Meaning
A question to ask if someone speaks English.
Cultural Background
Iranians are very hospitable. Asking this question often leads to them trying their best to help you, even if their English is limited. In the US or Europe, Persian speakers often switch to English immediately if they see you are a foreigner. In a professional setting, always use this phrase before switching to English to show you respect the local language.
Smile!
Iranians are very friendly. A smile makes your question much more effective.
Taarof
Don't be offended if they say 'a little bit' even if they are fluent; it's a sign of modesty.
Meaning
A question to ask if someone speaks English.
Smile!
Iranians are very friendly. A smile makes your question much more effective.
Taarof
Don't be offended if they say 'a little bit' even if they are fluent; it's a sign of modesty.
Test Yourself
Which is the most polite way to ask a stranger?
___ انگلیسی صحبت میکنید؟
شما is the formal 'you' required for strangers.
Complete the phrase.
شما انگلیسی صحبت ______؟
The verb must match the formal 'شما'.
Match the register.
Match formal vs informal.
شما is for strangers, تو is for friends.
What do you say next?
A: [Blank] B: بله، چطور میتوانم کمک کنم؟
This is the logical question to ask to start the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises___ انگلیسی صحبت میکنید؟
شما is the formal 'you' required for strangers.
شما انگلیسی صحبت ______؟
The verb must match the formal 'شما'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
شما is for strangers, تو is for friends.
A: [Blank] B: بله، چطور میتوانم کمک کنم؟
This is the logical question to ask to start the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is very helpful for both parties.
Yes, but 'تو' is fine with children.
Smile and say 'ممنون' (Thank you).
Yes, it is the standard formal way.
Yes, it works in text too.
It is the polite plural/formal form.
Related Phrases
انگلیسی بلدید؟
synonymDo you know English?
ببخشید
builds onExcuse me
کمک میکنید؟
similarCan you help?
