دو صد گفته چون نیم کردار نیست
do sad gofteh chon neem kardâr nist
Actions speak louder than words
Significado
What one does is more important and impactful than what one says.
Contexto cultural
This proverb is a direct counter to 'Ta'arof'. While Iranians are expected to be verbally generous, this proverb provides a socially acceptable way to demand sincerity. The contrast between 'Goftar' (Speech) and 'Kerdar' (Action) is a major theme in the works of Saadi and Ferdowsi, emphasizing the 'Ideal Man' as a man of action. In startups in Tehran, this phrase is often used to promote 'Agile' methodologies—focusing on the 'Minimum Viable Product' (the nim kerdar) over long meetings. Teachers use this to encourage students to do their homework rather than explaining why they couldn't do it.
Use it to end an argument
If someone is making endless excuses, saying this proverb firmly usually ends the debate and forces them to act.
Don't over-use with elders
While common, saying this to a much older person might seem like you are calling them a liar. Use with caution.
Significado
What one does is more important and impactful than what one says.
Use it to end an argument
If someone is making endless excuses, saying this proverb firmly usually ends the debate and forces them to act.
Don't over-use with elders
While common, saying this to a much older person might seem like you are calling them a liar. Use with caution.
The 'Ta'arof' Antidote
This is your best tool to navigate Iranian politeness. It signals that you are a pragmatic person who values results.
Ponte a prueba
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
دو صد گفته چون ____ کردار ____.
The standard form is 'nim' (half) and 'nist' (is not).
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
A friend keeps saying they will help you move house but never shows up.
The proverb is used to call out empty promises.
What does 'Chon' mean in this specific proverb?
معنی 'چون' در این ضربالمثل چیست؟
In classical proverbs, 'chon' functions as a comparative particle meaning 'like'.
Complete the dialogue.
علی: من قول میدهم از فردا ورزش کنم. سارا: علی جان، __________________.
Sara is reminding Ali that action is better than his promise to exercise.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Ayudas visuales
Words vs. Action Value
Banco de ejercicios
4 ejerciciosدو صد گفته چون ____ کردار ____.
The standard form is 'nim' (half) and 'nist' (is not).
A friend keeps saying they will help you move house but never shows up.
The proverb is used to call out empty promises.
معنی 'چون' در این ضربالمثل چیست؟
In classical proverbs, 'chon' functions as a comparative particle meaning 'like'.
علی: من قول میدهم از فردا ورزش کنم. سارا: علی جان، __________________.
Sara is reminding Ali that action is better than his promise to exercise.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Preguntas frecuentes
6 preguntasNot really. In daily life, people use 'kar' or 'amal'. 'Kerdar' is almost exclusively used in this proverb or in formal literature.
Yes, 'sad gofte' is sometimes used, but 'do sad' is the more rhythmic and traditional version.
It's not strictly religious, but it aligns perfectly with Islamic and Zoroastrian values of 'good deeds'.
The best reply is to stop talking and start the task, or say 'Hagh ba shomaast' (You are right).
It's not rude, but it is very direct. It's a 'strong' way to speak.
In about 90% of classical proverbs, yes. It's a hallmark of the older style of Persian.
Frases relacionadas
به عمل کار برآید
synonymWork is achieved through action.
حرف باد است
similarWords are wind.
کم گوی و گزیده گوی
builds onSpeak little, but speak effectively.
عالم بیعمل
specialized formA scholar without action.
سنگ بزرگ علامت نزدن است
contrastPicking up a big stone is a sign of not throwing it.
