“How old are you?” in Persian – Asking someone’s age

When meeting new people in Persian-speaking communities, one common question that might come up is about age. Knowing how to say “How old are you?” in Persian can be a handy tool for fostering connections and navigating cultural norms.

In this post, we’ll teach you the various ways to ask someone’s age in Persian, along with context, formality levels, and cultural notes. Let's get to it!

Different ways to ask “How old are you?” in Persian

In Persian (Farsi), there are different ways to ask someone’s age, depending on the level of formality required. Here’s a breakdown:

Formal “How Old Are You?” in Persian

If you are in a formal setting, such as an official meeting or speaking with someone significantly older than you, you can say:

۱. شُما چَند سال دارید؟ (?Shomâ chand sâl dârid)

How old are you?

Example Conversation:

A: شما چند سال دارید؟ (Shomâ chand sâl dârid?) How old are you?

B: من چهل سال دارم. (Man chehel sâl dâram.) I am 40 years old.

This phrase demonstrates respect and is suitable for formal conversations with elders, superiors, or in professional environments.

Standard “How Old Are You?” in Persian

For everyday conversations or when speaking to someone of a similar age, a polite yet neutral way to ask someone’s age is:

۱. شما چند سالتونه؟ (Shomâ chand sâletuneh?)

۲. شما سنتون چقدره؟ (Shomâ senetun cheghdareh?)

These phrases are commonly used and strike a balance between politeness and friendliness.

Example Conversation:

A: سنتون چقدره؟ (Senetun cheghdareh?)How old are you?

B: من بیست و پنج سال دارم. (Man bist-o-panj sâl dâram.)I am 25 years old.

Informal “How Old Are You?” in Persian

When speaking to friends, close peers, or children, you can use informal phrases like:

۱. تو چند سالته؟ (?To chand sâlateh)

۲. سنت چقدره؟ (?Sennet cheghdareh)

Example Conversation:

A: تو چند سالته؟ (To chand sâlateh?) How old are you?

B: من هفده سالمه. (Man hafdah sâlam-e.) I’m 17 years old.

Note: While informal language can feel friendly, it is essential to gauge your relationship with the person to avoid sounding impolite.

“What’s your date of birth?” in Persian

In some formal contexts, people may ask for your date of birth instead of your age. This can be used for official documentation, registrations, or formal introductions.

۱. تولدتون چیه؟ (?Tavallodetun chiyeh?)

۲. تاریخ تولد شما چنده؟ (?Târikhe tavallode shomâ chandeh)

If your date of birth is March 5, 1990, you can say:

۵ مارسِ ۱۹۹۰ (پانزده اسفند ۱۳۶۸)

This format is often used in official settings, such as hospitals, banks, or schools.

Ways to reply to “How old are you?” in Persian

Your response to the question depends on the level of formality:

Formal response

۱. من سی و پنج سال دارم. (.Man si-o-panj sâl dâram)

1. I am 35 years old.

This response shows respect and is appropriate in formal conversations.

Standard response

1. سی و پنج سالمه. (.si-o-panj sâlam-e)

   .I am 35 years old

How to say “age” in Persian

There are several words for “age” in Persian, depending on context:

۱. سِن (sen) – Used in formal and neutral contexts

۲. سال (sâl) – Translates to “year” and is used in casual conversations

Other Persian age-related terms

• نوجَوان (nojavân) – Teenager

• جَوان (javân) – Young

• مُسِن (mosen) – Elderly

Cultural Note: In Persian culture, age is often discussed with a level of politeness, especially when speaking to elders. It is common to express admiration or respect when someone shares their age.

Wrap Up

Mastering how to ask “How old are you?” in Persian is an essential skill for anyone engaging with Persian-speaking communities. It helps build rapport, shows cultural understanding, and enhances communication. Practice the different levels of formality to ensure your conversations flow naturally in any setting!

By learning these expressions, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also deepen your connection to Persian culture. Keep practicing, and soon enough, asking about someone’s age will feel effortless!