سرفه in 30 Seconds
- سرفه (sorfeh) means 'cough'.
- It's a sudden expulsion of air from the lungs.
- Used for health discussions, symptoms, and sounds.
- Commonly paired with 'کردن' (to do/make) as 'سرفه کردن' (to cough).
- Core Meaning
- The word 'سرفه' (sorfeh) in Persian directly translates to 'cough' in English. It refers to the involuntary and often forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, usually to clear the airways of irritants or mucus. It's a common bodily reflex experienced by people when they have a cold, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
- When It's Used
- You'll hear 'سرفه' used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing health. For example, if someone is feeling unwell, they might say they have a cough. Doctors often ask patients about their symptoms, and 'سرفه' would be a primary question. It can also be used to describe the sound itself. Imagine a child playing, and suddenly they let out a loud 'سرفه'. In literature or storytelling, it can be used to add realism to a character's condition or environment. For instance, a character in a dusty old house might be described as having a persistent 'سرفه'. It's a very common and universally understood term related to physical well-being.
- Context Examples
- Think about a scene in a movie where someone has a severe illness; their labored breathing and frequent 'سرفه' would be depicted to show their suffering. In a doctor's office, the nurse might ask, 'آیا سرفه دارید؟' (Do you have a cough?). Or a parent might tell their child, 'زیاد سرفه نکن' (Don't cough too much). It's a word that describes a physical action and a symptom, making it highly practical for communication about health.
The child had a dry سرفه all night.
He coughed and coughed, a persistent سرفه that wouldn't stop.
- Medical Context
- In a medical setting, 'سرفه' is a key symptom. Doctors will ask about the nature of the cough: Is it dry (خشک - khoshk) or wet (خیس - khis)? How frequent is it? Does it happen at certain times of the day? This information helps them diagnose the underlying cause, which could range from a common cold to more serious conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia. Understanding 'سرفه' is fundamental to discussing health issues in Persian.
- Everyday Usage
- Beyond formal medical discussions, 'سرفه' is used casually. If you hear someone making a coughing sound, you might ask, 'چیزی شده؟ سرفه میکنی؟' (Is something wrong? Are you coughing?). It's a direct and simple word for a very common experience. Parents often tell their children to cover their mouths when they 'سرفه' to prevent spreading germs. The word is straightforward and essential for basic communication about one's physical state.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The word 'سرفه' (sorfeh) is a noun. It can be used as the subject of a sentence, the object, or part of a prepositional phrase. It often appears with verbs that describe the action of coughing or the state of having a cough.
- Describing the Symptom
- To say someone has a cough, you can use phrases like 'سرفه دارد' (he/she has a cough) or 'سرفه میکنم' (I am coughing). If you want to describe the cough itself, you can use adjectives. For example, 'سرفه خشک' (dry cough) or 'سرفه شدید' (severe cough). The verb 'کردن' (kardan - to do/make) is frequently used with 'سرفه' to indicate the act of coughing: 'سرفه کرد' (he/she coughed). This is a very common construction.
- In Questions
- When asking about someone's health, you might inquire, 'آیا سرفه میکنید؟' (Are you coughing?). Or more simply, 'سرفه دارید؟' (Do you have a cough?). These are direct and polite ways to check on someone's well-being.
- Describing the Sound
- You can also use 'سرفه' to describe the sound itself. For example, 'صدای سرفه میآید' (the sound of coughing is coming). This is useful when you can hear someone coughing but can't see them.
- Common Verb Combinations
- The most common verb used with 'سرفه' is 'کردن' (kardan). So, 'سرفه کردن' means 'to cough'. The past tense would be 'سرفه کرد' (he/she coughed), and the present tense is often implied when saying 'سرفه دارد' (has a cough), or explicitly with 'سرفه میکند' (he/she is coughing). Other verbs might be used in more descriptive contexts, but 'کردن' is the go-to.
I have a bad سرفه.
Did you hear that سرفه?
- Using Adverbs
- Adverbs can modify the action of coughing. For instance, 'او به طور مداوم سرفه میکرد' (He was coughing continuously). The adverb 'مداوم' (modavem - continuously) describes how the coughing occurred. Similarly, 'او به شدت سرفه کرد' (He coughed severely) uses 'شدید' (shadid - severely) to describe the intensity.
- In Medical Advice
- When giving advice, you might say, 'باید کمتر سرفه کنی' (You should cough less). This is a direct command or suggestion. Doctors might also advise, 'استراحت کنید تا سرفه شما بهتر شود' (Rest so that your cough improves). The word 'بهتر شود' (better شود - improves) indicates a desired outcome for the cough.
- Doctor's Offices and Clinics
- This is perhaps the most common place to hear 'سرفه' (sorfeh). Medical professionals will inevitably ask about it as a primary symptom. 'آیا سرفه دارید؟' (Do you have a cough?) is a standard question. They might also ask about the type of cough: 'سرفهتان خشک است یا خلطدار؟' (Is your cough dry or with phlegm?). This is where the word is used in its most functional and diagnostic sense.
