Meaning
Expressing respect or approval for someone's actions or qualities.
Cultural Background
In Iranian offices, using 'ghābel-e tahsin' is a way to provide feedback that feels objective and respectful, avoiding the potential patronizing tone of 'āfarin' (well done). The concept of 'Tahsin' is central to Persian poetry. Poets often sought the 'tahsin' of their peers and patrons, making this word carry historical weight. On Iranian Instagram or Twitter, this phrase is a 'safe' and high-class way to show support for activists or artists without being overly familiar. While parents might use simpler words with young children, they use 'ghābel-e tahsin' with adult children to show they recognize them as equals and respect their achievements.
Use with Nouns
Always pair it with a noun like 'tashshakor' (thanks), 'talāsh' (effort), or 'shojā'at' (courage) for maximum impact.
Don't Overuse
If you use it for everything, it loses its value. Save it for things that truly impress you.
Meaning
Expressing respect or approval for someone's actions or qualities.
Use with Nouns
Always pair it with a noun like 'tashshakor' (thanks), 'talāsh' (effort), or 'shojā'at' (courage) for maximum impact.
Don't Overuse
If you use it for everything, it loses its value. Save it for things that truly impress you.
The 'Ezafe' Sound
Make sure the 'e' sound between 'ghābel' and 'tahsin' is clear; it's the glue of the phrase.
Response to Praise
If someone says this to you, a humble 'Lotf dārid' (You are kind) is the perfect response.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
صداقت شما در این مورد واقعاً _______ است.
The full phrase 'قابل تحسین' is needed to mean 'admirable'.
Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal business email?
To praise a colleague's hard work:
This option uses the correct formal register and the specific phrase for admiration.
Match the situation to the most likely use of 'قابل تحسین است'.
1. A scientist discovers a cure. 2. A friend buys a new shirt. 3. A child shares their toys.
The phrase is used for significant achievements or moral actions, not for simple purchases.
Complete the dialogue.
A: او تمام شب را بیدار ماند تا به بیماران کمک کند. B: بله، _________.
This fits the context of praising a specific noble quality (sacrifice).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Levels of Praise
Practice Bank
4 exercisesصداقت شما در این مورد واقعاً _______ است.
The full phrase 'قابل تحسین' is needed to mean 'admirable'.
To praise a colleague's hard work:
This option uses the correct formal register and the specific phrase for admiration.
1. A scientist discovers a cure. 2. A friend buys a new shirt. 3. A child shares their toys.
The phrase is used for significant achievements or moral actions, not for simple purchases.
A: او تمام شب را بیدار ماند تا به بیماران کمک کند. B: بله، _________.
This fits the context of praising a specific noble quality (sacrifice).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but mostly when discussing serious topics or giving formal compliments. It's not for joking around.
Yes, you can say 'u ghābel-e tahsin ast' (he/she is admirable), but it's more common to praise a specific quality of theirs.
'Āfarin' is like 'Good job!' and is often used with children. 'Ghābel-e tahsin' is more mature and intellectual.
Absolutely. It's a very professional way to show you appreciate their leadership or a decision they made.
Just change 'ast' to 'nist': 'ghābel-e tahsin nist' (it is not admirable).
No, it sounds 'educated' and 'polite'. It's very much alive in modern Persian.
Yes, 'vaghe'an' (really) or 'basiyar' (very) are commonly used to add emphasis.
No, in Persian, the 'h' in 'tahsin' should be lightly pronounced.
'Ghābel-e sarzanesh' (worthy of blame/reproach).
Yes, for things like art, architecture, or a well-written book.
Related Phrases
ستودنی
synonymPraiseworthy
شایسته تقدیر
similarWorthy of appreciation
مورد تحسین
builds onAdmired by...
تحسینبرانگیز
synonymPraise-exciting / Awesome
قابل قبول
contrastAcceptable
