Even if you don't speak a word of Persian, it will only take you a few minutes to learn a few simple phrases, which are useful for communicating in this language. Persian, known as Farsi, is the official language of Iran, along with the Dari variant spoken in Afghanistan and the Tajik variant spoken in Tajikistan. Learning what follows can lead you to open a treasure chest filled with extraordinary culture, history and traditions.
Some suggestions for pronunciation: "kh" corresponds to the guttural sound "ch" of the German nacht; "j" is pronounced like the "g" in frost; "ch" is pronounced like the "c" in cinema; "sh" is pronounced like the "sc" of swarm; "h" at the beginning and inside of the word is aspirated like the English "h" in hotel, at the end of a word it is pronounced as a closed "é"; "y" corresponds to the sound of "i"
Steps
Step 1. Use "dorud" or "salam" to say "hello" or "hello"
Step 2. Introduce yourself to others, saying “man [your name] hastam” (for example “man Elisa hastam”)
Step 3. Use "khaheshan" or "lotfan" to say "please" and "merci" or "mamnun" to say "thank you"
Step 4. Use "baleh" or "are" to say "yes" and "na" to say "no"
Or you can simply nod or disagree with your head.
Step 5. Use "koja", which means "where", if you are looking for something
Step 6. If you have to buy something, instead, use “chand misheh”, which means “how much does it cost”
Step 7. Use "key" to say "when"
Step 8. Use “Hale shoma chetore” to say “How are you?
”
Step 9. Again, "man" means "I", "to" stands for "you", "u" for "he / she", "but" for "us", "shoma" for you (which is also the courtesy pronoun, as in Italian the "Lei"), finally "anha" for "them"
Step 10. Use "mikham" when you want something, for example "Ab mikham" which means "I want water"
Step 11. Use “khub hastam” (“I'm fine”) in response to the question “hale shoma chetore” (“how are you?
”)
Step 12. If you want to say where you are from, use "man [the name of your town or city] yi hastam"
For example, "man italiayi hastam", that is "I am Italian".
Advice
- Generally the Persians are characterized by a cordial and generous soul, with a strong predisposition to welcome foreigners and different cultures. In fact, they are known for their great hospitality. However, this is not new, since this aspect is also reported to us by historians of thousands of years ago. If you have met or are dealing with Persian friends, these brief tips on customs and social rules may come in handy.
- If at first you are afraid of making a mistake, do not worry because the friendliness of the Persians is not denied even in this: they will welcome you among themselves, helping you to speak correctly.
- When you visit someone for the first time or for a special occasion, it is customary to bring a gift. Flowers, sweets or pastries are the most appropriate choice for this type of event.
- Meal times in Iran vary considerably compared to those in Europe or America. Lunch can be served between 13:00 and 15:00, while dinner is eaten from 19:00 onwards. These and other events that characterize social life in Iran often last until late, between chatting and pampering in the living room, consuming sweets and even dried fruit, in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Since it is considered rude to refuse what is served, the guest is required to accept the dishes offered, even if it is not his desire to eat them.
- Iranians are very careful when it comes to the Persian Gulf. It is recommended to use the official name and to avoid calling it "Arabian Gulf".
- To say "goodbye" you can use "ruz khosh" or, more commonly, "khoda hafez".
- Use your body language - pointing, gesturing and miming will help you communicate what you think.
- And if you really need help, say "mishe komakam konid" and the Iranians will be happy to help you out.
