At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'râhbendân' means 'too many cars' and 'stop'. It is a noun. You can use it in very simple sentences like 'There is râhbendân' (Râhbendân ast). You might hear this when someone is late. It is a good word to learn early because it is very common in big cities. Think of it as 'road' + 'stop'. If you see many cars not moving, that is 'râhbendân'. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that it's a thing that happens on the street. For example: 'Tehran râhbendân dârad' (Tehran has traffic jams). Even though 'dârad' is used here, 'râhbendân ast' is more common for 'there is a traffic jam'. Focus on the sound: RAAH-BEN-DAAN. It has three syllables. It is a long word for a long line of cars!
At the A2 level, you can start using 'râhbendân' with simple adjectives and prepositions. You can say 'râhbendân-e sangin' (heavy traffic jam) or 'râhbendân-e bozorg' (big traffic jam). You should also learn the preposition 'dar' (in). You can say 'Man dar râhbendân hastam' (I am in a traffic jam). This is very useful for phone calls when you are running late. You can also start to use the verb 'mândan' (to stay/remain) to say 'dar râhbendân mândam' (I got stuck in traffic). This level is about connecting the word to your daily life and basic excuses. You might also notice the word in simple weather reports or traffic signs. Remember, it's more specific than just 'traffic'; it's when the traffic is really bad and stopped.
At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance between 'terâfik' and 'râhbendân'. You can use 'râhbendân' to describe specific situations like 'râhbendân-e sobhgâhi' (morning traffic jam) or 'râhbendân-e asrgâhi' (evening traffic jam). You can also use it with verbs like 'ijâd shodan' (to be created) or 'bâ'es shodan' (to cause). For example: 'Tasâdof bâ'es-e râhbendân shod' (The accident caused a traffic jam). You are now able to explain *why* there is a jam. You should also be comfortable hearing this word on the radio or in taxi conversations. It is a key word for navigating urban environments in Iran. You can also start using the word in the plural 'râhbendân-hâ' when talking about the general problem of traffic in a city over a period of time.
At the B2 level, 'râhbendân' becomes a tool for more detailed descriptions and complaints. You can use it in complex sentences with relative clauses. For example: 'Râhbendâni ke be dalil-e bârân ijâd shode bud, tamâm-e shahr râ mokhtal kard' (The traffic jam that was created due to the rain disrupted the whole city). You should also be familiar with more advanced collocations like 'râhbendân-e nafaskish' (suffocating traffic jam) or 'râhbendân-e kilomteri' (kilometer-long traffic jam). At this level, you can participate in discussions about urban issues, public transport, and the environment, using 'râhbendân' as a central concept. You understand that this word carries a certain weight of frustration and is a common theme in Iranian urban sociology and daily news.
At the C1 level, you can use 'râhbendân' metaphorically and in very formal or academic contexts. You might read about 'râhbendân-e siyâsi' (political deadlock) or 'râhbendân-e eqtesâdi' (economic stagnation) in high-level editorials, although the literal meaning remains most common. You should be able to distinguish between 'râhbendân', 'ensedâd' (blockage), and 'tarâkom' (density) with precision. You can also use the word in sophisticated literary ways to describe a state of being 'stuck' or 'blocked' in life. Your pronunciation should be perfect, and you should be able to understand fast-paced radio reports that list multiple 'râhbendân' locations across a city. You also understand the cultural implications of the word, such as how it affects the psyche of city dwellers and the rhythm of Persian life.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'râhbendân'. You can use it in puns, wordplay, and complex rhetorical structures. You understand the historical development of the word and its roots in Middle Persian. You can analyze the impact of 'râhbendân' on the architectural and social development of Iranian cities. You are comfortable using it in any register, from the most casual slang to the most formal legal or technical documents. You might even use it to critique the efficiency of a government or a system. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a concept you can manipulate to express deep frustration, social commentary, or even humor about the absurdity of modern life in a gridlocked world.

راهبندان em 30 segundos

  • A Persian noun for 'traffic jam'.
  • Literally means 'road-blocking'.
  • Used for heavy urban or highway gridlock.
  • Commonly paired with 'sangin' (heavy) or 'gir kardan' (to get stuck).

The Persian word راهبندان (pronounced râhbendân) is a compound noun that captures a phenomenon familiar to urban dwellers worldwide: the traffic jam or gridlock. Etymologically, it is formed from râh (road) and bendân (the act of closing or blocking, derived from the verb bastan). In contemporary Persian, it describes a situation where a vast number of vehicles are so densely packed that movement becomes nearly impossible or agonizingly slow. While the loanword 'ترافیک' (traffic) is used frequently, راهبندان specifically emphasizes the 'blockage' aspect, suggesting a total or near-total halt in the flow of cars.

Urban Context
In metropolitan hubs like Tehran, Mashhad, or Isfahan, this word is a daily staple of conversation. It is used to explain lateness, to complain about city planning, or to warn others about specific routes during peak hours. Unlike light traffic, which might just slow you down, a râhbendân implies you are stuck for a significant duration.

