Greek word for the way

• #1

I see.

Eh, just a side question (too small a question for a new topic): how would you translate «by the way,» in Greek?

• #3

Ευχαριστώ και πάλι!

• #4

Or, if you feel in a scholarly mood and you want practically no one to understand you, ειρήσθω εν παρόδω

• #5

Hehe, I might have my moments that I’m feeling that way (I study ancient Greek )

ics

Senior Member

• #6

you want practically no one to understand you

neither I can understand!… What does it mean? ? ?

By the way, «παρεμπιπτόντως» is pronounced «παρεπιπτόντως» but according to my dictionary is «παρεμπιπτόντως»…

• #7

hmm, in.gr agrees with you, so it looks like you are right. I never realized this. So does everyone say it «παρεπιπτόντως», or should we really read it the way it’s spelled?
(which I guess we should, because greek is supposed to be read the way it’s spelled)

I guess it must be one of the things that people always hear wrong and repeat them wrong…

EDIT: google returns 34400 hits with «παρεπιπτόντως» and 62700 with «παρεμπιπτόντως»

so i guess the wrong version is pretty well established already

• #8

Skatoulitsa unless you mean that we should get rid of the multiple Is the double Os etc Greek is not a language in which you read what you write for millenia

Anyway, there’s always the matter of what Παρεμπιπτόντως means eh?

Ics it means «let it be said in a byway»

• #9

ireney said:

Skatoulitsa unless you mean that we should get rid of the multiple Is the double Os etc Greek is not a language in which you read what you write for millenia

Anyway, there’s always the matter of what Παρεμπιπτόντως means eh?

Ics it means «let it be said in a byway»

Well, of course the dipthong «ει» is pronounced like «ι» and not «ε-ι», unless it is written «εϊ», or if there is a stress on the «ε» («έι»), but there are very well specified rules for reading everything.
So, yes not every «ε» in a sentence is pronounced «εεεε», but still you «read what you write», and if you write «ει» you read «ι», because there is a rule for that.

In any case, we don’t have «silent» letters. So I guess what I meant is that if you had never heard of the word and you saw it somewhere you would read it with the «μ». Isn’t that so?

ics

Senior Member

• #10

Anyway, there’s always the matter of what Παρεμπιπτόντως means eh?
Ics it means «let it be said in a byway»

Sorry if I was’n clear enough!… besides my english sucks!!
The question was about the <ειρήσθω εν παρόδω>
I’m greek but I do not understand its meaning!… where does it come from??

ps. please correct any mistake !!

• #11

Το «εν παρόδω» πάντως ταιριάζει με το by the way.
You know… πάροδος, …οδός????

By the way, Έλληνες και συνεννοούμαστε στα Αγγλικά μεταξύ μας;

• #12

None of my friends says «Παρεμπιπτόντως» and neither do I.As for the «Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω» I don´t think it can be used like «BTW» in English.And of course not at all in common language!I would say that «BTW» translates to «Αααα!!!» which with the right intonation is used to start a frase about something that has just crossed your mind or to change the subject of the conversation and talk about something irrelevant.Sometimes words or expressions of one language can be equivalent to interjections in another

• #13

Antodocheio this thread is started by Dminor who is not Greek and may interest others who are not fluent in Greek too so let’s stick with English for the mo.

I wasn’t getting technical with εν παρόδω. It’s more like πάροδος in ancient tragedies (Όποιος θυμάται την Αντιγόνη και την εισαγωγή της να σηκώσει το χέρι).

Anyway, I don’t want to start a filologos rant here ’cause that will probably scare people away but the fact that people don’t use a word because they don’t know enough Greek (ποιός τα χρειάζεται τα Νέα Ελληνικά κυρία; Πιό χρήσιμη μου είναι η τριγωνομετρία στην καθημερινή ζωή και πώς θα πιώ τον καφέ μου αν δεν ξέρω τους τύπους για το μαγνητικό πεδίο σε αγωγό doesn’t mean that it’s not better than «αααα! τώρα που το θυμήθηκα!» or what I use in it’s place «άσχετο:» (see? it’s not as if I’m going around trying to sound like Aristotle of Kavafis, but that doesn’t mean we should be proud we use less and less of the words the Greek voc has. Especially if we then go on about what a wonderful and rich language we have)

Ok so I did go on a rant. Επαγγελματική διαστροφή παιδιά που χειροτέρεψε σήμερα γιατί ένας πανηλίθιος αποφάσισε να μεταφράσει το Trojan Horse ως Τρωικός Ίππος!! Από πότε γμτ μου?

There’s also the metaphysical «μια που το ‘φερε η κουβέντα» which leaves have the group trying to find the hidden relation.

• #14

ireney said:

Anyway, I don’t want to start a filologos rant here ’cause that will probably scare people away but the fact that people don’t use a word because they don’t know enough Greek doesn’t mean that it’s not better than «αααα! τώρα που το θυμήθηκα!» or what I use in it’s place «άσχετο:» (see? it’s not as if I’m going around trying to sound like Aristotle of Kavafis, but that doesn’t mean we should be proud we use less and less of the words the Greek voc has. Especially if we then go on about what a wonderful and rich language we have)

What do you mean by «better»?I think that what we are looking for is what a native(greek) would use in order to express the same idea that another native(english) would express with «by the way» under similar circumstances.So,if most of the greek people would say «Αααα!» or «Ασχετο:»(which I also find perfect) then that can be considered «better» than the other suggestions.Don’t you think?

