From Turkish to Persian: A Cheat Sheet of 200 Words You Need to Know!

Are you a polyglot or a Turkish speaker considering adding Persian to your linguistic repertoire? Learning a new language can be a thrilling journey, and Turkish to Persian offers a fascinating exploration of shared vocabulary and cultural connections. This cheat sheet is designed to help you get started by providing you with 200 essential words that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Persian.

In this post, you will find a carefully curated list of 200 common words that every Turkish speaker should know when learning Persian. Each word has been chosen to highlight the connections between the two languages, showcasing their shared heritage and the beauty of their cultural nuances.
As you delve into the richness of Persian language and literature, you’ll discover that many words share similarities with Turkish, making the learning process smoother and more enjoyable.

Why Learn Persian?

Persian is not only a beautiful language but also a gateway to the rich culture, literature, and history of Iran and beyond. For polyglots and Turkish speakers, learning Persian offers a unique opportunity to explore the connections between the two languages and cultures.

With over 110–130 million speakers worldwide, knowing Persian can enhance your travel experiences, especially if you plan to visit Iran, Afghanistan, or Tajikistan. Imagine navigating vibrant markets, engaging in conversations with locals, and immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes—all while understanding the nuances of the language and culture. Being able to communicate in Persian opens doors to deeper interactions and memorable experiences that go beyond the surface.

Furthermore, learning Persian can unlock new professional opportunities. In our increasingly globalized world, businesses are looking for individuals who can bridge cultural gaps and communicate effectively. Whether you’re interested in diplomacy, international relations, tourism, or cultural exchange, proficiency in Persian can set you apart in the job market.

Additionally, Persian literature is a treasure trove of poetry, philosophy, and storytelling that has influenced many cultures, including Turkish. By learning Persian, you gain access to timeless works by renowned poets such as Rumi, Hafez, and Saadi, whose insights and artistry resonate across generations. Understanding these literary masterpieces in their original language allows you to appreciate the beauty and depth of their meanings, enriching your cultural knowledge.

Lastly, delving into the Persian language provides a fascinating exploration of its historical ties with Turkish. Many shared words and concepts reflect the intertwined histories of these cultures. As you learn Persian, you’ll find it both enjoyable and enlightening to discover the similarities and differences between the two languages, enhancing your overall linguistic journey.

In summary, learning Persian is a rewarding endeavor that opens up a world of cultural richness, travel opportunities, and professional growth. For polyglots and Turkish speakers, it offers an exciting path to deepen your understanding of an extraordinary culture while enhancing your linguistic skills.

The Connection Between Turkish and Persian

The shared words have approximately similar forms and meanings in the two languages. Either they come from the same genetic (i.e., family) origin, or they are a consequence of language contact and lexical borrowing. These words have the same linguistic origin and are generally similar, with comparable meanings. They do not necessarily have to appear in the same form, and there may be slight phonetic differences between them. Additionally, there may also be semantic differences. (Read more)

Borrowing is a process triggered by language contact, often facilitated by bilingual individuals. During this process, phonetic, lexical, and even syntactic elements are introduced from one language to another. Over time, due to various social, cultural, and historical factors, these elements are accepted by the majority of a language community and become commonly used.

As a result of the geographical proximity of Persian- and Turkish-speaking peoples for thousands of years, a significant amount of shared vocabulary has emerged as a consequence of lexical borrowing. Both languages have historically borrowed words from each other, enriching their lexicons and cultural expressions. Furthermore, they have also drawn from the same external sources, including Arabic, French, and English, leading to the inclusion of many shared terms.

This intermingling of languages not only reflects the close ties between Turkish and Persian speakers but also highlights the dynamic nature of language itself. Understanding these connections can enhance the learning experience for those studying either language, as it reveals a deeper appreciation for the historical interactions and cultural exchanges that have shaped both Turkish and Persian. By exploring these shared words, learners can bridge the gap between the two languages, enriching their understanding of both the linguistic and cultural landscapes of the regions where they are spoken.

The Importance of Vocabulary: My Personal Language Journey from Persian & Azeri to Turkish

Early exposure to language can shape our lives in ways we never anticipate. For me, this journey began at home, where the sounds of Azeri filled the air. Azeri, a language spoken by about one-fifth of Iran’s population, is part of the Turkic language family and closely related to Turkish. Despite this early introduction, my parents hesitated to encourage my learning of Azeri. My mother’s own challenges with Persian made them prioritize Farsi for my future education and career prospects.

Years passed, and my understanding of Azeri remained passive; I could grasp TV shows from Azerbaijan but found Turkish programs elusive. The grammar wasn’t the issue—it was the modern Turkish vocabulary that formed a barrier. This all changed two years ago when my family made a significant decision: we would immigrate from Tehran to Istanbul.

Embracing this new chapter, I dove into learning Istanbul Turkish through Duolingo. Progress was steady but lacked excitement until I discovered Turkish TV shows. “Şahsiyet” (Persona) was my first foray, followed by “Muhteşem Yüzyıl” (Magnificent Century). To my surprise, “Magnificent Century” resonated more deeply with me. It dawned on me that the Ottoman court’s reverence for Persian and Arabic languages had left its mark on the show’s language, easing my understanding as a Persian speaker.

Now, having settled in Istanbul for two years, I’ve come to appreciate the linguistic interconnection between Turkish and Persian. Despite stark grammatical differences, many words are identical or similar in both languages. These shared words often come to my rescue during evening tea with neighbors when a Turkish word escapes me. Through explanations, translations, or even pantomime, we find common ground—like the word ‘معادل’ (equivalent), which shares Arabic roots in both languages.

This linguistic overlap is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a bridge between cultures and histories—a testament to the intertwined paths of Turkish and Persian civilizations.

Sound Changes and Adaptations

As you explore the shared vocabulary between Turkish and Persian, it’s important to note that sound changes and adaptations often occur when words are borrowed from one language to another. These modifications can result in slight variations in pronunciation or spelling, which may affect how the word is used in each language. Understanding these changes will enhance your grasp of the vocabulary and help you communicate more effectively in Persian. For a deeper dive into these nuances, consider joining our courses, workshops, and classes, where we cover these concepts in detail.

Cheat Sheet: 200 Common Words from Turkish to Persian

Here’s a carefully curated list of 200 common words that will help you start your Persian learning journey. These words have been organized into categories for easier navigation.

Note: You might notice an asterisk (*) next to some words in the list, indicating additional nuances regarding their usage. These specific notes are not included in this blog post to avoid making the post long, but you can explore them further in our workshops, and 1-on-1 classes, where we delve into the subtle differences and cultural contexts of these words.