سخاوتمند
سخاوتمند in 30 Seconds
- Sakhavatmand means generous and is used to describe people who give freely.
- It is a formal word, often used in literature and polite conversation.
- The word is a combination of 'Sakhavat' (generosity) and '-mand' (having).
- Its common informal equivalent is 'dast-o-delbaz', meaning open-handed.
The Persian word سخاوتمند (pronounced as /se-khā-vat-mand/) is a compound adjective that captures the essence of deep-seated generosity. It is derived from the Arabic root 'Sakhavat' (سخاوت), meaning generosity or bounty, combined with the Persian suffix '-mand' (مند), which denotes possession or being characterized by a quality. To be sakhavatmand is not merely to give occasionally; it describes a person whose character is defined by a readiness to share their wealth, time, and spirit without hesitation or expectation of reward. In the tapestry of Persian culture, where hospitality and selflessness are foundational virtues, this word holds a place of high honor. It is frequently used to describe philanthropists, kind-hearted neighbors, or even the sun and nature in a poetic sense. When you call someone سخاوتمند, you are acknowledging a nobility of spirit that transcends simple charity.
- Core Meaning
- Possessing the quality of abundance in giving; characterized by a magnanimous and open-handed nature.
- Etymological Breakdown
- Sakhavat (Generosity) + Mand (Suffix for 'having'). It literally means 'The one who has generosity.'
- Social Context
- Used in formal speeches, literature, and polite conversation to praise someone's charitable character.
پدربزرگ من همیشه مردی سخاوتمند بود و به فقرا کمک میکرد.
(My grandfather was always a generous man and used to help the poor.)
In everyday Persian, while there are other words for 'kind' or 'giving', سخاوتمند carries a slightly more formal and respectful weight. It is the kind of word you would find in a biography of a great leader or a recommendation letter for a dedicated community member. It implies a consistent habit of giving, not just a one-time act. For instance, a nature that provides fruit and shade is often described as tabi'at-e sakhavatmand (generous nature). The word also contrasts sharply with the negative trait of 'khasis' (stingy), making it a central pillar in the Persian moral vocabulary regarding how one handles their possessions in relation to others.
او با روحی سخاوتمند، تمام دارایی خود را به خیریه بخشید.
(With a generous spirit, he donated all his assets to charity.)
طبیعت سخاوتمند این منطقه، میوههای فراوانی به ما میدهد.
(The generous nature of this region gives us plenty of fruits.)
Understanding the nuance of سخاوتمند also involves understanding the Persian concept of 'Javanmardi' (chivalry). A sakhavatmand person is often seen as a 'Javanmard'—someone who is not only generous with money but also with their honor and protection of the weak. This word is deeply embedded in the classical poetry of Rumi and Saadi, where the 'generous host' is a recurring metaphor for the Divine or the perfect human being. In modern Iran, the word is used in journalism to describe international aid or domestic philanthropic efforts, maintaining its status as a high-register, positive attribute.
میزبان سخاوتمند ما با بهترین غذاها از ما پذیرایی کرد.
(Our generous host entertained us with the best foods.)
او همیشه نسبت به وقت خود سخاوتمند است و به شاگردانش کمک میکند.
(He is always generous with his time and helps his students.)
In summary, سخاوتمند is a word that bridges the gap between material wealth and spiritual richness. It is a descriptor for those who see their resources as tools for the common good. Whether you are reading a 13th-century poem or a modern news report, encountering this word will always signal a high level of respect for the subject's character and their contribution to the world around them.
Using سخاوتمند in a sentence requires an understanding of Persian adjective placement and agreement. In Persian, adjectives usually follow the noun they modify, connected by the 'Ezafe' (the short 'e' sound). For example, 'a generous man' becomes mard-e sakhavatmand. However, when used as a predicate (after the verb 'to be'), it stands alone: ān mard sakhavatmand ast (That man is generous). This word is versatile; it can describe people, organizations, nature, or even abstract concepts like 'a generous offer'.
- Attributive Usage
- Noun + Ezafe + سخاوتمند. Example: مدیر سخاوتمند (The generous manager).
- Predicative Usage
- Subject + سخاوتمند + Verb. Example: او بسیار سخاوتمند است (He/She is very generous).
- Comparative Forms
- سخاوتمندتر (More generous) and سخاوتمندترین (Most generous).
این یک پیشنهاد سخاوتمندانه است که نمیتوانیم رد کنیم.
(This is a generous offer that we cannot refuse. Note: 'Sakhavatmandane' is the adverbial/adjective form for 'generously' or 'generous-like'.)
When you want to emphasize the degree of generosity, you can use intensifiers like besiyār (very), khayli (very), or vaghe'an (really). In formal writing, besiyār sakhavatmand is preferred. If you are describing an action rather than a person, you might shift to the adverbial form سخاوتمندانه (generously). For instance, 'He gave generously' would be او سخاوتمندانه بخشید. This distinction is crucial for advanced learners who want to sound more natural and precise in their Persian expression.
او سخاوتمندترین فردی است که من تا به حال شناختهام.
