After mastering basic greetings and politeness in Greek, it’s time to expand your skills by learning how to ask questions and respond in everyday conversations. Whether you’re traveling in Greece, learning the language for fun, or interacting with native speakers, these common questions and responses will help you navigate various situations.
Basic Questions and Responses for Everyday Conversations
In any conversation, knowing how to ask and answer questions is fundamental. Let’s start with some essential questions paired with their common responses:
- Πώς είσαι;
(Pos íse?)
How are you? (Informal)
Response: Είμαι καλά, ευχαριστώ!
(Eíme kalá, efharistó!)
I’m fine, thank you!
This is a common way to inquire about someone’s well-being, and the response is a polite way to say you’re doing well. - Πώς είστε;
(Pos íste?)
How are you? (Formal)
Response: Είμαι καλά, ευχαριστώ!
(Eíme kalá, efharistó!)
I’m fine, thank you!
The formal version of “How are you?” is used when speaking to someone older, a group, or in a formal situation. - Πώς σε λένε;
(Pos se léne?)
What’s your name? (Informal)
Response: Με λένε…
(Me léne…)
My name is…
When meeting someone for the first time, this is a casual way to ask for their name. The response is a simple way to introduce yourself. - Πού είναι…;
(Poú íne…?)
Where is…?
Response: Είναι εκεί.
(Íne ekí.)
It’s over there.
This question is helpful for finding locations or objects. The response indicates where something is. - Πόσο κοστίζει;
(Póso kostízi?)
How much does this cost?
Response: Κοστίζει…
(Kostízi…)
It costs…
Whether you’re in a shop or a restaurant, this is how you ask for the price. The response will give you the cost.
Asking for Help and Clarifications
Sometimes you may need assistance or help understanding something. Here’s how to ask for help and the common responses you might receive:
- Μπορείτε να με βοηθήσετε;
(Boríte na me voithísete?)
Can you help me?
Response: Ναι, φυσικά!
(Ne, fysiká!)
Yes, of course!
This phrase is useful in various situations, from asking for directions to needing assistance with a task. The response shows a willingness to help. - Δεν καταλαβαίνω.
(Den katalavéno.)
I don’t understand.
Response: Θέλετε να το εξηγήσω;
(Thélete na to exiyíso?)
Do you want me to explain it?
If you’re struggling to understand, this phrase will let the other person know. The response offers clarification. - Μπορώ να έχω…;
(Boró na ého…?)
Can I have…?
Response: Βεβαίως!
(Vevéos!)
Certainly!
Use this phrase when you want to ask for something, whether in a restaurant or a shop. The response is a polite way to say “sure.”
Excusing Yourself and Polite Expressions
In social situations, excusing yourself or being polite goes a long way. Here are some key phrases:
- Συγγνώμη, μπορώ να περάσω;
(Signómi, boró na peráso?)
Excuse me, can I pass?
Response: Ναι, περάστε.
(Ne, peráste.)
Yes, go ahead.
This phrase is perfect for when you need to get by someone in a crowded place. The response invites you to pass through. - Συγγνώμη
(Signómi)
I’m sorry
Response: Δεν πειράζει.
(Den pirázi.)
It’s okay.
If you need to apologize for something, Συγγνώμη is the phrase to use. The response is a polite way of saying that everything is fine.
Conversation Etiquette and Cultural Insights
In Greece, politeness and hospitality are highly valued. Whether you’re engaging in small talk or asking for help, it’s important to remember a few cultural tips:
- Use polite expressions like Ευχαριστώ (Efharistó – “Thank you”) and Παρακαλώ (Parakaló – “Please/You’re welcome”) often.
Even in casual conversations, Greeks appreciate respect and good manners. Saying “please” and “thank you” frequently will make your interactions smoother and more pleasant. - Engage in small talk.
Greek conversations often begin with questions like “How are you?” or “Where are you from?” It’s polite to ask a question in return, such as Και εσείς; (Ke esís?) – “And you?” after someone asks how you’re doing. This creates a friendly and respectful exchange. - Expect hospitality.
In some interactions, especially in rural areas or smaller towns, you may be offered coffee or food during conversations. Don’t hesitate to accept, as this is a common gesture of friendliness in Greece.
Practice Makes Perfect
The more you practice these questions and responses, the more natural they will become. Here are a few additional conversational examples to help you:
- Πώς είστε σήμερα;
(Pos íste símera?)
How are you today?
Response: Πολύ καλά, ευχαριστώ!
(Polí kalá, efharistó!)
Very well, thank you! - Τι κάνεις;
(Ti kánis?)
What are you doing? (Informal)
Response: Δεν κάνω τίποτα.
(Den káno típota.)
I’m not doing anything. - Πού μένεις;
(Poú ménis?)
Where do you live? (Informal)
Response: Μένω στην Αθήνα.
(Méno stin Athína.)
I live in Athens. - Πόσων χρονών είσαι;
(Póson hronón íse?)
How old are you? (Informal)
Response: Είμαι τριάντα ετών.
(Eíme triánta etón.)
I’m thirty years old.
By practicing these paired questions and responses, you’ll be well-equipped to handle everyday conversations in Greek. Whether you’re asking for directions, engaging in small talk, or simply being polite, these phrases will make your interactions more natural and enjoyable. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to navigate Greek conversations with confidence!