- Pharmacies
- When you go to a pharmacy to buy medicine for a cold or respiratory ailment, the pharmacist might ask about your symptoms, including 'سرفه'. They might recommend cough syrup or lozenges, and the packaging or instructions will likely mention 'سرفه'. You might hear them say, 'این دارو برای سرفه مناسب است' (This medicine is suitable for coughs).
- Family and Friends
- In casual conversation, especially during flu season or when someone is feeling under the weather, 'سرفه' is frequently mentioned. 'همسایهمان سرفه میکرد' (Our neighbor was coughing). Or someone might complain, 'من از دیشب سرفه دارم' (I've had a cough since last night). It's a natural part of discussing minor health issues among people you know.
- Public Places (When Someone Coughs)
- You'll often hear the actual sound of coughing in public spaces, and people might react by saying things like, 'کسی سرفه میکند' (Someone is coughing) or even a concerned, 'حالش خوب است؟' (Is he/she okay?). If someone coughs near you, you might internally register it as 'سرفه'.
- Media and Entertainment
- In movies, TV shows, or even books, characters might be described as having a 'سرفه'. This adds realism to their portrayal, especially if they are sick. A dramatic scene might include a character struggling to speak due to a violent 'سرفه'. News reports about public health or epidemics might also use the word.
- Children's Contexts
- Parents often tell their children, 'دهانت را بپوشان وقتی سرفه میکنی' (Cover your mouth when you cough). Children's songs or stories about being sick might also feature the word 'سرفه'. It's a term that even young children learn to associate with illness.
The doctor asked about my سرفه.
He took medicine for his cough, his سرفه was very bad.
- Emergency Situations
- In emergency services, a dispatcher might ask, 'آیا فرد سرفه میکند؟' (Is the person coughing?) to gauge the severity of a medical situation. This highlights the word's importance in conveying critical health information.
- Confusing Noun and Verb
- A common mistake for learners is to try and use 'سرفه' (sorfeh) directly as a verb, similar to how 'cough' can sometimes function in English. In Persian, 'سرفه' is primarily a noun. To express the action of coughing, you need to use the verb 'کردن' (kardan - to do/make) with it, forming 'سرفه کردن' (sorfeh kardan - to cough). So, saying 'من سرفه میکنم' (man sorfeh mikonam) is correct, meaning 'I am coughing'. Saying simply 'من سرفه' (man sorfeh) is grammatically incomplete in this context.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation
- Even when using 'سرفه کردن', learners might make mistakes with the conjugation of 'کردن'. For example, forgetting the present progressive tense marker 'می' (mi-) can lead to incorrect sentences. The correct present progressive form is 'سرفه میکنم' (I am coughing), 'سرفه میکنی' (you are coughing), 'سرفه میکند' (he/she is coughing), etc. Incorrectly saying 'من سرفه کنم' (man sorfeh konam) might imply a desire or a conditional action rather than the ongoing act of coughing.
- Overusing 'دارم' (Daram - I have)
- While 'سرفه دارم' (sorfeh daram - I have a cough) is perfectly correct and common, some learners might overuse it in situations where the active verb 'سرفه میکنم' (I am coughing) would be more appropriate or descriptive. For instance, if you are actively coughing at this very moment, 'سرفه میکنم' is often preferred. 'سرفه دارم' describes the condition of having a cough, while 'سرفه میکنم' describes the action.
- Literal Translation Issues
- Attempting to translate English phrases too literally can lead to errors. For example, if in English you say 'I have a cough that won't stop', a direct translation might not sound natural. The Persian way to express this is often more active, like 'سرفهام بند نمیآید' (sarfeh-am band nemi-ayad - my cough doesn't stop/cease), where 'سرفه' is possessed by the speaker ('-am' suffix) and the verb 'بند آمدن' (band amadan - to stop/cease) is negated.
- Pronunciation Errors
- While not strictly grammatical, mispronouncing 'سرفه' can lead to confusion. The 'س' (s) sound is like the English 's', the 'ر' (r) is a rolled 'r', and the 'ف' (f) is like the English 'f'. The vowel sounds are also important. Getting the pronunciation right ensures clear communication, especially in a medical context where clarity is crucial.
Incorrect: من سرفه میکنم.
Correct: من سرفه میکنم.
- Using 'شدید' and 'خشک' Incorrectly
- When describing the cough, learners might place adjectives incorrectly. For example, saying 'سرفه شدید دارم' (sorfeh shadid daram) is correct, meaning 'I have a severe cough'. However, saying 'شدید سرفه دارم' (shadid sorfeh daram) is less common and might sound awkward. The adjective usually follows the noun it modifies when used with 'دارم'. Similarly for 'خشک' (khoshk - dry).
- 'تنگی نفس' (Tangi-ye Nafas)
- Meaning: Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath.
Difference: While a severe cough can sometimes lead to or accompany shortness of breath, 'تنگی نفس' specifically refers to the sensation of not being able to get enough air. 'سرفه' is about expelling air, while 'تنگی نفس' is about struggling to inhale sufficiently. You can have 'تنگی نفس' without coughing, and you can cough without experiencing 'تنگی نفس'.
