Meaning
To indicate that there is sufficient time available for something.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Persian Time' suggests that events often start later than scheduled. 'Vaght dārim' is the verbal expression of this cultural flexibility. In Tehran, traffic is a major factor. 'Vaght dārim' is often used ironically when someone is stuck in traffic but trying to remain optimistic. Shirazis are stereotypically known for being the most relaxed and 'hal' (leisure-loving) people in Iran. 'Vaght dārim' is practically the city's motto. In Iranian business, building a relationship over tea comes before the contract. Saying 'Vaght dārim' during a meeting signals that you value the relationship over the clock.
The 'Hanooz' Power-up
Always add 'Hanooz' (still) to sound more natural. 'Hanooz vaght dārim' is 10x more common than just 'Vaght dārim'.
Ta'arof Trap
If someone says 'Vaght dārim' when you are leaving their house, they might actually be tired! It's polite to insist on leaving once or twice before staying.
Meaning
To indicate that there is sufficient time available for something.
The 'Hanooz' Power-up
Always add 'Hanooz' (still) to sound more natural. 'Hanooz vaght dārim' is 10x more common than just 'Vaght dārim'.
Ta'arof Trap
If someone says 'Vaght dārim' when you are leaving their house, they might actually be tired! It's polite to insist on leaving once or twice before staying.
The 'Inshallah' Factor
Sometimes 'Vaght dārim' is followed by 'Inshallah' (God willing), which adds a layer of 'hopefully we have time'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'to have' to say 'We have time.'
ما برای خوردن چای هنوز ________.
The subject is 'Ma' (We), so the verb must end in '-im'.
Which sentence is the most polite way to tell a guest they don't need to leave yet?
Which one is best for Ta'arof?
'Befarma'id' (Please) combined with 'Hanooz vaght dārim' is the standard polite formula.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You are at the airport and the flight is in 4 hours.
Since the flight is 4 hours away, you have plenty of time.
Complete the dialogue.
سارا: علی، بدو! فیلم شروع شد! علی: نگران نباش سارا، ________.
Ali is telling Sara not to worry, so he must be saying they have time.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to say 'Vaght dārim'
Social
- • Hosting guests
- • Cafe hangouts
- • Dating
Travel
- • Airport
- • Train station
- • Road trips
Work
- • Deadlines
- • Meetings
- • Project planning
Practice Bank
4 exercisesما برای خوردن چای هنوز ________.
The subject is 'Ma' (We), so the verb must end in '-im'.
Which one is best for Ta'arof?
'Befarma'id' (Please) combined with 'Hanooz vaght dārim' is the standard polite formula.
Situation: You are at the airport and the flight is in 4 hours.
Since the flight is 4 hours away, you have plenty of time.
سارا: علی، بدو! فیلم شروع شد! علی: نگران نباش سارا، ________.
Ali is telling Sara not to worry, so he must be saying they have time.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Say 'Vaght nadāram' (وقت ندارم).
No, for an appointment use 'Vaght-e doctor' (وقت دکتر).
'Vaght' is usually a specific duration or moment, while 'Zaman' is more abstract 'Time' in general.
Yes, but 'Vaght dārim' is more common as the 'Ma' is implied.
Just change your intonation: 'Vaght dārim?'
Add 'kheyli' (a lot): 'Kheyli vaght dārim.'
Yes, it is perfectly understood and used in Dari as well.
Yes, 'Forsat dārim' is a great, slightly more formal alternative.
Use the past tense: 'Vaght dāshtim.'
Related Phrases
فرصت داشتن
synonymTo have an opportunity/time
وقت گذراندن
builds onTo spend time
وقت تنگ است
contrastTime is tight
به موقع
similarOn time
دمت گرم
specialized formMay your breath stay warm