به خاطر راهبندان شدید در بزرگراه، نیم ساعت دیر به جلسه رسیدم.
(Because of the heavy traffic jam on the highway, I arrived thirty minutes late to the meeting.)

The word carries a heavy, stagnant connotation. When you use راهبندان, you are not just saying there are many cars; you are describing a physical barrier created by the sheer volume of vehicles. It is the linguistic equivalent of a 'bottleneck'. In Persian literature and news, it can also be used metaphorically to describe a blockage in progress or a stalemate in negotiations, though its primary use remains firmly rooted in the asphalt reality of city life.

Formal vs. Informal
While 'ترافیک' is ubiquitous in casual speech, راهبندان is preferred in news broadcasts and formal reports. However, it is perfectly natural in everyday speech when someone is expressing frustration about being stuck.

رادیو اعلام کرد که در جاده‌های منتهی به شمال راهبندان سنگینی وجود دارد.
(The radio announced that there is a heavy traffic jam on the roads leading to the north.)

Understanding the nuance of this word helps a learner distinguish between 'busy roads' and 'blocked roads'. In a culture where punctuality is valued but often hindered by infrastructure, راهبندان is the ultimate excuse. It is the shared enemy of the Iranian commuter, a topic of small talk that unites people in collective exasperation. Whether it is caused by an accident, heavy rain, or simply the rush hour, the word remains the standard descriptor for the standstill.

Physicality
The root 'band' (block/tie) gives the word a sense of physical restraint. It is as if the road itself has been tied up or knotted, preventing any flow of movement.

امروز به دلیل بارندگی، تمام خیابان‌ها دچار راهبندان شده‌اند.
(Today, due to the rainfall, all the streets have suffered from traffic jams.)

Using راهبندان correctly requires understanding its role as a noun and the verbs it typically pairs with. Most commonly, it acts as the subject or the object of a sentence involving delays and city life. It is often qualified by adjectives like shadid (intense), sangin (heavy), or tûlâni (long) to emphasize the severity of the situation.

Common Verbs
The most frequent verbs used with this word are shodan (to become/to happen), dorost shodan (to be created), and gir kardan (to get stuck). For example, 'dar râhbendân gir kardam' means 'I got stuck in a traffic jam'.

ما دو ساعت در راهبندان ورودی شهر ماندیم.
(We stayed/were stuck for two hours in the traffic jam at the city entrance.)

When describing the cause of a jam, you might use the preposition be dalil-e (because of). This allows you to link the event (like an accident or roadwork) to the resulting راهبندان. It is also common to see it used with the verb ijâd kardan (to create/cause) when referring to what caused the blockage.

Sentence Structure
The word usually appears after a preposition like dar (in) or posht-e (behind). Saying 'posht-e râhbendân mândam' literally means 'I stayed behind the traffic jam', implying you were at the tail end of it.

تصادف دو خودرو باعث راهبندان گسترده‌ای در اتوبان شد.
(The collision of two cars caused a widespread traffic jam on the highway.)

In more poetic or journalistic Persian, you might encounter the phrase râhbendân-e nafaskish (suffocating traffic jam). This highlights the emotional and physical toll of being trapped in a car. The word is versatile enough to be used in simple A1-level sentences ('There is traffic') and complex C2-level sociological discussions about urban planning and infrastructure failure.

اگر زودتر حرکت نکنیم، به راهبندان عصرگاهی می‌خوریم.
(If we don't leave sooner, we will hit the evening traffic jam.)

Prepositional Usage
Pay attention to 'dar' (in). You are 'in' the jam. 'Gir kardan dar râhbendân' is the most natural way to say you are stuck.

این راهبندان به این زودی‌ها باز نمی‌شود.
(This traffic jam won't clear up anytime soon.)

If you are in an Iranian city, you will hear راهبندان everywhere—from the radio in a taxi to the frustrated sighs of a colleague. It is a word that lives in the public sphere. On the radio, especially stations like 'Radio Payam', which provides constant traffic updates in Tehran, the word is used with technical precision. Announcers will describe the length and location of a راهبندان to help drivers choose alternative routes.

News and Media
Television news programs often feature segments on 'râhbendân-hâ-ye noruzi' (New Year traffic jams), which occur when millions of people travel across the country for the Persian New Year. In this context, it is a national news item, reflecting the state of the country's roads and transit systems.

گزارشگر رادیو از راهبندان چندین کیلومتری در محور کرج-چالوس خبر داد.
(The radio reporter announced a several-kilometer traffic jam on the Karaj-Chalus axis.)

In social settings, the word is a universal excuse. If you are late to a dinner party or a business meeting, simply saying 'dar râhbendân mândam' (I stayed/was stuck in traffic) is often accepted with a sympathetic nod. It is such a common part of life that it has its own social etiquette; people usually check traffic apps like 'Neshan' or 'Balad' and discuss the راهبندان they see on their screens before even leaving the house.