• #15

Zanos said:

What do you mean by «better»?I think that what we are looking for is what a native(greek) would use in order to express the same idea that another native(english) would express with «by the way» under similar circumstances.So,if most of the greek people would say «Αααα!» or «Ασχετο:»(which I also find perfect) then that can be considered «better» than the other suggestions.Don’t you think?

Well, I am native greek and I do use «παρεπιπτόντως» (without the «μ» ) in everyday speech. Also, «by the way» is closer to «μια και το ‘φερε η κουβέντα» than «άσχετο» (=irrelevant) which is actually the exact opposite.

ics

Senior Member

• #16

None of my friends says «Παρεμπιπτόντως» and neither do I

Well, some friends of mine say it, me also! Without «μπ» as skatoylitsa said! Ιt’s always sounds “parepiptontws” but you could never find it in a dictionary spelled this way.

In fact we use all the expressions mentioned above by all of you, more or less they have the meaning or the function of by the way, unless (in my opinion) «Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω» which I hear for the first time and still don’t know what it means and where does it come from

• #17

Zanos «Αααα!» is not an expression. It’s an informal interjection (επιφώνημα) and I’m sure that a word will be considered better than an interjection when what we translate is a word or a phrase and not an interjection.

I mean most of us say something like «Άου» when in pain but this is definitely a worse translation for «That hurt» than «αυτό πόνεσε».

«Άσχετο» is also not a good translation. Remember the original question?

how would you translate «by the way,» in Greek?

Ics
Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω comes from ancient Greek and katharevousa. You want a word for word explanation?

Και μια ερώτηση: Ζάνο, έχεις κάνει δημογραφική έρευνα και ξέρεις ότι οι περισσότεροι Έλληνες λένε είτε «άσχετο» είτε «Ααααα!» (και μάλιστα «ααα!» χωρίς κάτι να το συνοδεύει όπως «τώρα που το θυμήθηκα» ή κάτι τέτοιο)?

ics

Senior Member

• #18

Ics
Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω comes from ancient Greek and katharevousa. You want a word for word explanation?

Yes, please!! Thank you!

• #19

Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω
Aς λεχθεί παρενθετικά

ics

Senior Member

• #20

Perfectcube said:

Ειρήσθω εν παρόδω
Aς λεχθεί παρενθετικά

oohhh thank you!! Could you please remind me the ancient greek verb?

• #21

Το ρήμα είναι το λέγω. Ο παθητικός παρακείμενος το είρημαι που μεταφράζεται ως έχω λεχθεί και η προστακτική ειρήσθω που σημαίνει να λεχθεί, ας λεχθεί.

ics

Senior Member

• #22

Just perfect, cube!! Thank you very much!!

Beautiful travel words of Greek origin inspire and give meaning to all types of travel experiences.

By knowing about these Greek-related travel words, you will, in effect, gain a greater insight into the world of travel, especially when visiting Greece.

All of these beautiful travel words have something special about them.

It could be how a word sounds, the feelings, and wanderlust they inspire, the beautiful images they bring to mind, or some special uniqueness that makes them memorable.

One thing is for sure, this list of the most beautiful travel words with unique Greek origins will expand your vocabulary—which is always a good thing.

I’ve also included another list of travel words at the end of this list (after the 20 most beautiful travel words) that didn’t make it into the top twenty.

The reason for doing this is so you can fully appreciate all the Greek-related travel words I considered for inclusion in this list of beautiful travel words.

It wasn’t easy to settle on these twenty best travel words of Greek origin, but I’m happy enough with the result.

Have a look and see what you think.

1. Aegean Sea – Travel Words

Origin: Greek

A beautiful word that brings to mind a few of the most beautiful Greek Islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete—to name a few.

“Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the fortune to sail the Aegean sea.” – Nikos Kazantzakis.

According to Greek Mythology, the Aegean Sea owes its name to an ancient King of Athens, Aigeas (Aegeas).

Aegeas was the father of the famous Greek hero, Theseus, who slew the Minotaur on the island of Crete.

When returning to Athens, Theseus sailed back to Athens with black sails after forgetting to change the ship’s sails to white ones.

As a result, his father thought it meant that his son hadn’t survived the ordeal. The fateful error led to the King’s tragic death since he decided to end his life by jumping into the sea.

Eventually, the surrounding sea would become known as the Aegean Sea.

Aegean Airlines also took its name from the same source.

2. Athens

Origin: Greek

The word Athens immediately conjures up beautiful images of The Parthenon.

Most overseas travelers first arrive by plane to Athens when they vacation in Greece.

The city received its name from the Goddess Athena.

In Greek Mythology, Athena and Poseidon had a contest to see who would become the patron of the Greek city.

Athena gifted the people the olive tree, while Poseidon made a spring gush forth from rocks.

Athena’s gift was deemed the best of the two by the people, so the city was named in her honor.

I had to include this word as one of the most beautiful travel words of Greek origin.

Athena, the Goddess of wisdom, is also beautiful, as proven by the famous beauty contest between Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera.

It wouldn’t have been smart on my part not to have included Athens in a list of the most beautiful travel words.

