After you decided on your perfect getaway to Greece this summer, you may be wondering if not speaking Greek will be an issue while visiting Greece. It is not wrong for one to try to learn a few words, but Greeks are excellent with the language skills, specifically in the English language.
Even though Greeks will understand your English, it is important to have a few words in Greek or phrases you can use while on your trip. The reasoning for this is that Greeks will 1. Appreciate your ability to pick up a few words in their difficult language. That being established, they (the Greeks) are more likely to treat you even better and talk to you more (in English) about personal questions. Once you identified that you are an open minded/cultured tourist, they will for sure love you. 2. Greeks love Americans and American culture. If you are an American coming to visit Greece, please memorize these words and learn show new phrases. The Greeks will love you and can’t wait to talk about Giannis (NBA player from Greece) or something else awesome in the American culture, like New York City.
After all my talk here are the words you should know for your trip to Greece. Don’t be afraid to mispronounce them, people will understand what you are trying to say.
- θα ηθελα – I would like. When ordering in Greek it is rude to use the word θελω – I want, and also in contrary, Greeks do not use the words please and thank you all the time when ordering. What Greeks do is they use more formal grammar (too sophisticated to teach in a blog post) or kinder phrases like θα ηθελα – I would like. So when the waiter comes and you go to start off with what you are ordering, start by saying θα ηθελα… (insert order here).
- Καλοκαιρι- Summer. You came to Greece to visit the beautiful beaches, watch sunsets, enjoy the water, etc… Those are summer activities, as tourism season is mainly in the summer here in Greece. This word may be difficult to pronounce for some, but it is one of my favorite words. There is nothing better on the planet than summers in Greece. Try to impress Greeks and your friends by knowing this word.
- φιλε μου – my friend. One does not need to search hard and long to find friendly people in the country of Greece, they all are. Once you begin to settle in and become comfortable, use this word as it is proper and kind. There are other words Greeks use that are similar to friend or “my man”, but those are best kept for the Greeks and not nearly as polite as φιλε μου.
I do not want to bore you too much nor do I want you to be overwhelmed with complicated words. I understand Greek is a difficult language, between the complicated grammar and sophisticated words (both of which there are plenty of). Try these three phrases and words that come up in daily life here in Greece a lot. These words are not really taught, but many native Greeks use them daily and it would score you some big “brownie points” if you were to use them. See you soon on your Greek adventure this summer. Αντιο!
SKG.7 