Public Transport
Even if you are on a bus (BRT), you might hear passengers discussing the راهبندان in the adjacent lanes. It affects everyone, regardless of their mode of transport, unless they are on the Metro.

تاکسی به خاطر راهبندان مسیرش را عوض کرد.
(The taxi changed its route because of the traffic jam.)

You will also hear it in movies and TV dramas. A character might be late for a wedding, or a tense scene might take place inside a car that isn't moving because of a راهبندان. It serves as a plot device to create tension or delay. In documentary films about urban life, the word is used to critique the over-reliance on private cars and the lack of efficient infrastructure.

همه‌ی مردم از این راهبندان‌های همیشگی خسته شده‌اند.
(All the people are tired of these constant traffic jams.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning Persian is over-relying on the loanword 'ترافیک' (traffic) and neglecting راهبندان. While 'traffic' is correct, it is a general term. Using راهبندان shows a higher level of fluency and a better grasp of descriptive Persian. However, there are several pitfalls to avoid when using this specific word.

Confusing with 'Râhpimâyi'
A common phonetic mistake is confusing râhbendân with râhpimâyi. While they both start with 'râh' (road), râhpimâyi means a march, parade, or demonstration. Saying there is a 'râhpimâyi' when you mean 'traffic jam' will lead to significant confusion!

اشتباه: امروز در خیابان راهپیمایی سنگینی بود. (غلط، اگر منظورتان ترافیک است)
(Mistake: Today there was a heavy march in the street. - Wrong if you meant traffic.)

Another mistake involves the intensity of the situation. Do not use راهبندان for a road that is simply 'busy' but moving. If the cars are moving at 40 km/h, it is just 'traffic' (ترافیک). راهبندان should be reserved for situations where cars are bumper-to-bumper and moving at a walking pace or not at all.

Preposition Errors
Learners often say 'râhbendân dâram' (I have a traffic jam). In Persian, you don't 'have' it; you are 'in' it or 'stuck' in it. Use 'dar râhbendân hastam' or 'dar râhbendân mândam'.

درست: من در راهبندان گیر کرده‌ام.
(Correct: I have gotten stuck in the traffic jam.)

Lastly, be careful with the plural. While 'râhbendân-hâ' is grammatically correct, it is often more natural to use the singular form even when referring to the general problem of traffic in a city. Overusing the plural can make your speech sound slightly mechanical or overly academic.

نباید راهبندان را با شلوغی ساده اشتباه گرفت.
(One should not mistake a traffic jam for simple crowdedness.)

While راهبندان is a powerful word, Persian offers several other ways to describe the movement (or lack thereof) on the roads. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right context, whether you are in a casual conversation or writing a formal report.

ترافیک (Terâfik)
This is the most common loanword. It is neutral and can describe any level of car density. If you say 'terâfik sangin ast', it is almost synonymous with râhbendân, but râhbendân is more evocative of a total stop.
شلوغی (Shologhi)
This word means 'crowdedness' or 'busyness'. You can use it for a street full of cars or a market full of people. It is less specific than râhbendân. You might say 'khiâbân shologh ast' (the street is busy).

فرق راهبندان با شلوغی در این است که در اولی حرکت تقریباً متوقف شده است.
(The difference between a traffic jam and crowdedness is that in the former, movement has almost stopped.)

In more technical or formal settings, you might hear ensedâd-e masir (obstruction of the path). This is often used by police or emergency services when a road is closed due to a specific event like a landslide or a major crime scene. It is more clinical than the everyday راهبندان.

تراکم (Tarâkom)
This word means 'density' or 'congestion'. It is often used in urban planning or news reports to describe high volumes of traffic without necessarily implying a complete standstill.

به دلیل تراکم بالای خودروها، سرعت حرکت بسیار کند است.
(Due to the high density of vehicles, the speed of movement is very slow.)

Finally, there is the colloquial expression 'gereh khordan' (to get knotted). People say 'terâfik gereh khorde' to describe a gridlock where cars from different directions are blocking each other, making it impossible for anyone to move. This is a very vivid alternative to راهبندان.

ترافیک در چهارراه کاملاً گره خورده است.
(The traffic at the intersection is completely knotted/gridlocked.)

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The suffix '-ân' here denotes an ongoing state or a plural-like collective action of blocking. It is the same root found in 'dandân' (tooth) but used differently here for action.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /rɒːhbændɒːn/
US /rɑːhbændɑːn/
The primary stress is on the last syllable: râhbendÂN.
Rima com
قندان (qandân) چندان (chandân) دندان (dandân) خندان (khandân) زندان (zendân) میدان (meydân) پایان (pâyân) ایران (Irân)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing it as 'rah-ban-dan' with short vowels. The 'â' sounds must be long.
  • Missing the 'h' sound in the middle.
  • Confusing the 'e' sound in 'ben' with an 'a' sound.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The word is long but follows standard Persian phonics. Easy to recognize once learned.

