Cette page dans ta langue
English فارسی العربية Deutsch Español 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B1 noun #4,000 le plus courant 8 min de lecture

نعنا

na'na
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces نعنا en 30 secondes
Explication نعنا in your Level:
At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'نعنا' means 'mint'. You should be able to recognize it as a food item. In Iran, you will see it in yogurt or as a fresh herb. It is one of the first 'Sabzi' (vegetables/herbs) names you learn. You can use it in simple sentences like 'I like mint' (Men na'na dust daram). It is important to know that it is something you eat or drink in tea. You might see it on a menu as 'Chay-e Na'na'. Just remember it as a green, good-smelling leaf. Don't worry about the 'Ayn' sound too much yet; just say 'Na-na'.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the A2 level, you should be able to describe where you find mint. You can say 'Na'na dar baghcheh ast' (Mint is in the garden). You should start using the adjective 'tazeh' (fresh) or 'khoshk' (dried) with it. You can order 'Chay-e na'na' at a restaurant. You should also know that 'Aragh-e na'na' is a common drink for when you feel sick. You might start noticing that it is part of the 'Sabzi Khordan' platter. At this level, try to use the 'ye' connector correctly: 'Na'na-ye khosh-bu' (fragrant mint).
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the B1 level, you understand the cultural importance of 'نعنا'. You know it's not just a flavor but a 'Garm' (hot) food in traditional medicine. You can explain why someone puts mint in their 'Doogh' (to balance the coldness). You are familiar with compound terms like 'Na'na Dagh' and can use them in a recipe context. You can distinguish between 'Na'na' and 'Poneh'. Your pronunciation should include a slight pause for the 'Ayn' letter. You can participate in a conversation about herbal remedies using this word.
At the B2 level, you can use 'نعنا' in more complex grammatical structures and idioms. You understand its role in Persian literature or proverbs if they arise. You can describe the distillation process of 'Aragh-e Na'na' or discuss the botanical differences between varieties. You use the word fluently when discussing Iranian lifestyle and health. You can write a short paragraph about your favorite Iranian dish and explain how the mint enhances the flavor profile. You are comfortable using the word in both formal and informal registers.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the C1 level, you have a nuanced understanding of 'نعنا'. You can discuss its phytochemical properties or its role in the history of Iranian agriculture. You recognize the word in classical poetry or medical texts from the medieval period. You can explain the 'Mezaj' (temperament) of mint in detail and how it interacts with other herbs. Your pronunciation is perfect, capturing the glottal stop of the 'Ayn' naturally. You can use the word as a metaphor for freshness or vitality in creative writing.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 'نعنا'. You can engage in academic debates about the linguistic roots of the word from Arabic to Persian. You understand the subtle regional variations in how mint is used across the Iranian plateau. You can interpret complex culinary metaphors involving mint in contemporary Persian literature. You are an expert on the 'Attari' culture and can discuss the economic impact of mint production in regions like Kashan. The word is part of your deep cultural and linguistic intuition.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

نعنا en 30 secondes

  • Mint (Na'na) is a central herb in Persian cuisine, used fresh in salads and dried in soups.
  • It is a key remedy in traditional medicine for digestive issues, often consumed as a distillate (Aragh-e Na'na).
  • Culturally, it represents freshness and is a staple of the daily fresh herb platter (Sabzi Khordan).
  • Linguistically, it's a noun of Arabic origin, requiring a 'ye' connector when followed by an adjective.

The word نعنا (pronounced Na'nā) refers to mint, one of the most indispensable aromatic herbs in the Iranian culinary and medicinal landscape. In Persian culture, mint is far more than just a garnish; it is a fundamental element that bridges the gap between nutrition and traditional medicine. When you walk through a traditional Iranian bazaar, the sharp, refreshing scent of fresh mint is often the first thing that greets you. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, and in Iran, several varieties are used, though the most common is spearmint. The word itself is borrowed from Arabic, but its integration into the Persian lifestyle is so deep that it feels entirely indigenous. Iranians use it in three primary forms: fresh (as part of Sabzi Khordan), dried (crushed into soups and yogurts), and as a distillate known as Aragh-e Na'na.