3. Atlas

Origin: Greek

An atlas is a collection or book of maps, but it’s also an airline company.

According to Greek legend, Atlas was a Titan condemned to carry the heavens upon his shoulders.

The Titan Atlas is the reason why we can all travel around and explore the world.

4. Eleutheromania

Origin: Greek

Have you ever felt the intense desire for freedom? Well, the word for this feeling is Eleutheromania.

It’s similar to the feeling of wanderlust in different languages. Travel is one way that makes people feel free, and eleutheromania is the desire for that feeling.

It comes from Ancient Greek ἐλευθερία (eleuthería, ‘freedom’) plus‎ -mania.

5. Elysian

Origin: Greek

It’s another word for Paradise!

Greek Mythology deemed the Elysian Fields as being a heavenly resting place after death.

It was seen as the go-to-place in the afterlife. Sadly not everyone was allowed entry into Olympus, the home of the Gods.

One of France’s main streets is named after this heavenly abode, the Champs-Élysees in Paris.

The street is famous for connecting the Arc de Triomphe with the Place de la Concorde. Many consider it to be one of the world’s most famous commercial streets.

Elysian has to be one of the most beautiful travel words because everyone wants to end up in paradise one day. At least you can visit it in Paris.

6. Eudaimonia 

Origin: Greek

It’s that happy feeling you get when you travel.

Feeling great when traveling, then the Greek word that describes it is eudaimonia.

It comes from Greek philosophy that has been translated as meaning happiness or well-being.

It has to be one of the biggest reasons why many people love traveling and exploring new places.

7. Europe

Europe is where it’s all at. You have Greece, Italy, and so many other great countries to visit.

It all started with Europa, the mythological princess who ended up being seduced by Zeus.

Zeus took her to the island of Crete across the ocean after the princess sat on his back while he was disguised in the form of a beautiful white bull.

At the time, she had no idea that it was really Zeus, the king of the Gods.

No one could have foreseen that Europa would bestow her name to a group of countries that would one day be known as Europe.

It has become one of the most sought out travel destinations globally, and it all started with a weird sea voyage of her own.

8. Galaxy

Origin: Greek

You have the world, and then you have the Galaxy.

It all started with the Milky Way, which is based on the Greek myth of Heracles, who, as a child, spilled some milk.

The word is derived from the Greek galaxias (kuklos) ‘milky (vault)’, from gala, galakt- ‘milk.’

9. Greece

I thought about it carefully, but I couldn’t leave Greece out from this list of beautiful travel words.

Greece is where many tourists dream of visiting, especially during the Greek summer.

Aristotle used the term “Graiko” as the name for the first inhabitants of the region.

It was later adopted by the Romans and turned into “Graecus,” a Latin word, to describe the people on the land now known as Greece.

10. Greek Islands

If there is one word better than Greece, then it would have to be the Greek Islands.

Santorini and Mykonos come to mind immediately when thinking about the Greek Islands.

With 227 inhabited Greek Islands to explore, and the rest, which number from 1200 to 6000 depending on the minimum size you consider, there’s something for everyone.

Once you’ve visited one of the best Greek Islands, you’ll be hooked forever.

11. Halcyon

The English word “halcyon ” describes an idyllically peaceful and perfect time that occurred in the past.

Halcyon means “kingfisher” in Greek.

A halcyon was a legendary bird in Greek Mythology that made its nest on the Aegean Sea. As the daughter of Aeolus, the god of winds, the bird possessed the power to calm the rough winds and waves.

12. Hermes

The name of the God of travel deserves a place in the most beautiful Greek travel words for obvious reasons.

In Greek ἕρμα (herma) means “cairn, a pile of stones, boundary marker.”

13. Hodophile 

Origin: Greek

If you love to travel, you can consider yourself a Hodophile.

A lover of roads, one who loves to travel.

This word is derived from Ancient Greek ὁδός (hodós), which means travel.

14. Ithaka

How can a relatively unknown Greek Island be one of the most beautiful travel words?

Well, it’s all due to one of the most beautiful and famous travel poems of all time.

Ithaka Poem

As you set out for Ithaka
hope your road is a long one,
full of adventure, full of discovery.
…

15. Odyssey

In ancient Greek times, the most famous journey would have to be the one described in Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey.”

It took the Greek hero Odysseus ten years to return home after the Trojan War had finished.

16. Peripatetic

Origin: Greek

Someone who wanders from place to place, living a nomadic existence.

This word is traced back to the time of Aristotle and his followers. The philosophers often walked around peripatos (covered walk in the Lyceum) where Aristotle held his lectures.

It comes from the Greek word peripatētikos. From peripatein, meaning “to walk up and down.”

17. Santorini

Beautiful images of Santorini are often used in advertising and tourist brochures to get you thinking about taking a trip to Greece.

Ok, so it’s not a Greek word, but the island is in Greece, and it’s the most beautiful Greek Island in my opinion, so here it has to be.

18. Strikhedonia

Origin: Greek

If you ever felt like saying to hell with it, then you may be surprised to know that there’s actually a word for it. That word is strikhedonia.

It’s a popular Greek word associated with travel! That’s because many travelers and bloggers have done such a thing. To hell with it! I’ll quit my job and go traveling.

Obviously had to come from the Greeks.

19. Thalassophile 

Origin: Greek

For all of you beach lovers out there, this is what you are, a Thalassophile.