Escrita 4/5

Requires correct use of 'â' and the 'h' in the middle. Spelling is consistent.

Expressão oral 4/5

Three syllables with long vowels. Requires practice to say fluently in a sentence.

Audição 3/5

Commonly heard on radio and in cities. Distinctive sound.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

راه (road) بستن (to close) ترافیک (traffic) ماشین (car) خیابان (street)

Aprenda a seguir

تصادف (accident) بزرگراه (highway) تاخیر (delay) مقصد (destination) مسیر (route)

Avançado

تراکم (density) ensedâd (blockage) gridlock (no direct word, use gereh) urban planning terms

Gramática essencial

Ezafe construction with adjectives

راهبندانِ سنگین (Heavy traffic jam)

Compound noun formation

راه + بندان = راهبندان

Prepositional usage with 'dar'

در راهبندان (In the traffic jam)

Pluralization with '-hâ'

راهبندان‌ها (Traffic jams)

Causal sentences with 'be dalil-e'

به دلیل راهبندان دیر رسیدم. (I arrived late because of the traffic jam.)

Exemplos por nível

1

اینجا راهبندان است.

It is a traffic jam here.

Simple subject + predicate structure.

2

راهبندان بد است.

The traffic jam is bad.

Noun + adjective.

3

من راهبندان را دوست ندارم.

I do not like traffic jams.

Direct object with 'râ'.

4

تهران راهبندان دارد.

Tehran has traffic jams.

Subject + object + verb 'to have'.

5

راهبندان کجاست؟

Where is the traffic jam?

Interrogative sentence.

6

یک راهبندان بزرگ!

A big traffic jam!

Noun phrase with adjective.

7

امروز راهبندان نیست.

Today there is no traffic jam.

Negative form of 'ast'.

8

ماشین‌ها در راهبندان هستند.

The cars are in a traffic jam.

Plural subject + prepositional phrase.

1

ما در راهبندان هستیم.

We are in a traffic jam.

Personal pronoun + preposition 'dar'.

2

راهبندان خیلی سنگین است.

The traffic jam is very heavy.

Use of 'kheyli' (very) and 'sangin' (heavy).

3

به خاطر راهبندان دیر رسیدم.

I arrived late because of the traffic jam.

Use of 'be dalil-e' (because of).

4

آیا در این خیابان راهبندان است؟

Is there a traffic jam in this street?

Question with 'âyâ'.

5

راهبندان صبحگاهی خیلی طولانی است.

The morning traffic jam is very long.

Compound noun 'râhbendân-e sobhgâhi'.

6

من همیشه در راهبندان می‌مانم.

I always stay/get stuck in traffic jams.

Use of 'hamishe' (always) and 'mândan'.

7

این راهبندان کی تمام می‌شود؟

When does this traffic jam end?

Interrogative with 'key' (when).

8

راهبندان در مرکز شهر است.

The traffic jam is in the city center.

Locational prepositional phrase.

1

تصادف باعث راهبندان شدیدی شده است.

The accident has caused a severe traffic jam.

Present perfect tense with 'bâ'es shodan'.

2

رادیو درباره راهبندان در اتوبان هشدار داد.

The radio warned about the traffic jam on the highway.

Verb 'hoshdâr dâdan' (to warn).

3

اگر راهبندان نبود، زودتر می‌رسیدم.

If there wasn't a traffic jam, I would have arrived sooner.

Conditional sentence (Type 2).

4

راهبندان‌های تهران کلافه‌کننده هستند.

Tehran's traffic jams are frustrating.

Plural noun + present participle adjective.

5

او در راهبندان گیر کرده و نمی‌تواند بیاید.

He is stuck in traffic and cannot come.

Verb 'gir kardan' (to get stuck).

6

باید راهی برای فرار از راهبندان پیدا کنیم.

We must find a way to escape the traffic jam.

Modal verb 'bâyad' + infinitive.

7

راهبندان امروز غیرعادی بود.

Today's traffic jam was unusual.

Adjective 'gheyr-e âdi'.

8

شدت راهبندان در ساعت‌های پیک بیشتر است.

The intensity of the traffic jam is higher during peak hours.

Noun 'sheddat' (intensity).

1

راهبندان گسترده‌ای تمام مسیرهای اصلی را مسدود کرده است.

A widespread traffic jam has blocked all main routes.

Past participle 'masdud' (blocked).

2

با وجود راهبندان، او توانست به موقع برسد.

Despite the traffic jam, he managed to arrive on time.

Preposition 'bâ vojud-e' (despite).

3

راهبندان‌های طولانی باعث آلودگی هوا می‌شوند.

Long traffic jams cause air pollution.

Causal relationship in a general statement.

4

او ساعت‌ها وقت خود را در راهبندان تلف می‌کند.

He wastes hours of his time in traffic jams.

Verb 'talaf kardan' (to waste).

5

دولت سعی دارد با گسترش مترو، راهبندان را کاهش دهد.

The government is trying to reduce traffic jams by expanding the metro.