Example Sentence: 'او به دلیل بیماریاش دچار تنگی نفس شده بود.' (He had difficulty breathing due to his illness.) - 'گرفتگی صدا' (Gereftegi-ye Seda)
- Meaning: Hoarseness, loss of voice.
Difference: This refers to a change in the quality of the voice, making it sound rough or weak. It's related to the vocal cords. While a cough can sometimes be caused by or lead to a hoarse voice (e.g., from straining the vocal cords), 'گرفتگی صدا' is a distinct symptom. A person might have a hoarse voice without coughing, and a cough doesn't always result in voice changes.
Example Sentence: 'بعد از فریاد زدن، صدایش گرفت.' (After shouting, his voice became hoarse.) - 'عطسه' (Atsseh)
- Meaning: Sneeze.
Difference: Both 'عطسه' and 'سرفه' are sudden expulsions of air from the body, but they originate from different parts and serve different purposes. A sneeze is typically an involuntary expulsion of air through the nose and mouth, usually triggered by irritants in the nasal passages. A cough is an expulsion primarily from the lungs, often to clear the throat or airways. You can have one without the other.
Example Sentence: 'هوای سرد باعث شد او عطسه کند.' (The cold air made him sneeze.) - 'خلط' (Khalet)
- Meaning: Phlegm, mucus.
Difference: 'خلط' is the substance that is expelled during a productive cough (a 'wet cough' or 'سرفه خلطدار'). 'سرفه' is the action or the sound of coughing itself. You can have a dry cough ('سرفه خشک') without producing 'خلط'. Therefore, 'سرفه' is the physical reflex, and 'خلط' is the material associated with a specific type of cough.
Example Sentence: 'او سعی میکرد خلط را از سینهاش بیرون بیاورد.' (He was trying to bring up phlegm from his chest.) - 'بیماری' (Bimari)
- Meaning: Illness, sickness, disease.
Difference: 'بیماری' is a general term for being unwell or having a health condition. 'سرفه' is a specific symptom that can be a part of many different 'بیماریها'. You can have a 'بیماری' without a cough, and you can have a 'سرفه' that is a minor symptom of a temporary condition like a cold, which might not even be considered a full 'بیماری'.
Example Sentence: 'او به خاطر بیماری سرماخوردگی سرفه میکند.' (He is coughing because of a cold illness.)
A sneeze is different from a سرفه.
Phlegm is associated with a wet سرفه.
- 'درد' (Dard)
- Meaning: Pain.
Difference: 'درد' refers to physical suffering or discomfort. While a severe cough can cause chest pain or throat pain, 'سرفه' itself is not pain. It's a reflex. You can have pain in your chest without coughing, and you can cough without feeling pain.
Example Sentence: 'او از درد سرش شکایت میکرد.' (He complained of headache.)
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
Many medical terms in Persian have Arabic roots due to the historical influence of Arabic science and medicine. 'سرفه' is a prime example of such a loanword that has become fully integrated into the Persian lexicon.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'o' sound too short.
- Not rolling the 'r' sound (for some speakers).
- Adding an extra syllable or misplacing the stress.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'سرفه' is very common and its meaning is usually clear from context, making it easy to understand in reading materials, especially at beginner levels.
Learners should focus on using 'سرفه' correctly as a noun and pairing it with the verb 'کردن' to form 'سرفه کردن'.
Pronunciation is relatively straightforward, and the word is frequently used, making it easy to incorporate into spoken Persian.
The sound of coughing is universal, and the word 'سرفه' is often used to describe it, making it easy to recognize.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Present Progressive Tense with 'کردن'.
To say 'I am coughing', use 'من سرفه میکنم' (man sorfeh mikonam).
Past Tense with 'کردن'.
To say 'He coughed', use 'او سرفه کرد' (u sorfeh kard).
Using 'داشتن' (to have) for symptoms.
To say 'I have a cough', use 'من سرفه دارم' (man sorfeh dāram).
Adjective placement.
To say 'a dry cough', use 'سرفه خشک' (sorfeh khoshk).
Imperative mood (commands).
To say 'Don't cough', use 'سرفه نکن' (sorfeh nakon).
Examples by Level
من سرفه میکنم.
I am coughing.
Simple present progressive tense using 'کردن'.
کودک سرفه کرد.
The child coughed.
Simple past tense of 'کردن'.
آیا سرفه داری؟
Do you have a cough?
Question form using 'داشتن' (to have).
سرفه خشک دارم.
I have a dry cough.
Using an adjective ('خشک') to describe the noun 'سرفه'.
صدای سرفه شنیدم.
I heard a cough sound.
Using the verb 'شنیدن' (to hear) with the noun 'سرفه'.
زیاد سرفه نکن.
Don't cough too much.
Negative imperative form.
سرفهام بند نمیآید.
My cough won't stop.
Idiomatic expression using 'بند آمدن'.
او سرفه شدید داشت.
He had a severe cough.
Using an adjective ('شدید') with 'داشتن'.
