Meaning
To state a preference for one thing over another.
Cultural Background
In Iran, stating a preference can be a way to avoid 'Taarof' if done politely. It helps the host know what you actually want. Younger generations in Tehran are much more direct with their preferences, especially in cafes and tech environments. In meetings, 'Tarjih midaham' is used to show professional judgment rather than personal whim. If you are a guest, always add 'Mamnūnam' (Thank you) before stating a preference to remain polite.
The 'Rā' Rule
Always use 'rā' when you are preferring a specific thing you've already mentioned.
Don't say 'Tarjih mikonam'
It's a common mistake for beginners. Always use 'midaham'.
Meaning
To state a preference for one thing over another.
The 'Rā' Rule
Always use 'rā' when you are preferring a specific thing you've already mentioned.
Don't say 'Tarjih mikonam'
It's a common mistake for beginners. Always use 'midaham'.
Softening the Blow
If you're turning down an offer, say 'Mamnūnam, vali...' before your preference.
Spoken Persian
Practice saying 'Ino tarjih midam' to sound like a local.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing object marker.
من این کتاب ___ ترجیح میدهم.
The object marker 'rā' is needed after the specific object 'in ketāb'.
Choose the correct verb to complete the phrase 'I prefer'.
من پیادهروی را ترجیح _______.
The compound verb for 'to prefer' is 'tarjih dādan'.
Complete the dialogue.
دوست: قهوه میخوری؟ شما: نه ممنون، من چای را _______.
'Tarjih midaham' is the most appropriate way to state a choice between the offered coffee and tea.
Match the sentence to the context.
من کار در شب را ترجیح میدهم.
Discussing work hours is common in job interviews.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formal vs Informal
Practice Bank
4 exercisesمن این کتاب ___ ترجیح میدهم.
The object marker 'rā' is needed after the specific object 'in ketāb'.
من پیادهروی را ترجیح _______.
The compound verb for 'to prefer' is 'tarjih dādan'.
دوست: قهوه میخوری؟ شما: نه ممنون، من چای را _______.
'Tarjih midaham' is the most appropriate way to state a choice between the offered coffee and tea.
من کار در شب را ترجیح میدهم.
Discussing work hours is common in job interviews.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsIt is neutral. It works in both formal writing and daily conversation.
Yes, but it sounds like you are choosing between candidates or options, not 'liking' them.
Tarjih dādam (من ترجیح دادم).
You use the same phrase: 'Tarjih midaham ke...'
In slang, people might just say 'In behtare' (This is better).
Only if the object is specific. 'Man ghahve tarjih midaham' (general) vs 'Man in ghahve rā tarjih midaham' (specific).
Yes, it's very professional.
'Tarjih' is preference/taste; 'Olaviyat' is priority/importance.
Tarjih midaham ke in kār rā nakonam.
Yes, slightly, like a breath at the end of the syllable.
Absolutely, it's very common at dinner tables.
It's redundant. 'Tarjih' already implies 'more'. Just say 'Tarjih midaham'.
Related Phrases
بهتر دانستن
synonymTo consider better
اولویت داشتن
similarTo have priority
دوست داشتن
similarTo like
انتخاب کردن
builds onTo choose
مایل بودن
specialized formTo be inclined
