At the A1 level, 'zamān' is introduced as the basic word for 'time'. Learners should focus on its use in simple sentences like 'Man zamān dāram' (I have time) or 'Zamān nadāram' (I don't have time), though they will quickly learn that 'vaqt' is more common for personal availability. The goal is to recognize the word in text and understand that it refers to the general concept of time. You will see it in simple phrases about the day, such as 'zamān-e nāhār' (lunch time). At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar; just associate the sound and script with the English word 'time'. You might also see it on signs or in simple instructions. It is a building block for more complex temporal expressions you will learn later. Focus on the pronunciation: za-mān. The 'a' sounds are short and long respectively. This word is essential for basic communication about schedules and durations, even if used simply.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'zamān' in more structured ways, particularly with the 'Ezafe' construction. You will learn to say things like 'zamān-e kār' (work time) or 'zamān-e esterāhat' (rest time). You also start to encounter 'zamāni ke' as a way to say 'when' in a sentence. For example, 'Zamāni ke khāb dāram, ghahve mikhoram' (When I am sleepy, I drink coffee). You will also learn the difference between 'zamān' and 'sā'at', ensuring you don't ask for the time of day using 'zamān'. This level focuses on practical application in daily routines and simple past tense descriptions. You might describe your childhood using 'dar ān zamān' (at that time). It is about expanding your ability to place events in a sequence and describe how long activities last. You will also learn compound words like 'zamān-bandi' (scheduling) in the context of planning your day.
At the B1 level, 'zamān' becomes a tool for more detailed descriptions and narratives. You will use it to discuss historical periods or longer durations of time. You will learn to distinguish between 'zamān' and 'moddat' (duration). For instance, 'Moddat-e zamān-e safar' (the duration of the trip). You will also encounter the word in more formal contexts, such as news reports or articles. At this stage, you should be comfortable using 'zamāni ke' to link complex ideas. You will also start to see the word in common idioms and proverbs. Your understanding of 'zamān' will move from a simple noun to a versatile part of speech that can function as a conjunction or part of a compound verb. You will also learn about the grammatical tenses (zamān-e hāl, zamān-e gozashte) and how the word 'zamān' is used to categorize them. This level requires a more nuanced understanding of register, knowing when 'zamān' is more appropriate than 'vaqt'.
At the B2 level, you delve into the abstract and philosophical uses of 'zamān'. You will read texts where 'zamān' represents the passage of life, the inevitability of change, or the social climate of an era ('zamāne'). You will be expected to use the word in academic or professional discussions, such as 'modiriyat-e zamān' (time management) or 'zamān-bandi-ye proje' (project scheduling). You will also learn more sophisticated synonyms like 'hangām' and 'mowqe' and understand the subtle differences in their usage. At this level, you should be able to write essays discussing how 'zamān' affects society or individuals. You will encounter the word in classical and modern poetry, where it often carries a heavy emotional weight. Your ability to use 'zamān' in various grammatical structures, including conditional and subjunctive clauses, should be well-developed. You will also understand the Arabic-derived plural 'azmane' and when it might appear in legal or religious texts.
At the C1 level, your mastery of 'zamān' should be near-native. You will understand its use in high-level literature, philosophy, and scientific discourse. You will be able to discuss the 'concept of time' (mafhum-e zamān) in the works of Persian philosophers like Avicenna or poets like Khayyam. You will recognize and use archaic or highly formal variations of the word. Your understanding of 'zamān' will include its role in complex temporal logic and its use in legal contracts where 'mo'elat' and 'zamān-e ejrā' (time of execution) are critical. You will be able to appreciate the wordplay and metaphors involving 'zamān' in sophisticated prose. You will also be aware of the regional variations in how time is discussed across the Persian-speaking world (Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan). At this level, 'zamān' is not just a word for 'time', but a gateway to understanding the deep-seated cultural and intellectual history of the Persian language.
At the C2 level, you possess a profound and intuitive grasp of 'zamān' in all its manifestations. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about the nature of time, using the word with the precision of a scholar. You can analyze the evolution of the word from Middle Persian to its modern form and its interaction with Arabic. You are comfortable with the most obscure idioms and literary references involving 'zamān'. Whether it is the 'zamān-e fāni' (transient time) of mystical poetry or the 'zamān-e daryāyi' (elastic time) of modern social commentary, you navigate these concepts with ease. You can produce high-level academic writing, translate complex temporal structures between English and Persian without loss of nuance, and speak with an eloquence that reflects a deep appreciation for the temporal dimensions of the Persian language. For you, 'zamān' is a multifaceted gem, reflecting the history, culture, and soul of the Persian-speaking people.