دکتر پرسید: سرفه میکنید؟
The doctor asked: Are you coughing?
Direct speech, present progressive question.
این دارو برای سرفه است.
This medicine is for coughs.
Using 'برای' (for) with the noun 'سرفه'.
بچهها در کلاس سرفه میکردند.
The children were coughing in class.
Past progressive tense.
هوای آلوده باعث سرفه میشود.
Polluted air causes coughing.
Using 'باعث شدن' (to cause).
لطفاً وقتی سرفه میکنید، دهانتان را بپوشانید.
Please cover your mouth when you cough.
Imperative command with a temporal clause.
سرفه طولانی او نگرانکننده بود.
His prolonged cough was worrying.
Using an adjective ('طولانی') as a modifier.
آیا سرفهتان بهتر شده است؟
Has your cough improved?
Perfect tense question.
صدای سرفههای او از دور میآمد.
The sound of his coughs was coming from afar.
Plural form of 'سرفه' (though often used in singular sense for the sound).
پزشک دستور داد تا زمانی که سرفه او قطع نشده، استراحت کند.
The doctor ordered him to rest until his cough stopped.
Subjunctive mood with 'تا زمانی که' (until).
سرفه مزمن میتواند نشانهای از بیماری جدی باشد.
Chronic cough can be a sign of a serious illness.
Using 'مزمن' (chronic) and 'نشانهای از' (a sign of).
او با سرفهای خفه سعی کرد حرف بزند.
He tried to speak with a muffled cough.
Using an adverbial phrase 'با سرفهای خفه' (with a muffled cough).
داروی سرفه را طبق دستور پزشک مصرف کنید.
Take the cough medicine according to the doctor's instructions.
Using 'طبق دستور' (according to instructions).
تغییر فصل اغلب باعث سرفه و سرماخوردگی میشود.
Change of season often causes coughs and colds.
Using plural 'سرفهها' in a general sense.
اگر سرفهتان ادامه پیدا کرد، حتماً دوباره مراجعه کنید.
If your cough persists, be sure to come back.
Conditional sentence with 'اگر' (if) and 'ادامه پیدا کردن' (to continue).
او از شدت سرفه نمیتوانست بخوابد.
He couldn't sleep due to the severity of his cough.
Using 'از شدت' (due to the severity of).
این شربت سرفه مخصوص کودکان است.
This cough syrup is specifically for children.
Using 'مخصوص' (specific for).
پزشک پس از معاینه، علت سرفه مداوم بیمار را عفونت ریه تشخیص داد.
After examination, the doctor diagnosed the cause of the patient's persistent cough as a lung infection.
Complex sentence structure, using 'علت' (cause) and 'تشخیص داد' (diagnosed).
استفاده طولانی مدت از سیگار میتواند منجر به سرفههای شدید و بیماریهای تنفسی شود.
Long-term smoking can lead to severe coughs and respiratory diseases.
Using 'منجر به' (lead to) and 'بیماریهای تنفسی' (respiratory diseases).
برای تسکین سرفه، غرغره آب نمک گرم توصیه میشود.
For cough relief, gargling with warm salt water is recommended.
Using infinitive as subject with 'توصیه میشود' (is recommended).
او از سرفهای که با خلط خونی همراه بود، رنج میبرد.
He was suffering from a cough accompanied by bloody phlegm.
Using 'همراه بود' (was accompanied by).
تحقیقات نشان میدهد که ورزش منظم میتواند به کاهش سرفههای ناشی از آسم کمک کند.
Research shows that regular exercise can help reduce asthma-induced coughs.
Using 'ناشی از' (caused by/induced by).
بیمار از سرفهای که شبها شدت میگرفت و خواب او را مختل میکرد، شکایت داشت.
The patient complained of a cough that intensified at night and disrupted his sleep.
Complex sentence with relative clause and participial phrase.
معمولاً سرفه پس از سرماخوردگی به تدریج بهبود مییابد.
Usually, a cough after a cold gradually improves.
Using 'به تدریج' (gradually) and 'بهبود یافتن' (to improve).
پزشک توصیه کرد که از قرار گرفتن در معرض دود سیگار و آلایندههای هوا که باعث سرفه میشوند، خودداری کند.
The doctor advised him to avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and air pollutants that cause coughing.
Using 'از ... خودداری کند' (to refrain from) and a relative clause.
علائم اولیه بیماری شامل تب خفیف، گلودرد و سرفهای خشک بود که به مرور زمان شدت یافت.
The initial symptoms of the illness included a mild fever, sore throat, and a dry cough that intensified over time.
Complex sentence with multiple clauses and descriptive adjectives.
مطالعات نشان دادهاند که برخی از داروهای بدون نسخه ممکن است سرفههای مزمن را تشدید کنند، نه تسکین.
Studies have shown that some over-the-counter medications may exacerbate chronic coughs, rather than alleviate them.
Using 'تشدید کردن' (to exacerbate) and 'تسکین دادن' (to alleviate).
بیمار با سرفهای خفقانآور که نفس کشیدن را برایش دشوار میساخت، به اورژانس مراجعه کرد.