(He is the most generous person I have ever known.)
شرکتهای سخاوتمند معمولاً محبوبیت بیشتری در جامعه دارند.
(Generous companies usually have more popularity in society.)
It is also common to see this word used in contrast with its antonyms. To highlight someone's character, a writer might say, 'He was not stingy, but rather sakhavatmand.' This comparative structure is a rhetorical device used in Persian storytelling to emphasize virtue. Additionally, in the context of Persian 'Ta'arof' (the complex system of etiquette), being described as سخاوتمند is one of the highest compliments a guest can pay a host, though it should be done with sincerity to avoid sounding like empty flattery.
پادشاهان سخاوتمند در تاریخ ایران همیشه مورد ستایش بودهاند.
(Generous kings have always been praised in the history of Iran.)
او با وجود ثروت کم، قلبی سخاوتمند دارد.
(Despite having little wealth, he has a generous heart.)
Finally, when using this word in writing, pay attention to the spelling of the 'kh' (خ) and 'v' (و) sounds. The word flows smoothly but requires clear articulation of the 'kh' sound, which is produced in the back of the throat. Mastering the pronunciation and the grammatical placement of سخاوتمند will significantly elevate your ability to describe character and virtue in Persian.
While سخاوتمند is a formal word, you will encounter it in several real-world contexts that range from the literary to the modern media. One of the most common places to hear it is during religious or charitable events. In Iran, the months of Ramadan or Muharram often see a surge in communal giving, and speakers frequently use sakhavatmand to describe those who provide 'Nazri' (free food) or donate to the poor. It is a word that inspires and validates social responsibility.
- News and Media
- Reporting on international aid, government grants, or wealthy individuals donating to hospitals and schools.
- Literature and Poetry
- Classical texts by Saadi Shirazi often use this word to illustrate moral lessons about the benefits of giving.
- Formal Ceremonies
- Awards ceremonies or memorial services where a person's life and virtues are being honored.
گزارشگر گفت: «ما به کمکهای سخاوتمندانه مردم نیاز داریم.»
(The reporter said, 'We need the generous help of the people.')
In television dramas and historical films, سخاوتمند is often used to characterize the 'hero' or the 'noble elder'. It serves as a linguistic marker for a character's morality. Conversely, the 'villain' is often depicted as the opposite—miserly and greedy. You might also hear it in academic settings, particularly in sociology or ethics lectures, discussing the role of 'Sakhavat' in maintaining social cohesion. In these contexts, the word is treated as a technical term for altruism.
در این فیلم، پادشاه به عنوان فردی عادل و سخاوتمند تصویر شده است.
(In this movie, the king is portrayed as a just and generous person.)
استاد از دانشجویان خواست تا دیدگاهی سخاوتمندانه نسبت به عقاید دیگران داشته باشند.
(The professor asked the students to have a generous perspective toward the opinions of others.)
Interestingly, you will also find this word in the world of business and marketing in Iran. High-end brands or services might use it to describe their 'generous' loyalty programs or 'sakhavatmandaneh' discounts. It adds a layer of prestige and class to the offer. Even in everyday polite society, if you are thanking someone for a particularly large gift or a lot of their time, using سخاوتمند instead of the more common 'mehraban' (kind) shows a higher level of appreciation and linguistic sophistication.
این رستوران پرسهای غذای بسیار سخاوتمندانهای دارد.
(This restaurant has very generous food portions.)
او وقت خود را سخاوتمندانه در اختیار پروژههای خیریه قرار میدهد.
(He generously puts his time at the disposal of charity projects.)
Whether in the hallowed halls of literature or the fast-paced world of digital media, سخاوتمند remains a vibrant and essential part of the Persian language. It is a word that carries the weight of history while remaining perfectly applicable to modern life, describing everything from a billionaire's donation to a friend's patience.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using سخاوتمند is confusing it with other words for 'kind' or 'good'. While all generous people are kind, not all kind people are necessarily generous in the specific sense of sakhavatmand. For example, using 'mehraban' (kind) when you specifically mean someone who gives a lot of money or resources might understate the situation. Conversely, using sakhavatmand to describe someone who is just 'nice' can sound overly formal or slightly misplaced.
- Confusion with 'Bakhshandeh'
- 'Bakhshandeh' often refers to forgiveness (the Merciful) or the act of giving away. 'Sakhavatmand' describes the innate character trait of being a giver.
- Misplacement of '-mand'
- Some learners try to add '-mand' to every noun to make an adjective. It only works with specific roots. You cannot say 'kind-mand' (mehraban-mand).
- Adverbial Errors
- Using 'sakhavatmand' instead of 'sakhavatmandaneh' when modifying a verb. Correct: 'He gave generously' -> 'Sakhavatmandaneh bakhshid'.
اشتباه: او سخاوتمند به من پول داد.
درست: او سخاوتمندانه به من پول داد.
(Mistake: He generous gave me money. Correct: He generously gave me money.)