زمان em 30 segundos

  • 'Zamān' is the primary Persian word for 'time' in a formal and abstract sense, covering history, physics, and grammar.
  • It differs from 'vaqt' (personal time/availability) and 'sā'at' (clock time/hour), which are more common in casual daily speech.
  • Commonly used in phrases like 'zamāni ke' (when) and compound words like 'zamān-bandi' (scheduling) to organize events.
  • Essential for A1 learners to recognize, but its nuanced usage in literature and philosophy extends to the highest levels of proficiency.
The Persian word زمان (pronounced as 'zamān') is a fundamental noun that serves as the primary vessel for the concept of time in the Persian language. While English speakers might use the word 'time' in a variety of contexts, Persian distinguishes between several nuances, and zamān is the most formal and encompassing of these terms. It refers to the indefinite continued progress of existence and events in the past, present, and future regarded as a whole. In a philosophical sense, it captures the essence of chronology and the linear progression of life. When you are discussing history, physics, or the general passage of years, zamān is your go-to word. It is derived from Arabic but has been fully integrated into Persian for centuries, appearing in the most celebrated works of literature, from the epic poetry of Ferdowsi to the mystical verses of Rumi.
General Chronology
Used to describe the broad concept of time as an abstract entity. For example, 'Time passes quickly' would utilize this word.
Grammatical Tense
In linguistics, this word is used to denote the tense of a verb, such as 'Zamān-e Gozashte' for the past tense.
Historical Eras
It refers to specific periods or epochs in history, such as the time of the Safavids or the time of the ancient kings.
In daily conversation, while people often use the word 'vaqt' for immediate appointments or 'sā'at' for the literal clock time, zamān remains the standard for anything requiring a slightly more formal or descriptive tone. It is also the root for many compound verbs and adjectives. Understanding this word is essential because it forms the backbone of how Iranians perceive the flow of their lives.

در آن زمان، زندگی بسیار متفاوت بود. (In 그 time, life was very different.)

Furthermore, the word carries a certain weight in Persian culture, often associated with the 'charkh-e falak' or the wheel of fortune, implying that time is a force that brings about change beyond human control. It is frequently used in the context of 'zamāne', which refers to 'the times' or the current social climate. This distinction is crucial for learners who wish to move beyond basic survival Persian into a more nuanced understanding of the language.

مدیریت زمان یک مهارت مهم است. (Time management is an important skill.)

Scientific Context
In physics and mathematics, 'zamān' is the standard term for the fourth dimension.

او در طول زمان تغییر کرد. (He changed over time.)

هر چیزی زمان می‌برد. (Everything takes time.)

بهترین زمان برای سفر، بهار است. (The best time for travel is spring.)

Using زمان correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that can be modified by adjectives, possessives, and prepositions. One of the most common ways to use it is with the 'Ezafe' construction, which links it to a specific event or period. For instance, 'zamān-e jang' means 'the time of war'. This construction is ubiquitous in both written and spoken Persian. When you want to say 'at the time of', you usually use the preposition 'dar' followed by the word and its modifier.
Duration
To express how long something takes, use the verb 'bordan' (to carry/take). Example: 'In kār zamān mibarad' (This work takes time).
Specific Instances
When referring to a specific moment in the past, 'ān zamān' (that time) is frequently used to set the scene for a story.
Availability
While 'vaqt' is more common for 'I have time', using 'zamān' is perfectly acceptable in formal requests or professional settings.
In complex sentences, zamān often acts as a temporal conjunction when combined with 'ke'. For example, 'zamāni ke' means 'when' or 'at the time that'. This is a vital structure for connecting two clauses.

زمانی که من رسیدم، او رفته بود. (At the time that I arrived, he had gone.)

Another important usage is in the context of scheduling. The compound verb 'zamān-bandi kardan' means 'to schedule' or 'to time'. This is used in project management, sports, and daily planning.

ما باید برای این پروژه زمان‌بندی دقیقی داشته باشیم. (We must have a precise schedule for this project.)

Relative Time
Using 'moddat-e zamān' refers to a 'period of time' or 'duration'. This is very common in academic writing.

مدت زمان این پرواز سه ساعت است. (The duration of this flight is three hours.)

او در کمترین زمان ممکن کار را تمام کرد. (He finished the work in the shortest possible time.)

آیا زمان کافی برای مطالعه داری؟ (Do you have enough time for studying?)

زمان طلاست. (Time is gold/money.)

In the bustling streets of Tehran or the quiet courtyards of Isfahan, you will hear زمان in various registers. On the radio or television news, the anchors will frequently use it to discuss the timing of political events, the duration of economic plans, or historical anniversaries. In an academic setting, a professor of Persian literature might spend an entire lecture discussing the concept of time in the 'Shahnameh'. In such a context, the word takes on a majestic quality, representing the inexorable march of history.
News & Media
'Zamān-e bargozāri-ye entekhābāt' (The time of holding the elections) is a typical phrase you would hear on the evening news.
Daily Life
While 'vaqt' is common, if someone is explaining why they were late in a more formal excuse, they might say 'Zamān az dastam dar raft' (Time slipped out of my hand/I lost track of time).
Religious Context
In religious sermons, 'zamān' is used to discuss the 'end of times' (ākharez-zamān), a concept deeply rooted in Islamic eschatology.
If you are watching a Persian film, you might hear a character reflect on their past using this word. It provides a sense of nostalgia and gravity. In songs, especially traditional Persian music (Sonati), the word is often used to lament the passage of time or the transience of youth.