Culinary Identity
In the kitchen, mint is the soul of dishes like Kashk-e Bademjan, where fried mint (Na'na Dagh) provides a pungent, savory contrast to the creamy whey. It is also the defining flavor of Doogh, the national yogurt drink, where it serves to balance the heaviness of the dairy.

مادرم همیشه توی ماست خیار کلی نعنا می‌ریزد تا سردی ماست را بگیرد.

Translation: My mother always puts a lot of mint in the yogurt and cucumber dip to counteract the 'coldness' of the yogurt.

Beyond the plate, mint holds a prestigious position in 'Teb-e Sonnati' (Traditional Iranian Medicine). It is classified as having a 'Garm' (Hot) temperament. This is why you will see Iranians reaching for mint tea or mint extract after a heavy meal; it is believed to aid digestion, relieve bloating, and 'warm' the stomach. The concept of balancing 'Hot' and 'Cold' foods is central to Iranian life, and mint is the primary tool used to neutralize 'Cold' ingredients like yogurt, cucumber, and fish. Whether it is a sprig of fresh mint on a platter of herbs or a drop of potent mint oil for a headache, this plant is a constant companion in the Persian household.

Symbolism
Mint symbolizes freshness and hospitality. It is rarely absent from the 'Sabzi Khordan' (fresh herb platter) served at every formal dinner, representing the host's attention to the guests' health and appetite.

بوی نعنای تازه در بازار تجریش آدم را مست می‌کند.

Using the word نعنا in a sentence is straightforward as it functions as a standard noun. However, because it is so frequently paired with other items, you will most often encounter it in 'Ezafe' constructions—where it is linked to another word with a short 'e' sound. For example, 'Chay-e Na'na' (Mint Tea) or 'Aragh-e Na'na' (Mint Distillate). Understanding these pairings is key to sounding natural in Persian. Because mint can be fresh, dried, or liquid, you must specify the state if it isn't clear from the context.

Fresh vs. Dried
Use 'Na'na-ye tazeh' for fresh leaves and 'Na'na-ye khoshk' for dried mint. Dried mint is a staple spice, while fresh mint is a vegetable.

لطفاً کمی نعنای خشک روی آش بریز.

Translation: Please pour some dried mint on the Ash (thick soup).

When ordering at a cafe, you might use it in the context of herbal infusions. Instead of just saying 'Na'na', you would say 'Dambush-e Na'na'. In a medicinal context, if you have a stomach ache, you would say 'Na'na baraye del-dard khub ast' (Mint is good for stomach ache). Note that in informal Persian, the glottal stop of the letter 'Ayn' (ع) is often dropped, making it sound more like 'Nan-ā'. However, in formal writing and careful speech, the 'Ayn' should be slightly audible as a break between the two syllables.

The 'Na'na Dagh' Construction
This is a specific culinary term meaning 'fried mint'. It is used as a topping. 'Dagh' means hot/sizzling. You will often hear: 'Na'na dagh-e ashh ra amadeh kardi?' (Did you prepare the sizzling mint for the soup?)

من عاشق طعم نعنا در شربت سکنجبین هستم.

You will hear نعنا in three primary environments: the kitchen, the 'Attari' (traditional herbal apothecary), and during social gatherings. In an Iranian kitchen, the word is shouted across the room when preparing 'Sabzi Polo' or 'Kashk-e Bademjan'. It is a word associated with the final touch of a dish. At the 'Attari', you will hear customers asking for 'Aragh-e Na'na' or 'Na'na-ye Felfeli' (peppermint) to treat various ailments. The 'Attar' (herbalist) might explain the benefits of mint for the 'Sardi' (coldness) of the stomach, making it a very common word in health-related conversations.

In the Bazaar
Vegetable sellers often yell 'Sabzi-ye tazeh! Na'na, Reyhan, Torabche!' (Fresh herbs! Mint, Basil, Radish!). This rhythmic chanting is a staple of Iranian urban life.

ببخشید، نعنای تازه دارید؟

At the greengrocer: Excuse me, do you have fresh mint?

In social settings, specifically during 'Asruneh' (afternoon tea/snack time), the word comes up when discussing the menu. If someone is making 'Sekanjabin' (a traditional sweet and sour syrup), they will inevitably talk about the quality of the mint used to infuse the syrup. You will also hear it in the context of gum or candy: ' آدامس نعنایی' (Na'na-yi - minty gum). It is a word that spans the gap between ancient tradition and modern consumerism. Even in a modern Tehran cafe, 'Mo-hi-to' (Mojito) is often described as having 'Na'na-ye faravan' (plenty of mint).

