Greeks love to see people try to speak their language, and you’ll definitely earn some bonus points from the people for trying things out. Here’s a few basic words and phrases you should know while in Greece:

Here are some simple Greek Language words and phrases to learn how to say:

Hello

There are a few ways to say “hello” in Greek. Both of these options are somewhat informal, with Γειά being the most information of all. However, these are the most common.

• Hello – Γειά σου – Ya Soo
• Hi – Γειά – Ya

Here’s a look at a bigger explanation at all the ways you could say “hello” in the Greek language.

How Are You?

In English, we tend to ask “How are you” as a polite phrase. Usually, the person indicates that they are doing “well” and give very few details. In Greece, you don’t ask someone how they are doing unless you are prepared for the extremely honest answer and explanation.

• How are you? Πώς είσαι; Pos Eesai
• How are you? Tι κανείς – Ti kanees (colloquial)

Introductions

There’s an art to introducing yourself in the Greek language. Usually, someone starts be asking an individual’s name. Then, they obtain the name of the other individual. After it’s all done, you indicate that it was nice to meet them. Here are some vocabulary words that you’ll need:

• What is your name? – πως σε λένε? – Pos se lene
• My name is … – Με λένε … – Me lene ….
• Nice to meet you. – Χάρηκα πολύ – Harika poli

Greetings

These words and phrases are used mostly as greetings. Select the word or phrase for the corresponding time of day. Many people accompany this with one of the words for “hello” but this isn’t necessary.

• Good morning – Καλημέρα – kalimera
• Good afternoon/evening – Καλησπέρα – kalispera
• Good night – Καληνύχτα – goodnight

Here are more details on How to Say Good Morning and How to Say Good Evening and Goodnight.

Yes

• Yes – Ναί – Ne – This is the most common way to say “yes” in Greek.
• Yes – μάλιστα – malista – the English equivalent is closer to “Indeed”… it is a form of yes that is used in agreement with something someone said, usually when making a point.

Visit this article for a deeper look as to how to say yes in Greek.

No

• No – Οχι – Ohi

Please/ You’re welcome

The word in Greek for “please” and “you’re welcome” is the same. Use this the same as you would in English.

• Please / You’re Welcome – Παρακαλώ – Parakalo

Excuse Me/ Sorry

• Excuse me/ sorry – Συγνώμη – seegnomi

Good Bye

Saying goodbye is usually the last thing that happens when in conversation with someone in Greece. This is the most basic way to say it:

• Bye – αντίο – adio

In addition, there are other ways you can express this idea and it’s covered in this article. 

While in Greece, it is a good idea to learn some of the basics of the Greek language. You’ll enjoy your vacation so much more! The good news is that you don’t need to memorize these words and phrases if you don’t want. Just refer back to this article whenever you need and use the words and phrases listed here whenever you get the chance.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Greek Vocabulary on Saying Your Name

• Name – Το όνομα – to onoma
• What is your name? Τι είναι το όνομα σου  – ti einai to onoma sou?
• My name is… Το όνομα μου είναι …  to onoma mou einai
• How are you called? (What is your name …) – Πως σε λένε? – Pos se lene?
• I am called … Με λένε ….  Me lene

As you can see, there are two options for how to ask what someone’s name is and then how to respond to them. The two phrases are used interchangeably.

Same Dialog for How to Your Name in Greek

Are you wondering how these words and phrases fit into the context of a conversation? Here’s a sample dialog:

• Good Morning. How are you? – Καλημέρα. Τι κάνεις? – Kalimera. Ti kaneis?
• I am well. Thank you. Είμαι καλά. Σας ευχαριστώ. Eimai kala. Sas efcharisto.
• What is your name? Τι είναι το όνομα σου? or Πως σε λένε? – Ti einai to onoma sou? or Pos se lene?
• My name is John. Το όνομα μου είναι Υιάννης. 0r Με λένε Υιάννης.
• Thank you! Goodbye. Σας ευχαριστώ. Αντιο σας. Sas efcharisto. Adio sas.