Purpose clause with 'tâ'.

6

هیچ چیز بدتر از ماندن در راهبندان در یک روز گرم نیست.

Nothing is worse than staying in a traffic jam on a hot day.

Comparative structure 'badtar az'.

7

راهبندان در این منطقه به یک معضل دائمی تبدیل شده است.

Traffic jams in this area have become a permanent problem.

Present perfect with 'tabdil shodan'.

8

به محض اینکه راهبندان باز شد، با سرعت حرکت کردیم.

As soon as the traffic jam cleared, we moved quickly.

Conjunction 'be mahz-e inke' (as soon as).

1

راهبندان‌های طاقت‌فرسای پایتخت، سلامت روان شهروندان را به خطر انداخته است.

The exhausting traffic jams of the capital have endangered the mental health of citizens.

Complex subject + 'be khatar andâkhtan'.

2

ریشه اصلی این راهبندان، نقص در سیستم حمل و نقل عمومی است.

The main root of this traffic jam is a defect in the public transport system.

Formal noun 'rishe' (root) and 'nags' (defect).

3

او با مهارتی خاص، از میان راهبندان راهی برای عبور پیدا کرد.

With a special skill, he found a way through the traffic jam.

Prepositional phrase 'az miân-e' (from among/through).

4

تحلیل‌گران معتقدند که راهبندان‌های اخیر بار مالی سنگینی بر اقتصاد دارد.

Analysts believe that recent traffic jams have a heavy financial burden on the economy.

Reporting verb 'mo'taqed budan' (to believe).

5

این راهبندان نمادی از عدم مدیریت صحیح شهری است.

This traffic jam is a symbol of the lack of proper urban management.

Noun 'namâd' (symbol) and 'adam-e modiriyat'.

6

او در کتابش به توصیف راهبندان به عنوان یک تجربه اگزیستانسیال می‌پردازد.

In his book, he describes the traffic jam as an existential experience.

Verb 'be ... pardâkhtan' (to address/deal with).

7

هرچه راهبندان بیشتر طول بکشد، خشم رانندگان فزونی می‌یابد.

The longer the traffic jam lasts, the more the drivers' anger increases.

Correlative 'harche ... fozuni yâftan'.

8

راهبندان‌های فصلی در جاده‌های کوهستانی، چالش بزرگی برای پلیس راه است.

Seasonal traffic jams on mountain roads are a big challenge for the highway police.

Compound adjective 'fasli' (seasonal).

1

پدیده راهبندان در کلان‌شهرها فراتر از یک معضل ترافیکی، یک گسست اجتماعی است.

The phenomenon of traffic jams in metropolises is beyond a traffic problem; it is a social rupture.

Formal structure 'farâtar az' (beyond).

2

او با نگاهی فلسفی، راهبندان را استعاره‌ای از رکود فکری جامعه می‌داند.

With a philosophical gaze, he considers the traffic jam a metaphor for the intellectual stagnation of society.

Noun 'este'âre' (metaphor) and 'rokud' (stagnation).

3

مهندسان با استفاده از هوش مصنوعی در پی یافتن راهکاری برای محو راهبندان هستند.

Engineers are seeking a solution to eliminate traffic jams using artificial intelligence.

Prepositional phrase 'dar pey-e' (in pursuit of).

4

تداوم این راهبندان‌های فرسایشی، زیرساخت‌های حیاتی شهر را مستهلک کرده است.

The continuation of these erosive traffic jams has worn out the city's vital infrastructure.

Present perfect 'mostahlak kardan' (to wear out).

5

راهبندان، زمانی که با آلودگی صوتی درآمیزد، محیطی غیرقابل تحمل پدید می‌آورد.

A traffic jam, when mixed with noise pollution, creates an unbearable environment.

Subordinate clause with 'zamâni ke'.

6

بی‌توجهی به بازگشایی گره‌های راهبندان، پیامدهای ناگواری در پی خواهد داشت.

Neglecting to untie traffic jam knots will have dire consequences.

Future tense 'dar pey khâhad dâsht'.

7

او در سخنرانی خود، راهبندان را به عنوان مانعی در مسیر توسعه پایدار برشمرد.

In his speech, he cited the traffic jam as an obstacle on the path to sustainable development.

Verb 'bar-shomordan' (to enumerate/cite).

8

راهبندان‌های کلافه‌کننده، صبر و شکیبایی شهروندان را به پایین‌ترین سطح ممکن رسانده است.

The frustrating traffic jams have brought the patience of citizens to the lowest possible level.

Superlative 'pâyintarin sath-e momken'.

Colocações comuns

راهبندان شدید
راهبندان سنگین
راهبندان طولانی
گیر کردن در راهبندان
باعث راهبندان شدن
راهبندان صبحگاهی
راهبندان عصرگاهی
باز شدن راهبندان
ایجاد راهبندان
فرار از راهبندان

Frases Comuns

پشت راهبندان ماندن

— To be stuck behind a traffic jam.