Traditional Medicine
Grandmothers are the primary users of this word. 'Ye kam aragh-e na'na bokhor, delet khub mishe' (Drink a bit of mint extract, your stomach will get better) is a phrase every Iranian child has heard hundreds of times.

این شربت نعنا خیلی خنک و خوشمزه است.

For English speakers, the most common mistake when using نعنا is related to pronunciation and the distinction between different types of mint. In English, 'mint' is a broad category. In Persian, there is a sharp distinction between 'Na'na' (standard garden mint/spearmint) and 'Poneh' (pennyroyal/wild mint). While they are related, 'Poneh' has a much stronger, almost medicinal and peppery scent and is often found near water sources. Using 'Na'na' when you mean 'Poneh' in a culinary context might result in a different flavor profile than intended, though they are often used interchangeably in casual speech.

Pronunciation Pitfall
The letter 'Ayn' (ع) is often ignored by learners. While Iranians often skip it in fast speech, a complete omission makes the word sound like 'Nana' (Grandmother in some languages). Ensure you have a slight glottal stop or at least a distinct separation between the two syllables: Na-na.

غلط: من ننا می‌خواهم. (Pronouncing it without the glottal stop/vowel length).

Another mistake is the confusion between 'Na'na' and 'Na'na-yi'. 'Na'na' is the noun (the herb), whereas 'Na'na-yi' is the adjective (minty). If you want to say 'mint chocolate', you must use the adjective form: 'Shokolat-e na'na-yi'. If you say 'Shokolat-e na'na', it sounds like you put actual leaves inside the chocolate (which might be true, but the adjective is more common for flavors). Additionally, learners often forget the 'ye' connector when adding an adjective. It is 'Na'na-ye tazeh', not 'Na'na tazeh'.

Spelling Error
The word is spelled with a 'noon' (ن), 'ayn' (ع), 'noon' (ن), and 'alef' (ا). Some learners mistakenly use 'he' (ه) at the end or omit the 'ayn' because they don't hear it clearly.

اشتباه متداول: قاطی کردن نعنا و پونه در دستور پخت.

While نعنا is the most common term for mint, there are several related words that you should know to navigate Persian culinary and botanical discussions. The most significant is 'Poneh'. While 'Na'na' is sweet and cooling, 'Poneh' is more pungent and is often associated with wild growth near rivers. In many traditional recipes, especially those from northern Iran, 'Poneh' is preferred for its intense aroma. Another related term is 'Na'na-ye Felfeli', which literally translates to 'Peppery Mint' (Peppermint). This term is used more in scientific or medicinal contexts than in daily cooking.

نعنا (Na'na) vs. پونه (Poneh)
Na'na is the standard garden mint used for tea and salads. Poneh is wild mint/pennyroyal, often dried and used in yogurt or as a powerful digestive aid.

In the context of 'Sabzi Khordan' (the herb platter), 'Na'na' is often grouped with 'Reyhan' (Basil), 'Tarkhun' (Tarragon), and 'Marzeh' (Savory). While these aren't synonyms, they are the 'alternatives' you might use if you want a different aromatic profile. For instance, if a recipe calls for mint and you don't have it, 'Tarkhun' is sometimes used as a substitute in certain stews, though the flavor is quite different. In terms of adjectives, 'Khosh-bu' (pleasant-smelling) is often used to describe mint.

Other Related Terms
  • اسطوخودوس (Lavand-e-kooh): Sometimes mentioned alongside mint in herbal medicine.
  • بادرنجبویه (Lemon Balm): Often called 'Na'na-ye limuyi' (Lemon mint) because of its similar leaf shape and citrus-mint scent.
  • عصاره (Osareh): Meaning 'extract'. You might see 'Osareh-ye Na'na' on medicine labels.

اگر نعنا ندارید، می‌توانید از کمی پونه خشک استفاده کنید.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In many Iranian villages, people believe that if you plant mint, it will spread to the neighbors' garden to share its blessings.

