Meaning
To possess available time for something.
Cultural Background
Time is often fluid. 'Vaqt-e Irâni' (Iranian Time) implies that events might start 30-60 minutes late. Saying you 'have time' might be a way to be polite even if you are busy. In the capital, life is fast. 'Vaqt nadâram' is a common and accepted excuse to avoid the heavy traffic or long social obligations. 'Vaqt' is used to denote the five daily prayer times. 'Vaqt-e Azân' is the most important 'time' of the day for many. In Iranian business culture, 'having time' for tea before a meeting is essential for building trust (Râbete). Jumping straight to business is seen as having 'no time' for the person.
The 'No-Mi' Rule
Never say 'mi-dâram'. It's the most common beginner mistake. Just 'dâram'.
Softening 'No'
If you don't have time, add 'Bebakhshid' (Sorry) or 'Felan' (For now) to sound more polite.
Meaning
To possess available time for something.
The 'No-Mi' Rule
Never say 'mi-dâram'. It's the most common beginner mistake. Just 'dâram'.
Softening 'No'
If you don't have time, add 'Bebakhshid' (Sorry) or 'Felan' (For now) to sound more polite.
Asking for Appointments
When calling a business, use 'Vaqt dârid?' to ask if they can see you today.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'dashtan' in the present tense.
من امروز برای ناهار وقت ______.
The subject is 'Man' (I), so the verb must be 'dâram'.
Which sentence means 'Do you (formal) have time tomorrow?'
Select the correct formal version:
'Shomâ' is the formal/plural 'you', and 'dârid' is the corresponding verb form.
Complete the dialogue with the correct phrase.
Ali: Emruz berim sinemâ? Sara: Na, bebakhshid, emruz ________.
Sara is declining the invitation, so she says 'I don't have time'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are at a doctor's office and want to ask for an appointment.
Asking if the doctor 'has time' is the standard way to ask for an appointment.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesمن امروز برای ناهار وقت ______.
The subject is 'Man' (I), so the verb must be 'dâram'.
Select the correct formal version:
'Shomâ' is the formal/plural 'you', and 'dârid' is the corresponding verb form.
Ali: Emruz berim sinemâ? Sara: Na, bebakhshid, emruz ________.
Sara is declining the invitation, so she says 'I don't have time'.
You are at a doctor's office and want to ask for an appointment.
Asking if the doctor 'has time' is the standard way to ask for an appointment.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, use 'Sa'at chande?' for that. 'Vaqt dâri?' asks about availability.
The word 'vaqt' is Arabic, but the phrase 'vaqt dashtan' is a Persian construction.
You can say 'Vaqt nadâram' or 'Mashghul hastam'.
It's an irregular property of the verb 'dashtan' in the present tense.
It is neutral. 'Forsat' is more formal.
Yes, young people in big cities often use the English word 'time' informally.
Related Phrases
فرصت داشتن
synonymTo have the opportunity/time
وقت گذاشتن
builds onTo spend/dedicate time
وقت گرفتن
specialized formTo make an appointment
بیوقت
contrastUntimely / At a bad time
