Meaning
An imperative to approach.
Cultural Background
Saying 'Biyā' is often the start of a long social interaction. If you are invited with 'Biyā', expect to stay for tea at the very least. In formal settings, 'Biyā' is replaced by 'Tashrif biyārid'. This literally means 'Bring your nobility/honor'. Vendors in bazaars will use 'Biyā' to catch your attention, but they might switch to 'Befarmāid' as you get closer to show respect. In Iranian tech culture, 'Biyā PV' is a common phrase on Instagram, meaning 'Come to my Private Messages'.
The 'Let's' Hack
Use 'Biyā' + any present subjunctive verb to instantly say 'Let's...'. It's the easiest way to sound natural.
The Elder Rule
Never say 'Biyā' to your Persian in-laws unless you want to start a family scandal!
Meaning
An imperative to approach.
The 'Let's' Hack
Use 'Biyā' + any present subjunctive verb to instantly say 'Let's...'. It's the easiest way to sound natural.
The Elder Rule
Never say 'Biyā' to your Persian in-laws unless you want to start a family scandal!
Ta'arof Check
If someone says 'Biyā' once, it might be politeness. If they grab your arm and say it, they really want you to come!
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct informal form of 'to come'.
علی، زود ____ اینجا. (Ali, come here quickly.)
Since Ali is a friend (informal), we use 'Biyā'.
Which sentence is the most polite way to invite an elder?
How do you say 'Come in' to your grandfather?
'Tashrif biyārid' is the most respectful form for elders.
Complete the dialogue.
A: گشنمه (I'm hungry). B: ____ غذا بخوریم.
'Biyā' is used here to mean 'Come, let's...'.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to use Biyā vs Biyāid
Biyā (Informal)
- • Friends
- • Siblings
- • Children
- • Pets
Biyāid (Formal)
- • Teachers
- • Bosses
- • Strangers
- • Elders
Practice Bank
3 exercisesعلی، زود ____ اینجا. (Ali, come here quickly.)
Since Ali is a friend (informal), we use 'Biyā'.
How do you say 'Come in' to your grandfather?
'Tashrif biyārid' is the most respectful form for elders.
A: گشنمه (I'm hungry). B: ____ غذا بخوریم.
'Biyā' is used here to mean 'Come, let's...'.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, Persian verbs do not change based on gender. You use 'Biyā' for everyone.
Yes! 'Biyā!' with a falling intonation works just like 'Come on!' in English.
The plural is 'Biyāid' (formal) or 'Biyāyn' (informal plural).
Use 'Nayā' (نیا).
Related Phrases
برو
contrastGo
بفرما
similarPlease / Go ahead
بیاین
specialized formCome (plural/formal)
تشریف بیارید
specialized formPlease come (very formal)