در گذر زمان، همه چیز فراموش می‌شود. (In the passage of time, everything is forgotten.)

You will also encounter this word in the names of various institutions or publications. For example, 'Zamāneh' is a well-known media organization. In the business world, 'zamān-e tahvil' (delivery time) is a phrase every consumer knows.

زمان تحویل کالا کی است؟ (When is the delivery time of the goods?)

Literature
Poets often personify time as a cruel entity that steals away moments of joy, using 'zamān' to represent this force.

ای زمان، کمی آهسته‌تر حرکت کن. (O time, move a bit slower.)

او تمام زمان را در کتابخانه بود. (He was in the library the whole time.)

این ساعت زمان را دقیق نشان می‌دهد. (This clock shows the time accurately.)

در زمان‌های قدیم، مردم با اسب سفر می‌کردند. (In old times, people traveled by horse.)

For English speakers learning Persian, the most frequent mistake is using زمان when they should use 'sā'at' or 'vaqt'. In English, 'time' is a catch-all word, but in Persian, these three words have distinct boundaries. If you ask 'What time is it?' using 'zamān', it sounds very strange to a native speaker. You must use 'sā'at' (which literally means 'hour' or 'clock'). Similarly, if you want to say 'I don't have time to talk', using 'zamān' is technically correct but sounds overly dramatic or formal; 'vaqt' is the natural choice for daily availability.
The 'What Time' Error
Incorrect: Zamān chand ast? (What is the time?) | Correct: Sā'at chand ast? (What hour is it?)
The 'Availability' Error
Incorrect: Man zamān nadāram. (I don't have time - sounds like you lack the dimension of time). | Correct: Man vaqt nadāram. (I don't have the moment/opportunity).
Preposition Confusion
Learners often forget the 'Ezafe' when linking 'zamān' to a noun. It should be 'zamān-e [noun]', not just 'zamān [noun]'.
Another common pitfall is the confusion between 'zamān' and 'martabeh' or 'dafeh' (meaning 'time' as in 'occurrence'). If you want to say 'I have been to Paris three times', you should never use 'zamān'. You must use 'bār', 'dafeh', or 'martabeh'. Using 'zamān' here would imply you stayed for three different historical eras in Paris.

من سه بار به آنجا رفتم. (I went there three times.) - NOT 'zamān'.

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the plural. While 'zamānhā' is the standard plural, using it to mean 'multiple times' (occurrences) is incorrect. It only means 'multiple periods' or 'different eras'. Understanding these distinctions will immediately elevate your Persian from a beginner level to a more intermediate, natural-sounding proficiency.

در زمان مناسب با او تماس بگیر. (Call him at the appropriate time.)

Over-formalization
Using 'zamān' in very casual settings can make you sound like a textbook. Try to observe how natives switch to 'vaqt' in informal speech.

او زمان زیادی را صرف مطالعه می‌کند. (He spends a lot of time studying.)

این زمان برای من خوب نیست. (This time is not good for me.)

گذشت زمان زخم‌ها را التیام می‌بخشد. (The passage of time heals wounds.)

To truly master the concept of time in Persian, you must know the alternatives to زمان and when to use them. The most common synonym is 'vaqt'. While 'zamān' is formal and abstract, 'vaqt' is practical and immediate. Think of 'vaqt' as 'opportunity' or 'available moment'. Another important word is 'hangām', which is often used in literary contexts to mean 'at the time of' or 'season'. For example, 'hangām-e gol' means 'the time of flowers' (spring).
Vaqt (وقت)
The most common word for 'time' in daily life. Use it for appointments, availability, and general conversation.
Hangām (هنگام)
A more poetic or formal word for 'at the time of'. Often used as a prefix like 'hangāmi ke' (when).
Mowqe' (موقع)
Refers to a specific 'occasion' or 'moment'. It is very common in spoken Persian to say 'alan mowqe'esh nist' (now is not the right time/occasion).
Doreh (دوره)
Refers to a 'period', 'cycle', or 'era'. Use this for historical periods or cycles of education.
There is also 'moddat', which specifically refers to a 'duration' or 'length of time'. If you are talking about how long a contract lasts, you use 'moddat'. For 'age' or 'era', you might hear 'asr' (like 'Asr-e Ahari' - the Stone Age).