Guide de prononciation

UK /næʔˈnɒː/
US /næʔˈnɑː/
The stress is typically on the second syllable.
Rime avec
رعنا (Ra'na) معنا (Ma'na) صحرا (Sahra) دریا (Darya) فردا (Farda) تنها (Tanha) غوغا (Ghowgha) آریا (Arya)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing it like 'Nana' (grandmother) without the glottal stop.
  • Making the 'ayn' sound too harsh like a Kh or G.
  • Shortening the final Alef vowel.
  • Confusing the spelling with 'Nana' (no ayn).
  • Over-emphasizing the first 'n'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to read, though the 'Ayn' might be tricky for absolute beginners.

Écriture 3/5

The 'Ayn' in the middle and 'Alef' at the end require attention to spelling.

Expression orale 2/5

Simple two-syllable word, easy to pronounce once the 'Ayn' is understood.

Écoute 1/5

Very distinct sound, hard to confuse with other words in context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

سبزی آب غذا خوب دارد

Apprends ensuite

پونه ریحان جعفری گشنیز ترخون

Avancé

تقطیر منتول آنتی‌اسپاسمودیک مزاج مصلح

Grammaire à connaître

The Ezafe with Alef-ending words

نعنا + یِ + تازه = نعنایِ تازه

Glottal stop of 'Ayn'

نعنا (Na'na) requires a slight catch in the throat.

Uncountable nouns in Persian

نعنا is usually treated as a mass noun.

Adjective formation with '-i'

نعنا + یی = نعنایی (Minty)

Compound verb formation

نعنا داغ کردن (To fry mint)

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

1

این نعنا است.

This is mint.

Simple identification using 'ast'.

2

نعنا سبز است.

Mint is green.

Subject + Adjective + Verb.

3

من نعنا دوست دارم.

I like mint.

Direct object 'na'na'.

4

نعنا خوشمزه است.

Mint is delicious.

Using 'khoshmzeh' as an adjective.

5

چای نعنا می‌خواهم.

I want mint tea.

Compound noun with Ezafe.

6

نعنا در بازار است.

Mint is in the market.

Prepositional phrase 'dar bazar'.

7

آیا نعنا داری؟

Do you have mint?

Question form of 'dashtan'.

8

نعنا بوی خوبی دارد.

Mint has a good smell.

Subject + Object + Verb.

1

مادرم نعنای تازه خرید.

My mother bought fresh mint.

Past tense 'kharid'.

2

نعنای خشک را در ماست بریز.

Pour the dried mint into the yogurt.

Imperative mood.

3

این شربت نعنا خیلی خنک است.

This mint syrup is very cool.

Adverb 'kheyli' modifying an adjective.

4

ما در باغچه نعنا می‌کاریم.

We plant mint in the garden.

Present continuous/habitual.

5

نعنا برای معده خوب است.

Mint is good for the stomach.

Preposition 'baraye'.

6

او نعنا را خرد کرد.

He chopped the mint.

Compound verb 'khord kardan'.

7

بوی نعنا در خانه پیچیده است.

The smell of mint has filled the house.

Present perfect 'pichideh ast'.

8

یک دسته نعنا چند است؟

How much is a bunch of mint?

Asking for price.

1

اگر دل‌درد داری، عرق نعنا بخور.

If you have a stomach ache, drink mint extract.

Conditional sentence.

2

نعنا داغ روی آش رشته خیلی مهم است.

Fried mint on Ash Reshteh is very important.

Compound noun 'Na'na dagh'.

3

نعنا طبع گرمی دارد و سردی را می‌گیرد.

Mint has a hot nature and removes coldness.

Discussing 'Teb-e Sonnati'.

4

دوغ بدون نعنا اصلاً صفا ندارد.

Doogh without mint has no joy at all.

Idiomatic use of 'safa'.

5

او همیشه برگ‌های نعنا را خشک می‌کند.

She always dries the mint leaves.

Habitual present.

6

شربت سکنجبین با نعنای فراوان عالی می‌شود.

Sekanjabin syrup with plenty of mint becomes excellent.

Using 'faravan' as an intensive.

7

در سبزی‌خوردن، نعنا از همه خوشبوتر است.

In the herb platter, mint is the most fragrant.

Superlative adjective.

8

بچه‌ها آدامس با طعم نعنا را دوست دارند.

Children like mint-flavored gum.

Phrase 'ba ta'm-e'.