That dialog is someone that could possibly happen. You don’t need to memorize every word of it. Instead, choose one way to ask someone what their name is and one way on how to answer. You can learn the other way if you nee to after the fact, but it is better to be comfortable with one method.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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There are certain etiquette rules in Greece that should be followed when greeting someone. You can simply use these words of greeting to say hello to someone you know. You can also use these words to greet someone you don’t know, or to say hello to someone as you enter a building, such as shop, museum, restaurant, or cafe.

You can simply use the Greek word for “hello” (γεια σας – ya sas) to greet someone. However, if it is the late afternoon or the evening, you may choose to use different words. Here’s more information about this:

Saying Good Evening and Goodnight in the Greek Language

The words for “good evening” and “goodnight” in the language are completely different because they express different ideas and are used in completely different situations.

Good Evening

Here’s a look at how to say “Good Evening” in Greek:

• Good Evening – Καλό απόγευμα – kalo apoyevma

This phrase is primarily used as both a greeting as a way to take your leave of someone. It is used anytime in the evening and some people even use it in the late afternoon.

Goodnight

Here’s a look at how to say “Goodnight” in Greek:

• Goodnight – καληνυχτα – kali nichta

This phrase is almost never used as a greeting. It only seemed to be used at the end of the night and you are taking your leave of someone. For example, as a restaurant or store closes and you are leaving, it is customary to say “goodnight”. If the intent is to leave at the end of the day and go home, this is the phrase to use. It is also what is usually said to someone as they are about to go to sleep for the evening.

Both of these phrases are used in the same way as they are in the English language. For the most part, they are used interchangeably.

When trading to Greece, the words for Good Evening (Καλό απόγευμα) and Goodnight (καληνυχτα) are ones that you need to know and understand. If you need more information and explanation about this, please consult with a qualified Greek teacher.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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No matter if you are entering into conversation with someone or if you are simply observing the general rules of etiquette for greeting people as you walk into the room, you will need to find the right words.

What happens if it is the morning and you want to greet someone? One of your options is that you can tell them “Good Morning” in the Greek language. Here’s more information:

How to Say Good Morning in Greek

In the Greek language, this is how you wish someone a good morning:

• Καλημέρα – Kalimera – Good Morning

In general, this is used in a similar way as we use the phrase in the English language. It is fairly interchangeable.

When To Greet People By Saying “Good Morning”

There are a few situations where you can say “Good Morning (Καλημέρα)” to someone in Greek. Etiquette rules should be followed when using this phrase.

In Greece, it is customary to greet the room when walking into a public place. For example, when you walk into a restaurant, cafe, or a shop you should greet the people in some way.

Another way that you could use this phrase is to literally wish someone a “Good Morning.” Mostly, though, Good morning, or Καλημέρα (kalimera), is used as a way to say hello.

If you have any questions about this phrase or the etiquette rules associated with it, you should ask a qualified Greek language teacher.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Here’s a look at some of the important vocabulary words that you need to know that related to “time” in Greek:

Greek Words Related to the Time:

• Time – η ωρα – i ora
• Watch – το ρολόι – to roli
• Clock – το ρολό – to roli
• Daylight Savings Time – η θερινή ώρα – I therini ora
• Time Difference – η διαφορά ώρας – I diafora oras
• Time Zone – ζώνη ώρας – zoni oras
• Set my watch one hour back – γυρίζω το ρολόι μου μία ώρα πίσω – yirizo to roli moo mia ora piso
• Set my watch one hour ahead –γυρίζω το ρολόι μου μία ώρα μπροστά – yurizo to roli moo mia ora brosta
• Do you have the time? έχεις / έχετε ώρα; Ehees (informal)/ Ehete (formal) ora;
• Excuse me, do you have the time? Συγγνώμη, μήπως έχετε ώρα; signori, boros ehete ora?
• Yes, it is 20:05. Ναι, είναι οκτώ και πέντε.Ne, eenai okto kai pende.
• What time is it? τι ώρα είναι; To ora eenai;
• It is (five) o’clock – είναι (πέντε) η ώρα – eenai pence I ora – It is (five) o’clock.
• To be punctual – είμαι ακριβής – eemai akrithis
• To stand someone up – στήνω κάποιον – stono kapion

While in Greece, you will need to be familiar with the time. These vocabulary word are pretty common and you are sure to encounter them while learning Greek. Read through this list to get familiar with them and memorize them if possible.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Learn How to Say Yes in the Greek Language:

When someone asks you a certain type of question in the Greek language, the common answer is either yes or no. We have learned that “no” in Greek is όχι – ohi. In order to say yes, the typical way to say this is ναι – neh. Here are some examples of questions where the answer is yes:

In this example, someone is asking his friend if he wants to go to the movies. The answer is yes:

• Kosta, do you want to go to the movies? Κώστα, θέλετε να πάτε στις ταινίες; Kosta, thereto na pate sits tainies?
• Yes. I would like to go to the movies. Ναί. Θα ήθελα να πάω στις ταινίες. Neh. Tha ithela na pows tis tainies.