در آن موقع، من خواب بودم. (At that moment/occasion, I was asleep.)

In legal or formal documents, you might see 'mo'elat', which means a 'deadline' or 'grace period'. Knowing these nuances allows you to choose the exact word that fits the context, making your Persian sound sophisticated and precise.

او در هنگام رانندگی صحبت نمی‌کند. (He does not talk while/at the time of driving.)

این دوره آموزشی شش ماه است. (This training period is six months.)

ما به مدت دو ساعت منتظر ماندیم. (We waited for a duration of two hours.)

در این عصر تکنولوژی، همه چیز سریع است. (In this age of technology, everything is fast.)

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

In Middle Persian (Pahlavi), the word for time was 'zurvān', which was also the name of the primordial god of infinite time in a branch of Zoroastrianism. 'Zamān' eventually replaced it in common usage after the Islamic conquest.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /zæˈmɑːn/
US /zəˈmɑn/
The stress is on the second syllable: za-MĀN.
Rima com
Amān (امان) Jahān (جهان) Dahān (دهان) Zabān (زبان) Makān (مکان) Ayān (عیان) Nehān (نهان) Ravān (روان)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the first 'a' as a long vowel. It should be short.
  • Pronouncing the 'n' too softly; it should be a clear dental nasal.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

The word is short and easy to recognize in its basic form.

Escrita 2/5

The 'mān' ending is common, but remember the 'z' is 'ze' (ز).

Expressão oral 2/5

Distinguishing it from 'vaqt' and 'sā'at' is the main challenge for speakers.

Audição 1/5

It is a very distinct and frequently used word in media.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

وقت (Vaqt) ساعت (Sā'at) روز (Ruz) سال (Sāl)

Aprenda a seguir

هنگام (Hangām) موقع (Mowqe') مدت (Moddat) دوره (Doreh)

Avançado

ازمنه (Azmane) سرمدی (Eternal) دهر (Eternity/Fate)

Gramática essencial

Ezafe Construction

زمانِ (Zaman-e) + Noun/Adjective. Example: زمانِ خوب (Good time).

Temporal Conjunction

زمانی که (Zamāni ke) + Clause. Example: زمانی که آمدم (When I came).

Pluralization

زمان (Zaman) + ها (hā) = زمان‌ها (Zamānhā).

Compound Verbs

Noun + Verb. Example: زمان‌بندی کردن (To schedule).

Prepositional Phrases

در (Dar) + زمانِ (Zaman-e). Example: در زمانِ جنگ (During the war).

Exemplos por nível

1

من زمان دارم.

I have time.

Subject + Noun + Verb (dāštan).

2

زمان ناهار است.

It is lunch time.

Noun + Noun (Ezafe) + Verb (budan).

3

او زمان ندارد.

He/She does not have time.

Negative form of 'dāštan'.

4

زمان طلاست.

Time is gold.

A common proverb using a simple A=B structure.

5

زمان می‌گذرد.

Time passes.

Subject + Verb (gozaštan).

6

در آن زمان، من کوچک بودم.

At that time, I was small.

Prepositional phrase + Subject + Adjective + Verb.

7

زمان کافی است.

Time is enough.

Noun + Adjective + Verb.

8

زمان چیست؟

What is time?

Question word 'čist' (what is).

1

زمانی که باران می‌بارد، من در خانه می‌مانم.

When it rains, I stay at home.

'Zamāni ke' used as a temporal conjunction.

2

زمان کار من تمام شد.

My work time finished.

Ezafe construction + possessive pronoun.

3

ما به زمان بیشتری نیاز داریم.

We need more time.

Comparative adjective 'bištar' modifying 'zamān'.

4

او در زمان مناسب آمد.

He came at the right time.

Prepositional phrase with adjective 'monāseb'.

5

زمان سفر ما طولانی بود.

Our travel time was long.

Subject phrase with Ezafe and possessive.

6

آیا زمان داری به من کمک کنی؟

Do you have time to help me?

Question form with infinitive 'komak kardan'.

7

در زمان قدیم، ماشین نبود.

In old times, there were no cars.

'Zamān-e qadim' is a fixed expression for 'old times'.

8

زمان مطالعه تمام شد.

The study time is over.

Noun + Noun (Ezafe) + Verb.

1

مدت زمان این فیلم دو ساعت است.

The duration of this movie is two hours.

'Moddat-e zamān' refers specifically to duration.

2

او زمان زیادی را صرف ورزش می‌کند.

He spends a lot of time exercising.

'Sarf kardan' (to spend/consume) used with 'zamān'.

3

زمانی که او را دیدم، خوشحال شدم.

When I saw him, I became happy.

Temporal clause with past tense.

4

ما باید زمان‌بندی پروژه را تغییر دهیم.

We must change the project schedule.

Compound noun 'zamān-bandi' (scheduling).