1

خاصیت ضدعفونی‌کنندگی نعنا از قدیم شناخته شده است.

The antiseptic property of mint has been known since ancient times.

Passive voice with 'shod-eh ast'.

2

برخی از مردم پونه را با نعنا اشتباه می‌گیرند.

Some people mistake pennyroyal for mint.

Verb 'eshtebah gereftan'.

3

اسانس نعنا در صنایع آرایشی کاربرد زیادی دارد.

Mint essence has many applications in the cosmetic industry.

Formal vocabulary 'sanaye arayeshi'.

4

کشاورزان در حال برداشت نعنا از مزارع هستند.

Farmers are harvesting mint from the fields.

Progressive tense.

5

نعنا به دلیل داشتن منتول، حس خنکی ایجاد می‌کند.

Mint creates a cooling sensation due to having menthol.

Scientific explanation structure.

6

در طب سنتی، نعنا را به عنوان یک گیاه بادشکن می‌شناسند.

In traditional medicine, mint is known as a carminative plant.

Technical term 'bad-shekan'.

7

ترکیب نعنا و لیمو در نوشیدنی‌های تابستانی بسیار محبوب است.

The combination of mint and lemon is very popular in summer drinks.

Compound subject.

8

او با مهارت خاصی نعنا را برای تزیین غذا خرد کرد.

He chopped the mint with special skill for food decoration.

Adverbial phrase 'ba maharat-e khass'.

1

رایحه تند نعنا در فضای عطاری طنین‌انداز بود.

The sharp scent of mint resonated in the atmosphere of the apothecary.

Literary verb 'tanin-andaz budan'.

2

تحقیقات نشان می‌دهد که نعنا در کاهش علائم سندروم روده تحریک‌پذیر موثر است.

Research shows that mint is effective in reducing symptoms of IBS.

Academic sentence structure.

3

نعنای وحشی معمولاً در حاشیه رودخانه‌ها و مناطق مرطوب می‌روید.

Wild mint usually grows on the banks of rivers and in damp areas.

Biological description.

4

بهره‌برداری صنعتی از نعنا نیازمند تکنولوژی‌های نوین تقطیر است.

Industrial exploitation of mint requires modern distillation technologies.

Complex noun phrases.

5

شاعر در بیتی، طراوت معشوق را به سبزی نعنا تشبیه کرده است.

In a verse, the poet likened the freshness of the beloved to the greenness of mint.

Literary analysis vocabulary.

6

تنوع گونه‌های نعنا در ایران بسیار گسترده و درخور توجه است.

The diversity of mint species in Iran is very wide and noteworthy.

Formal adjective 'darkhor-e tavajjoh'.

7

فرآیند خشک کردن نعنا باید به دور از نور مستقیم خورشید انجام شود.

The process of drying mint must be done away from direct sunlight.

Passive obligation 'bayad anjam shavad'.

8

نعنا فلفلی به دلیل غلظت بالای منتول، ارزش دارویی بیشتری دارد.

Peppermint has more medicinal value due to its high concentration of menthol.

Comparative structure.

1

واکاوی ریشه‌شناختی واژه نعنا پیوند عمیق آن را با فرهنگ سامی آشکار می‌سازد.

An etymological analysis of the word 'Na'na' reveals its deep connection with Semitic culture.

Highly academic 'vakavi-ye risheh-shenakhti'.

2

در متون کهن پزشکی، نعنا به عنوان مصلح بسیاری از اغذیه سردمزاج معرفی شده است.

In ancient medical texts, mint is introduced as a corrector for many cold-natured foods.

Technical term 'mosleh' (corrector/balancer).

3

کشت گسترده نعنا در کاشان، این منطقه را به قطب تولید عرقیات گیاهی بدل کرده است.

The extensive cultivation of mint in Kashan has turned this region into a hub for herbal distillate production.

Formal verb 'badal kardan'.

4

تاثیر اقلیم بر میزان اسانس موجود در برگ‌های نعنا غیرقابل انکار است.

The impact of climate on the amount of essence in mint leaves is undeniable.

Abstract noun 'ghayr-e ghabel-e inkar'.

5

نعنا در ساختار فولکلوریک ایران نمادی از پاکی و زدودن پلیدی‌های جسمانی است.

In Iran's folkloric structure, mint is a symbol of purity and the removal of physical impurities.

