Meaning
Politely asking someone for their viewpoint.
Cultural Background
In Iran, asking 'نظرتان چیست؟' is often a part of 'Ta'arof'. Even if someone has a strong opinion, they will ask yours first to show they are not arrogant. In Dari, the phrase is very similar: 'نظر شما چیست؟' (Nazar-e shoma chist?). It is used with the same level of formality in Kabul. Tajik speakers use 'Фикри шумо чиست؟' (Fikri shumo chist?), which uses the word 'Fikr' (thought) more commonly than 'Nazar' in some contexts, though both are understood. Second-generation Iranians in the West often use the informal 'نظرت چیه؟' even in semi-formal settings, reflecting a shift toward more casual Western social norms.
The 'Safe' Choice
When in doubt, use the formal '-tān' form. Iranians appreciate the effort to be polite.
Don't over-Ta'arof
If you ask for an opinion too many times in one minute, it might seem like you can't make your own decisions.
Meaning
Politely asking someone for their viewpoint.
The 'Safe' Choice
When in doubt, use the formal '-tān' form. Iranians appreciate the effort to be polite.
Don't over-Ta'arof
If you ask for an opinion too many times in one minute, it might seem like you can't make your own decisions.
Add 'درباره'
Always pair it with 'درباره' (about) to specify the topic clearly.
Listen for the 'But'
In Persian culture, people often start with a compliment before giving a negative 'Nazar'. Listen for 'ولی' (but).
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct polite form.
استاد، درباره این مقاله ________ چیست؟
Since the speaker is addressing a professor ('استاد'), the polite plural suffix '-tān' is required.
Which of the following is the most formal way to ask for an opinion?
Which sentence is best for a business meeting?
'نظرتان چیست؟' uses the full formal form, making it the most appropriate for a professional setting.
Complete the dialogue.
شخص الف: به نظر من این رنگ زیباتر است. شخص ب: ________؟
Person A gives an opinion, and Person B asks for the other's opinion to continue the conversation.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Asking a stranger about a local tourist attraction.
With strangers, the formal '-tān' form is always safer and more respectful.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formal vs Informal
Practice Bank
4 exercisesاستاد، درباره این مقاله ________ چیست؟
Since the speaker is addressing a professor ('استاد'), the polite plural suffix '-tān' is required.
Which sentence is best for a business meeting?
'نظرتان چیست؟' uses the full formal form, making it the most appropriate for a professional setting.
شخص الف: به نظر من این رنگ زیباتر است. شخص ب: ________؟
Person A gives an opinion, and Person B asks for the other's opinion to continue the conversation.
Asking a stranger about a local tourist attraction.
With strangers, the formal '-tān' form is always safer and more respectful.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it can be used for one person (polite) or a group of people.
Yes, this is a semi-formal mix. It's very common in spoken Persian.
There isn't a direct opposite, but 'نظری ندارم' (I have no opinion) is the common negative response.
Start with 'به نظر من...' (In my opinion...) or 'فکر میکنم...' (I think...).
Yes, it is an Arabic loanword, but it is fully integrated into Persian.
Absolutely. It is the standard way to ask for feedback in a professional email.
Use 'دیدگاه شما در این باره چیست؟' (What is your viewpoint on this?).
In Iranian group settings, it can be seen as slightly bossy if you don't ask 'نظرتان چیست؟' at least once.
In spoken conversation, yes, slightly. In writing or formal speech, it is perfect.
Better to use 'نظرت چیه؟' with children to sound more natural and friendly.
Related Phrases
به نظر من
builds onIn my opinion
نظرت چیه؟
synonymWhat do you think? (Informal)
دیدگاه شما
specialized formYour viewpoint
موافقم
contrastI agree