5

در طول زمان، او تجربه بیشتری کسب کرد.

Over time, he gained more experience.

'Dar tul-e zamān' means 'over the course of time'.

6

بهترین زمان برای کاشت درخت، بهار است.

The best time for planting trees is spring.

Superlative 'behtarin' modifying 'zamān'.

7

او همیشه زمان را مدیریت می‌کند.

He always manages time.

Direct object with 'rā' and verb 'modiriyat kardan'.

8

زمان برگزاری جلسه تغییر کرد.

The time of holding the meeting changed.

Complex Ezafe chain.

1

مفهوم زمان در فیزیک بسیار پیچیده است.

The concept of time in physics is very complex.

'Mafhum-e zamān' (concept of time) used in academic context.

2

او در زمان حیات خود، کتاب‌های زیادی نوشت.

During his lifetime, he wrote many books.

'Zamān-e hayāt' means 'lifetime'.

3

زمان‌بندی دقیق، کلید موفقیت در این مسابقه است.

Precise timing is the key to success in this race.

Compound noun as the subject.

4

با گذشت زمان، حقیقت روشن شد.

With the passage of time, the truth became clear.

'Bā gozašt-e zamān' is a common transitional phrase.

5

او در زمان‌های سخت، همیشه صبور بود.

In hard times, he was always patient.

Plural 'zamānhā' used for 'periods'.

6

این ساختمان متعلق به زمان صفویه است.

This building belongs to the Safavid era.

'Zamān-e [Dynasty]' refers to a historical era.

7

ما باید از زمان خود به بهترین نحو استفاده کنیم.

We must use our time in the best way.

Possessive 'khod' and prepositional phrase.

8

زمان‌سنجی در موسیقی بسیار مهم است.

Timing in music is very important.

'Zamān-sanji' refers to timing or chronometry.

1

خیام در اشعارش به ناپایداری زمان اشاره می‌کند.

Khayyam refers to the instability of time in his poems.

Literary analysis context.

2

او در زمانه خود، یک متفکر پیشرو بود.

In his own time/era, he was a leading thinker.

'Zamāne' refers to the social/intellectual era.

3

ادراک زمان در فرهنگ‌های مختلف، متفاوت است.

The perception of time is different in different cultures.

'Edrāk-e zamān' (perception of time).

4

زمان در این رمان، به صورت غیرخطی روایت می‌شود.

Time in this novel is narrated in a non-linear way.

Literary criticism terminology.

5

او تمام تلاش خود را برای صرفه‌جویی در زمان به کار بست.

He exerted all his effort to save time.

Complex verb phrase 'be kār bastan'.

6

در زمان‌های دور، این سرزمین پوشیده از جنگل بود.

In remote times, this land was covered with forests.

'Zamānhā-ye dur' (remote/ancient times).

7

او به دلیل ضیق زمان، نتوانست سخنرانی خود را تمام کند.

Due to lack of time, he couldn't finish his speech.

Formal/Arabic-derived term 'ziq-e zamān' (shortness of time).

8

زمان‌بندی اجرای پروژه با تاخیر مواجه شد.

The scheduling of the project execution faced a delay.

Passive construction with 'movājeh šodan'.

1

فیلسوفان همواره در پی کشف ماهیت زمان بوده‌اند.

Philosophers have always been seeking to discover the nature of time.

Philosophical/Academic register.

2

او در ورای زمان و مکان سیر می‌کرد.

He was journeying beyond time and space.

Mystical/Sufi terminology 'varā-ye zamān o makān'.

3

زمان‌مندی یکی از ویژگی‌های بنیادین هستی است.

Temporality is one of the fundamental characteristics of existence.

Abstract noun 'zamān-mandi' (temporality).

4

در متون کهن، از 'ازمنه' برای اشاره به دوران‌های مختلف استفاده شده است.

In ancient texts, 'azmane' has been used to refer to different eras.

Linguistic/Historical note using Arabic plural.

5

او با نگاهی به گذشته، به بیهودگی ستیز با زمان پی برد.

Looking at the past, he realized the futility of struggling against time.

Reflective/Literary prose.

6

ساختار زمان در فیزیک کوانتوم، به چالش کشیده شده است.

The structure of time in quantum physics has been challenged.

Scientific/Technical register.

7

او در لحظه‌ای که زمان باز ایستاد، حقیقت را یافت.

In the moment that time stood still, he found the truth.

Poetic/Metaphorical usage.

8

زمان‌گریزی یکی از مضامین اصلی ادبیات مدرن است.

Escapism from time is one of the main themes of modern literature.

Literary theme 'zamān-gorizi'.

Colocações comuns

مدیریت زمان
در طول زمان
زمان‌بندی کردن
زمان مناسب
گذشت زمان
زمان قدیم
مدت زمان
زمان کافی
زمان حال
اتلاف زمان

Frases Comuns

زمان طلاست

— Time is very valuable and should not be wasted.

