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Archive for the 'Persian Alphabet' Category

Persian Keyboard: How to Install and Type in Persian

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You asked, so we provided—easy-to-follow instructions on how to set up your electronic devices to write in Persian! We’ll also give you a few excellent tips on how to use this keyboard, as well as some online and app alternatives if you prefer not to set up a Persian keyboard.

Log in to Download Your Free Persian Alphabet Worksheet Table of Contents
  1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Persian
  2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Persian
  3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer
  4. How to Change the Language Settings to Persian on Your Computer
  5. Activating the Persian Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet
  6. Persian Keyboard Typing Tips
  7. How to Practice Typing Persian

1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Persian

A keyboard

Learning a new language is made so much easier when you’re able to read and write/type it. This way, you will:

  • Get the most out of any dictionary and Persian language apps on your devices
  • Expand your ability to find Persian websites and use the various search engines
  • Be able to communicate much better online with your Persian teachers and friends, and look super cool in the process! 

2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Persian

A phone charging on a dock

It takes only a few steps to set up any of your devices to read and type in Persian. It’s super-easy on your mobile phone and tablet, and a simple process on your computer.

On your computer, you’ll first activate the onscreen keyboard to work with. You’ll only be using your mouse or touchpad/pointer for this keyboard. Then, you’ll need to change the language setting to Persian, so all text will appear in Persian. You could also opt to use online keyboards instead. Read on for the links!

On your mobile devices, it’s even easier—you only have to change the keyboard. We also provide a few alternatives in the form of online keyboards and downloadable apps.

3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer

1- Mac

1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Check the option “Show Keyboard & Character Viewers in Menu Bar.”

3. You’ll see a new icon on the right side of the main bar; click on it and select “Show Keyboard Viewer.”

A screenshot of the keyboard viewer screen

2- Windows

1. Go to Start > Settings > Easy Access > Keyboard.

2. Turn on the option for “Onscreen Keyboard.”

3- Online Keyboards

If you don’t want to activate your computer’s onscreen keyboard, you also have the option to use online keyboards. Here are some good options:

4- Add-ons of Extensions for Browsers

Instead of an online keyboard, you could also choose to download a Google extension to your browser for a language input tool. The Google Input Tools extension allows users to use input tools in Chrome web pages, for example.

4. How to Change the Language Settings to Persian on Your Computer

Man looking at his computer

Now that you’re all set to work with an onscreen keyboard on your computer, it’s time to download the Persian language pack for your operating system of choice:

  • Windows 8 (and higher)
  • Windows 7
  • Mac (OS X and higher)

1- Windows 8 (and higher)

  1. Go to “Settings” > “Change PC Settings” > “Time & Language” > “Region & Language.”
  2. Click on “Add a Language” and select “Persian (Iran).” This will add it to your list of languages. It will appear as فارسی with the note “language pack available.”
  3. Click on فارسی > “Options” > “Download.” It’ll take a few minutes to download and install the language pack.
  4. As a keyboard layout, you’ll only need the one marked as “Persian – فارسی.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts.

2- Windows 7

1. Go to Start > Control Panel > Clock, Language, and Region.

2. On the “Region and Language” option, click on “Change Keyboards or Other Input Methods.”

3. On the “Keyboards and Languages” tab, click on “Change Keyboards” > “Add” > “Persian.”

4. Expand the option of “Persian” and then expand the option “Keyboard.” Select the keyboard layout marked as “Persian.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts. Click “OK” and then “Apply.”

3- Mac (OS X and higher)

If you can’t see the language listed, please make sure to select the right option from System Preferences > Language and Region

1. From the Apple Menu (top left corner of the screen) go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Click the Input Sources tab and a list of available keyboards and input methods will appear.

3. Click on the plus button, select “Persian,” and add the “Persian – Standard” keyboard.

Adding a system language

5. Activating the Persian Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet

Texting and searching in Persian will greatly help you master the language! Adding a Persian keyboard on your mobile phone and/or tablet is super-easy.

You could also opt to download an app instead of adding a keyboard. Read on for our suggestions.

Below are the instructions for both iOS and Android mobile phones and tablets.

1- iOS

1. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard.

2. Tap “Keyboards” and then “Add New Keyboard.”

3. Select “Persian” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by tapping and holding on the icon to reveal the keyboard language menu.