In this example, someone is asking her friend if she would like to go to a restaurant. In this case, her answer is yes:

• Katerina, would you like to go to a restaurant for dinner? Κατερίνα, θα θέλατε να πάτε σε εστιατόριο για δείπνο; Katerina, tha chelate na pate se estiatorio ya deepno.
• Yes. I would like to go to a restaurant for dinner. Ναί. Θα ήθελα να πάω σε ένα εστιατόριο για δείπνο. Neh. Tha ithela na pow se na estiatorio ya deepno.

Words and Phrases Involving the Word for Yes (ναι) in Greek:

There are also some fairly common words and phrases that involve the Greek word for yes (ναι). Here’s a look:

• yes of course – ναι φυσικά – neh fisika
• yes and no – ναι και ΟΧΙ – neh keh ohi
• yes or no – ναι ή όχι – neh I ohi
• oh yes – ω ναι – o neh
• yes my love – ναι αγάπη μου – neh agapi moo
• yes honey – ναι αγάπη μου – neh agapi moo

As you can see, yes is an important word that has a variety of uses. This is definitely a word that you can stand to memorize before you arrive in Greece!

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Instead of celebrate the official conclusion of the Greek War for Independence, which officially ended on July 21, 1832, Greek Independence Day occurs on March 25th, a symbolic day chosen to represent the beginning of the movement that eventually led the Greek people to their freedom.

Since this is such a major Greek holiday, it is a good idea to learn some vocabulary words associated with it. Here’s a look at some of the most important words to know:

Greek Vocabulary Words for Independence Day:

• Greek Independence Day – 25η Μαρτίου – ikosi pendi martiou  (This is one of the most commonly used name for the holiday in the Greek language)
• Victory or Death – Νίκη ή θάνατος – Niki I Thanatos (This was the motto of the Greek War for Independence. When Mani joined the resistance in 1821, they said, “Νίκη ή θάνατος”. The phrase caught on and it became the motto amongst the fighters.
• Freedom or Death – Ελευθερία ή Θάνατος – Eleftheria I Thanatos (This was another commonly used motto during the war)
• Greek Revolution – Ελληνική επανάσταση – Ellinki epanastasi
• Feast – πανηγύρι – paniyuri (There are plenty of feasts taking place on Greek Independence Day!)
• Many Happy Returns! –  Χρόνια πολλά! – Chronia Polla (This is the phrase Greeks usually say to one another when they are celebrating something together. It is said on birthdays, name days, and holidays and it is definitely a common word that you will hear on Greek Independence Day).
• Long Live Greece – ζήτω η Ελλάδα – Zito I Ellatha (This is another common phrase that is said during this holiday)

To properly celebrate Greek Independence, you should definitely learn at least some of these words! Chances are pretty good that you have heard them in the past, but now you will be able to use them with confidence.

Source:

Celebration of the Greek Revolution

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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However, that’s not the only way they are used – they can also be used in descriptions. There are both “official” shapes (straight out of geometry class and “descriptive” shapes (such as dot) in this list. Here’s more information about how to say the shapes in the Greek language:

Saying the Words for Shapes in Greek

• Shape – το σχήμα – to skima
• Arc – το τόξο – to toxo
• Circle – ο κύκλος – o kiklos
• Cone – το κώνο – to kono
• Crescent – μηνίσκος – miniskos
• Curve – καμπύλη – kambili
• Dot – κουκκίδα – kookitha
• Ellipse – έλλειψη – elleepsi
• Hexagon – το εξάγωνο – to eksagono
• Octagon – το οκτάγωνο – to octagon
• Oval – το ωοειδές – to oeethes
• Pentagon – το πεντάγωνο – to pentagono
• Pyramid – η πυραμίδα – i piramitha
• Rectangle – το ορθογώνιο – to orthogonio
• Sphere – σφαίρα – sfayra
• Square – το τετράγωνο – to tetragonal
• Star – το αστέρι – to asteri
• Triangle – το τρίγωνο – to trigono

You probably won’t need to use these words all the time, but you should at least be familiar with them. Read through this list a few times and memorize any shapes that you think you may need to use a lot when you are speaking, reading, or listening to the Greek language. There’s no need to memorize these words unless you think you might have a need for them!