Derived from the Greek words θάλασσα / thalasso (sea), and -phile, from Greek philos ‘loving’.

20. Xenophilia

Origin: Greek

Someone who is attracted to foreign peoples, foreign cultures, manners, and/or customs.

It’s the reason why so many of us pack our bags to go traveling. Foreign things make travel experiences so much more interesting.

This unique travel word comes from the Greek “xenos,” meaning “stranger, unknown, foreign,” and “philia,” defined as “attraction or love.”

The beauty of this word is that it has the opposite meaning of being a Xenophobe.

Xenophobe describes a person that dislikes or is prejudice against people from other countries. No one wants to be known as a Xenophobe.

For this reason, I include Xenophilia as one of the most beautiful travel words.

Travel Words with Greek Origins that missed out

Acatalepsy – the idea that it is impossible to understand anything, which includes travel experiences.

Airplane (Aeroplane) – from the Greek ἀήρ (aēr), “air” and either Latin planus, “level,” or Greek πλάνος (planos), “wandering”.

Anemoia – a nostalgic sense of longing for a past you yourself have never lived. Maybe you were born in the wrong time period, or maybe you love something about a certain decade in time, like the music.

Aragma – The act of chilling. When the Greeks say ‘pame gia aragma spiti sou, ‘it means ‘let’s go chill at your place.’

Cosmopolitan – can be traced back to Pythagoras, who first used the Greek word kosmos to describe the order of the universe.

Erotic – from Eros, the Greek God of desire.

Eunoia – beautiful thinking.

Iris – Goddess of the rainbow.

Meraki – putting a part of yourself (your soul) into what you’re doing with complete focus and love.

Museum – from the nine Muses who presided over the arts and sciences.

Music – literally means the art of the Muses.

Nemophilist – lover of the woods.

Peratzatha – people-watching.

Philoxenia (Filoxenia) – literally translated as “friend to the stranger” / hospitality.

Taxidi – the Greek word for trip or journey.

I’m sure you would have learned a new word or two for this extensive list of beautiful travel words.

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Greece is one of the unique places with its mythological history, pleasing streets, warm people and delicious food, which visually satisfies our souls. It always arouses curiosity with its language and historical texture. In terms of the appearance of Greek letters Although it may seem incomprehensible, it is actually a pleasant language that leaves a sweet sound in the ear. Moreover, Greek and Greek words are very rich in terms of expressions and meanings. It is one of the oldest languages in the Indo-European family. If we look at its history, it has a rich and varied history with its writing system inspired by the Phoenician alphabet. The history of the Greek language spans more than 2,000 years and various periods, from the Archaic Period (900-600 BC) to the Hellenistic Period (323-30 BC), but its written tradition dates back to the 1st century BC. It begins with epic poetry at the beginning of the millennium.

One of the most fascinating things about the Greek language is its ancient roots. The Greeks have been speaking a unique language for over 3000 years! As we all know, alphabets were used in Ancient Greece and were taken as a part of cultural heritage by many countries colonized by the Greeks. Fortunately, being influenced by other languages does not change one’s roots; it just makes them stronger.

The dialect of Greece is a very poetic dialect. It has a soothing voice that makes it easy to learn and can be memorized effortlessly. Unlike other languages, Greek makes use of visual images in the meaning of words. So besides their true meaning, certain features such as colours, sounds and causes make them unique. Greek has been spoken for over three and a half thousand years, making it the oldest of the Indo-European languages – hence its nickname “the mother of western languages”. Only 13.5 million people speak Greek as their mother tongue, but the global impact is huge. Most of the major foundational texts in Western philosophy – think Plato and Aristotle. And Greek is the foundation of grammar and syntax rules, as well as words and phrases in languages spoken around the world, so don’t be surprised if some of these words sound familiar to you.

We have compiled the meanings of some of the most beautiful words in modern Greek for you. Here are some beautiful Greek words that will make you wonder what I’m waiting for to discover the history of this poetic language and its effects on languages in the world. Happy reading…

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1) Charmolypi | χαρμολύπη

The first word in our list of Greek words is charmolypi. The expression Charmolipi etymologically refers to the word “joy and sorrow”. It is basically a compound word consisting of the terms joy and grief or sadness. It’s hard to translate, but conveys the idea of bittersweetness and having mixed feelings about something. It is more practical to say that chrematoli can be written as Chara (joy) or Molos (sadness). The word Charmolipi cannot be translated exactly but still it is wonderful and full of meaning. Composed of two Greek terms, one for joy and the other for grief, charmolipi encompasses all of what life means. After all, isn’t it a stunning mix of joy and sorrow?

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2) Elpida | ελπίδα

This beautiful word has an equally wonderful meaning. Derived from the word Elpis, Elpida means hope. In Greek mythology, Elpis was considered the spirit and embodiment of hope, and was usually represented by a young woman bearing fertility. Elpida comes from the ancient Greek word ἐλπίς (elpis) and is the personification and spirit of hope in Greek mythology, often depicted as a young woman bearing flowers or fertility. Today, Elpida is actually a popular name for women.

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3) Ygeia | ὑγίεια

Today’s medical care has its roots in ancient Greece. The word Ygeia extends from these roots to the present day. The word associated with Hygieia, the goddess of health and cleanliness, is derived from the word “hygiene”. Before it became colloquial, the Modern Greek phrase “Geia sou or Geia sas”—meaning “your health”—was used to wish someone well. Ygeia is also part of the Greek greeting Yia Sou, which is a wish for health.