Sociological/Cultural analysis.

6

بررسی تطبیقی کاربرد نعنا در آشپزی ایرانی و مدیترانه‌ای تفاوت‌های بنیادینی را نشان می‌دهد.

A comparative study of the use of mint in Iranian and Mediterranean cuisine shows fundamental differences.

Comparative study 'barresi-ye tatbiqi'.

7

تولید مشتقات نعنا با ارزش افزوده بالا می‌تواند به شکوفایی اقتصاد روستایی کمک کند.

Producing mint derivatives with high added value can help the prosperity of the rural economy.

Economic terminology.

8

ظرافت‌های زبانی در تمایز میان نعنا و گونه‌های مشابه، بازتاب‌دهنده دقت نظر ایرانیان در گیاه‌شناسی است.

Linguistic nuances in distinguishing between mint and similar species reflect Iranians' precision in botany.

Complex subject-predicate relation.

Collocations courantes

عرق نعنا
نعنا داغ
چای نعنا
نعنای تازه
نعنای خشک
شربت نعنا
برگ نعنا
اسانس نعنا
دمنوش نعنا
نعنای کوهی

Phrases Courantes

نعنا ریختن

— To add mint to something.

توی دوغ کمی نعنا بریز.

بوی نعنا

— The smell of mint.

بوی نعنا فضا را پر کرده بود.

دسته نعنا

— A bunch of mint.

یک دسته نعنا خریدم.

طعم نعنا

— The taste/flavor of mint.

بستنی با طعم نعنا.

نعنا پاک کردن

— To clean and prepare mint leaves.

دارم نعنا پاک می‌کنم.

نعنا خشک کردن

— To dry mint for storage.

تابستان وقت نعنا خشک کردن است.

خواص نعنا

— The benefits/properties of mint.

خواص نعنا برای سلامتی زیاد است.

ترکیب نعنا و ...

— The combination of mint and...

ترکیب نعنا و شکلات عالی است.

نعنای وحشی

— Wild mint.

نعنای وحشی کنار چشمه می‌روید.

روغن نعنا

— Mint oil.

روغن نعنا برای سردرد مفید است.

Souvent confondu avec

نعنا vs پونه (Poneh)

Often confused because they look similar, but Poneh is wilder and stronger.

نعنا vs ریحان (Reyhan)

Both are green herbs in Sabzi Khordan, but Basil (Reyhan) has larger, smoother leaves.

نعنا vs ننه (Naneh)

In some dialects, 'Naneh' means mother/grandmother, which sounds similar to 'Na'na'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"نعنا داغش را زیاد کردن"

— To exaggerate something or add too much 'flavor' to a story.

او همیشه نعنا داغ داستان‌هایش را زیاد می‌کند.

Informal
"مثل نعنا تازه"

— To be very fresh, vibrant, or full of energy.

امروز مثل نعنا تازه سرحال است.

Literary/Informal
"عرق نعنا خوردن"

— Metaphorically, to try to fix a complex problem with a simple, traditional remedy.

مشکل او با عرق نعنا حل نمی‌شود.

Sarcastic/Informal
"نعنای سر سفره"

— Something that is always present and expected.

او مثل نعنای سر سفره، همیشه در مهمانی‌ها هست.

Informal
"با نعنا و پونه"

— Doing something with full herbal/traditional equipment or care.

سفره را با نعنا و پونه تزیین کرد.

Descriptive
"بوی نعنا دادن"

— To be clean, fresh, and pleasant.

دهانش بوی نعنا می‌دهد.

Neutral
"نعنا توی دهان گذاشتن"

— To silence someone or refresh a conversation.

با این حرفش نعنا توی دهان همه گذاشت.

Rare/Metaphorical
"نعنا فروش"

— Someone who sells mint; used sometimes in stories about village life.

پسر نعنا فروش به شهر آمد.

Folklore
"نعنای کوهی چیدن"

— To go on a difficult but rewarding quest for something natural.

رفتیم کوه برای نعنا چیدن.

Neutral
"دل‌درد و عرق نعنا"

— A phrase referring to the inevitable pairing of a problem and its traditional solution.

باز هم همان قصه قدیمی، دل‌درد و عرق نعنا.

Informal

Facile à confondre

نعنا vs پونه

Appearance and family

Na'na is sweeter; Poneh is more peppery and medicinal.