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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One of the types of words you should know are how to say the different animals in Greek. This is especially important if you have pets and love to talk about animals! Here’s more information on how to say some of the most common animals in the Greek language:

How to Say the Words for Animals in Greek:

• Bear – η αρκουδα – i arkootha
• Bird – το πουλί – to pooli
• Cat – η γάτα – i gata
• Chicken – το κοτόπουλο – to kotopoulo
• Cow – η αγελάδα – i agelatha
• Crow – το κοράκι – to koraki
• Dog – ο σκύλος – o skilos
• Donkey – ο γάιδαρος – o yetharos
• Eagle – ο αετός – o aetos
• Elephant – ο ελέφαντας – o elefantas
• Giraffe – η καμηλοπάρδαλη – i kamiloparthala
• Goat – η κατσίκα – i katsiki
• Hawk – το γεράκι – to yeraki
• Horse – το άλογο – to alogo
• Lamb – το αρνί – to arni
• Lion – το λιοντάρι – to liondari
• Monkey – η μαϊμου – i maymoo
• Mouse – το ποντίκι – to pondiki
• Owl – η κουκουβάγια – I kookoovagia
• Pig – το γουρούνι – to gourouni
• Pigeon – το περιστέρι – to peristeri
• Rabbit – το κουνέλι – to kooveli
• Rat – ο αρουραίος – o arouraiois
• Seagull – ο γλάρος – o glaros
• Sheep – το προβατο – to provato
• Snake – το φίδι – to fithi
• Tiger – η τίγρης – I tigiris
• Turkey – ο γάλος – o galos
• Zebra – η ζέβρα – I zebra

It’s true that you might not need all of these words. However, it is a good idea to at least become familiar with them. Read over this list a few times and then really work to memorize the words you suspect you might encounter on a regular basis.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Because of this, there are a lot of Greek vocabulary words to learn that are associated with Easter. Here’s a look at some of the words you should know:

Greek Vocabulary Words for Lent

• Great Lent – Μεγάλη Τεσσαρακοστή – Megali Terssarakosti
• Great Fast – Μεγάλη Νηστεία – Megali Nisteea
• Fasting – νηστεία – nisteea
• To Fast – νηστεύω – nisteeo

Greek Vocabulary Words for Easter (Pascha – Πάσχα)

• Holy Week – Μεγάλη Εβδομάδα – Megali Evthomatha
• Great and Holy Friday – Μεγάλη Παρασκευή – Megali Paraskevi
• Greek and Holy Friday – Μεγάλο Σάββατο – Megalo Savato
• Easter – Πάσχα – Pascha
• Happy Easter – Καλό Πάσχα – Kalo Pascha
• Christ is Risen – Χριστός Ανέστη – Christos Anesti
• Truly He is Risen – Άλιθος Ανέστι – Alithos Anesti
• Resurrection of Christ – Ανάσταση του Χριστού – Anastasi you Christou
• Easter Feast – πασχαλινό γεύμα – paschalino yevma
• Easter Basket – πασχαλινό καλάθι – paschalino kalathi
• Easter Egg – πασχαλινό αυγό – paschalino avgo
• Crucifixion – σταύρωση – stavrosi
• Easter Bunny – πασχαλινό λαγουδάκι – paschalino lagouthaki
• Easter Candle – πασχαλινή λαμπάδα – paschal ini lambatha
• Easter Chick – πασχαλινό κοτοπουλάκι – paschalino kotopoulaki
• Flowers – Λουλούδια – loulouthia
• Easter Egg – πασχαλινό αυγό – Paschalino avgo
• Dye Eggs – βάφω αυγά – vafo avga

Easter is a festive time in Greece and amongst Orthodox Christians. As a result of this, there are plenty of vocabulary words that you should know in order to celebrate. Read through this list a few times and get familiar with each of the words. You may also want to write these words and flash cards and study them until you know them well.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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To do that, you will first need to know how to ask what they do for a living. In Greek, you do this by asking:

• Τι δουλειά κάνεις; Ti thoulya kanees; What do you do for a living?