The patient presented to the emergency room with a suffocating cough that made breathing difficult for him.
Using participial phrases and descriptive adjectives ('خفقانآور').
کاهش رطوبت هوا در فصل زمستان یکی از عوامل اصلی بروز سرفههای فصلی است.
The decrease in air humidity during the winter season is one of the main factors for the onset of seasonal coughs.
Using abstract nouns and causal relationships ('عوامل اصلی بروز').
پزشکان توصیه میکنند که افراد مبتلا به سرفه شدید از مصرف نوشیدنیهای سرد و غذاهای تحریککننده پرهیز کنند.
Doctors recommend that individuals suffering from severe coughs abstain from consuming cold beverages and irritating foods.
Using 'مبتلا به' (suffering from) and 'پرهیز کردن' (to abstain).
او با وجود مصرف مداوم دارو، همچنان از سرفهای که شبها او را آزار میداد، رنج میبرد.
Despite continuous medication, he still suffered from a cough that bothered him at night.
Using concessive clauses with 'با وجود' (despite).
تغییرات ناگهانی در فشار هوا میتواند موجب تحریک مجاری تنفسی و بروز سرفه شود.
Sudden changes in air pressure can cause irritation of the respiratory tract and trigger a cough.
Using abstract concepts and formal vocabulary ('موجب تحریک', 'مجاری تنفسی', 'بروز').
تحقیقات اخیر بر روی اثربخشی عصارههای گیاهی در درمان سرفههای خشک متمرکز شده است.
Recent research has focused on the effectiveness of herbal extracts in treating dry coughs.
Using formal vocabulary ('اثربخشی', 'متمرکز شده است').
پیشرفتهای اخیر در پاتوفیزیولوژی سرفههای مقاوم به درمان، درک ما را از این عارضه پیچیده دگرگون کرده است.
Recent advances in the pathophysiology of refractory cough have transformed our understanding of this complex condition.
Highly specialized medical vocabulary ('پاتوفیزیولوژی', 'مقاوم به درمان', 'عارضه').
سندرم سرفه مداوم، که اغلب با علائم گوارشی و ریفلاکس همراه است، تشخیص افتراقی دقیقی را میطلبد.
Chronic cough syndrome, often associated with gastrointestinal and reflux symptoms, requires precise differential diagnosis.
Medical terminology ('سندرم', 'گوارشی', 'ریفلاکس', 'تشخیص افتراقی').
تظاهرات بالینی سرفههای ناشی از بیماریهای بینابینی ریه میتواند بسیار متغیر باشد و اغلب با سایر اختلالات تنفسی همپوشانی دارد.
The clinical manifestations of coughs resulting from interstitial lung diseases can be highly variable and often overlap with other respiratory disorders.
Advanced medical and scientific vocabulary ('تظاهرات بالینی', 'بینابینی', 'همپوشانی', 'اختلالات').
بهرهگیری از رویکردهای چندوجهی در مدیریت سرفههای مقاوم به درمان، نیازمند همکاری میانرشتهای متخصصان است.
Utilizing multifaceted approaches in the management of refractory cough necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration among specialists.
Formal academic and management language ('بهرهگیری', 'چندوجهی', 'میانرشتهای').
مکانیزمهای پیچیده عصبی و التهابی در پاتوجنس سرفههای مزمن نقشی اساسی ایفا میکنند.
Complex neural and inflammatory mechanisms play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of chronic cough.
Detailed biological and medical terms ('مکانیزمهای عصبی', 'التهابی', 'پاتوجنس').
بررسیهای اپیدمیولوژیک نشاندهنده ارتباط معناداری میان قرار گرفتن در معرض آلایندههای هوا و افزایش شیوع سرفههای مزمن در جمعیتهای شهری است.
Epidemiological studies indicate a significant correlation between exposure to air pollutants and an increased prevalence of chronic cough in urban populations.
Statistical and epidemiological terms ('اپیدمیولوژیک', 'معناداری', 'شیوع').
درمانهای نوین با هدف تعدیل پاسخهای ایمنی و التهابی در مجاری تنفسی، چشمانداز امیدوارکنندهای برای سرفههای مقاوم به درمان ارائه میدهند.
Novel therapies aimed at modulating immune and inflammatory responses in the airways offer a promising prospect for refractory cough.
Cutting-edge medical research terminology ('تعدیل پاسخها', 'چشمانداز امیدوارکننده').
فهم دقیق عوامل محرک و مکانیسمهای بقای سرفه در بیماران مبتلا به بیماریهای مزمن ریوی، کلید توسعه استراتژیهای درمانی مؤثرتر است.
A precise understanding of the triggers and perpetuating mechanisms of cough in patients with chronic lung diseases is key to developing more effective therapeutic strategies.
Highly technical and analytical language ('عوامل محرک', 'مکانیسمهای بقا', 'استراتژیهای درمانی').
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— What is the cause of the cough?
The doctor is trying to find out the cause of my cough.