زمان طلاست، پس عجله کن.

در کمترین زمان

— As quickly as possible; in the shortest time.

او در کمترین زمان ممکن رسید.

زمان می‌برد

— Something requires a certain amount of time to complete.

یادگیری زبان زمان می‌برد.

از دست دادن زمان

— To waste time or lose the opportunity.

ما نباید زمان را از دست بدهیم.

زمان‌های دور

— A long time ago; in the distant past.

در زمان‌های دور، پادشاهی بود...

به مرور زمان

— Gradually; over the course of time.

به مرور زمان به اینجا عادت می‌کنی.

زمان حال

— The present moment or the present tense in grammar.

زمان حال ساده را یاد بگیرید.

زمان آینده

— The future or the future tense in grammar.

ما برای زمان آینده برنامه داریم.

زمان گذشته

— The past or the past tense in grammar.

او در زمان گذشته زندگی می‌کند.

زمان برگزاری

— The scheduled time for an event to take place.

زمان برگزاری کنفرانس تغییر کرد.

Frequentemente confundido com

زمان vs وقت (Vaqt)

Vaqt is for personal time/availability; Zaman is for the concept/era.

زمان vs ساعت (Sā'at)

Sā'at is for the clock time (e.g., 5 o'clock); Zaman is for duration or period.

زمان vs بار (Bār)

Bār is for 'times' as in frequency (e.g., three times); Zaman is never used for frequency.

Expressões idiomáticas

"زمان از دست رفتن"

— To lose track of time or for time to pass without notice.

وقتی با تو هستم، زمان از دستم می‌رود.

informal
"زمان خریدن"

— To delay something in order to gain more time to prepare.

او سعی کرد با حرف زدن، زمان بخرد.

neutral
"زمان را کشتن"

— To do something useless just to pass the time (to kill time).

ما در ایستگاه زمان را کشتیم.

informal
"گرد زمان"

— The signs of aging or the effect of time on things (the dust of time).

گرد زمان بر چهره‌اش نشسته بود.

literary
"فرزند زمان خویش بودن"

— To be aware of and adapted to the current era's needs and ideas.

یک هنرمند باید فرزند زمان خویش باشد.

formal/literary
"زمانه با کسی نساختن"

— To have bad luck or for the world to be against someone.

زمانه با او نساخت و شکست خورد.

literary
"در بستر زمان"

— In the context of history or the passage of time.

این واقعه را باید در بستر زمان بررسی کرد.

formal/academic
"زمان‌سنجی کردن"

— To time something perfectly or to wait for the right moment.

او در زمان‌سنجی استاد است.

neutral
"زمان به عقب برنمی‌گردد"

— The past cannot be changed; time only moves forward.

غصه نخور، زمان به عقب برنمی‌گردد.

neutral
"آخرالزمان"

— The end of the world or a time of great chaos.

این شلوغی مثل آخرالزمان است.

religious/informal

Fácil de confundir

زمان vs وقت

Both mean 'time' in English.

'Vaqt' is specific and informal; 'Zamān' is general and formal.

من وقت ندارم (I don't have time right now) vs. زمان می‌گذرد (Time passes).

زمان vs ساعت

Both relate to time.

'Sā'at' is the device or the specific hour; 'Zamān' is the abstract concept.

ساعت پنج است (It is five o'clock) vs. در زمان قدیم (In old times).

زمان vs دفعه

English uses 'time' for occurrences.

'Dafe' is for 'this time' or 'next time' in a series; 'Zamān' is for a period.

این دفعه (This time/occurrence) vs. این زمان (This period).

زمان vs هنگام

Both mean 'time'.

'Hangām' is more literary and often means 'during' or 'at the moment of'.

هنگام مطالعه (While studying).

زمان vs مدت

Both relate to duration.

'Moddat' is strictly the length of time; 'Zamān' can be the era or concept.

مدت سفر (The duration of the trip).

Padrões de frases

A1

من [Noun] دارم.

من زمان دارم.

A2

زمانی که [Sentence], [Sentence].

زمانی که باران می‌بارد، من می‌خوابم.

B1

[Noun] زمان می‌برد.

یادگیری زبان زمان می‌برد.

B2

در طول زمان، [Sentence].

در طول زمان، او قوی‌تر شد.

C1

با گذشت زمان، [Sentence].

با گذشت زمان، همه چیز فراموش می‌شود.

C2

[Noun] در بستر زمان [Verb].

این هنر در بستر زمان تکامل یافت.

A1

زمان [Noun] است.

زمان ناهار است.

B1

مدت زمان [Noun] [Number] ساعت است.