Another mistake involves the 'Ezafe' connection. Learners often forget to add the 'e' sound when connecting the noun to the adjective. Saying 'mard sakhavatmand' sounds broken; it must be 'mard-e sakhavatmand'. Additionally, pronunciation of the 'kh' sound is often a hurdle. If pronounced as a simple 'k' (sakavatmand), it might be understood, but it loses its authentic Persian flavor and can sometimes sound like a different word entirely. Practice the 'kh' as if you are clearing your throat gently.
اشتباه: پادشاه سخاوتمند است.
درست (if attributive): پادشاهِ سخاوتمند...
(Note the importance of the Ezafe link in phrases.)
او مردی ثروتمند است اما اصلاً سخاوتمند نیست.
(He is a wealthy man but not generous at all.)
Lastly, learners sometimes use sakhavatmand in contexts that are too informal. In a very casual conversation with friends, using 'dast-o-delbaz' (literally: open hand and heart) is much more common and natural. Using sakhavatmand at a casual pizza party might sound like you are speaking like a book. Understanding the register—when to use the formal term versus the idiomatic one—is a key step toward fluency.
دوست من خیلی دستودلباز است.
(My friend is very generous - informal/idiomatic.)
او با سخاوت خود، همه را شگفتزده کرد.
(With his generosity, he surprised everyone. Note: 'Sakhavat' is the noun form.)
By keeping these distinctions in mind—especially the difference between wealth and generosity, and the formal versus informal registers—you will be able to use سخاوتمند with the precision and grace of a native speaker.
Persian is a language rich with synonyms, each carrying a slightly different shade of meaning. While سخاوتمند is the standard formal word for generous, knowing its alternatives will help you navigate different social and literary contexts. Some words emphasize the religious aspect of giving, while others focus on the personality or the sheer scale of the gift.
- بخشنده (Bakhshandeh)
- Often used for God (The Merciful/The Giver) or someone who gives away things freely. It has a more spiritual or forgiving connotation.
- کریم (Karim)
- An Arabic loanword used in very formal or religious contexts. It implies a noble, magnanimous sort of generosity.
- دستودلباز (Dast-o-delbaz)
- The most common informal synonym. Literally 'open hand and heart'. Perfect for everyday conversation about friends and family.
خداوند بسیار بخشنده و مهربان است.
(God is very forgiving/generous and kind.)
In classical literature, you might encounter Rād (راد) or Javānmard (جوانمرد). Rād is an ancient Persian word for a generous and wise person, though it is rarely used in modern speech. Javānmard, while meaning 'chivalrous', is often used as a synonym for someone whose generosity stems from a code of honor. On the other end of the spectrum, if you want to describe someone who is 'lavish' or 'extravagant' in their giving (sometimes to a fault), you might use vel-kharj (ولخرج), though this often has a slightly negative connotation of wasting money.
او مردی کریم است که به همه مستمندان کمک میکند.
(He is a noble/generous man who helps all the needy.)
پدرم همیشه در مهمانیها دستودلباز بود.
(My father was always generous/open-handed at parties.)
To provide a clear comparison, let's look at how these words function in a hierarchy of formality. Dast-o-delbaz is for your brother who buys everyone dinner. Sakhavatmand is for the philanthropist who builds a school. Karim is for the saintly figure in a story. By choosing the right word, you not only convey the meaning but also the appropriate level of respect and the specific context of the generosity.
شاهنامهی فردوسی پر از قهرمانان راد و دلیر است.
(Ferdowsi's Shahnameh is full of generous and brave heroes.)
او دلباز است و همیشه خانهاش به روی همه باز است.
(He is open-hearted and his house is always open to everyone.)
In conclusion, while سخاوتمند is your 'go-to' word for high-quality Persian expression, being aware of bakhshandeh, karim, and dast-o-delbaz allows you to tailor your speech to the person you are talking to and the story you are telling. It makes your Persian sound more textured and authentic.
How Formal Is It?
"جناب عالی همواره در امور خیریه سخاوتمند بودهاید."
"او مرد سخاوتمندی است و به همه کمک میکند."
"دمش گرم، خیلی دست و دل بازه (سخاوتمنده)."
"خرگوش کوچولو خیلی سخاوتمند بود و هویجش را با بقیه تقسیم کرد."
"طرف خیلی لاتی سخاوتمنده!"
Fun Fact
The suffix '-mand' is found in ancient Avestan and Old Persian as '-mant'. It is cognate with the Sanskrit '-mant' and even shares a distant linguistic ancestor with the English '-ment' in some theoretical reconstructions, though their functions differ today.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'kh' as a hard 'k' (e.g., 'sakavatmand').
- Putting the stress on the first syllable.
- Shortening the long 'ā' sound in the second syllable.
- Pronouncing 'v' as 'w'. In standard Persian, it is closer to the English 'v'.
- Merging the 't' and 'm' sounds too quickly; they should be distinct.
Difficulty Rating
The word is long but follows standard Persian phonetics. Recognizable once the root 'Sakhavat' is known.
Requires correct spelling of 'kh' (خ) and the suffix '-mand' (مند).
