Meaning
A person of good character, reputable and trustworthy.
Cultural Background
The term reflects the historical importance of the 'Bazaari' class, where a man's word and his ledger were his bond. On Persian Twitter/Instagram, 'Adam Hesabi' is used to contrast 'influencers' (who might be seen as superficial) with people of real substance. When Iranian parents ask if a suitor is an 'Adam Hesabi,' they are asking about his education, job stability, and family reputation. In universities, students use this to describe professors who are not only smart but also treat students with genuine respect.
The 'Dorost' Boost
If you want to sound like a native, say 'Adam-e dorost o hesabi.' It sounds much more natural and emphatic.
Not for Objects
Never use this for a good phone or a good car. It is strictly for human beings.
Meaning
A person of good character, reputable and trustworthy.
The 'Dorost' Boost
If you want to sound like a native, say 'Adam-e dorost o hesabi.' It sounds much more natural and emphatic.
Not for Objects
Never use this for a good phone or a good car. It is strictly for human beings.
The Ultimate Vouch
Calling someone an 'Adam Hesabi' in a business deal is often more powerful than a written contract in Iran.
Test Yourself
Which word completes the phrase meaning 'a respectable person'?
او یک آدم _______ است.
'Hesabi' is the correct adjective form used in this idiom.
In which situation would you MOST likely call someone an 'Adam Hesabi'?
Select the best scenario:
The phrase is used for people with integrity and professionalism.
Fill in the missing word (don't forget the Ezafe sound if writing in Pinglish).
مدیر ما واقعاً _______ حسابی است.
The phrase is 'Adam Hesabi'.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
A: نظرت درباره دکتر جدید چیست؟ B: __________________
This is a natural way to praise a professional's character and skill.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesاو یک آدم _______ است.
'Hesabi' is the correct adjective form used in this idiom.
Select the best scenario:
The phrase is used for people with integrity and professionalism.
مدیر ما واقعاً _______ حسابی است.
The phrase is 'Adam Hesabi'.
A: نظرت درباره دکتر جدید چیست؟ B: __________________
This is a natural way to praise a professional's character and skill.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes! Even though 'Adam' literally means 'man' in some contexts, in Persian it means 'human' or 'person.' It is gender-neutral.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Not necessarily. It's about character. A poor person can be an Adam Hesabi, and a billionaire might not be.
The most common opposite is 'Adam-e Alaki' (a fake/frivolous person).
No, that doesn't mean the opposite. Use 'Adam-e Na-hesabi' (rare) or 'Adam-e Alaki'.
No, it's a standard idiom that has been around for decades.
Yes, to describe a former colleague or what kind of worker you are.
Linguistically no, but culturally many Iranians associate his name with the phrase because he was so respected.
Add 'ha' to the end: Adam Hesabi-ha.
Yes, it is understood in Afghanistan and Tajikistan, though they might have other local equivalents.
Related Phrases
آدم درست و حسابی
similarA correct and accountable person.
با شخصیت
synonymHaving personality/character.
آدم الکی
contrastA fake or frivolous person.
کاردرست
similarSomeone who does things right.