مدت زمان پرواز دو ساعت است.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

زمان‌بندی (scheduling)
زمان‌سنج (timer/stopwatch)
زمانه (era/the times)
هم‌زمانی (synchronicity)

Verbos

زمان‌بندی کردن (to schedule)
زمان گرفتن (to time something)

Adjetivos

زمانی (temporal)
هم‌زمان (simultaneous)
به‌زمان (timely - rare)
بی‌زمان (timeless)

Relacionado

وقت (time)
ساعت (hour/clock)
تاریخ (date/history)
مدت (duration)
هنگام (time/season)

Como usar

frequency

Very high; one of the top 500 words in Persian.

Erros comuns
  • Asking 'Zamān chand ast?' Sā'at chand ast?

    'Zamān' refers to the concept of time, while 'sā'at' refers to the clock time.

  • Using 'zamān' for frequency (e.g., 'se zamān'). se bār / se dafe

    'Zamān' is not used to count occurrences.

  • Saying 'Man zamān nadāram' to a friend. Man vaqt nadāram.

    'Zamān' is too formal for casual availability; 'vaqt' is the natural choice.

  • Forgetting the Ezafe in 'zamān-e kār'. zamān-e kār

    Persian requires the Ezafe to link a noun to its modifier.

  • Using 'zamān' to mean 'a moment'. lahze / mowqe'

    'Zamān' usually refers to a longer period or the general concept.

Dicas

The Ezafe Rule

Always use the Ezafe (the -e suffix) when 'zamān' is followed by a description, like 'zamān-e jang' (time of war).

Frequency vs. Duration

Remember that 'zamān' is for duration or periods, while 'bār' or 'dafe' is for frequency (how many times).

Ask for the Clock

When asking for the time, always say 'Sā'at chand ast?' (What time is it?) to sound like a native.

Formal Writing

In formal writing, use 'در زمانِ' instead of 'وقتی که' to elevate your style.

Poetic Time

If you read 'zamāne', it usually refers to 'the world' or 'the current state of affairs' rather than just 'time'.

Listen for Compounds

Words like 'zamān-bandi' are very common in business and news; learning them will help you understand professional Persian.

Mnemonic

Think of 'Zamān' as 'The Man' who controls the clock. It's a simple way to remember the sound.

Availability

If a friend asks if you have time, say 'vaqt dāram', not 'zamān dāram', unless you want to sound very formal.

Arabic Root

Knowing it comes from Arabic helps you recognize it in other languages like Urdu or Turkish, where it is also used.

The Long 'A'

Ensure the second 'a' in 'zamān' is long and open, like the 'a' in 'father'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'The Man' (Zamān) who holds the clock. He controls the 'Time'.

Associação visual

Imagine an hourglass with the word 'زمان' written on the glass as the sand flows through.

Word Web

ساعت (Clock) تاریخ (History) گذشته (Past) آینده (Future) حال (Present) ثانیه (Second) دقیقه (Minute) روز (Day)

Desafio

Try to use 'zamān' in three sentences today: one about history, one about a schedule, and one about the past.

Origem da palavra

The word 'zamān' is borrowed from Arabic 'zamān' (زمان), which itself has roots in Semitic languages.

Significado original: It originally referred to a period of time, a season, or an epoch.

Afroasiatic (Semitic) origin, integrated into Indo-European (Persian).

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that 'Akhar-ez-zaman' (End of Times) is a serious religious concept.

In English, 'time' is used for everything. In Persian, remember to split 'time' into 'zamān' (concept), 'vaqt' (availability), and 'sā'at' (clock).

The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam (frequent themes of time's passage). Radio Zamaneh (a prominent Persian media outlet). The concept of 'Sahib al-Zaman' (The Master of Time) in Shia Islam.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

At School

  • زمان امتحان (Exam time)
  • زمان استراحت (Break time)
  • مدیریت زمان (Time management)
  • زمان مطالعه (Study time)

At Work

  • زمان‌بندی پروژه (Project scheduling)
  • زمان تحویل (Delivery time)
  • اتلاف زمان (Wasting time)
  • زمان جلسه (Meeting time)

History Class

  • در زمان قدیم (In old times)
  • زمان شاه (The time of the King)
  • طول زمان (Length of time)
  • دوره زمانی (Time period)

Grammar Lesson

  • زمان حال (Present tense)
  • زمان گذشته (Past tense)
  • زمان آینده (Future tense)
  • تغییر زمان (Changing the tense)

Daily Conversation

  • زمان داری؟ (Do you have time?)
  • زمان می‌گذره (Time passes)
  • بهترین زمان (The best time)
  • زمان کافی (Enough time)

Iniciadores de conversa

"به نظر شما بهترین زمان برای سفر به ایران کی است؟ (In your opinion, when is the best time to travel to Iran?)"

"چگونه زمان خود را در طول روز مدیریت می‌کنید؟ (How do you manage your time during the day?)"