The 'kh' sound and the four syllables require some practice for fluid speech.
Distinctive sound makes it relatively easy to pick out in formal speech.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The suffix '-mand' attached to nouns to form adjectives of possession.
Danesh (Knowledge) + mand = Daneshmand (Scientist/Having knowledge).
The Ezafe construction (short -e) connecting nouns and adjectives.
Mard-e sakhavatmand (The generous man).
Adverb formation by adding '-aneh' to adjectives.
Sakhavatmand + aneh = Sakhavatmandaneh (Generously).
Comparative and Superlative degrees with '-tar' and '-tarin'.
Sakhavatmandtar (More generous), Sakhavatmandtarin (Most generous).
Pluralization of human adjectives with '-an'.
Sakhavatmandan (The generous ones/people).
Examples by Level
او یک مرد سخاوتمند است.
He is a generous man.
Simple adjective use after the noun with Ezafe.
مادر من خیلی سخاوتمند است.
My mother is very generous.
Using 'khayli' (very) as an intensifier.
دوست من سخاوتمند است.
My friend is generous.
Basic Subject + Adjective + Verb structure.
آیا شما سخاوتمند هستید؟
Are you generous?
Question form using 'āyā'.
او سخاوتمند نیست.
He/She is not generous.
Negative form using 'nist'.
آنها سخاوتمند هستند.
They are generous.
Plural subject with plural verb 'hastand'.
من یک معلم سخاوتمند دارم.
I have a generous teacher.
Using 'dāram' (I have) with an adjective-noun phrase.
این گربه سخاوتمند است!
This cat is generous!
Applying the adjective to an animal for personification.
او مردی سخاوتمند است که به همه کمک میکند.
He is a generous man who helps everyone.
Using a relative clause 'ke' (who).
دیروز یک خانم سخاوتمند را دیدم.
Yesterday I saw a generous lady.
Past tense 'didam' with an adjective-noun object.
پدرم از من سخاوتمندتر است.
My father is more generous than me.
Comparative form '-tar' with 'az' (than).
ما باید سخاوتمند باشیم.
We must be generous.
Modal verb 'bāyad' with the subjunctive 'bāshim'.
او سخاوتمندترین فرد در این شهر است.
He is the most generous person in this city.
Superlative form '-tarin'.
او همیشه سخاوتمند بود.
He was always generous.
Past continuous/habitual sense using 'bud'.
این یک هدیه سخاوتمندانه است.
This is a generous gift.
Using 'sakhavatmandaneh' as an adjective meaning 'generous-like'.
چرا او اینقدر سخاوتمند است؟
Why is he so generous?
Question with 'cherā' (why) and 'inghadr' (so much).
او سخاوتمندانه پولش را با فقرا تقسیم کرد.
He generously shared his money with the poor.
Adverbial use of 'sakhavatmandaneh'.
اگر سخاوتمند باشی، مردم تو را دوست خواهند داشت.
If you are generous, people will love you.
Conditional 'agar' with future tense 'khāhand dāsht'.
او به خاطر روح سخاوتمندش معروف است.
He is famous for his generous spirit.
Using 'be khāter-e' (because of/for).
طبیعت سخاوتمند این منطقه برای همه کافی است.
The generous nature of this region is enough for everyone.
Metaphorical use of 'sakhavatmand' for nature.
او با وجود فقر، قلبی سخاوتمند دارد.
Despite poverty, he has a generous heart.
Using 'bā vojud-e' (despite).
ما به رهبرانی سخاوتمند و دلسوز نیاز داریم.
We need generous and compassionate leaders.
Plural adjective matching a plural noun.
او همیشه سخاوتمندانه از مهمانانش پذیرایی میکند.
He always entertains his guests generously.
Present habitual action with an adverb.
این سازمان کمکهای سخاوتمندانهای به زلزلهزدگان کرد.
This organization gave generous aid to the earthquake victims.
Using 'sakhavatmandaneh' to describe 'komak-hā' (aid).
سخاوتمند بودن به معنای داشتن ثروت زیاد نیست.
Being generous does not mean having a lot of wealth.
Using the infinitive 'budan' (to be) as a gerund/subject.
او با یک حرکت سخاوتمندانه، تمام بدهیهای برادرش را پرداخت.
With a generous move, he paid all his brother's debts.
Prepositional phrase 'bā yek harekate...'.
در ادبیات فارسی، حاتم طایی نماد فردی سخاوتمند است.
In Persian literature, Hatim al-Tai is the symbol of a generous person.
Cultural reference and noun-adjective pair.
او به جای خساست، راه سخاوتمندی را برگزید.
Instead of stinginess, he chose the path of generosity.
Contrast using 'be jā-ye' (instead of).
این نویسنده نگاهی سخاوتمندانه به شخصیتهای داستانش دارد.
This writer has a generous outlook toward the characters in his story.
Abstract use of 'sakhavatmandaneh'.
او وقت خود را سخاوتمندانه صرف آموزش کودکان کرد.
He generously spent his time teaching children.