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4) Philoxenia | φιλοξενία

We’re sure you’ve heard how hospitable the Greeks are. But did you know that this hospitality dates back to ancient Greece? True, the ancestors of the Greeks thought that Zeus sent strangers on their way and they had a moral obligation to offer everything they could to outsiders, who were considered holy persons. Okay, maybe your hotel owner or a stranger you ask for directions on the street won’t consider you exactly holy today, but they will definitely be really friendly to you and treat you like a guest of their country. Also, the word they use to describe their hospitality is the same as the Greeks used in antiquity: “filoxenia”[filokseniːa] , literally being friends with strangers.

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5) Kalon | καλόν

The word kalon means beautiful in Greek. It does not only express the visible beauty, but also expresses the invisible beauty by looking at the skin. It is used to describe someone who is not only outwardly great, but also has noble intentions and an honorable character. Greek words fascinate us all with the meanings of their roots as they reach our days, right?

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6) Filia | φιλία

Many languages use a word meaning “kisses” and “filia” as their tradition of saying goodbye.[filiaː] This is exactly what it means in Greek. Contrary to what you might imagine, it doesn’t usually mean intimacy, although it’s obvious that you’d just call someone you know pretty well “filia”, whether when you’re leaving or before you hang up. The “sweeter” version is “filakia” (literally little kisses) in which younger women sing more often. The Greek word for “kiss” is “friendship”[filiːa] You also need to make sure you don’t confuse it with

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7) Curiosity | µεράκι

This word is one of the most difficult to translate; Doing something out of curiosity means adding “a piece of your soul” to what you do. The root of this term is curiosity, which means doing something with pleasure or “labor of love” in Turkish. In usage, this word expresses a passion, an absolute devotion. When you do something with Meraki, you put your soul into it. Surprisingly, this widely used modern Greek word comes across as the term “curiosity” in Turkish. Well, curiosity breeds passion, and passion breeds labor and love. Doesn’t the thought in Turkish sound great to you too?

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Peratzatha | Περατζάδα

“peratzatha”, one of many words that can tell you something about Greek culture[peratzaːða] refers to the idle but extremely relaxing activity of people watching. Many Greeks consider this one of the most fun things to do in life, so if you’ve been to Greece before, you’ve probably noticed that many Athenian bars and cafes have tables outside. This is to take advantage of the gorgeous weather that Greece is proud of, of course, but also because there’s something strangely hypnotic about watching people pass by while you sip your coffee or drink. So, if an authentic travel experience of Greece is what you are looking for, we have not only taught you a really great Greek vocabulary, but also a very Greek alternative to the local activities that most local city tours require.

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9) Eudaimonia | ευδαιμονία

This word is formed from the root eu meaning good and tyhi meaning “luck”. It can also be translated as “contentment,” which some might say is the most genuine and most consistent form of happiness. Also spelled as Eudaemonia, the term refers to the state of being happy, healthy, and prosperous. Simply put, it means the state in which a person truly develops. We have to thank Aristotle for this term – a single term that effortlessly explains something so broad and profound.

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10) Aionia | αιώνια

The word comes from the ancient Greek term aion, meaning “age,” and gives English an indefinite but long period of time, aeon, or describes a large part of geological time. In astronomy and less formal contexts, an aeon denotes a time span of one billion years, while its full Turkish equivalent is infinity.

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11) Paracosm | παρακοσμικος

Paracosm comes from the ancient Greek words παρά (pará, ‘beside’, ‘beside’) and κόσμος (kósmos, ‘earth’, ‘universe’). The dictionary meaning of this word, also known as parakosmikos, can be defined as extraterrestrial. Together, these two expressions form the paracosm, an elaborate fantasy world woven especially by children. It is so fascinating that there is a separate Greek word for this wonderful thing that children do!

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12) Agapi | Aγάπη

With ancient Greek words, love is defined by many different words. Agapi is considered the highest form of love – the love of two partners for each other, the love that unites parents and their children, or even people’s love for God and vice versa. The term erotas (έρωτας) in modern Greek words means sincere love of a more romantic or sexual nature, while filia (φιλία) means love and friendship. It can be thought of how it differs from agapi in terms of meaning. What sets Agapi apart from others is that she is the purest form of love. Agapi or a-ga-pee is one of many beautiful Greek words for love.

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13) Kairos | καιρός

Closely related to the Greek word for time, chronos, kairos is the acknowledgment of a special moment in less than a measure of hours and years. It is the idea of the perfect moment, ripe for action. Kairos is the right moment, at the right time and in the right place, creating the perfect atmosphere for everything to fall into place effortlessly. While the English term serendipity is a fortunate development, Kairos capitalizes on coincidence. Isn’t it fascinating how everything is connected!

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14) Yia Mas | Για εμάς

As you can probably guess, “yia mas”[jaː mas] It is also a wish for health, but this time it is ours. Unlike yia soun, “yia mas” is not a greeting, but the standard toast we Greeks do before sipping a glass of alcohol in hand. So if you’re planning to explore the world-famous Athens nightlife, this is a phrase you’ll likely hear a lot. If someone offers you a toast saying “yia mas”, respond and enjoy. Pretty easy, right? You’ll enjoy Athens’ nightlife and bar hopping – and you’ll probably hear and sing about Yia Mas over and over!