برای ماست، نعنا بهتر از پونه است.

نعنا vs جعفری

Both are green herbs

Parsley (Jafari) has jagged leaves and a very different savory taste.

جعفری را در سوپ می‌ریزند، نه در چای.

نعنا vs گشنیز

Both are green herbs

Coriander (Goshniz) has a soapy/citrus taste, unlike the cooling mint.

گشنیز برای قرمه‌سبزی است.

نعنا vs بادرنجبویه

Similar leaf shape

Lemon balm smells like lemon, while mint smells like menthol.

بادرنجبویه را نعنای لیمویی هم می‌گویند.

نعنا vs اسطوخودوس

Both used in herbal tea

Lavender is floral and purple; mint is refreshing and green.

اسطوخودوس برای خواب خوب است.

Structures de phrases

A1

من [اسم] دوست دارم.

من نعنا دوست دارم.

A2

لطفاً به من [اسم] بدهید.

لطفاً به من نعنا بدهید.

B1

اگر [مشکل] داری، [راه حل] بخور.

اگر دل‌درد داری، عرق نعنا بخور.

B2

[اسم] دارای خواص [صفت] است.

نعنا دارای خواص ضدعفونی‌کنندگی است.

C1

رایحه [اسم] در [مکان] به مشام می‌رسد.

رایحه نعنا در باغ به مشام می‌رسد.

C2

تمایز میان [اسم] و [اسم] نشان‌دهنده [موضوع] است.

تمایز میان نعنا و پونه نشان‌دهنده دقت گیاه‌شناسی است.

B1

این [غذا] بدون [اسم] مزه ندارد.

این آش بدون نعنا داغ مزه ندارد.

A2

[اسم] در [مکان] می‌روید.

نعنا در باغچه می‌روید.

Famille de mots

Noms

نعنا (Mint)
نعنائیان (Mint family/Lamiaceae)
نعنا‌زار (Mint field)

Verbes

نعنا ریختن (To add mint)
نعنا خشک کردن (To dry mint)

Adjectifs

نعنایی (Minty)
خوش‌نعنا (Rich in mint)

Apparenté

پونه
ریحان
سبزی
منتول
عطاری
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely frequent in culinary, medical, and daily shopping contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • Saying 'Na'na' for grandmother. → Naneh

    In some dialects, Naneh means mom/grandma. Na'na (with ayn) is the herb.

  • Using fresh mint in Ash Reshteh topping. → Dried mint (Na'na-ye khoshk)

    The topping must be dried mint fried in oil; fresh mint will just wilt and won't have the right texture.

  • Forgetting the 'ye' in 'Na'na-ye tazeh'. → Na'na-ye tazeh

    Words ending in 'A' need 'ye' before the Ezafe connector.

  • Drinking a full glass of Aragh-e Na'na. → A few tablespoons mixed with water.

    It is a concentrate, not a juice. Drinking it straight is too intense.

  • Confusing Na'na with Poneh in medicine. → Use Poneh for stronger infections.

    While both are good for the stomach, Poneh is considered a stronger 'antibiotic' in folk medicine.

Astuces

The Secret to Na'na Dagh

When making fried mint, don't let the oil get too hot or fry it too long, or the mint will turn bitter and black.

Digestive Relief

Keep a bottle of 'Aragh-e Na'na' in your pantry. A few tablespoons in a glass of water can cure most minor stomach upsets.

Freshness Check

When buying mint, look for bright green leaves without dark spots and a strong, immediate aroma when touched.

Invasive Growth

If you plant mint in your garden, use a pot or a contained area, as it spreads very quickly via underground runners.

The Herb Platter

When serving 'Sabzi Khordan', always include mint as it is the most popular herb for guests to pick.

Pronunciation

Try to pronounce the 'Ayn' softly. It sounds like a tiny 'uh' or a catch in the throat between the two 'na' sounds.

Drying Mint

Tie bunches of mint and hang them upside down in a shaded room to preserve the best color and scent for 'Na'na-ye khoshk'.

Summer Cooler

Add crushed mint and honey to water and vinegar to make 'Sekanjabin', the ultimate Persian summer drink.

Skin Care

Cooled mint tea can be used as a refreshing facial toner to soothe the skin in hot weather.

