So, you have decided to visit the birthplace of Western civilization. Before you go, here are a few phrases we think will be useful. When meeting any Greek, it is always appropriate to say Yia sas (Γειά σας) which means ‘Hello’. On the flip side, when saying Goodbye we also say Yia sas. To thank somebody you would say Efharisto (Ευχαριστώ). To say ‘You’re welcome’ you would say Parakalo (Παρακαλώ), which also happens to mean ‘Please’.
Greeks are a friendly people and it is quite likely you will strike up casual conversations with quite a few of them. To introduce yourself, you will say: Yia sas, meh (silent h) lene _____, esas? (Γειά σας, με λένε_____, εσάς?). Translation: Hello, my name is ______, and you? (lit., yours?) Another way of asking a person’s name is ‘Pos sas lene?’ (Πως σας λένε) translation: What is your name?
Greece is well-known for both its beautiful beaches and gorgeous mountains. When visiting either, it is quite possible that you will become thirsty! Nero (Νερο) is the Greek word for water. Using the phrase “Coca-cola” will generally direct you to any kind of soft drink. For those who are so inclined, the word for beer is Beera (Μπύρα). The word for coffee is Kafes (Καφές). To order any of these beverages say “Ena potiri _______, parakalo” (ένα ποτήρι _____, παρακαλώ) and if you want ice add the word ‘me pagakia’ (με παγάκια) ex. Ena potiri nero me pagakia, parakalo (Ένα ποτήρι με παγάκια, παρακαλώ).
A good phrase to know and to use often, from a small purchase at a kiosk (convenience store) to your hotel bill is Poso kani (Πόσο κάνει), which means ‘How much [does it cost]’.
Even on vacation, nature will inevitably call, in these cases you would ask somebody, parakalo, poy ine e toualeta (παρακαλώ, που είναι τουαλέτα). Translation: please, where is the bathroom? A few further useful words are harti toualetas (χαρτί τουαλέτας) translation: toilet paper. Sapooni (σαπούνι) translation: soap and sampooan (σαμπουάν) translation: shampoo.
So there you have it, these are some basic phrases that will help when travelling in Greece. There are of course many more that would be also useful for you to know. Do not be afraid of using these terms in Greece as many Greeks will appreciate your effort in trying to speak their language.
Ευχαριστώ (thank you) for reading this. If you’d like to learn more, take a look at our Greek online course, which comes with access to eTutoring.
Below, you can hear the pronunciation of these important phrases, spoken by a native Greek speaker.
By Lucy
Photo Credits: szeke via Compfight cc