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15) Philoteimos | φιλότιμο

Another difficult-to-translate word is filotimo, which encompasses a number of virtues: honor, dedication, duty, courage, pride, and honesty. Filotimo, meaning “friend of honor” or “love of honor”, refers to the once honorable and virtuous, even if it is not in his own interest. Although long counted among the highest of Greek virtues, it carried negative connotations in early writings.

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16) Chalara | χαλαρά

In its most general sense, halara means “keep calm”. When looking at the dictionary meaning, it means to relax, to relax. Often associated with the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki – known for its chilly atmosphere compared to Athens – chalara denotes a way of life meaning “relaxed” and “relaxed”.

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17) Nostalgia | Νοσταλγία

Nostalgia is one of the Greek words derived from nostos meaning returning home and algos meaning pain of something.
The meaning it gives is a combination of nostos, which means returning home, and algos, which means a dull pain, longing. Together, they create nostalgia, which refers to a deep nostalgia or sad love for the past—especially when talking about or commemorating something that was had but no longer has. Oh nostalgia!

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18) Petricho | πετρίκο

We continue our list of Greek words with a very familiar word that has been adopted in every language: petríko. It means the smell of earth where the first drop of rain touches it. Close your eyes and imagine that the rain has just started. When the first drops of rain hit the dry ground, an earthy scent comes to your senses – does it sound familiar? This wonderful earthy aroma is called petrichor and is composed of the Greek word for stone, petra, and īchōr, the blood of the mythological Greek gods. It refers to the pleasant earthy smell produced when it rains on dry ground, especially after a long period of drought. The word comes from the Greek words petra (stone) and īchōr (blood of the Greek gods).

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19) Eleftheria | Ελευθερία

Eleftheria, meaning “freedom”, specifically refers to the state of being freed from slavery. In essence, Eleftheria is gentle and pleasant; He is free-spirited and cannot be easily crushed. He doesn’t appreciate people with limited minds and attitudes. You can see this word in the Greek national slogan – Eleftheria i thanatos (Liberty or death) which is the subject of the songs of the Greek resistance against Ottoman rule.

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20) Philocalist | Φιλοκαλιστ

Philokalist or Philocalist is a Greek term used to describe a person who is able to see beauty in everything. The philologist is essentially a lover of beauty, someone who appreciates the beauty of the little things that make life worthwhile. It may not be a person found beautiful, but a tree, building or landscape. In short, this term tells us that we are in love with everything that looks beautiful. Wonderful!

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21) Eucharist | Ευχαριστω

The eucharist is a Greek word meaning ‘thank you’. Efharisto is a word you can use when you sincerely want to express your gratitude and appreciation for what has been given. If you’re traveling to Greece and just need to learn a word, let this be it. This will open up new conversations with the locals and let them know that you are enjoying all the philoxenia the Greeks shower on you!

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22) Calimera | Καλημέρα

“Calimera”[kalimeːra] another super useful and beautiful greek word. This is probably the clearest word we know of Greek. Kalimera literally means “have a nice day”. Technically, you have to use it until 12:00, after that “kalispera”[kalispeːra] – so it is preferable to say “have a nice day”. This distinction can be thought of as the difference between the English Good Morning and Good Afternoon. Both words are fairly easy to pronounce, so if you’re looking to impress your Athens tour guide or the Greek restaurant owner you just met, throwing a casual ‘kalimera’ or ‘kalispera’ into the conversation will likely get you patted on the back.

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23) Ataraxia | Aταραξία

The literal translation of Ataraxia is a state of calm calm. But the literal translation of the Greek word ataraxia is indifference. Its usage is used to express a state of ultimate freedom in which the mind is freed from the shackles of emotional disturbances such as stress and anxiety. Oh, dream!

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24) Parakalo | παρακαλο

The response to the Eucharist, parakalo, is the modern Greek word for “welcome”. But that’s not all! The Greeks like to attach several meanings to a single term. So parakalo means please along with the meaning of welcome. Between the eucharist and the parakalo, you can now say thank you, welcome and please – the holy trinity of a polite tourist!

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25) Empyrean | Ουράνιος

Yes, we have come to the end of our list of Greek words. We chose a great word for closing: Empyrean. It takes its origin from the modern Greek word empyros, which is on fire or burning. Its use comes from the Ancient Greek cosmology, the highest place in heaven called Empyrean. Although it is defined as heaven in the most basic sense, it is also referred to as the highest point of the sky, the sky dome in some sources. The term itself evokes a cosmic emotion, doesn’t it?

26)Philosophia | Φιλοσοφία

Philosophy” comes from the Greek word “philosophia,” which means “love of wisdom.” This word is derived from the combination of “philo,” meaning “love,” and “sophia,” meaning “wisdom.”

27)Theoria | Θεωρία

“Theory” comes from the Greek word “theoria,” which means “contemplation” or “a looking at.” This word is derived from the combination of “thea,” meaning “a viewing,” and “horao,” meaning “to gaze at.”

28)Klinike | Κλινική

“Clinic” comes from the Greek word “klinike,” which means “bed” or “infirmary.” This word is derived from the root “kline,” meaning “bed,” which is also the origin of the English word “incline.”