Often Confused With
Both are sudden expulsions of air, but 'عطسه' is primarily nasal, while 'سرفه' is from the lungs. The triggers and purposes are also different.
A sore throat is a pain in the throat, while a cough is an expulsion of air from the lungs. They often occur together but are distinct symptoms.
Difficulty breathing is about inhalation, while coughing is about exhalation. One can have shortness of breath without coughing, and vice versa.
Idioms & Expressions
— His cough is incessant; he cannot stop coughing.
He has a terrible cold, his cough just won't stop. (او سرماخوردگی بدی دارد، سرفهاش بند نمیآید.)
Informal/Common— To jump up with a cough (often used metaphorically for a sudden, startled reaction, though less common than the literal meaning).
He was startled by the loud noise and jumped up with a cough. (او از صدای بلند ترسید و با سرفه از جا پرید.)
Figurative/Less Common— To cough in one's throat (often implies trying to suppress a cough or a slight tickle).
He coughed slightly in his throat to clear it. (او برای صاف کردن گلویش کمی در گلو سرفه کرد.)
Descriptive— A dry and silent cough (paradoxical, implying a suppressed or very subtle cough).
She tried to suppress her cough, it was almost silent. (او سعی کرد سرفهاش را سرکوب کند، تقریباً بیصدا بود.)
Literary/Descriptive— Coughing against the wind (metaphorically, undertaking a futile or difficult task against strong opposition).
Trying to change his mind was like coughing against the wind. (تلاش برای تغییر نظر او مثل سرفه در مقابل باد بود.)
Figurative/Proverbial— Coughing and sneezing are signs of health (often said humorously or ironically when someone is actually sick).
My friend said, 'Coughing and sneezing are signs of health!' when I was clearly sick. (دوستم گفت: 'سرفه و عطسه نشانه سلامتی است!' وقتی من به وضوح مریض بودم.)
Proverbial/Humorous— To cough for someone (usually implies trying to get someone's attention subtly).
He coughed a few times to get the waiter's attention. (او چند بار سرفه کرد تا توجه پیشخدمت را جلب کند.)
Informal— Coughing in the dark (implies making a sound or action without being seen or recognized).
He was coughing in the dark, hoping no one would notice. (او در تاریکی سرفه میکرد، به امید اینکه کسی متوجه نشود.)
Figurative— Coughing and crying (often used to describe intense emotional distress or physical discomfort).
The child was coughing and crying from the pain. (کودک از درد سرفه و گریه میکرد.)
Descriptive— To accept the cough (often implies enduring discomfort for a purpose or accepting a consequence).
He endured the cold and the cough to finish the job. (او سرما و سرفه را به جان خرید تا کار را تمام کند.)
FigurativeEasily Confused
Similar to 'سرفه' but implies a single, isolated cough.
'سرفه' can refer to a single cough or a continuous coughing fit. 'تک سرفه' specifically denotes one distinct cough. For example, 'He coughed once' is 'او یک تک سرفه کرد', while 'He coughed a lot' is 'او زیاد سرفه کرد'.
I heard a single cough. (یک تک سرفه شنیدم.)
Learners might mistakenly use 'سرفه' as a verb directly.
'سرفه' is the noun (cough). 'سرفه کردن' is the verb phrase (to cough). You cannot say 'I cough' as 'من سرفه', but rather 'من سرفه میکنم' (I am coughing).
I am coughing. (من سرفه میکنم.)
Related to 'wet coughs'.
'سرفه' is the action of coughing. 'خلط' is the phlegm or mucus that might be expelled during a 'wet cough' (سرفه خیس). You can have a dry cough ('سرفه خشک') without 'خلط'.
He coughed up phlegm. (او خلط سرفه کرد.)
Both can be symptoms of a cold or illness.
'گرفتگی صدا' means hoarseness or loss of voice, affecting the vocal cords. 'سرفه' is the expulsion of air from the lungs. You can be hoarse without coughing, and you can cough without being hoarse.
After shouting, my voice became hoarse. (بعد از فریاد زدن، صدایم گرفت.)
Cough is a symptom of many illnesses.
'بیماری' is the general term for illness or disease. 'سرفه' is a specific symptom that can occur as part of many different illnesses. You can have an illness without a cough, and a minor cough without a significant illness.
He is sick with a cough. (او با سرفه مریض است.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + سرفه + میکند/کرد.
من سرفه میکنم. (I am coughing.)
Subject + سرفه + دارد/داشت.
او سرفه دارد. (He/She has a cough.)
Question + سرفه + داری/دارید؟
آیا سرفه داری؟ (Do you have a cough?)
Adjective + سرفه + دارم/دارد.
سرفه خشک دارم. (I have a dry cough.)
Negative Imperative + سرفه + نکن/نکنید.
سرفه نکن! (Don't cough!)
Phrase + برای + سرفه.
این دارو برای سرفه است. (This medicine is for coughs.)
Subject + از + شدت + سرفه + نمیتوانست + Verb.
او از شدت سرفه نمیتوانست بخوابد. (He couldn't sleep due to the severity of his cough.)
Subject + با + سرفه + Adjective + Verb.
