Meaning
A polite way to apologize for a mistake or inconvenience.
Cultural Background
Apologizing is a core part of 'Ta'arof'. You might apologize for things that aren't your fault to show humility. In fast-paced Tehran, 'ma'zerat' is often shortened or replaced by the English word 'Sorry' among youth. In a meeting, always use the full 'Ma'zerat mikhaaham' and wait for the other person to acknowledge it before continuing. On Instagram or Telegram, Iranians use the emoji 🙏 along with 'ma'zerat' to soften the tone.
The Hand Gesture
Always place your right hand on your chest when saying this to a stranger. It triples your politeness points instantly.
Don't over-apologize
While Ta'arof is important, saying 'ma'zerat mikham' every two seconds can make you seem nervous or insincere.
Meaning
A polite way to apologize for a mistake or inconvenience.
The Hand Gesture
Always place your right hand on your chest when saying this to a stranger. It triples your politeness points instantly.
Don't over-apologize
While Ta'arof is important, saying 'ma'zerat mikham' every two seconds can make you seem nervous or insincere.
The 'Az' Rule
Remember: Az [Person] Ma'zerat Mikham. Never forget the 'Az'!
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct spoken form of 'I apologize'.
من از شما ______ که مزاحم شدم.
The phrase 'ma'zerat mikham' fits the structure 'az shoma...'.
Which phrase is best for bumping into a stranger on the bus?
You accidentally step on someone's foot.
'Tasliat migam' is for death, 'Khoshbakhtam' is for meeting someone.
Choose the most formal version of the apology.
Which one would you use in a formal letter?
The full 'mikhaaham' ending is the written/formal standard.
Complete the dialogue.
A: معذرت میخوام، ساعت چنده؟ B: ______، ساعت چهاره.
'Khahesh mikonam' is the standard polite response to an apology or 'excuse me'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to say Ma'zerat Mikham
Situations
- • Late for work
- • Bumping into someone
- • Spilling tea
- • Interrupting a talk
Practice Bank
4 exercisesمن از شما ______ که مزاحم شدم.
The phrase 'ma'zerat mikham' fits the structure 'az shoma...'.
You accidentally step on someone's foot.
'Tasliat migam' is for death, 'Khoshbakhtam' is for meeting someone.
Which one would you use in a formal letter?
The full 'mikhaaham' ending is the written/formal standard.
A: معذرت میخوام، ساعت چنده؟ B: ______، ساعت چهاره.
'Khahesh mikonam' is the standard polite response to an apology or 'excuse me'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or a shopkeeper. The full version 'Ma'zerat mikhaaham' is formal.
No, it sounds incomplete. You need the verb 'mikham'. If you want to be short, say 'Bebakhshid'.
'Mote'assefam' is 'I am sorry' (feeling regret), while 'Ma'zerat mikham' is 'I apologize' (taking blame).
The most common response is 'Khahesh mikonam' (Please/Don't mention it) or 'Eshkali nadare' (No problem).
Related Phrases
ببخشید
similarExcuse me / Forgive
عذر میخواهم
synonymI apologize
شرمنده
specialized formI'm ashamed
خواهش میکنم
contrastYou're welcome / Please
پوزش میخواهم
specialized formI offer my apologies