29)Krisis | Κρίσις

“Crisis” comes from the Greek word “krisis,” which means “decision” or “judgment.” This word is derived from the root “krin,” meaning “to separate” or “to decide.”

30)Khaos

“Chaos” comes from the Greek word “khaos,” which means “void” or “emptiness.” This word is derived from the root “kha,” which means “to gape” or “to be wide open.”

31)Kosmos | Κόσμος

“Cosmos” comes from the Greek word “kosmos,” which means “order” or “harmony.” This word is derived from the root “kosm,” meaning “to order” or “to arrange.”

32)Ekleipsis | Εκλειψις

“Eclipse” comes from the Greek word “ekleipsis,” which means “an abandonment” or “a failure to appear.” This word is derived from the combination of “ek,” meaning “out of,” and “leip,” meaning “to leave.”

33)Heureka

“Eureka” comes from the Greek exclamation “heureka,” which means “I have found it!” This word is derived from the combination of “eu,” meaning “well,” and “heurisk,” meaning “to find.”

34)Hyperbole | Υπερβολή

“Hyperbole” comes from the Greek word “hyperbole,” which means “excess” or “overstatement.” This word is derived from the combination of “hyper,” meaning “over,” and “bole,” meaning “to throw.”

35)Odysseia | Οδύσσεια

“Odyssey” comes from the Greek word “odysseia”

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How about learning Basic Greek words so that you can converse with local Greek people? Many people who visit Greece want to learn some basic Greek phrases and words before their vacation. This article includes some useful Greek words that Greeks use on a daily basis.

Introduction To Basic Greek Words And Language

The Greek language is one of a kind. The alphabet dates back thousands of years, and many of the terms we use now were also used in Ancient Greece.

The Greek alphabet is difficult for most tourists to master. However, after you’ve memorized the Greek letters, you should be able to read simple Greek words and phrases.

This will come in handy when commuting around Greece and the Greek islands since you will be able to read any traffic signs that are exclusively in Greek.

Useful Greek Words And Their Pronunciation

According to the prominent Greek linguist Georgios Babiniotis, the Greek language has over 100,000 words and Greek phrases. 

As you can imagine, very few of those words are used on a daily basis. Here are some of them.

‘Neh’ is the Greek word for ‘Yes.’ When we answer the phone, we also use Neh.

1. Yes – Neh – Ναι

Note: It’s worth noting that this precise word indicates ‘No’ in numerous other languages!

2. No – Óchi – Όχι

‘The Greek word for ‘No,’ chi’ or ‘hi,’ is a short word that many English speakers find difficult to pronounce. You can pronounce it as ‘oh-hee,’ with a hard ‘h’ sound.

3. Good Morning – Kaliméra – Καλημέρα

In Greece, ‘Kalimera’, in the basic Greek words list is one of the most commonly used terms. It is a compound word made up of the words kali, which means “excellent,” and imera, which means “day.”

‘Kaliméra,’ which literally translates to ‘good day,’ is commonly used when meeting someone for the first time throughout the day, or until late in the afternoon. It is perfectly OK to use it until 1-2 p.m.

4. Good Evening – Kalispéra – Καλησπέρα

In Greek, ‘Kalispéra’ means ‘happy evening.’ You can use it when you believe it is too late for ‘kaliméra,’ such as after 4-5 p.m.

Some people will convert to ‘kalispera’ just after lunchtime, which may seem a little severe given that it is not yet nightfall.

5. Goodnight – Kaliníhta – Καληνύχτα

‘Kalinchta’ is used to say goodnight to someone when you won’t see them again that evening.

It’s handy if you’re leaving a bar where you had dinner. If you stay in a hotel with a receptionist, you can say ‘kalinhta’ on your way back to your room.

6. Hello/Goodbye – Yiá, Yiássou, Yiássas – Γεια, Yεια σου, Yεια σας

If kaliméra, kalispéra, and kalinhta are too complicated, another customary greeting is yiássou, or yiássas. This basically means ‘to your health’ and can be used as both a greeting and a farewell.

7. Thank You – Efharistó – Ευχαριστώ

‘Efharistó’ is the first word that any courteous traveler will wish to learn, and it will make people smile. In fact, I’d argue that Greeks don’t say “thank you” as much as other people!

8. Please/You Are Welcome – Parakaló – Παρακαλώ

In contrast to ‘efharistó,’ the Greek word for ‘welcome’ is rather simple to pronounce: ‘pa-ra-ka-lo.’

We use the exact same word to say ‘please’ – not that you will hear this word all too often here!

10. Cheers – Yiá mas – Γεια μας

Assume you’ve ordered meals and beverages in a Greek taverna and it’s now time to raise your glasses and shout ‘cheers.’ That is referred to as ‘yiámas’ or ‘yiá mas’, which means ‘to our health’.

11. Water – Neró – Νερό

Given that Greece is a warm nation, at least in the summer, the word ‘water’ may be the most helpful Greek term you learn.

If you wish to buy a bottle of water, know the words’mikró’ (little) and’megálo’ (large).

Basic Greek Words Tourists Need to Know

The Greek language is difficult to learn and speak. When traveling anyplace in the globe, learning a few phrases like ‘hello,’ ‘please,’ and ‘thank you’ is always a kind gesture, and the Greeks appreciate the effort, no matter how excellent or awful the attempt. These are essential greek words.