Verb 'sarf kardan' (to spend/devote) with an adverb.
بسیاری از مردم او را سخاوتمندترین مرد دوران خود میدانستند.
Many people considered him the most generous man of his era.
Complex sentence with 'midānastand' (considered).
او با سخاوتمندی تمام، تجربیاتش را در اختیار ما گذاشت.
With total generosity, he put his experiences at our disposal.
Using the noun form 'sakhavatmandi' (generosity).
سخاوتمندی او فراتر از مادیات بود و شامل بخشش و مهربانی نیز میشد.
His generosity went beyond material things and included forgiveness and kindness as well.
Abstract noun as subject with a complex predicate.
او در نقد آثار دیگران، همواره سخاوتمندانه برخورد میکرد.
In critiquing others' works, he always acted generously.
Adverbial phrase describing a professional habit.
پیشنهاد سخاوتمندانه دولت برای بازنشستگان، مورد استقبال قرار گرفت.
The government's generous proposal for retirees was welcomed.
Passive construction 'mored-e esteghbāl gharār gereft'.
او با روحیهای سخاوتمند، از اشتباهات همکارانش چشمپوشی میکرد.
With a generous spirit, he would overlook his colleagues' mistakes.
Compound verb 'cheshm-pushi kardan' (overlooking).
سخاوتمندترین انسانها کسانی هستند که در سختیها میبخشند.
The most generous humans are those who give during hardships.
Superlative plural subject with a relative 'kasāni ke'.
او به عنوان یک حامی سخاوتمند هنر، موزههای زیادی را تأسیس کرد.
As a generous patron of the arts, he founded many museums.
Using 'be onvān-e' (as/in the capacity of).
پذیرایی سخاوتمندانه میزبان، خاطرهای خوش در ذهن ما به جا گذاشت.
The host's generous hospitality left a pleasant memory in our minds.
Complex noun phrase as a subject.
او سخاوتمندانه دانش خود را بدون هیچ چشمداشتی منتشر کرد.
He generously published his knowledge without any expectation (of reward).
Using 'bedun-e hich cheshm-dāshti' (without any expectation).
تجلی سخاوتمندی در اشعار حافظ، به معنای رهایی از تعلقات دنیوی است.
The manifestation of generosity in Hafez's poems means liberation from worldly attachments.
Philosophical subject with an abstract definition.
او با دیدگاهی سخاوتمندانه به تاریخ، سعی در تبیین صلح داشت.
With a generous perspective on history, he tried to explain peace.
Using 'sakhavatmandaneh' to describe an intellectual approach.
سخاوتمندیِ بی حد و حصر او، گاهی موجب سوءاستفاده دیگران میشد.
His boundless generosity sometimes led to exploitation by others.
Using 'bi had-o hasr' (boundless) to modify the noun.
در این رساله، نویسنده به تبیین تقابل میان بخل و منش سخاوتمندانه میپردازد.
In this treatise, the author explains the contrast between stinginess and a generous character.
Highly formal academic structure 'be tabiyin-e... mipardāzad'.
او سخاوتمندانه از حق خود گذشت تا آرامش را به خانواده بازگرداند.
He generously waived his right to bring peace back to the family.
Using 'az hagh-e khod gozashtan' (to waive one's right).
سیاستهای سخاوتمندانه مالیاتی میتواند به رشد اقتصادی کمک کند.
Generous tax policies can help economic growth.
Technical/Political use of the adjective.
او با طبعی سخاوتمند، ناملایمات روزگار را با صبوری پشت سر گذاشت.
With a generous nature, he moved past life's hardships with patience.
Poetic/Literary phrasing 'tab'i sakhavatmand'.
این وقف سخاوتمندانه، تا نسلها ضامن بقای این کتابخانه خواهد بود.
This generous endowment will guarantee the survival of this library for generations.
Using 'vaghf' (endowment) and 'zāmen-e baghā' (guarantor of survival).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Refers to someone's readiness to give. It implies the physical act of giving.
او دست سخاوتمندی در کار خیر دارد.
— A table full of food, showing great hospitality. Very common in food contexts.
آنها همیشه سفرهای سخاوتمندانه دارند.
— A broad, kind, and non-judgmental perspective on something.
باید نگاهی سخاوتمندانه به خطاها داشت.
— Sometimes used to describe a very full or high-quality serving of tea.
یک استکان چای سخاوتمندانه برایم ریخت.
— To act with generosity in a specific situation.
او در این معامله سخاوتمندانه رفتار کرد.
— Giving away money or gifts very freely, often used in historical stories.
بذل و بخشش سخاوتمندانه پادشاه همه را شاد کرد.
— Someone who is generous with their words, praise, or encouragement.
او حتی در کلام هم سخاوتمند است.
— A generous amount of time or a great opportunity given to someone.
مدیر به ما فرصتی سخاوتمندانه داد.
— A large or significant discount on a price.
فروشنده تخفیف سخاوتمندانهای به من داد.
Often Confused With
Often confused because wealthy people are expected to be generous. Sarvatmand = Wealthy; Sakhavatmand = Generous.
