Meaning
To irritate or annoy someone greatly.
Cultural Background
In Iran, complaining about 'nerves' is a common social lubricant. It allows people to bond over shared frustrations like traffic or bureaucracy without being overly aggressive. Younger generations in Tehran almost exclusively use 'Ro mokh' (on the brain) instead of 'Ruye asâb'. It sounds more modern and 'cool'. Siblings in Iran use this phrase constantly. It is the standard way to tell a brother or sister to stop bothering you.
Use 'Ru' for speed
In casual speech, always say 'Ru asâbam' instead of 'Ruye asâbam'. It sounds much more native.
Don't use with elders
It can sound like you are complaining too much. Use 'nārāhat shodam' (I became upset) instead.
Meaning
To irritate or annoy someone greatly.
Use 'Ru' for speed
In casual speech, always say 'Ru asâbam' instead of 'Ruye asâbam'. It sounds much more native.
Don't use with elders
It can sound like you are complaining too much. Use 'nārāhat shodam' (I became upset) instead.
The 'Mokh' alternative
If you are under 30, 'Ro mokh' will make you sound like a local.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct word.
این صدای بلند روی _____ من میرود.
The idiom specifically uses 'asâb' (nerves).
Which sentence is correct?
To say 'Don't annoy me' informally:
Negative imperative 'naro' (don't go) is needed.
Match the Persian to the English meaning.
1. روی اعصاب رفتن, 2. اعصابم خورده, 3. رو مخ
These are all related to 'asâb' but have different meanings.
What would Person B say?
Person A: 'برادرم تمام شکلاتهای مرا خورد!' Person B: '...'
Both express that the brother's action is annoying.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesاین صدای بلند روی _____ من میرود.
The idiom specifically uses 'asâb' (nerves).
To say 'Don't annoy me' informally:
Negative imperative 'naro' (don't go) is needed.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are all related to 'asâb' but have different meanings.
Person A: 'برادرم تمام شکلاتهای مرا خورد!' Person B: '...'
Both express that the brother's action is annoying.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes! If your car won't start and it's frustrating you, you can say 'In mâshin ruye asâbam miravad'.
It's not a swear word, but it is blunt. Use it with people you know well.
There isn't a direct opposite like 'walking on flowers', but you could say 'be âdam ârâmesh mide' (it gives one peace).
Related Phrases
رو مخ رفتن
synonymTo go on the brain
اعصاب خرد کردن
similarTo crush nerves
کفر کسی را درآوردن
builds onTo make someone lose their faith
