Meaning
Introducing an additional point related to the previous one.
Cultural Background
In Iranian business culture, being 'comprehensive' is valued. Using 'dar kenār-e ān' allows you to present a multi-faceted argument, which is seen as more persuasive than a single-point argument. In Dari, the phrase is also used but 'در پهلوی آن' (dar pahlu-ye ān) is a very common and beautiful alternative that also uses spatial logic (pahlu = side/flank). Tajik Persian often uses 'дар баробари ин' (dar barobar-i in), which means 'alongside/parallel to this', reflecting a slightly different spatial metaphor. Second-generation speakers often over-use 'va' (and). Learning 'dar kenār-e ān' is a key milestone in sounding more like a native speaker from Iran.
The Suffix Shortcut
In conversation, use 'dar kenāresh' (در کنارش) instead of the full 'dar kenār-e ān' to sound more like a local.
Avoid Overuse
Don't use it in every sentence. Alternate with 'va', 'ham', and 'be-alāve' to keep your Persian sounding natural.
Meaning
Introducing an additional point related to the previous one.
The Suffix Shortcut
In conversation, use 'dar kenāresh' (در کنارش) instead of the full 'dar kenār-e ān' to sound more like a local.
Avoid Overuse
Don't use it in every sentence. Alternate with 'va', 'ham', and 'be-alāve' to keep your Persian sounding natural.
Ta'arof Power
Use this phrase when giving a compliment to add a second, deeper compliment. It shows great respect.
Writing Flow
In essays, place 'در کنار آن' at the start of a sentence followed by a comma to create a sophisticated transition.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase to add a benefit.
این آپارتمان بسیار بزرگ است؛ ________، در مرکز شهر قرار دارد.
The sentence adds a second positive feature (location) to the first (size), so 'dar kenār-e ān' is the best fit.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly in a professional context?
A) من سیب خوردم در کنار آن سیر شدم. B) او مدیر لایقی است؛ در کنار آن، اخلاق بسیار خوبی دارد.
Sentence B uses the phrase to add a complementary quality to a person, which is its primary figurative use.
Match the Persian sentence to its English meaning.
1. در کنار آن کار میکنم. 2. در کنار آن صندلی است.
The first is figurative (addition), the second is literal (spatial).
Complete the dialogue.
علی: این رستوران غذاهای خوشمزهای دارد. سارا: بله، و ________ سرویسدهیاش هم خیلی سریع است.
Sara is agreeing and adding another positive point.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formal vs Informal Addition
Practice Bank
4 exercisesاین آپارتمان بسیار بزرگ است؛ ________، در مرکز شهر قرار دارد.
The sentence adds a second positive feature (location) to the first (size), so 'dar kenār-e ān' is the best fit.
A) من سیب خوردم در کنار آن سیر شدم. B) او مدیر لایقی است؛ در کنار آن، اخلاق بسیار خوبی دارد.
Sentence B uses the phrase to add a complementary quality to a person, which is its primary figurative use.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The first is figurative (addition), the second is literal (spatial).
علی: این رستوران غذاهای خوشمزهای دارد. سارا: بله، و ________ سرویسدهیاش هم خیلی سریع است.
Sara is agreeing and adding another positive point.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
14 questionsYes, it is neutral to formal. It's perfect for work and school.
Yes, to mean 'alongside them' (e.g., I worked alongside him).
'Va' is just 'and'. 'Dar kenār-e ān' is 'In addition to that'. It's more specific.
Yes! It means 'alongside this' and is very common.
Yes, the 'dar' (in) is essential for this specific expression.
Frequently, both literally and figuratively.
Say 'dar kenāre un' (در کنار اون).
No, it only means 'alongside' or 'in addition'.
No, it is three separate words: dar + kenār + ān.
No, it's a connector that usually starts or sits in the middle of a thought.
Extremely common in news broadcasts to list government actions.
Yes, e.g., 'He has a cold, and alongside that, a fever.'
Forgetting the 'e' (ezāfe) after 'kenār'. It must be 'kenār-e'.
Yes, exactly the same way.
Related Phrases
علاوه بر آن
synonymIn addition to that
بهعلاوه
similarMoreover / Plus
در عین حال
similarAt the same time
همراه با آن
builds onAlong with that
گذشته از این
contrastApart from this