To respond, you would say the following phrase and then fill it in with the Greek word that corresponds with your occupation.

• είμαι … eemai …  I am

For example, if you are a doctor, you would say: είμαι γιατρός. Eemai yatros. I am a doctor. Here are some vocabulary words for common professions. If you want to say that you’re a dentist you say: είμαι οδοντίατρος. Eemai othondyatros.

Greek Vocabulary Words for Occupations

• Doctor – ο γιατρός – o yatros
• Dentist – ο οδοντίατρος – o othondyatros
• Electrician – οηλεκτρολόγος – o oilektrologos
• Engineer – ο μηχανικός – o mihanikos
• Farmer – ο αγρότης – o agrotis
• Hairdresser – ο κομμωτής – o kommitis
• Lawyer – ο δικηγόρος – o thikigoros
• Pharmacist – η φαρμακοποιός – o farmakopyos
• Plumber – ο υδραυλικός – o uthraulikos
• Salesperson – ηΠωλητής – I politis
• Teacher – οδάσκαλος – o thaskalos

Although this isn’t a complete list, these are some of the most common profession. If your occupation isn’t listed here, you might want to look it up in a Greek dictionary before you start speaking the language so that you can answer someone when they as what you do.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Greek Vocabulary – Ways to Say No

• No – όχι – ochi
• Nope – όχι – ochi
• No-no – όχι όχι – ochi ochi (This phrase is an expression used. in cases where your “no” needs to be stronger. So a simple “no” won’t be enough in the cases where this phrase is said).
• Not – δεν – then

Examples on How to Say No in Greek

When someone asks you certain questions, your answer could either be yes or no. Here’s a look at some sample questions where the answer is “no”:

In this example, someone asks their friend if they want to go to the movies. The answer is no because he or she is busy:

• Do you want to go to the movies tonight? Θέλετε να πάτε στις ταινίες απόψε; Thelete na path tis taints apopse.
• No, I am busy tonight. Όχι, είμαι απασχολημένος απόψε. Ohi, eemai aposcholimenos apopse.

In this example, someone is asks if he or she likes flowers. The answer in this case is also no:

• Do you like flowers? Σου αρέσουν τα λουλούδια? Soo aresoun ta louloudia?
• No, I am allergic to them. Όχι, είμαι αλλεργικός σε αυτούς. Ohi, eemai allergies se aftoos.

Grammar Notes for Saying No in Greek

In each of the examples above, the word “no” was used to express that they didn’t like or didn’t want to do something. The word “no” can be used for a variety of situations and in Greek, it is used in a similar way as it is in English.

The word for “No” in Greek is – Όχι – which is pronounced “ohi”.

Here are some sentences in Greek that have the word “no” in it:

• Όχι, δεν έχω τα εισιτήρια. Ohi, then eho ta eisitiria. No, I don’t have the tickets.
• Όχι, δεν μου αρέσει το μπλε χρώμα. Ohi, then mou aresi to ble chroma. No, I don’t like the color blue.
• Όχι, το μουσείο δεν είναι στα δεξιά. Ohi, to mooseia then einai sta theksia. No, the building isn’t to your right.

Turning a Verb Into a Negative Using the Word “Δεν”

Besides using the word Όχι to say “no” in the Greek language, you can also turn a verb into a negative statement. You don’t have the tickets (Δεν έχετε τα εισιτήρια). You don’t want to eat fish (Δεν θέλετε να φάτε ψάρι). You don’t like red wine (Δεν σας αρέσει το κόκκινο κρασί).

As you can see, the Greek word “Δεν” (pronounced “then”) is used to negate a verb. You can speak these by themselves or you can also pair the sentence with the word “Όχι” as pictured in some of the examples above.