او با سرفهای خفه سعی کرد حرف بزند. (He tried to speak with a muffled cough.)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Using 'سرفه' as a verb directly.
→
Using the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن'.
Learners often try to use 'سرفه' as a verb like 'cough' in English. In Persian, 'سرفه' is a noun. The correct way to say 'to cough' is 'سرفه کردن'. For example, 'I am coughing' is 'من سرفه میکنم', not 'من سرفه'.
-
Incorrect conjugation of 'کردن'.
→
Correct conjugation of 'کردن' with 'سرفه'.
When forming the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن', it's crucial to conjugate 'کردن' correctly. For instance, the present progressive 'I am coughing' is 'من سرفه میکنم', not 'من سرفه کنم' (which implies a desire or condition).
-
Confusing 'سرفه' with 'عطسه'.
→
Distinguishing between 'cough' and 'sneeze'.
'سرفه' (cough) is an expulsion of air from the lungs, while 'عطسه' (atsseh) is a sneeze, usually from the nose and throat. They are different actions with different triggers.
-
Literal translation of 'have a cough'.
→
Using 'سرفه دارم' or 'سرفه میکنم'.
While 'I have a cough' translates well to 'من سرفه دارم', sometimes learners might try to overcomplicate it. The active verb 'من سرفه میکنم' is also very common and often preferred when the action is ongoing.
-
Misplacing adjectives.
→
Placing adjectives after the noun they modify.
When describing a cough, adjectives usually follow the noun. For example, 'a dry cough' is 'سرفه خشک', not 'خشک سرفه'. When used with 'دارم' (to have), it's 'سرفه خشک دارم'.
Tips
Noun vs. Verb
Remember that 'سرفه' is a noun. To express the action of coughing, always use the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن' (sorfeh kardan). So, instead of saying 'I cough', say 'I am coughing' ('من سرفه میکنم') or 'I coughed' ('من سرفه کردم').
Describing the Cough
Expand your vocabulary by learning adjectives to describe coughs: 'خشک' (khoshk - dry), 'خیس' (khis - wet/productive), 'شدید' (shadid - severe), 'مداوم' (modāvem - persistent), and 'مزمن' (mozmen - chronic).
Stress and Sound
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable: sor-FEH. Practice the 'o' sound (like 'aw' in 'saw') and the rolled 'r' if applicable to your accent, to pronounce 'سرفه' clearly.
Politeness
When coughing in public or around others, it's polite to cover your mouth, just as in English-speaking cultures. You might even hear phrases like 'لطفاً وقتی سرفه میکنید، دهانتان را بپوشانید' (Please cover your mouth when you cough).
Medical Context
In a medical setting, 'سرفه' is a key symptom. Doctors will ask about its nature (dry/wet, frequency, severity) to diagnose the problem. Understanding this word is crucial for discussing health issues.
Mnemonic Association
Create a memorable link. Imagine a 'surf' board that's so dusty it makes you 'cough' (sorfeh)! Or associate the sound 'sor-FEH!' with the sudden noise of a cough.
Cough vs. Sneeze
Don't confuse 'سرفه' (cough, from lungs) with 'عطسه' (atsseh - sneeze, from nose/throat). Both are expulsions of air, but they are distinct actions with different triggers.
Idiomatic Usage
Learn phrases like 'سرفهاش بند نمیآید' (his cough won't stop) to sound more natural. This idiom emphasizes the persistence of the cough.
Sentence Building
Practice using 'سرفه' in sentences. Try describing your own cough, asking about someone else's, or using it in a simple medical context. For example: 'من سرفه میکنم.' (I am coughing.)
Cultural Relevance
Discussing health is a universal topic. 'سرفه' is a common symptom, and talking about it is a normal part of social interaction, just like in English.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'surf' board that is so big it makes you 'cough' when you see it! Or think of 'sorrow' (sounds a bit like sorfeh) that makes you cough from sadness.
Visual Association
Picture a person dramatically coughing into their elbow, with the sound 'Sor-FEH!' echoing. Imagine a dry, dusty room where everyone is coughing.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'سرفه' in at least three sentences describing different scenarios: one where you are coughing, one where you ask someone if they are coughing, and one where you describe a cough (e.g., dry or severe).
Word Origin
The word 'سرفه' (sorfeh) is of Arabic origin, derived from the root 'سرف' (s-r-f), which relates to coughing. It entered Persian through the influence of Arabic language on Persian vocabulary, particularly in medical and formal contexts.
Original meaning: The Arabic root signifies the act of coughing.
Indo-Iranian (Persian) / Semitic (Arabic origin)Cultural Context
When discussing someone's cough, especially if it's severe or persistent, it's generally polite to express concern rather than dismiss it. In public, covering one's mouth is considered good etiquette to prevent germ spread.
In English-speaking cultures, 'cough' is also a common term for a respiratory symptom. Similar to Persian, it's used in medical contexts, casual conversations about health, and can be modified with adjectives like 'dry' or 'wet'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing health and illness.
- من سرفه میکنم.