نیم ساعت پشت راهبندان ماندم.

راهبندان کیلومتری

— A traffic jam stretching for kilometers.

راهبندان کیلومتری در جاده شمال ایجاد شد.

ساعت راهبندان

— Rush hour or the time when jams occur.

در ساعت راهبندان نباید به مرکز شهر رفت.

نقشه راهبندان

— A traffic jam map (like on Google Maps).

نقشه راهبندان را چک کن.

گزارش راهبندان

— A traffic report.

گزارش راهبندان را از رادیو شنیدم.

علت راهبندان

— The cause of the traffic jam.

علت راهبندان هنوز مشخص نیست.

شدت راهبندان

— The severity of the traffic jam.

شدت راهبندان هر لحظه بیشتر می‌شود.

پیش‌بینی راهبندان

— Predicting a traffic jam.

پیش‌بینی راهبندان برای روزهای تعطیل دشوار نیست.

کاهش راهبندان

— Reducing traffic jams.

طرح جدید برای کاهش راهبندان است.

راهبندان همیشگی

— Constant or perpetual traffic jam.

این خیابان راهبندان همیشگی دارد.

Frequentemente confundido com

راهبندان vs راهپیمایی

Means 'march' or 'parade'. Sounds similar but has a totally different meaning.

راهبندان vs راهنما

Means 'guide' or 'indicator'. Also starts with 'râh'.

راهبندان vs بندری

A type of food or music. Shares the root 'band' but is unrelated.

Expressões idiomáticas

"ترافیک گره خورده"

— The traffic is so bad it's like a knot that can't be untied.

ترافیک میدان ونک کاملاً گره خورده است.

informal
"راه را بستن"

— To block the road (often used for protesters or accidents).

جمعیت راه را بستند.

neutral
"قفل شدن خیابان"

— For a street to become 'locked' or completely paralyzed.

خیابان‌ها به خاطر برف قفل شده‌اند.

informal
"در جا زدن"

— Literally 'stepping in place', used when cars aren't moving.

نیم ساعت است که داریم در جا می‌زنیم.

informal
"راه نفس نمانده"

— There is no room to breathe (used for extreme congestion).

توی این راهبندان راه نفس نمانده.

informal
"دود خوردن"

— To inhale smoke (stuck in traffic for a long time).

فقط داریم توی این ترافیک دود می‌خوریم.

informal
"پیر شدن در راهبندان"

— To age in a traffic jam (hyperbole for a very long delay).

توی این راهبندان پیر شدیم!

informal
"کلاف سردرگم"

— A confused ball of yarn (used for chaotic traffic).

ترافیک امروز مثل کلاف سردرگم است.

literary
"آب از آب تکان نمی‌خورد"

— Used when the traffic is so still not even water would move.

یک ساعت است آب از آب تکان نمی‌خورد.

informal
"به گل نشستن"

— To run aground (metaphor for being stuck).

توی این ترافیک به گل نشستیم.

informal

Fácil de confundir

راهبندان vs ترافیک

Both mean traffic.

Terâfik is general; râhbendân is a specific blockage or jam.

ترافیک همیشه هست، اما این یک راهبندان واقعی است.

راهبندان vs شلوغی

Both describe many people/cars.

Shologhi is generic crowdedness; râhbendân is specifically for roads and cars.

بازار شلوغ است، اما خیابان راهبندان دارد.

راهبندان vs انسداد

Both mean blockage.

Ensedâd is very formal/technical; râhbendân is everyday language.

پلیس اعلام انسداد مسیر کرد، مردم می‌گویند راهبندان است.

راهبندان vs تراکم

Both relate to volume.

Tarâkom is about density (cars per km); râhbendân is about the resulting jam.

تراکم بالا باعث راهبندان شد.

راهبندان vs راهبند

Very similar spelling.

Râhbend is a physical barrier (like a gate or bollard); râhbendân is the traffic jam itself.

راهبند را بالا بردند تا راهبندان تمام شود.

Padrões de frases

A1

[Place] راهبندان است.

تهران راهبندان است.

A2

من در راهبندان هستم.

من در راهبندان هستم.

B1

به خاطر [Cause] راهبندان شد.

به خاطر تصادف راهبندان شد.

B2

راهبندان باعث [Effect] شده است.

راهبندان باعث تاخیر شده است.

C1

اگر [Condition] نبود، راهبندان نمی‌شد.

اگر باران نبود، راهبندان نمی‌شد.

C1

شدت راهبندان در [Time] بیشتر است.

شدت راهبندان در غروب بیشتر است.

C2

[Phenomenon] ریشه در راهبندان دارد.

آلودگی هوا ریشه در راهبندان دارد.

C2

با وجود راهبندان، [Action].

با وجود راهبندان، به موقع رسیدیم.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

راه (road)
بند (block/tie)
بندان (blocking)
راهبند (roadblock)

Verbos

بستن (to block/close)
بند آمدن (to become blocked)
راه بستن (to block the road)

Adjetivos

راهبند (blocking)
بسته (closed)

Relacionado

ترافیک (traffic)
ماشین (car)
خیابان (street)
اتوبان (highway)
تاخیر (delay)

Como usar

frequency

Very common in urban areas.