Being able to express the word “no” or to express something in the negative is an essential language skill to have in Greek. If you have questions, you should consult with a qualified language teacher.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Greek Dialog – Asking Someone Where They Are From

The conversation will usually begin with a greeting. This could be a simple “hello” or another phrase, such as “good morning”. Form there, the individual may ask a few questions or make pleasant conversation. Here’s an example of how the conversation will look:

• You: Hello, Good morning! Γεια σας, Καλημέρα! Ya sas, kali mera!
• Stranger: Hello. How are you? Γεια σας. Πώς είσαι; Ya sas. Pos eisai;
• You: Good, thank you. Καλά ευχαριστώ. Kala efharisto.
• Stranger: You’re not from Greece. Where are you from? Δεν είστε από την Ελλάδα. Από που είσαι? Then eestai apo tin ellatha. Apo pou eesai?
• You: No, I am not. I am from the United States. Δεν είμαι. Είμαι από τις Ηνωμένες Πολιτείες. Then eemai. Emmai apo tis Hnomenes Politeies.
• Stranger: Very nice! How long are you in Greece? Πολύ ωραία. Πόσο καιρό είσαι στην Ελλάδα; Poli orea. Poso kero eesai stin ellatha?
• You: I am here for one week. Είμαι εδώ για μια εβδομάδα. Eemai echo ta mia evthomatha.

Keep in mind that while you are in Greece, dialogs such as these won’t necessarily be word for word as written above. However, it is a good idea to be familiar with these words and phrases so that you can use them when the time comes.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Take a Class or Course

Check your local community colleges and universities for both free and paid courses that are designed to help you learn Greek. Some colleges and universities allow all individuals to “audit” classes free of charge, even if only paid options are available. While auditing a class does not provide you with educational credit, it does allow for the opportunity to learn from an experienced professional.

Learn the Language Online

Also, you don’t need to travel to your class in order to get top notch instruction. You can easily learn a language using online resources.  There are plenty of services online that are designed to help you learn Greek, such as online courses or even apps for your tablet or smartphone. Some language learning resources will be better for you than others, so it might take some trial and error to help you find the best bet.

Find a Partner

Ask a friend or a family member to work with you as you begin your journey into learning Greek. You may have family members who speak it well, or you could have a friend who also wants to learn Greek. Having a language partner is a great way to stick with your goals without feeling unmotivated or discouraged. When you have a language partner, it becomes easier to memorize phrases and language requirements, especially as you continue to advance your progress. You can also practice your conversational skills with your partner.

Find a Tutor

You might want to consider hiring a private tutor to help you learn Greek. Use an online service to find a tutor to help with learning the language you are most interested in. Tutors work via video chat and by providing written and interactive assignments. Additionally, it is also possible to find a local tutor who is willing to meet in person to assist with learning Greek. Consider the type of tutoring you prefer and seek out a qualified professional who is currently offering the services you require at your desired rate.

Travel to Greece

One of the best ways to learn more about a foreign language is to immerse yourself into the Greek culture directly. You’ll learn the language must faster! Consider visiting Greece for your next vacation, or even stay for an extended period of time. This is an optimal way to increase the speed in which you learn. While in the country, be sure to use your Greek as much as you can.

If you want to develop your Greek language skills faster, you can’t go wrong with these strategies!

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Φιλοξενία – Filoksenia

In Greek, Φιλο (filo) is a word that expresses the type of love you would feel for a good friend and ξενία (ksenia) means stranger, or foreigner. Basically, the word expresses the idea of extending the hand of friendship (in a loving way) to a stranger or foreigner. There is no equivalent word in the English language, but this is an idea that is a big part of the Greek culture.

Για πάρτη μου – Ya Parti Mou

Even though the Greek people are happy to extend the hand of friendship to a stranger, they also are quick to acknowledge that their own needs come first. Για πάρτη μου  (Ya Parti Mou) expresses that very concept. Directly translated into English, the phrase means, “for me”. However, it is used when the individual wants to express the idea of “treating yourself” well.

Φιλότιμο – Filotimo

Friendship is important in Greece, and the concepts and ideals surrounding friendship are taken very seriously. As a result of that, words like Φιλότιμο (Filotimo) seek to explain some important concepts related to friendship. In Greek, Φιλό means “friendship love” and τιμο comes from τιμή, which means honor. This is a word that describes honor and truth and friendship, and basically expresses a sense of loyalty to one another.