2- Android

1. Go to Settings > General Management > Language and Input > On-screen Keyboard (or “Virtual Keyboard” on some devices) > Samsung Keyboard.

2. Tap “Language and Types” or “ + Select Input Languages” depending on the device and then “MANAGE INPUT LANGUAGES” if available.

3. Select فارسی from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by swiping the space bar.

3- Applications for Mobile Phones

If you don’t want to add a keyboard on your mobile phone or tablet, these are a few good apps to consider:

6. Persian Keyboard Typing Tips

Typing in Persian can be very challenging at first! Therefore, we added here a few useful tips to make it easier to use your Persian keyboard.

A man typing on a computer

1- Computer

  • To change the keyboard language, press “Shift” + “Alt.”
  • This is how to type challenging letters and vowels in Persian:
    • “آ”: Shift + h
    • “ژ”: Shift + c
    • “پ”: On most of the keyboards it’s
    • “چ”: On most of the keyboards it’s ]
    • “-ّ”: Shift + f
    • “-ِ”: Shift + d
    • “-ُ”: Shift + s
    • “-َ”: Shift + a
    • “-ً”: Shift + q
    • “-ٌ”: Shift + w
    • “-ٍ”: Shift + e

2- Mobile Phones

  • If you press and hold ” ا ” then you’ll have other options with the same base (آ – أ – إ).
  • For typing “پ” you need to press and hold “ب” then you can choose “پ” in the options.
  • To type “گ” you need to press and hold “ک” then you can choose “گ”
  • On some keyboards, you don’t have to do what’s mentioned above; you just need to press “Shift,” and you’ll have access to complimentary characters.

7. How to Practice Typing Persian

As you probably know by now, learning Persian is all about practice, practice, and more practice! Strengthen your Persian typing skills by writing comments on any of our lesson pages, and our teacher will answer. If you’re a PersianPod101 Premium PLUS member, you can directly text our teacher via the My Teacher app—use your Persian keyboard to do this!

Log in to Download Your Free Persian Alphabet Worksheet

Learn How to Talk About Your Family in Persian

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Did you know that only some reptiles and birds don’t parent their offspring? Except for crocodiles, all reptiles (and one family of bird species called megapodes) hatch from eggs and grow up alone, without any family.

The rest of us need family if we are to survive and thrive – humans and animals alike!

At PersianPod101, we know how important family is. Therefore, we take care to teach you all the important vocabulary and phrases pertaining to family.

Table of Contents

  1. Why Is It Important to Know Persian Vocabulary about Family?
  2. Learn a New Culture? Learn its Family Vocab first
  3. How PersianPod101 Can Help You Learn Persian Family Terms

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Family Phrases in Persian

1. Why Is It Important to Know Persian Vocabulary about Family?

Lioness with Cub

Well, if you’re serious about studying any new language, then learning about the most important social unit in Iranian culture would be a crucial part of your education.

What is family, though? Strictly speaking, it’s a group of people who live together and are supposed to take care of one another. Some of them are genetically linked.

Family isn’t just about who we’re related to by blood, of course. It’s also one of the main influences in shaping every child’s life.

Family is Important for Children’s Healthy Development

Phrases Parents Say

Family is the single most important influence in a child’s life. Children depend on parents and family to protect them and provide for their needs from the day they were born.

Primary caregivers, which usually comprise parents and family, form a child’s first relationships. They are a child’s first teachers and are role models that show kids how to act and experience the world around them.

By nurturing and teaching children during their early years, families play an important role in making sure children are ready to learn when they enter school.

Families Can Take All Shapes and Sizes

However, the way families are put together is by no means standard.

Mom and Daughter

Single-parent and same-gender households have become a new norm the past few decades, and there’s no shame in this. When there is love, connection and proper care, a child can thrive anywhere.

Everyone also knows that sometimes friends can become like family and remain with us for life, because it’s all about human connection.

After all, we share many commonalities simply because we’re human, and we are programmed to connect with one another and belong to a group. This is very important for our well-being and survival.

It’s All About Feeling Connected

As John Northman, a psychologist from Buffalo, NY, told WebMD – feeling connected to others contributes to mental as well as physical health.

He pointed out that when people feel connected, they feel better physically, and they’re also less likely to feel depressed.

