How to Say Thank You in Farsi (and Other Polite Phrases)

Mamnun (ممنون) is the native Persian word for thank you. It feels slightly more polite than mersi and works well in both casual and semi-formal settings.

You can also say mamnunam (ممنونم), which means "I am grateful." Adding the "-am" makes it more personal.

Tashakor (تشکر) is the formal way to express gratitude. You'll hear it in speeches, official settings, and written communication.

Tashakor mikonam (تشکر می‌کنم) means "I thank you" and adds extra formality. Use this with elders, in business, or when you want to show deep respect.

Khoda ghovat (خدا قوت) literally means "God give you strength." Iranians say this to someone who is working, like a shopkeeper, a cleaner, or anyone doing physical labor.

It's a kind, culturally specific way to acknowledge someone's effort. There's no direct English equivalent.

Daste shoma dard nakone (دستت درد نکنه) literally translates to "may your hand not hurt." People say this after someone does something helpful, like cooking a meal or fixing something.

The informal version is dastet dard nakone. It's one of those phrases that makes Farsi feel warm and personal.

When someone thanks you, here's how to respond:

• Khahesh mikonam (خواهش می‌کنم), You're welcome (the standard response)
• Ghabeli nadareh (قابلی نداره), It's nothing / Don't mention it
• Lotf darid (لطف دارید), You're kind

These responses are part of taarof, the Persian tradition of politeness. Iranians often go back and forth with thank yous and responses several times.

Here's a simple guide:

• Casual (friends, shops, daily life): Mersi or mamnun
• Semi-formal (colleagues, acquaintances): Mamnunam or tashakor
• Formal (elders, business, officials): Tashakor mikonam
• After someone's work: Khoda ghovat
• After someone helped you: Dastet dard nakone

Want to learn more polite phrases? Check out our guide on common Farsi phrases or start practicing with our vocabulary lessons.