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greek phrases and words

15 Essential Greek Phrases and Words for your vacation in Greece

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When traveling to a new country, learning some basic phrases in the local language can not only make communication easier, but it can also be a way to show respect for the culture and traditions of the place you are visiting. In Greece, locals will appreciate your efforts to speak their language and will be happy to help you navigate your travels and make the most of your trip. In this article, we will provide a list of 15 essential Greek phrases and words for your vacation to Greece.

From greetings to asking for directions and ordering food, these phrases will be valuable tools for you to use during your time in Greece. Whether you’re a beginner learner of Greek or just looking to brush up on your skills, this list is a great starting point. So don’t be afraid to give these phrases a try and see how much they can enhance your travel experience in Greece.

Greetings in Greek

  1. “Γεια σας” (Hello) – This is perhaps one of the most important greek phrases. It is a general greeting that can be used in any situation. For example, you could say “Γεια σας” when you meet someone for the first time, or when you see a friend or colleague.
  2. “Καλημέρα” (Good morning) – This word is used to greet someone in the morning, typically between the hours of 6:00 and 12:00. For example, you could say “Καλημέρα” to a hotel receptionist when you check-in, or to a shopkeeper when you enter their store.
  3. “Καλό απόγευμα” (Good afternoon) – This phrase is used to greet someone in the afternoon, usually between the hours of 12:00 and 18:00. For example, you could say “Καλό απόγευμα” to a taxi driver when you get into their car, or to a waiter when you sit down at a restaurant.
  4. “Καλησπέρα” (Good evening) – With this word you can greet someone in the evening, typically after 18:00. For example, you could say “Καλησπέρα” to a tour guide when you meet them for a night tour, or to a bartender when you order a drink at a bar.

Asking for directions

  1. “Πού είναι η πλατεία; (Where is the square?) – You might ask this question if you are looking for a central gathering place in a town or city. For example, you could say “Πού είναι η πλατεία;” to a local when you are trying to find the main square of a town.
  2. “Πού είναι ο σταθμός του μετρό; (Where is the metro station?) – You can ask this question if you want to take public transportation in a city. For example, you could say “Πού είναι ο σταθμός του μετρό;” to a passerby when you are trying to find the nearest metro station.
  3. “Πού έχει γκαράζ αυτοκινήτων”; (Where is there a car repair shop?) – This is a question you will ask in case you need to get your car fixed while traveling. For example, you could say “Πού έχει γκαράζ αυτοκινήτων”; to a gas station attendant when you are trying to find the nearest car repair shop

How to order food and drink

Ordering

  1. “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα γλυκό; (Can I have a dessert?) – You might ask this question when you are at a restaurant and want to order a sweet course after your main meal. For example, you could say “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα γλυκό;” to a waiter when you are looking at the dessert menu.
  2. “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα ποτό; (Can I have a drink?) – You could ask this question when you are at a bar or restaurant and want to order a beverage. For example, you could say “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα ποτό;” to a bartender when you are trying to decide what to drink.
  3. “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα κρασί; (Can I have a glass of wine?) – In the same way, instead of asking generally for a drink you can ask specifically for wine. For example, you could say “Μπορώ να πάρω ένα κρασί;” to a waiter when you are looking at the wine list.

Shopping

  1. “Πόσο κάνει; (How much does it cost?) – Very important question! You might ask this question when you are considering purchasing an item and want to know the price. For example, you could say “Πόσο κάνει;” to a shopkeeper when you are looking at a shirt in a store.
  2. “Μπορώ να το δοκιμάσω πρώτα; (Can I try it out first?) – In case you want to try an item before making a purchase, you ask this question. For example, you could say “Μπορώ να το δοκιμάσω πρώτα?” to a shopkeeper when you are looking at a piece of clothing in a store.
  3. “Μπορώ να πάρω αυτό; (Can I have this?) – You could ask this question when you want to purchase an item. For example, you could say “Μπορώ να πάρω αυτό?” to a shopkeeper when you are ready to buy the item you have been looking at.

Emergencies

  1. “Βοήθεια! (Help!) – You might say this phrase when you are in danger and need assistance. For example, you could say “Βοήθεια!” if you are being attacked or if you are in a situation where you need immediate help.
  2. “Χρειάζομαι έναν γιατρό. (I need a doctor.) – This is a phrase you will say when you are in need of medical assistance. For example, you could say “Χρειάζομαι έναν γιατρό.” if you are feeling unwell or if you have been injured.

Conclusion

In this article, we provided a list of 15 essential Greek phrases and words for your vacation in Greece. These phrases will be valuable tools for you to use during your travels there. Whether you’re a beginner learner of Greek or just looking to brush up on your skills, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with some basic phrases in the local language. So, we encourage you to practice these phrases and build upon them to improve your communication while in Greece. By showing an interest in the language and culture of the place you are visiting, you can make your trip even more meaningful and enjoyable.

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