As you can see, these words and phrases are difficult to translate directly into the English language because there are no equivalent words. It is only possible to understand them by explaining the meanings. These words are highly colloquial and it is important to fully understand the meanings before you use them.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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How to Talk About Scenery in the Greek Language

In order to be able to describe scenery in the Greek language, you need to know some key vocabulary words. Here’s a look at some of the most important words and phrases you should be familiar with:

Greek Geographical Words for Scenery

• scenery – το σκηνικό – to okiniko
• island – το νησί – to nisi
• beach – η παραλία – i paralia
• sand – η άμμος – i ammos
• water – το νερό – to nero
• sea – η θάλασσα – i thalassa
• ocean – ο ωκεανός – o okeanos
• coast – η ακτή – i akti
• mountain – το βουνό – to voono
• hill – ο λόφος – o lofos
• view – η θέα – i thea
• landscape – το τοπίο – to topio
• sky – ο ουρανός – o ouranos

Greek Phrases and Sentences Describing the Scenery

The following are some examples of how you can use the Greek language for describing the scenery.

• The sky is blue. Ο ουρανός είναι μπλε. O ouranos eenai ble.
• The scenery is beautiful. Το τοπίο είναι όμορφο. To topio eenai omorfo.
• The water is warm. Το νερό είναι ζεστό. To Nero eenai zesto.
• The mountain is picturesque. Το βουνό είναι γραφικό. To voono eenai grafiko.
• The view is beautiful. Η θέα είναι όμορφη. I Thea eenai omorfi.

By learning these words and sprinkling in a few adjectives, you will be able to talk about the scenery in Greece no matter which level you are at. Read through this list a few times before traveling to Greece so that you can be confident using the words. You should also learn a handful of descriptive adjectives, such as the words for the colors, along with these words.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Greek Vocabulary Words and Phrases About Romantic Love

• αγάπη – agapi – unconditional love
• Σε αγαπώ (Σ’ αγαπώ) – se agapo, s’agapo – I love you
• Με αγαπάς? – me agamas? Do you love me?
• Μου λείπεις – moo lepees – I miss you
• Σου λείπω? – soo leepo – Do you miss me?
• Σε θέλω – se thelo – I want you
• Με θέλεις? – me thelees – Do you want me?
• Μωρό μου – moro moo – baby
• Αγάπη μου – agapi moo – my love
• Με κάνεις ευτυχισμένο / ευτυχισμένη – me kanis eftihismeno (man) / eftihismeni (woman) – you make me happy
• Θέλω να είμαστε μαζί για πάντα – thelo na imaste mazi gia panda – I want to be together forever.
• Θα ήθελες να βγούμε έξω για δείπνο; Tha itheles na vyoome ekso ya theepno; Do you want to go to dinner with me?
• Είσαι ελεύθερος αυτό το Σαββατοκύριακο; Ise eleftheros afto to Sabatokiriako?
• Τι ώρα να συναντηθούμε; – To ora na sinandithoome – What time should we meet?
• Πού να συναντηθούμε; Poo na sinandithoome – Where shall we meet?
• Δείχνεις πολύ ωραίος. Theeknees poli oreas. You look great/beatiful.
• Μπορώ να σε ξαναδώ; – boro na se ksanatho – Can I see you again?
• Θα σε πάρω τηλέφωνο. Tha se paro teléfono. I will call you.

If you are spending an extended time in Greece and you’re dating or in a relationship, you will definitely encounter some of these words! Read through the list a few times so you can be familiar with them in case you need to speak Greek with your love interest.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Greek Vocabulary Word List – Clothes

• clothes – τα ρούχα – ta rooha
• coat – το παλτό – to palto
• jacket – η ζακέτα – i zaketa
• hat – το καπέλο – to kapelo
• pants – τα παντελόνια – ta pantelonia
• shoes – τα παπούτσια – to papoutsia
• socks – οι κάλτσες – i kaltses
• shirt – το πουκάμισο – to lookamiso
• purse – το πορτοφόλι – to portofoli
• dress – το φόρεμα – to forema
• skirt – η φούστα – i foosta
• sweater – το φούτερ – to footer
• pullover – το πουλόβερ – to poolover
• jeans – το τζιν – to jean
• raincoat – το αδιάβροχο – to athiavroho
• button – το κουμπί – to koombi
• sleeve – το μανίκι – to maniki
• zipper – το φερμουάρ – to fermooar
• collar – το κολάρο – to kolaro
• t-shirt – το μπλουζάκι – to bloozaki
• vest – το γιλέκο – to gileko

