Meaning
The common action of posing an inquiry.
Cultural Background
Students are traditionally expected to be very respectful. Asking a question is often preceded by 'Bebakhshid' (Excuse me) to show humility. When someone asks you a question, especially about your well-being, it is common to answer and then ask the same back to show reciprocity. In the bazaar, asking the price ('so'āl porsidan darbareye gheymat') is the start of a negotiation, not just a simple inquiry.
The 'Az' Rule
Always remember to use 'az' (from) for the person you are asking. It feels weird for English speakers, but it's vital!
Don't say 'Goftan'
Never say 'So'āl goftan'. It sounds very unnatural to native ears.
Meaning
The common action of posing an inquiry.
The 'Az' Rule
Always remember to use 'az' (from) for the person you are asking. It feels weird for English speakers, but it's vital!
Don't say 'Goftan'
Never say 'So'āl goftan'. It sounds very unnatural to native ears.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'porsidan' in the past tense.
من دیروز از معلم یک سوال ______.
'Dirooz' (yesterday) requires the past tense 'porsidam'.
Which preposition is used with 'so'āl porsidan'?
او ___ من سوال پرسید.
In Persian, you ask 'from' (az) someone.
Match the Persian to the English.
Match the following:
Matching imperative and past forms.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ببخشید، میتوانم یک سوال بپرسم؟ B: بله، حتماً، ______.
The teacher is giving permission using the imperative 'bepors'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Where to ask questions
Places
- • School
- • Work
- • Street
- • Home
Practice Bank
4 exercisesمن دیروز از معلم یک سوال ______.
'Dirooz' (yesterday) requires the past tense 'porsidam'.
او ___ من سوال پرسید.
In Persian, you ask 'from' (az) someone.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Matching imperative and past forms.
A: ببخشید، میتوانم یک سوال بپرسم؟ B: بله، حتماً، ______.
The teacher is giving permission using the imperative 'bepors'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Yes, 'porsidan' alone means 'to ask', but 'so'āl porsidan' is the more common full expression.
'Porsidan' is more 'correct' and literary, while 'kardan' is very common in casual conversation.
Related Phrases
جواب دادن
contrastTo answer
پرسوجو کردن
specialized formTo investigate/inquire around
استنطاق کردن
specialized formTo interrogate