- آیا سرفه داری؟
- سرفه خشک
- داروی سرفه
At the doctor's office or pharmacy.
- دکتر پرسید: سرفه میکنید؟
- این دارو برای سرفه است.
- علت سرفه چیست؟
- سرفه شدید
Describing symptoms.
- سرفهام بند نمیآید.
- سرفه مداوم
- صدای سرفه
- سرفه کردن در خواب
Giving or receiving advice about health.
- زیاد سرفه نکن.
- لطفاً وقتی سرفه میکنید، دهانتان را بپوشانید.
- تسکین سرفه
Talking about weather and seasons affecting health.
- هوای آلوده باعث سرفه میشود.
- تغییر فصل اغلب باعث سرفه میشود.
- سرفه فصلی
Conversation Starters
"How are you feeling today? Are you coughing?"
"I heard you coughing yesterday, are you feeling better now?"
"This weather is making me cough. Do you have a cough too?"
"What do you usually do when you have a cough?"
"Do you know any good home remedies for a cough?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had a bad cough. What did it feel like? What did you do?
Imagine you are a doctor. What questions would you ask a patient who has a cough?
Write a short story about a character who has a persistent cough. How does it affect their life?
What are the common causes of coughs in your country? How do people typically treat them?
If you could invent a new medicine for coughs, what would it do?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'سرفه' is primarily a noun, meaning 'cough'. To express the action of coughing, you use the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن' (sorfeh kardan), which literally translates to 'to do a cough'.
You say 'من سرفه میکنم' (man sorfeh mikonam). This uses the present progressive tense of the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن'.
'سرفه خشک' (sorfeh-ye khoshk) means 'dry cough', which is typically irritating and doesn't produce phlegm. 'سرفه خیس' (sorfeh-ye khis) means 'wet cough', which is productive and involves bringing up phlegm or mucus.
No, 'سرفه' itself is a noun. You need to use it with the verb 'کردن' (kardan) to form the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن' (to cough).
You can ask 'آیا سرفه داری؟' (Āyā sorfeh dāri?) for informal 'you', or 'آیا سرفه دارید؟' (Āyā sorfeh dārid?) for formal 'you' or plural 'you'. A simpler way is 'سرفه میکنی؟' (Sorfeh mikoni?) or 'سرفه میکنید؟' (Sorfeh mikonid?).
This phrase literally translates to 'my cough does not stop'. It's a common idiom used to express that someone has a persistent cough that is difficult to control or cease.
Yes, 'سرفه' is a very common and essential word in Persian, frequently used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing health and well-being.
'Cough syrup' is typically translated as 'شربت سرفه' (sharbat-e sorfeh).
Yes, 'سرفه' can be used figuratively in idioms, such as 'سرفه در مقابل باد' (coughing against the wind) to describe a futile effort.
The plural form is 'سرفهها' (sorfeh-hā). However, in many contexts, the singular form is used even when referring to multiple instances or the sound of coughing.
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Summary
The Persian word 'سرفه' (sorfeh) directly translates to 'cough' in English. It is a noun referring to the physical act of expelling air from the lungs, a common symptom discussed in health contexts. Remember to use 'سرفه کردن' for the action of coughing.
- سرفه (sorfeh) means 'cough'.
- It's a sudden expulsion of air from the lungs.
- Used for health discussions, symptoms, and sounds.
- Commonly paired with 'کردن' (to do/make) as 'سرفه کردن' (to cough).
Noun vs. Verb
Remember that 'سرفه' is a noun. To express the action of coughing, always use the verb phrase 'سرفه کردن' (sorfeh kardan). So, instead of saying 'I cough', say 'I am coughing' ('من سرفه میکنم') or 'I coughed' ('من سرفه کردم').
Describing the Cough
Expand your vocabulary by learning adjectives to describe coughs: 'خشک' (khoshk - dry), 'خیس' (khis - wet/productive), 'شدید' (shadid - severe), 'مداوم' (modāvem - persistent), and 'مزمن' (mozmen - chronic).
Stress and Sound
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable: sor-FEH. Practice the 'o' sound (like 'aw' in 'saw') and the rolled 'r' if applicable to your accent, to pronounce 'سرفه' clearly.
Politeness
When coughing in public or around others, it's polite to cover your mouth, just as in English-speaking cultures. You might even hear phrases like 'لطفاً وقتی سرفه میکنید، دهانتان را بپوشانید' (Please cover your mouth when you cough).
Example
سرفههای شدید او را اذیت میکرد.
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عارضه
B1A secondary, typically undesirable, effect of a drug or medical treatment.
اعصاب
B1Fibers or bundles of fibers that transmit impulses of sensation and motion.
عضلات
A2Tissues in the body that can contract to produce movement.
عضله
A2Muscle.
عفونت
A2The invasion of an organism's body tissues by disease-causing agents.
علائم
A2A sign or indication of something; symptoms.
عمل
A1A surgical procedure; an operation.
عمل جراحی
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عموماً
B1In most cases; usually; generally.
عمیقاً
B1Deeply; to a great extent or degree.
