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The Persian approach to inquiry
Asking for the reason or cause of something is one of the essential interrogative structures that you need to learn in order to communicate properly. To pose such a question, Iranians usually use the word “Cheraa,” which is spelled “چرا” in Persian. However, “Cheraa” is not the only way to ask for a reason.
This guide introduces you to the different ways of asking why in Persian. Find out how to ask for the reason like a Persian.
The Persian way to ask why
In Farsi, the following words are used in various contexts to inquire about the reason or cause behind something:
- Cheraa (چرا)
- Baraye Che (برای چه)
- Be Che Dalil (به چه دلیل)
The meaning of these three interrogative words is the same, all of which target the reason or cause of something in particular. They can be used interchangeably. Of course, this explanation is a bit too general.
Suppose you have a meeting with a colleague, but she’s running late. When she finally arrives, you ask her:
Why did you come late?
Cheraa dir umadi?
This question asks the audience to explain the cause behind the delay. Just like in English, you can use the word “Cheraa” in various contexts. Let’s break it down to its usage and analyze some examples.
- To inquire about a reason:
Why did you choose to live in America?
Cheraa entekhab kardi dar America zendeegi koni?
In this example, the word “Cheraa” is used to ask for the reason and motivation of the audience upon living in America.
- To display irritation:
Why on earth didn’t you ask me to help?
Akhar cheraa az man nakhasti ta komaket konam?
The phrase “Akhar cheraa” is usually used in the speaking form rather than the written and formal language. Not only does this phrase inquire about a reason or the cause behind something, but it also indicates that the speaker is not happy about the matter.
You can also use this phrase to indicate regret. For instance:
Why did I say those horrible things?
Akhar Cheraa aan harfhaye vahshatnak ra zadam?
- To display confirmation:
“Can we invite James?” “Yes, why not!”
“Mitonim James ra ham daavat konim?” “Bale, Cheraa ke na!”
The phrase “Cheraa ke na” means “Why not,” and it is used to show that you agree with what the speaker has said.
- To suggest something:
Why don’t you come to our house to watch a movie?
Chera be khaneye ma baraye tamashaye yek film nemiaiee?
As you can see, the word “Cheraa” is used here to invite the audience to the speaker’s house to watch a movie.
Use “Cheraa” to say “Yes”
This situation is a bit tricky. The word “Cheraa” can be used in Farsi instead of “Yes” or “Bale.” But how can you differentiate? Remember that you can only use this word as “Bale” when the question is posed in a negative way. For example:
“Didn’t you buy cheese yesterday?” “Yes, I did!”
“Magar dirouz panir nakharidi?” “Cheraa, Khardiam.”
Final note
It’s essential to know the context of using the word “Cheraa.” As we learned in this article, this word can have various usages. It can simply be used to ask “Why” and inquire about the cause behind something. In addition, it can indicate other meanings as well. Make sure to make your own examples to learn how to use “Cheraa” effectively in a sentence.
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