غریب — meaning in English: Strange

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for Strange

خودکفایی

غریب

مخصوصا

ترجیح دادن

تعاون

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Persian for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native Persian speakers use the word 'غریب' in various situations, often when describing something unusual or unexpected. For instance, someone might say 'این غذا غریب است' ('This food is strange') when tasting an unfamiliar dish at a social gathering or when visiting a new place.

Synonyms & nuances

'غریب' is closely related to the word 'عجیب' (ajib), which also means 'strange.' However, 'عجیب' often carries a connotation of wonder or surprise, whereas 'غریب' can imply an unsettling or foreign quality. You might choose 'غریب' when discussing something that feels out of place rather than simply unusual.

Culture

'غریب' has deep cultural roots, deriving from the Arabic 'ghareeb', which also means 'strange' or 'foreigner.' In Persian literature, the term often evokes feelings of nostalgia or alienation, making it a poignant word in poetic contexts. Interestingly, many Persians use 'غریب' to describe not only physical strangeness but also emotional experiences, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the term.

FAQ

Q.What does the Persian word غریب mean in English?

'غریب' translates to 'strange' in English, often used to describe something unusual or unfamiliar that evokes curiosity or discomfort.

Q.How do you use غریب in a sentence?

You can use 'غریب' in a sentence like, 'این فیلم خیلی غریب بود' which means 'This movie was very strange.' It highlights the unusual aspect of the film.

Q.Are there common mistakes in using غریب?

A common mistake is using 'غریب' interchangeably with 'عجیب' without considering the context. Remember that 'غریب' often emphasizes feelings of strangeness or alienation, while 'عجیب' suggests wonder or curiosity.

Learn persian with Maspeak →

Persian Vocabulary