Bakhshandeh can mean generous, but it also means 'forgiving'. Use sakhavatmand specifically for the trait of giving.
Only similar because of the '-mand' suffix. One is about money/giving, the other is about knowledge.
Idioms & Expressions
— The primary idiom for being generous. Literally 'to have an open hand and heart'.
او همیشه دست و دل باز است و به همه کمک میکند.
Informal— To be as generous as Hatim al-Tai (a legendary figure). Used to describe extreme generosity.
فکر کرده حاتم طایی است که همه را مهمان میکند!
Neutral/Sarcastic— Literally 'to be a table-holder'. It means being very hospitable and generous with food.
خانواده او در این محله به سفرهداری معروف هستند.
Cultural— Literally 'his bag is loose'. It means he spends money freely or is generous.
امروز کیسهاش شل شده و برای همه بستنی خریده.
Informal— Literally 'to have a big heart'. Often implies being generous and forgiving.
او آدم دلگندهای است و سخت نمیگیرد.
Informal— Literally 'to have a heart like the sea'. Means being immensely generous and magnanimous.
او با آنکه ثروتی ندارد، دریادل است.
Poetic/Formal— Literally 'to be a bread-giver'. Someone who supports others or provides for them generously.
او مرد نانبدهای است و خیلیها را سر کار برده.
Informal— Literally 'his hand doesn't go for a little'. He always gives or spends a lot.
وقتی خرید میکند، دستش به کم نمیرود.
Informal— Literally 'to have full eyes and heart'. Describes someone who isn't greedy and is thus generous.
او چون خودش چشم و دل سیر است، به بقیه هم میبخشد.
Neutral— Similar to dast-o-delbaz, describing an open and generous personality.
او همیشه با دست و رو باز از ما استقبال میکند.
InformalEasily Confused
Similar suffix and related semantic field.
One refers to having assets (wealthy), the other refers to the act/trait of giving them away (generous).
او ثروتمند است اما سخاوتمند نیست. (He is wealthy but not generous.)
Both translate to 'generous' in English.
Bakhshandeh is often more spiritual or related to the act of 'bestowing' or 'forgiving'. Sakhavatmand is the character trait of being open-handed.
خداوند بخشنده است؛ انسان باید سخاوتمند باشد.
Generous people are usually kind.
Mehraban is a general term for kindness/friendliness. Sakhavatmand is specific to giving resources.
او مهربان است اما پولی برای بخشیدن ندارد.
Both involve spending/giving money.
Vel-kharj is a negative term for someone who wastes money or is extravagant. Sakhavatmand is a positive term for meaningful giving.
او سخاوتمند است، نه ولخرج. (He is generous, not wasteful.)
Synonyms for generous.
Karim is an Arabic loanword used in higher, often religious or very formal registers. Sakhavatmand is the standard Persian term.
در متون مذهبی از صفت کریم زیاد استفاده میشود.
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] [Adjective] [Verb].
او سخاوتمند است.
[Noun] + e + [Adjective] + [Verb].
او مردی سخاوتمند بود.
[Subject] [Adverb] [Verb].
او سخاوتمندانه بخشید.
با وجود [Noun], [Subject] [Adjective] است.
با وجود فقر، او سخاوتمند است.
[Noun of the Adjective] + [Subject] + [Verb].
سخاوتمندی او بیپایان است.
تجلیِ [Noun] در [Context], [Explanation].
تجلی سخاوتمندی در رفتار او مشهود بود.
[Subject] خیلی [Adjective] است.
آنها خیلی سخاوتمند هستند.
از لطف و [Noun] جناب عالی سپاسگزاریم.
از لطف و سخاوت جناب عالی سپاسگزاریم.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in formal, literary, and polite contexts. Moderate in daily speech.
-
Using 'sakavatmand' (with a K sound).
→
سخاوتمند (with a Kh sound).
The 'kh' (خ) is a distinct phoneme in Persian. Using 'k' can make the word unrecognizable or sound foreign.
-
Saying 'او سخاوتمند بخشید'.
→
او سخاوتمندانه بخشید.
You must use the adverbial form (-aneh) when modifying a verb (giving).
-
Confusing 'سخاوتمند' with 'ثروتمند'.
→
Use 'sakhavatmand' for giving, 'sarvatmand' for having.
A person can be wealthy (sarvatmand) but very stingy (khasis). They are not synonyms.
-
Forgetting the Ezafe: 'مرد سخاوتمند'.
→
مردِ سخاوتمند (mard-e sakhavatmand).
Persian requires the Ezafe link between a noun and its modifying adjective.
-
Using 'sakhavatmand' for small favors like lending a pen.
→
Use 'mehraban' or 'lotf kardan'.
'Sakhavatmand' implies a significant or characteristic generosity. Using it for trivial things sounds hyperbolic.
Tips
Formal Writing
Always use 'sakhavatmand' in essays or formal letters. It shows you have a good grasp of literary Persian.
The 'Kh' Sound
Don't rush the 'kh' sound. A clear /x/ sound makes your Persian sound authentic and professional.
