Meaning
Used when one is at a loss for words, often in difficult situations.
Cultural Background
The phrase is a cornerstone of Ta'arof. It allows people to avoid the 'shame' of saying 'no' or 'I don't know' directly. In Tehran, this phrase is often used with a specific intonation to signal that the speaker is 'cool' and 'polite' but also slightly cynical about the situation. While 'Che arz konam' is understood, Dari speakers might more frequently use 'Chi goyam?' (What should I say?) or 'Arz-e dorem' in a slightly different grammatical way. Second-generation Iranians often use this phrase as a 'filler' even when speaking English, saying things like 'What can I say?' in a very Persian way.
The 'Walla' Buffer
Always add 'Walla' (والا) before the phrase to sound 100% more like a native speaker.
Don't Overuse
If you say it after every question, you might seem like you're hiding something or are very indecisive.
Meaning
Used when one is at a loss for words, often in difficult situations.
The 'Walla' Buffer
Always add 'Walla' (والا) before the phrase to sound 100% more like a native speaker.
Don't Overuse
If you say it after every question, you might seem like you're hiding something or are very indecisive.
Body Language
A slight tilt of the head and a small, apologetic smile makes this phrase much more effective.
Test Yourself
Complete the dialogue with the correct phrase.
A: نظرت در مورد این فیلم چی بود؟ B: والا ________، زیاد خوشم نیومد.
The speaker is expressing a polite hesitation before giving a negative opinion.
Which situation is most appropriate for 'Che arz konam?'
You are at a formal party and someone asks you a very personal question about your salary.
It's the most polite way to deflect a question without being rude.
Match the phrase to its register.
1. چی بگم؟ 2. چه عرض کنم؟ 3. بنده چه عرض کنم؟
The choice of verb and pronouns determines the level of formality.
Finish the sentence in a way that makes sense.
استاد: چرا تمرینها را انجام ندادی؟ دانشجو: چه عرض کنم استاد، ________.
After 'Che arz konam', a polite excuse or explanation is expected.
Match the meaning of 'Che arz konam' to the context.
1. Reacting to a crazy news story. 2. Being asked for a favor you can't do. 3. Being asked an expert question you don't know.
The phrase adapts its nuance based on the situation.
🎉 Score: /5
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'Che arz konam?'
Social
- • Awkward questions
- • Sensitive topics
- • Polite refusal
Emotional
- • Shock
- • Disbelief
- • Humility
Practice Bank
5 exercisesA: نظرت در مورد این فیلم چی بود؟ B: والا ________، زیاد خوشم نیومد.
The speaker is expressing a polite hesitation before giving a negative opinion.
You are at a formal party and someone asks you a very personal question about your salary.
It's the most polite way to deflect a question without being rude.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The choice of verb and pronouns determines the level of formality.
استاد: چرا تمرینها را انجام ندادی؟ دانشجو: چه عرض کنم استاد، ________.
After 'Che arz konam', a polite excuse or explanation is expected.
1. Reacting to a crazy news story. 2. Being asked for a favor you can't do. 3. Being asked an expert question you don't know.
The phrase adapts its nuance based on the situation.
🎉 Score: /5
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it's used in neutral and even informal situations when you want to be polite or express a specific kind of 'speechlessness.'
It's better to use 'Nemidounam' or 'Etela'i nadaram' in an exam. 'Che arz konam' is more for social interaction than factual knowledge.
'Che arz konam' is formal/polite; 'Chi begam' is informal/casual. Use the former with elders and the latter with friends.
It can, if said with a sharp tone. But usually, it's perceived as a sign of good manners.
In Persian, 'z', 'th', and 'dh' from Arabic are all pronounced as a simple 'z'. So 'arz' sounds like 'arz'.
Related Phrases
چی بگم؟
synonymWhat should I say?
عرضی ندارم
similarI have nothing to (humbly) say.
فرمایش شما متین است
contrastWhat you say is correct.
زبونم مو درآورد
contrastMy tongue grew hair (from repeating myself).
