سری که درد نمیکند دستمال نمیبندند
sry kh drd nmyknd dstmal nmybndnd
Don't fix what isn't broken
Meaning
Advises against interfering or making changes when there is no problem or need.
Cultural Background
The 'Dastmal' used in the proverb refers to the 'Charghat' or 'Dastmal-e Yazdi' often used by older generations for various purposes, including health. In modern Tehran, this is often used to criticize 'Fozooli' (nosiness). It's a polite way to tell someone to mind their own business. Merchants use this to avoid risky investments. If a shop is making a steady profit, they won't change the location or the goods easily. The proverb is also widely used in Afghanistan with the same meaning, showing the shared linguistic heritage of the region.
Use it to say 'No'
If someone asks you to do something risky, just say this proverb. It's a very polite way to refuse.
Don't be too lazy
Don't use this as an excuse to avoid your actual responsibilities!
Meaning
Advises against interfering or making changes when there is no problem or need.
Use it to say 'No'
If someone asks you to do something risky, just say this proverb. It's a very polite way to refuse.
Don't be too lazy
Don't use this as an excuse to avoid your actual responsibilities!
Test Yourself
Which situation best fits the proverb?
علی میخواهد تنظیمات مودم همسایه را بدون اجازه تغییر دهد چون فکر میکند شاید بهتر شود.
Ali is meddling in something that isn't his business and works fine, risking trouble.
Complete the proverb.
سری که درد نمیکند، _______ نمیبندند.
The traditional remedy mentioned in the proverb is a 'dastmal' (cloth/handkerchief).
Match the advice to the person.
سارا میخواهد به رئیسش بگوید که چرا ناهار دیر رسید، در حالی که رئیس اصلاً متوجه نشده است.
If the boss didn't notice, bringing it up only creates a 'headache' for Sara.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesعلی میخواهد تنظیمات مودم همسایه را بدون اجازه تغییر دهد چون فکر میکند شاید بهتر شود.
Ali is meddling in something that isn't his business and works fine, risking trouble.
سری که درد نمیکند، _______ نمیبندند.
The traditional remedy mentioned in the proverb is a 'dastmal' (cloth/handkerchief).
سارا میخواهد به رئیسش بگوید که چرا ناهار دیر رسید، در حالی که رئیس اصلاً متوجه نشده است.
If the boss didn't notice, bringing it up only creates a 'headache' for Sara.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, it's generally seen as wise advice. However, if said with a sarcastic tone, it can imply the other person is being foolish.
Yes, it's very common in Iranian business culture to express caution regarding new, unproven ideas.
Related Phrases
دردسر درست کردن
similarTo create trouble
پا برهنه وسط حرف پریدن
relatedTo jump into a conversation barefoot (interrupt)
علاج واقعه قبل از وقوع باید کرد
contrastPrevention is better than cure