"آیا فکر می‌کنید زمان طلاست؟ چرا؟ (Do you think time is gold? Why?)"

"در زمان‌های قدیم، زندگی راحت‌تر بود یا الان؟ (In old times, was life easier or now?)"

"اگر می‌توانستید در زمان سفر کنید، به کدام دوره می‌رفتید؟ (If you could travel in time, to which era would you go?)"

Temas para diário

درباره یک زمان خاص در زندگی‌تان که خیلی خوشحال بودید بنویسید. (Write about a specific time in your life when you were very happy.)

چرا مدیریت زمان برای دانش‌آموزان مهم است؟ (Why is time management important for students?)

تفاوت زندگی در زمان حال و زمان قدیم را توصیف کنید. (Describe the difference between life in the present time and old times.)

اگر زمان به عقب برمی‌گشت، چه چیزی را تغییر می‌دادید؟ (If time went back, what would you change?)

نقش زمان در یادگیری یک زبان جدید چیست؟ (What is the role of time in learning a new language?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you should use 'sā'at'. Asking 'Zamān chand ast?' is incorrect and confusing for native speakers.

'Zamān' is more formal and refers to time as a concept or historical period. 'Vaqt' is used for daily availability and personal time.

Use 'se bār' or 'se dafe'. Never use 'se zamān'.

Persian does not have grammatical gender, so 'zamān' is gender-neutral.

It means 'when' or 'at the time that'. It is used to start a temporal clause.

It is 'modiriyat-e zamān' (مدیریت زمان).

Yes, 'zamān-e fe'l' means the tense of the verb (past, present, etc.).

Yes, it is very common in poetry to represent fate, the passage of life, or the transience of the world.

The common plural is 'zamānhā'. In very formal contexts, you might see 'azmane'.

Yes, but 'vaqt-e khub' is more common if you mean you had fun. 'Zamān-e khub' sounds like a 'good era'.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'zamān' to describe a historical period.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Describe your daily schedule using 'zamān-bandi'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a short paragraph about why time is important.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Use 'zamāni ke' in a complex sentence.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Time management is the key to success.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about 'old times'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Explain the difference between 'zamān' and 'vaqt' in Persian.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'zamān-e āyande'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'It takes time to learn a new language.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'در طول زمان'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about 'lunch time'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Use 'zamān-e monāseb' in a sentence.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The duration of the flight is five hours.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'zamāne'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Time passes quickly.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'zamān-e gozashte'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I don't have enough time for this project.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'ham-zamān'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The time of the meeting changed.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'akhar-ez-zaman'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Talk about your favorite time of the day.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

How do you manage your time?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe a historical era you are interested in.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What would you do if you had more time?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Do you think time passes faster as you get older?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about a time you were late.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Is punctuality important in your culture?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What is the best time to visit your city?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How has life changed compared to 'old times'?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a time you felt very proud.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What do you do to 'kill time'?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Talk about 'lunch time' at your workplace.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Why is 'time management' taught in schools?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What is your opinion on 'time travel'?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

How do you say 'When I was a child' in Persian?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about the importance of 'appropriate time' for making decisions.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

What is 'Akhar-ez-zaman' in your opinion?

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe the 'duration' of your favorite movie.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you feel about the passage of time?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

What is the 'delivery time' for online shopping in your country?

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ طلاست.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'در ____ قدیم...'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'مدیریت ____.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ می‌گذرد.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ کافی ندارم.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ ناهار.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ مناسب.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ تحویل.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ برگزاری.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ حال.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ آینده.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ گذشته.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____‌بندی پروژه.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: '____ حیات.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'ضیق ____.'

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error correction

زمان چند است؟

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: ساعت چند است؟

Use 'sā'at' to ask for the time of day.

error correction

من سه زمان به پاریس رفتم.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: من سه بار به پاریس رفتم.

Use 'bār' for frequency, not 'zamān'.

error correction

من زمان ندارم بیایم. (Informal)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: من وقت ندارم بیایم.

'Vaqt' is more natural for personal availability.

error correction

در زمان هخامنشی...

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: در زمانِ هخامنشیان...

Needs Ezafe and usually plural for dynasties.

error correction

زمان می‌گذره سریع.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: زمان سریع می‌گذرد.

Word order: Adverb usually before the verb.

error correction

او زمان‌بندی پروژه را کرد.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: او پروژه را زمان‌بندی کرد.

Compound verb structure.

error correction

مدت زمان فیلم دو ساعت بود است.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: مدت زمان فیلم دو ساعت بود.

Tense consistency.

error correction

زمانی که او آمد، من رفتم بود.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: زمانی که او آمد، من رفته بودم.

Past perfect structure.

error correction

زمان طلا است.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: زمان طلاست.

Contraction is more common in this proverb.

error correction

در طول زمان‌ها...

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: در طول زمان...

Usually used in singular for the abstract concept.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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