Ezafe Connection
Remember the 'e' sound when putting a noun before 'sakhavatmand'. It's 'mard-e sakhavatmand', not 'mard sakhavatmand'.
Word Family
Learn 'sarvatmand' (wealthy) at the same time. The shared suffix '-mand' makes them easier to remember together.
Ta'arof Context
When someone gives you a gift, calling them 'sakhavatmand' is a very high compliment in Persian etiquette.
Action vs. Person
Use 'sakhavatmandaneh' for actions. 'He gave generously' = 'Sakhavatmandaneh bakhshid'.
Antonym Practice
Practice using 'sakhavatmand' and 'khasis' in the same sentence to master the contrast.
Classical Texts
Look for this word in the works of Saadi. He uses it frequently to illustrate moral tales.
Hashtags
In Persian social media, you might see #سخاوت or #سخاوتمند used in posts about charity.
Nature
Try describing a fruitful garden or a sunny day as 'sakhavatmand' to sound more poetic.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Sack-Have-At-Mand'. A man who has a 'Sack' of gold and says 'Have at it!' is 'Sakhavatmand'. He has (mand) the sack of generosity.
Visual Association
Imagine a person with a very large, glowing heart and hands that are constantly open, pouring out coins and light to people around them. The light represents 'Sakhavat'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find three things you can do 'sakhavatmandaneh' today—maybe giving a larger tip, spending extra time helping a friend, or sharing a resource. Describe your action using the word.
Word Origin
The word is a hybrid construction. 'Sakhavat' (سخاوت) is borrowed from the Arabic root S-Kh-W (س-خ-و), which relates to being liberal or open-handed. The suffix '-mand' (مند) is of Pure Persian (Pahlavi) origin, meaning 'possessing' or 'having'. This combination is a classic example of how Persian integrates Arabic vocabulary with its own grammatical structures.
Original meaning: Possessing the quality of an open hand/spirit.
Indo-European (Persian) with Semitic (Arabic) root.Cultural Context
Be careful not to use it sarcastically, as it is a highly respected word. Praising someone as 'sakhavatmand' when they are actually being cheap can be seen as very sharp irony.
In English, 'generous' can be casual. In Persian, 'sakhavatmand' feels slightly more 'grand' or 'noble', similar to 'magnanimous'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Charity and Philanthropy
- کمک سخاوتمندانه
- حامی سخاوتمند
- اهدای سخاوتمندانه
- مؤسسه سخاوتمند
Hospitality
- میزبان سخاوتمند
- پذیرایی سخاوتمندانه
- سفره سخاوتمند
- دست سخاوتمند میزبان
Personality Descriptions
- فردی سخاوتمند
- قلب سخاوتمند
- روحیه سخاوتمندانه
- منش سخاوتمندانه
Business/Offers
- پیشنهاد سخاوتمندانه
- پاداش سخاوتمندانه
- تخفیف سخاوتمندانه
- مزایای سخاوتمندانه
Nature/Abstract
- طبیعت سخاوتمند
- زمین سخاوتمند
- آفتاب سخاوتمند
- باران سخاوتمند
Conversation Starters
"به نظر شما سخاوتمندترین فردی که میشناسید کیست؟ (Who do you think is the most generous person you know?)"
"آیا فکر میکنید برای سخاوتمند بودن باید ثروتمند بود؟ (Do you think one must be wealthy to be generous?)"
"آخرین بار که کسی با شما سخاوتمندانه رفتار کرد چه زمانی بود؟ (When was the last time someone acted generously toward you?)"
"چگونه میتوانیم روحیه سخاوتمندی را در کودکان تقویت کنیم؟ (How can we strengthen the spirit of generosity in children?)"
"در فرهنگ شما، سخاوتمندی چه جایگاهی دارد؟ (What is the place of generosity in your culture?)"
Journal Prompts
درباره زمانی بنویسید که یک نفر با شما بسیار سخاوتمند بود و این کار چه حسی به شما داد. (Write about a time someone was very generous to you and how it made you feel.)
آیا سخاوتمندی همیشه به معنای پول دادن است؟ مثالهای دیگری بزنید. (Is generosity always about giving money? Give other examples.)
تفاوت بین 'مهربانی' و 'سخاوتمندی' از نظر شما چیست؟ (What is the difference between 'kindness' and 'generosity' in your opinion?)
چگونه طبیعت میتواند سخاوتمند باشد؟ توصیف کنید. (How can nature be generous? Describe it.)
اگر ثروت زیادی داشتید، چگونه سخاوتمندی خود را نشان میدادید؟ (If you had a lot of wealth, how would you show your generosity?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, while it often refers to financial generosity, it can also describe someone who is generous with their time, knowledge, or spirit. For example, a teacher who gives extra help is 'sakhavatmand' with their time.
'Sakhavatmand' is more formal and used in writing or polite speech. 'Dast-o-delbaz' is an idiom used in everyday casual conversation with friends and family.
