Meaning
Used to dismiss or discourage inappropriate or exaggerated talk.
Cultural Background
This phrase is the 'shield' of Ta'arof. It prevents the speaker from appearing arrogant and the listener from feeling indebted. In Dari, 'In gapi-hā ra nazanen' is used similarly, though 'In che gap ast' (What talk is this) is even more frequent. Tajik speakers use 'In harf-horo nazaned' but it can sometimes sound slightly more archaic or formal than in Tehran. Second-generation Iranians often use the English translation 'Don't say that' but with the Persian cultural 'vibe,' which can confuse non-Persian speakers.
The Smile Factor
Always deliver this phrase with a slight smile or a look of concern. Without the right facial expression, it can sound like you're actually telling someone to shut up.
Accepting the Second Time
In Ta'arof, you say 'In harf-hā rā nazanid' once or twice, but if they insist, you eventually accept the compliment or gift with 'Mamnun'.
Meaning
Used to dismiss or discourage inappropriate or exaggerated talk.
The Smile Factor
Always deliver this phrase with a slight smile or a look of concern. Without the right facial expression, it can sound like you're actually telling someone to shut up.
Accepting the Second Time
In Ta'arof, you say 'In harf-hā rā nazanid' once or twice, but if they insist, you eventually accept the compliment or gift with 'Mamnun'.
Don't use with 'Shut up'
If someone is insulting you and you want them to stop, use 'Bas kon' (Stop it) instead. This phrase is too polite for a real fight.
Test Yourself
Match the response 'این حرفها را نزنید' to the correct situation.
Someone says: 'I am so sorry for taking your time, I feel terrible.'
In this context, the phrase reassures the person that they are not a burden.
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the verb 'zadan'.
خواهش میکنم این حرفها را ______.
The idiomatic verb used with 'harf' in this expression is 'zadan'.
Choose the best response for a Ta'arof situation.
A: 'Your house is so beautiful, I am jealous!' B: '__________'
This is the most culturally appropriate response, combining the phrase with another idiom ('your eyes see beautifully').
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'In harf-hā rā nazanid'
Social Situations
- • Receiving Praise
- • Someone Apologizing
- • Friend is Sad
- • Polite Refusal
Practice Bank
3 exercisesSomeone says: 'I am so sorry for taking your time, I feel terrible.'
In this context, the phrase reassures the person that they are not a burden.
خواهش میکنم این حرفها را ______.
The idiomatic verb used with 'harf' in this expression is 'zadan'.
A: 'Your house is so beautiful, I am jealous!' B: '__________'
This is the most culturally appropriate response, combining the phrase with another idiom ('your eyes see beautifully').
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it's actually very polite if they are praising you. It shows you know your place and are humble.
Not really. Use 'Be kasi nagu' (Don't tell anyone) for secrets.
'Nazan' is idiomatic and polite; 'Nagu' is literal and can sound a bit childish or blunt in social situations.
The form 'nazanid' is already plural, so it works perfectly for a group!
Yes, 'In harfā ro nazan' or just 'Bi-khiyāl' (Never mind/Forget it).
Related Phrases
این چه حرفیه
synonymWhat kind of talk is this?
اختیار دارید
similarYou have the authority/choice.
شکسته نفسی میفرمایید
builds onYou are being too humble.
حرفش را هم نزن
specialized formDon't even mention it.