Adjective Use

Use 'Na'na-yi' for anything with mint flavor, from toothpaste to candy.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Nana' (grandmother) who always gives you 'Na'na' (mint) for your stomach ache.

Association visuelle

Imagine a bright green leaf with a tiny 'Ayn' (ع) hook sitting in the middle of it, cooling your throat.

Word Web

Green Fresh Tea Stomach Yogurt Herb Scent Garden

Défi

Try to identify 'Na'na' in a local Middle Eastern grocery store and ask the price in Persian.

Origine du mot

Borrowed from the Arabic word 'Na'na' (نعناع). It entered Persian centuries ago and became the standard term for the plant.

Sens originel : The aromatic plant Mentha.

Semitic (Arabic) into Indo-European (Persian).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities; it is a universally loved and positive word.

In English-speaking countries, mint is often associated with sweets or mojitos. In Iran, it is primarily savory or medicinal.

Sohrab Sepehri's poems often mention the scents of the garden including mint. Avicenna's 'Canon of Medicine' details the uses of mint. Iranian folk songs about the 'Sabzi Forush' (vegetable seller).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a restaurant

  • چای نعنا دارید؟
  • بدون نعنا لطفاً
  • کمی نعنا داغ اضافه کنید
  • دوغ با نعنا

At an Attari

  • عرق نعنای سنگین می‌خواهم
  • نعنای خشک دارید؟
  • برای دل‌درد چی خوبه؟
  • برگ نعنا فلفلی

In the kitchen

  • نعنا را خرد کن
  • نعنا را پاک کن
  • نعنا خشک شد؟
  • بوی نعنا عالیه

At the market

  • یک دسته نعنا چند؟
  • نعناتون تازه است؟
  • نیم کیلو نعنا می‌خوام
  • نعنا و ریحان قاطی

Health discussion

  • نعنا بادشکن است
  • طبع نعنا گرم است
  • دمنوش نعنا بخور
  • روغن نعنا برای ماساژ

Amorces de conversation

"آیا شما در چای خود نعنا می‌ریزید؟ (Do you put mint in your tea?)"

"به نظر شما نعنای تازه بهتر است یا خشک؟ (In your opinion, is fresh or dried mint better?)"

"آیا می‌دانستید ایران یکی از بهترین عرق‌های نعنا را دارد؟ (Did you know Iran has some of the best mint distillates?)"

"شما در ماست و خیار چقدر نعنا می‌ریزید؟ (How much mint do you put in yogurt and cucumber?)"

"کدام غذا با نعنا داغ خوشمزه‌تر می‌شود؟ (Which food becomes tastier with fried mint?)"

Sujets d'écriture

Write about a time you used a herbal remedy like mint for a health issue.

Describe the scent of a Persian bazaar and the role of mint in it.

Compare the use of mint in your culture versus Iranian culture.

Imagine you have a small garden; what kind of mint would you plant and why?

Describe your favorite Persian dish that uses mint.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, it is very common to add fresh mint leaves to black tea or brew a pure mint infusion (Dambush-e Na'na).

It is dried mint sautéed in oil (often with garlic and onions) used as a garnish for soups like Ash Reshteh.

Yes, but standard Persian 'Na'na' is closer to spearmint. Peppermint (Na'na Felfeli) is stronger.

It is called 'Aragh-e Na'na' and is believed to aid digestion and stop bloating immediately.

The word is 'Na'na-yi' (نعنایی).

In Persian medicine, mint is 'Garm' (Hot), meaning it provides energy and aids digestion of 'Cold' foods.

It is originally from the Arabic word 'Na'na' (نعناع).

Wrap it in a damp paper towel and keep it in the fridge, or dry it in a dark, airy place.

Yes, especially in Salad Shirazi (cucumber, tomato, onion) where dried mint is a key ingredient.

Yes, mint grows very easily in almost all climates in Iran and is a common garden plant.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes

Teste-toi 98 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'نعنا' and 'چای'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain why Iranians use mint in yogurt.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I want a bunch of fresh mint.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen to the word: 'Na'na'. What does it mean?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 98 correct

Perfect score!

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour t'entraîner

Contenu associé

C'tait utile ?

Commentaires (0)

Connectez-vous pour Commenter
Pas encore de commentaires. Soyez le premier à partager vos idées !