خیر — meaning in English: No

khayr · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for No

گاه

gāh

رنگ

rang

خیر

khayr

تغییر

taghīr

سریع

sari

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informal very common

Usage

The word خیر (khayr) is commonly used in everyday conversation among Persian speakers, especially in informal settings. For example, when a friend offers you something you don't want, a simple 'خیر' will suffice to politely decline. It's often used in response to a question, such as when someone asks if you'd like dessert after a meal.

Synonyms & nuances

While خیر (khayr) simply means 'no', it can be softer and more polite than the more direct نه (na). You might choose خیر when you want to decline something without sounding too harsh, especially in social situations.

Culture

The word خیر (khayr) has its roots in ancient Persian, where it originally meant 'good' or 'well'. Over time, it evolved to take on the negative connotation of 'no' in certain contexts. This shift in meaning reflects the rich tapestry of Persian culture, where a polite refusal is often preferred over a blunt 'no'.

FAQ

Q.What does the Persian word خیر mean?

The Persian word خیر (khayr) translates to 'no' in English. It's often used in informal settings to politely decline offers or requests.

Q.How do I use خیر in a sentence?

You can use خیر in a sentence like, 'Would you like some tea?' – 'خیر, thank you.' This shows a polite refusal without sounding too abrupt.

Q.Is خیر used in formal conversations?

خیر is primarily used in informal contexts. In more formal conversations, you might opt for other phrases or expressions to refuse politely.

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Persian Vocabulary