Erros comuns
  • Râhbendân dâram. Dar râhbendân hastam.

    In Persian, you don't 'have' a traffic jam, you are 'in' it.

  • Râhpimâyi sangin ast. Râhbendân sangin ast.

    Râhpimâyi means a march or protest, not a traffic jam.

  • Using 'râhbendân' for a busy but moving road. Using 'terâfik'.

    Râhbendân implies a blockage or very slow movement.

  • Pronouncing it as 'rah-ban-dan'. Râhbendân.

    The vowels must be long 'â'.

  • Misspelling as 'râbendân'. Râhbendân.

    The 'h' is essential as it comes from 'râh' (road).

Dicas

Use specific adjectives

Pair 'râhbendân' with 'sangin' (heavy) or 'shadid' (intense) to sound more like a native speaker.

Tehran context

When in Tehran, assume 'râhbendân' is the default state during rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-8 PM).

Verb choice

Use 'mândan' (to stay) when you are the victim of the traffic, and 'shodan' (to become) when describing the road.

Long vowels

Ensure both 'â' sounds are long and open. Don't rush the word.

The perfect excuse

In Iran, 'râhbendân' is a socially acceptable reason for being slightly late to informal gatherings.

Radio Payam

Listen to 91.5 FM in Tehran to hear the word 'râhbendân' used dozens of times every hour.

Spelling check

Don't forget the 'h' after 'râ'. It's 'râhbendân', not 'râbendân'.

Loanword vs native

While 'terâfik' is easy, using 'râhbendân' shows you are putting effort into learning native Persian vocabulary.

Mental image

Visualize a 'band' (tie) around a 'râh' (road) to remember the word's meaning.

Knot metaphor

Remember 'gereh khordan' (to get knotted) as a more intense way to describe a 'râhbendân'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'RAH' (Road) + 'BEN' (a guy named Ben) + 'DAN' (a guy named Dan). Ben and Dan are standing in the middle of the ROAD, blocking it. That's a RAH-BEN-DAN!

Associação visual

Imagine a giant 'BAND' (tie) wrapped around a road, pulling all the cars together so they can't move.

Word Web

Road Cars Blockage Stuck Wait Tehran Engine Horn

Desafio

Try to describe your worst traffic experience using the word 'râhbendân' three times in one paragraph.

Origem da palavra

A compound of 'râh' (road) and 'bendân' (blocking).

Significado original: The act of blocking a road or path.

Indo-European (Persian).

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to sound too angry when complaining about traffic to locals; it's a shared struggle, so a bit of humor or shared frustration is better than genuine rage.

In the US/UK, people usually say 'traffic' or 'gridlock'. 'Râhbendân' is more equivalent to 'gridlock' or 'standstill traffic'.

Abbas Kiarostami's films often feature long scenes of cars in traffic, reflecting the 'râhbendân' of Iranian life. Radio Payam is the go-to source for 'râhbendân' updates.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Commuting to work

  • ببخشید دیر رسیدم، در راهبندان بودم.
  • ساعت راهبندان شروع شده است.
  • کدام مسیر راهبندان کمتری دارد؟
  • راهبندان امروز خیلی بد است.

Listening to the radio

  • گزارش راهبندان را گوش کن.
  • در این اتوبان راهبندان سنگینی است.
  • راهبندان باز شده است.
  • پلیس در محل راهبندان حضور دارد.

Using a GPS app

  • نقشه راهبندان را نشان می‌دهد.
  • به خاطر راهبندان مسیر را عوض کن.
  • ده دقیقه تا پایان راهبندان مانده.
  • راهبندان در این نقطه قرمز است.

Discussing city life

  • راهبندان یکی از مشکلات بزرگ این شهر است.
  • چرا فکری برای این راهبندان نمی‌کنند؟
  • راهبندان باعث آلودگی هوا می‌شود.
  • مردم از راهبندان خسته شده‌اند.

Traveling between cities

  • جاده شمال راهبندان شدیدی دارد.
  • در ورودی شهر راهبندان بود.
  • به راهبندان نوروزی خوردیم.
  • سعی کن در ساعت راهبندان حرکت نکنی.

Iniciadores de conversa

"امروز در راهبندان گیر نکردی؟ (Didn't you get stuck in traffic today?)"

"به نظر تو راه حل راهبندان تهران چیست؟ (What do you think is the solution for Tehran's traffic?)"

"بدترین راهبندانی که تا حالا دیدی کجا بوده؟ (Where was the worst traffic jam you've ever seen?)"

"آیا رادیو درباره راهبندان امروز چیزی گفت؟ (Did the radio say anything about today's traffic?)"

"چقدر از وقتت را در راهبندان می‌گذرانی؟ (How much of your time do you spend in traffic jams?)"

