Meaning
A polite request for someone to speak or repeat something.
Cultural Background
Politeness is essential. Using formal verbs is a sign of respect for the listener's status. Similar to Iran, formal address is highly valued in public and professional life. Formal address is used, though the influence of Russian has introduced some variations in politeness.
Use with respect
Always use this with people older than you or in professional settings.
Taarof
In Iran, being polite is more important than being direct.
Meaning
A polite request for someone to speak or repeat something.
Use with respect
Always use this with people older than you or in professional settings.
Taarof
In Iran, being polite is more important than being direct.
Test Yourself
Which is the formal way to ask someone to speak?
Choose the correct phrase:
Begooyid is the formal imperative.
Complete the sentence.
_______ لطفاً، من گوش میدهم.
Requires the imperative formal.
Match the register.
Match 'بگویید لطفاً' to its register.
The -id ending indicates formality.
Complete the dialogue.
A: I didn't hear you. B: ________
Polite request for repetition.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChoose the correct phrase:
Begooyid is the formal imperative.
_______ لطفاً، من گوش میدهم.
Requires the imperative formal.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The -id ending indicates formality.
A: I didn't hear you. B: ________
Polite request for repetition.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, it is perfect for professional settings.
It is not rude with friends, but it is too informal for strangers.
It can mean 'repeat' if you add context like 'دوباره' (again).
No, it is gender-neutral.
Yes, both 'بگویید لطفاً' and 'لطفاً بگویید' are correct.
Yes, in formal letters or emails.
You can follow up with 'متوجه شدید؟' (Did you understand?).
Extremely common in daily life.
Related Phrases
بفرمایید
similarGo ahead / Please
بگو
contrastSpeak (informal)
میشود بگویید
builds onCould you speak?