You add the suffix '-tarin' to the end: 'sakhavatmand-tarin'. Example: 'U sakhavatmand-tarin fard-e shahr ast' (He is the most generous person in the city).
While technically possible, Persian speakers usually prefer 'Bakhshandeh' or 'Karim' when referring to God's generosity.
No, it is a raspy sound made in the back of the throat, similar to the 'ch' in 'Bach' or the Spanish 'j' in 'Juan'.
The most common antonym is 'khasis' (stingy). Other options include 'bakhil' (miserly) or 'la'im' (mean/vile).
Yes, by adding the plural '-an' (sakhavatmandan) it means 'generous people', or by using it with an article like 'sakhavatmandi' (a generous person).
Add '-aneh' to the end: 'sakhavatmandaneh'. Example: 'U sakhavatmandaneh komak kard' (He helped generously).
Yes, it is a very common theme in classical Persian poetry, which often praises the virtues of giving and selflessness.
No, Persian adjectives do not have gender. It is the same for men, women, and inanimate objects.
Test Yourself 200 questions
Write a sentence: 'My friend is generous.'
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Write: 'He is a generous man.'
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Write: 'He gave money generously to the poor.'
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Explain 'sakhavatmand' in your own Persian words (simple).
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Write a formal thank-you sentence for a generous gift.
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Discuss the impact of 'sakhavat' on society (one sentence).
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Write: 'I am not generous.'
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Write: 'They were generous.'
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Write: 'Why are you so generous?'
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Write: 'She is the most generous woman in the world.'
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Write: 'Nature is generous in this season.'
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Write a poetic sentence about a generous heart.
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Write: 'Is he generous?'
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Write: 'A generous teacher.'
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Write: 'We should be generous.'
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Describe a generous person you know.
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Write about a generous offer you received.
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Contrast sakhavat and khasaasat.
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Write 'Generous' in Persian script.
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Write 'Very generous' in Persian.
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Pronounce: سخاوتمند
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Say: 'He is generous.'
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Say: 'He helped generously.'
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Say: 'My father is more generous than me.'
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Say: 'Thank you for your generous offer.'
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Describe the concept of 'Sakhavat' in one sentence.
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Pronounce: سخاوت
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Say: 'Are you generous?'
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Say: 'She has a generous heart.'
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Say: 'He is the most generous.'
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Say: 'It was a generous act.'
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Use 'Sakhavatmandaneh' in a sentence about art.
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Say 'Generous' three times.
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Say: 'Generous friend.'
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Say: 'Don't be stingy, be generous.'
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Say: 'I like generous people.'
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Say: 'His generosity is famous.'
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Discuss a generous historical figure.
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Say: 'Yes, I am generous.'
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Say: 'No, he is not generous.'
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Listen and write the word for generous.
Listen: 'او خیلی سخاوتمند است.' Is he stingy?
Listen and identify the adverb form.
Listen for the antonym mentioned: 'او سخاوتمند است، نه خسیس.'
Listen and identify the noun.
Listen to a short poem and identify the virtue mentioned.
Is the speaker praising or criticizing?
How many syllables did you hear?
What suffix was used?
Was it formal or informal?
Listen: 'pishnahad-e sakhavatmandaneh'. What was generous?
Listen: 'tab'e sakhavatmand'. What is generous?
Repeat: 'Sakhavatmand'.
Identify the person: 'Madaram sakhavatmand ast.'
Identify the action: 'Sakhavatmandaneh bakhshid.'
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Summary
The word 'سخاوتمند' (sakhavatmand) is the standard Persian adjective for 'generous'. It describes a noble character trait of giving without expectation. Example: 'او همیشه نسبت به فقرا سخاوتمند است' (He is always generous toward the poor).
- Sakhavatmand means generous and is used to describe people who give freely.
- It is a formal word, often used in literature and polite conversation.
- The word is a combination of 'Sakhavat' (generosity) and '-mand' (having).
- Its common informal equivalent is 'dast-o-delbaz', meaning open-handed.
Formal Writing
Always use 'sakhavatmand' in essays or formal letters. It shows you have a good grasp of literary Persian.
The 'Kh' Sound
Don't rush the 'kh' sound. A clear /x/ sound makes your Persian sound authentic and professional.
Ezafe Connection
Remember the 'e' sound when putting a noun before 'sakhavatmand'. It's 'mard-e sakhavatmand', not 'mard sakhavatmand'.
Word Family
Learn 'sarvatmand' (wealthy) at the same time. The shared suffix '-mand' makes them easier to remember together.
Related Content
Related Phrases
More general words
عادتوار
C1As a matter of habit; habitually.
عادی
A1Conforming to the usual or standard type; normal or ordinary.
عافیت
B2Well-being; the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
عاجل
B2Requiring immediate attention or action; urgent.
عاقبت
C1The outcome or result of an action or event.
عاقل
A1Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment; wise.
عالمگیر
C1Universal, worldwide, or affecting all parts of the world.
عالی
A1Excellent; extremely good or outstanding.
عام
B1General, common, public.
اعم از
B2Including; whether (used to introduce options).