Be sure to read through this list a few times. You don’t need to memorize them if you don’t want, but becoming familiar with them will help considerably! There are all types of situations that you can get in that will make you need to know at least some of these words. For example, if you are shopping while in Greece, you’ll need to be able to describe the clothes you would like to buy. If you’re looking for more information and vocabulary on how to shop in Greece, visitt this article for more information.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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What is the Accusative Case?

According to Webster’s Dictionary, the accusative case is:

• of, relating to, or being the grammatical case that marks the direct object of a verb or the object of any of several prepositions

Although the accusative case exists in English, it isn’t obvious because for the most part, the endings of the words don’t change. In the Greek language, the accusative case is more obvious because it affects the endings of the words.

In other words, the accusative case may as well be meaningless in English since it doesn’t have a direct impact on the words themselves. This can cause people some issues when trying to understand what it is in Greek.

How to Use the Accusative Case (αιτιατική) in Greek

There are some predictable rules in Greek with how the accusative case is used. Here’s an overview:

• The accusative is always used after certain prepositions, such as σε – se – in, into, με – me – with, από – apo – from, για – gia – for, to, about

The prepositions and accusative forms are boldfaced in the following examples:

• Το κορίτσι μιλάει με το αγόρι. To koritsi milaei me to agora. The girl is speaking with the boy.
• Οι μαθητές πηγαίνουν στο σχολείο. I mathites piyenoon sto skoleio. The students go to school.
• Το δώρο είναι από τη φίλη μου. To thoro eenai apo ti fili mou. The gift is from my girlfriend. 
• Το τυρί είναι για τη γάτα. To tiri eenai ya ti gata. The cheese is for the cat. 

Keep in mind that the accusative case also represents the part of the sentence that answers the question what, who, or to whom. So in a sentence like this, the accusative is boldfaced:

• Ο άντρας βλέπει τη γυναίκα. O anthras vlepee ti yineka. The man sees the woman. 

Notice how the accusative answers the question “who”. The man sees (who?) – The man sees the woman. In this sentence “the woman” would be in the accusative case.

If you need additional help understanding the accusative case, contact a qualified Greek teacher. You can also read more about it in your Greek language book of choice. This is only intended to give you an overview.

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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Get a Teacher

Each person certainly has the ability to learn a language on their own. However, choosing to undergo this process alone makes immersion much more challenging. Instead of trying to get through everything by yourself, invest in a language teacher. Teachers help keep you focused, hold you accountable, and raise your confidence as you make your way through your language learning journey. They can also help make your time with the language more efficient, which means that when you immerse yourself in Greek, you’ll be sure that you have it right.

Practice Writing

Writing is a lost art, especially when it comes to learning a language like Greek. In your attempts to practice your new language on a regular basis, be sure to make writing a part of this process. Research shows that when you write down your thoughts, you’ll automatically see an improvement to your mood and a boost in your abilities to memorize new words and concepts, all of which are very important to immersion.

Develop the Mindset

There’s nothing more powerful than the mindset of someone who is not only determined to accomplish the goal, but one who is starting to think like a Greek person. With the right immersive mindset, you can learn to be fluent in a new language. To start, you should develop a “no English” mindset that will force you to only communicate in the new language. As you get used to this way of life, you should ultimately begin to think in the language as well.

Use Greek in Daily Life

Another way to improve how quickly you learn a language is to use  Greek in your everyday life. Even if you practice a total of an hour or two each day, as long as you use the language frequently, you’ll keep improving. As you go throughout the day, make a point of writing, speaking, listening to, and reading the language.

It is possible to adopt an immersion mindset while learning Greek even if you don’t live in Greece!

The Learn Greek section on GreekBoston.com was written by Greeks to help people understand the conversational basics of the Greek language. This article is not a substitute for a professional Greek learning program, but a helpful resource for people wanting to learn simple communication in Greek.

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