Couples Chatting

Or, if they do feel depressed, they’d be in a better position to get out of it when they feel they are connecting with others. This is because they would be psychologically supported too, Northman said.

There has even been some links drawn between addiction and feeling disconnected from others. According to an article in Psychology Today, research indicates that addiction is not solely a substance disorder, but also affected by people feeling insecurely attached to others.

It showed that securely attached individuals tend to feel comfortable in and enjoy life, while insecurely attached people typically struggle to fit in and connect.

2. Learn a New Culture? Learn its Family Vocab first

So, it’s clear that for most of us, family is our entry point into connection and belonging. This is true of every culture, so in every country, family takes prominence.

For this reason, PersianPod101 offers culturally-relevant lessons that will equip you well to understand families in Iran.

Here are some of the most important Persian vocabulary and quotes about family and parenting!

A) Persian Family Vocabulary

Let’s start with the basic vocabulary. Without this collection of words, you’ll have a hard time describing any member of your family at all.

Family Terms
Family
خانواده (Khaanevaade)
Great grandfather
پدر پدربزرگ (pedar-e pedar bozorg)
Mother
مادر (Maadar)
Grandmother
مادر مادربزرگ (maadar-e maadar bozorg)
Father
پدر (Pedar)
Grandfather
پدر بزرگ (pedar bozorg)
Wife
همسر (hamsar)
Grandchild
نوه (naveh)
Husband
شوهر (Shohar)
Granddaughter
نوه دختری (naveye dokhtari)
Parent
والد (vaaled)
Grandson
نوه پسری (naveye pesari)
Child
بچه (bache)
Aunt
عمه‌ ، خاله‌ (ameh, sister of father; khaaleh, sister of mother)
Daughter
دختر (dokhtar)
Uncle
عمو، دايي (amoo, brother of father; daai, brother of mother)
Sister
خواهر (Khaahar)
Niece
دختر برادر يا خواهر (dokhtar-e baraadar yaa khaahar)
Brother
برادر (baraadar)
Nephew
پسر خواهر یا برادر (pesar-e khaahar yaa baraadar)
Younger sister
خواهر کوچکتر (khaahare koochektar)
Younger brother
برادر کوچکتر (baraadar-e koochektar)
Older brother
برادر بزرگتر (baraadar-e bozorgtar)
Great grandmother
مادر مادربزرگ (maadar-e maadar bozorg)
Cousin
پسر دایی/خاله‌ ,دختر دایی/خاله‌ ,دختر عمو/عمه ,پسر عمو/عمه
(pesar-daai/khaaleh, son of mother’s sibling;
dokhtar-daai/khaaleh, daughter of mother’s sibling;
dokhtar-amoo/ameh, son of father’s sibling;
pesar-amoo/ameh, daughter of father’s sibling)
Mother-in-law
مادر زن یا مادر شوهر (maadar zan yaa maadar showhar)
Father-in-law
پدر زن یا پدر شوهر (pedar zan yaa pedar showhar)
Sister-in-law
خواهر زن یا خواهر شوهر (khaahar zan yaa khaahar showhar)
Brother-in-law
برادر زن یا برادر شوهر (baraadar zan yaa baraadar showhar)
Partner
والد (vaaled)

Family of Three

B) Quotes About Family

Persian Family Quotes

One of the ways to improve your Persian language skills is by memorizing quotes from books, or poems.

Either source some from Persian literature, or make use of ours!

شما خانواده خود را انتخاب نمی‌کنید. آنها هدیه خداوند به شما هستند، همانطور که شما به آنها.

shomaa khaanevaadeye khod raa entekhaab nemikonid. aanhaa hediyeye khodaavand be shomaa hastand, hamaantor ke shomaa be aanhaa.
“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.” – Desmond Tutu

خانواده یک چیز مهم نیست. همه چیز است.

khaanevaade yek chiz-e mohem nist. hame chiz ast.
“Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” – Michael J. Fox

خانواده یعنی اينکه کسی از دیگری عقب نماند و کسی فراموش نشود.

khaanevaade ya’ni inke kasi az digari aqab namaanad va kasi faraamoosh nashavad.
“Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.” – David Ogden Stiers

خانواده من قدرت من و ضعف من است.

khaanevaadeye man qodrat-e man va za’f-e man ast.
“My family is my strength and my weakness.” – Aishwarya Rai

