are central to the cuisine. Example: 'Man har ruz be sabzi forushi miravam' (I go to the vegetable shop every day).
- A 'sabzi forushi' is a Persian greengrocer or vegetable shop, essential for buying the fresh ingredients used in almost every Iranian meal.
- The word is a compound of 'sabzi' (vegetables) and 'forushi' (selling/shop), highlighting its specific focus on green produce and herbs.
- In Iranian culture, the local vegetable shop acts as a social hub where neighbors meet and interact while selecting seasonal produce.
- For language learners, it is a high-frequency A2-level word used for giving directions, planning meals, and practicing shopping-related Persian phrases.
Freshness is Key
Always look for the 'sabzi' that is being misted with water; it's the freshest. Iranians judge a shop by how crisp its herbs are.
Use Agha/Khanom
When entering, say 'Salam Agha' to the shopkeeper. It builds rapport and is the standard polite greeting in these small businesses.
Weights
Produce is sold by the 'kilo'. If you want less, ask for 'neem kilo' (half kilo) or 'yek chaharom' (a quarter).
Place Suffix
The '-i' at the end of 'forushi' is a common pattern for shops. Learning this helps you guess the names of other shops like 'ketab-forushi' (bookshop).
Example
من هر روز از سبزی فروشی خرید میکنم.
Related Content
More food words
عدس
A1A small, edible legume, often used in soups and stews.
عدسی
A1A popular lentil soup, often eaten for breakfast in Iran.
عسل
A1A sweet, sticky substance produced by bees.
عصرانه
A2A light meal or snack typically eaten in the afternoon.
آب انداختن
B1To become watery (food), to release liquid while cooking or sitting.
آب خوردن
A1To drink water
آب معدنی
A2Water containing mineral salts or other dissolved substances.
آب میوه
A2The liquid extract of fruit; fruit juice.
آب نبات
A1A sweet foodstuff made with sugar, often flavored and colored.
آب پز کردن
A2To boil food, to cook in boiling water.