Temas para diário

امروز در راهبندان به چه چیزی فکر می‌کردی؟ (What were you thinking about in the traffic jam today?)

اگر راهبندان وجود نداشت، زندگی در شهر چگونه بود؟ (If there were no traffic jams, what would city life be like?)

یک داستان کوتاه درباره دو نفر که در راهبندان با هم آشنا می‌شوند بنویس. (Write a short story about two people who meet in a traffic jam.)

احساس خود را وقتی در راهبندان هستی توصیف کن. (Describe your feelings when you are in a traffic jam.)

چگونه می‌توانیم از وقتمان در راهبندان بهتر استفاده کنیم؟ (How can we better use our time in a traffic jam?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, 'râhbendân' is considered more descriptive and is often used in formal news reports, while 'terâfik' is a common loanword used in daily conversation.

No, 'râhbendân' is specifically for vehicles on a road. For a crowd of people, use 'ezdehâm' or 'shologhi'.

You say 'Dar râhbendân gir karde-am' or 'Dar râhbendân mânde-am'.

The plural is 'râhbendân-hâ', though the singular is often used collectively.

In modern usage, yes. It refers to vehicular traffic. Historically, it could mean any road blockage.

It is pronounced 'râhbendân' in modern Tehrani Persian, though 'râhbandân' is the classical pronunciation. Most people use the 'e' sound.

There isn't a single verb. You use 'râhbendân shodan' (to become a jam) or 'râhbendân ijâd kardan' (to cause a jam).

Yes, in high-level Persian, it can mean a stalemate or deadlock in a process or negotiation.

It is a traffic jam that is several kilometers long, often used in news about highways.

'آیا راهبندان است؟' (Âyâ râhbendân ast?) or more simply 'ترافیکه؟' (Terâfike?)

Teste-se 190 perguntas

writing

Describe a time you were stuck in a traffic jam in Persian.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write three sentences using 'راهبندان' with different adjectives.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a short dialogue between two people in a car stuck in traffic.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

How does 'راهبندان' affect air pollution? Write 50 words.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Explain the difference between 'ترافیک' and 'راهبندان' in your own words.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a formal news report about a major traffic jam on a highway.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

What are some solutions for 'راهبندان' in big cities?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a text message to your boss explaining you are late due to traffic.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Describe the sounds and smells of a 'راهبندان'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The heavy traffic jam caused me to miss the flight.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write an advertisement for a new app that helps people avoid 'راهبندان'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

How do you feel when you are in a 'راهبندان'? Write 3 sentences.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a poem about a road that is always blocked.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Compare 'راهبندان' in your city to 'راهبندان' in Tehran.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a letter to the mayor complaining about local traffic jams.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Use 'راهبندان' metaphorically in a sentence about a project.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

List five things you can do while stuck in a 'راهبندان'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Describe the visual of a 'راهبندان' from an airplane.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'راهبندان' and 'تصادف'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'If we leave now, we will avoid the traffic jam.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I am stuck in a traffic jam' in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe the traffic in your city using the word 'راهبندان'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Tell a short story about being late because of traffic.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronounce 'راهبندان' three times correctly.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Explain to a friend why you are late on the phone.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Discuss the pros and cons of using a car in a city with heavy 'راهبندان'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pretend you are a radio announcer giving a traffic report.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What would you do if you were stuck in a 'راهبندان' for five hours?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

How can cities reduce 'راهبندان'? Give two ideas.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Use 'راهبندان' in a sentence with the word 'تصادف'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe the difference between 'ترافیک' and 'راهبندان' aloud.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask a taxi driver if there is a traffic jam on the way.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Tell a joke about traffic jams.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Complain about the traffic using informal Persian.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe a 'راهبندان' you saw on the news.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What is 'راهبندان صبحگاهی'? Define it in Persian.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Compare 'راهبندان' to a 'knot' (gereh).

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Give advice to someone visiting Tehran about traffic.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Express your frustration about 'راهبندان' using 'کلافه شدن'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Summarize a traffic report you just 'heard'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word 'راهبندان' in a recorded sentence about city life.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen for the adjective used with 'راهبندان' (e.g., sangin, shadid).

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Distinguish between 'râhbendân' and 'râhpimâyi' in audio.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Understand the location of a traffic jam in a radio report.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen for the cause of the traffic jam (e.g., accident, rain).

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Identify the speaker's emotion when saying 'râhbendân'.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Count how many times 'راهبندان' is mentioned in a short clip.

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listening

Listen to a dialogue and determine if the person is late.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Identify the formal term 'ensedâd' in a news clip.

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listening

Listen for the duration of the traffic jam mentioned.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Distinguish between 'râhbendân' and 'râhband' in a sentence.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Understand a GPS voice instruction about a traffic jam.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the plural form 'râhbendân-hâ' in a discussion.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen for the synonym 'terâfik' used in the same context.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the metaphorical use of 'râhbendân' in a speech.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 190 correct

Perfect score!

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