خانواده یکی از شاهکارهای طبیعت است.

khaanevaade yeki az shaahkaarhaaye tabi’at ast.
“The family is one of nature’s masterpieces.” – George Santayana

هنگامی که مشکلی پیش می‌آید، خانواده شماست که از شما حمایت می‌کند.

hengaami ke moshkeli pish mi aayad, khaanevaadeye shomaast ke az shomaa hemaayat mikonad.
“When trouble comes, it’s your family that supports you.” – Guy Lafleur

خانواده اولین سلول ضروری جامعه بشری است.

khaanevaade avalin selool-e zarooriye jaame’e ast.
“The family is the first essential cell of human society.” – Pope John XXIII

تفريح واحدی برای همه اعضای خانواده وجود ندارد.

tafrih-e vaahedi baraaye hameye a’zaaye khaanevaade vojood nadaarad.
“There is no such thing as fun for the whole family.” – Jerry Seinfeld

شما باید از شرف خود دفاع کنید. و از خانواده خود.

shomaa baayad az sharaf-e khod defaa’ konid. va az khaanevaadeye khod.
“You have to defend your honor. And your family.” – Suzanne Vega

همه خانواده‌های شاد مثل هم هستند،هر خانواده ناراحتی به شیوه خودش ناراحت است.

hameye khaanevaadehaaye shaad mesl-e ham hastand, har khaanevaadeye naaraahati be shiveye khodash naaraahat ast.
“All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” – Leo Tolstoy

C) Test Your Knowledge!

Do you feel you have learned a lot in this blog? Let’s quickly test that!

In the table below, match the Persian vocabulary on the left with the definition of the relative in the right column.

MY RELATIVES
Relative Name Definition
1. خانواده a. My male child
2. مادر b. My older male sibling
3. پدر c. My female sibling
4. همسر d. My child’s child
5. شوهر e. My child’s female child
6. والد f. My female parent
7. بچه g. My grandparent’s mother
8. دختر h. Mother to one of my parents
9. پسر i. Relatives
10. خواهر j. My female child
11. برادر k. My younger male sibling
12. خواهر کوچکتر l. Male spouse
13. برادر کوچکتر m. The father of one of my parents
14. برادر بزرگتر n. My child’s male child
15. مادر مادربزرگ o. My children’s father or mother
16. پدر پدربزرگ p. The sister of one of my parents
17. مادربزرگ q. The brother of one of my parents
18. پدر بزرگ r. My male parent
19. نوه s. My sibling’s female child
20. نوه دختری t. My sibling’s male child
21. نوه پسری u. My male sibling
22. خاله‌ v. My parents’ sibling’s child
23. عمو w. Female spouse
24. دختر برادر يا خواهر x. The grandfather of one of my parents
25. پسر خواهر یا برادر y. The person I am a parent to
26. دختر دایی z. My younger female sibling

How did it go? Don’t worry if you had trouble with it – you’ll get there! With a bit of practice, and our help at PersianPod101, you’ll soon have these family terms under the belt.

Family Shopping

3. How PersianPod101 Can Help You Learn Persian Family Terms

We hope that we helped you expand your family in Persian vocabulary!

PersianPod101, with its innovative online learning system, stands out among online learning platforms to help you master Persian easily.

Our lessons are tailored not only to increase your language skills, but to also inform you of Iranian culture, including the Iranian family structure.

When you sign up, you will get instant access to tools like:

1 – An extensive vocabulary list, regularly updated
2 – A new Persian word to learn every day
3 – Quick access to the Persian Key Phrase List
4 – A free Persian online dictionary
5 – The excellent 100 Core Persian Word List
6 – An almost limitless Lesson Library for learners of all levels

Further speed up your learning with the help of a personal tutor, who will first assess your current Persian language abilities to personalize your training and tailor it to your needs.

Hard work always pays off, and to help you in this, PersianPod101 will be there every step of the way toward your Persian mastery!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Family Phrases in Persian

Answers: 1.i. 2.f. 3.r. 4.w. 5.l. 6.o. 7.y. 8.j. 9.a. 10.c. 11.u. 12.z. 13.k. 14.b. 15.g 16.x. 17.h. 18.m. 19.d. 20.e. 21.n. 22.p. 23.q. 24.s. 25.t. 26.v.