General Rule Of Thumb: Greetings

Up until 12:00pm, you would say ‘kalimera’ (good morning), but from then on, ‘yia sas’ (hello) will be the usual greeting. From late afternoon through the end of the day, you will hear ‘kalispera’ (good afternoon/evening). You would say ‘kalinihta’ after leaving a restaurant or passing by the hotel reception desk on your way back to your room (good night). Related Post: Greek Travel Phrases

Responses To Greetings

If you’ve put your best Greek phrases to the test, many Greeks may respond to your polite greeting with any of the following:

Kalo-so-ri-sateh – welcome (or we welcome you)

Kalo Vrathi – wishing you a pleasant evening

Kalo Xi-mero-ma – wishing you good dawn or daybreak (usually after you’ve said “good night”)

Greek Pronunciation Pointers

Pronouncing the letter “g” when we speak English is a tough one for those with English-speaking backgrounds. The “g” or gamma in Greek can be pronounced like a “y” as in yellow and also as a soft “g” which we don’t have an exact reference for in English.

In basic terms you pronounce the “y” when we speak English like “yellow” when it has an “I” or “E” after it; e.g. Giro is YEE-ROH.

You use a soft “g” when there is an “A” “O” or “U” after it. E.g. Gala (milk) is “GH-ALA”. Think of the CH in bach or the Loch Ness monster.

Listen for this soft “g” sound in the phonetic audio below in “SIG-NOMI” (sorry or excuse me).

Learning A New Language Like Greek Is Always Fun

I am a great believer that communicating with natives in a distant location in one’s original language is a rewarding experience. Aside from the enjoyment of learning a new language, conversing with people in their native tongue will endear you to them even more as a visitor.

Some languages are simple to learn, while others are difficult. Greek, in my opinion, falls in the middle of the range. That’s simply because the Greek alphabet is more distinct than the Spanish and French alphabets. However, with only these 30 fundamental words, you’ll be able to tour Greece like a true native! Related Article Link: Greek Travel Phrases: #1 Accurate Guide

What Are The Most Common Words And Greetings In Basic Greek?

1. YAH-Soo – Hello And Goodbye

Every interaction, of course, begins with a simple “hi”! in the local language, The Greek language is remarkable in that “hello” and “goodbye” are the same words. Yah-soo, like ciao in Spanish/Italian and annyeong in Korean, may be used as a welcome as well as a farewe2. Eff-kha-ri-STO – Thank you to speak greek.

2. Eff-Kha-Ri-STO – Thank You

A good traveller is one who is courteous and good at speaking Greek if one is traveling Greek. When you’re in Greece, you’ll probably hear the term Effkharisto a lot. So give yourself some additional time to perfect your speech! Fortunately, it’s pronounced the same way it’s spelt!

3. Para-Kah-LOE – Please/You’re Welcome

Another Greek term with two meanings! You’ll most usually use this term to express “please,” but it might also signify “I beg your pardon.

4. Neh – Yes; OH-Hee – No

As in “neh”, I would like to visit the Acropolis in Athens, but “Ohhee”, I do not want to walk all the way there in the summer heat! 

5. See-GHNO-Mee – Sorry/Excuse Me

Athens is frequently busy during the day, particularly in tourist areas. If you come across someone who is impeding your progress, use this to grab their attention and request passage. If you trod on their foot WHILE you’re passing by, apologies again.

6. Endáxi – Okay/All Right

That’s not to suggest the Greeks don’t grasp the word “Okay.” After all, that is an international term. However, if you want to sound more like a native, use this term instead!

7. The Main Question Words

Look at the questions enlisted.

Before you can learn how to form certain questions, pay attention to these important question words and memorize them! 

How To Ask For Directions In Greek?

1. Edó – Here; Eki – There 

When all else fails, just point and say these words! 

2. Pou Ine To – Where Is The…

As in, pou une to nearest McDonald’s restaurant? 

3. Pou Pao Sto – How Can I Get To…

Another crucial phrase to remember when asking for directions. Don’t worry, I understand that simply memorising this sentence is insufficient. So, at the very end of this essay, I’ve added a table with some popular places and nouns to go with it.

4. Pou Mporo Na Vro – Where Can I Find…

Yes, yes, pou mporo na vro the key to your heart? -wink- 

5. Tha Ithela Na Pao – I Would Like To Go To…

If you forget how to use this phrase, your best chance is to get out a map and point!

6. Boreeteh Na Meh Voytheeseteh – Can You Help Me?

If you’re attempting to get instructions from someone on the street, this sentence is critical. However, I would not advocate uttering this remark in front of the Olympian Gods. They’re not well-known for being particularly helpful.

7. Pooh Eemeh? – Where Am I?

Speaking of the Olympians, in the unlikely event that you meet Dionysus in human form and get completely wasted before waking up somewhere you have no memory of, remember this phrase! 

8. Pooh Eeneh I Tualéta? – Where Is The Toilet?

And of course, the most important location (in my opinion at least) every traveler needs to know. After all, a happy traveller is one who travels with a relatively comfortable bladder. 

How To Order Food In Greek?

1. Tha Ithela Na Parageilo Parakalo – I Would Like To Order, Please

You might also raise your hand to draw attention to yourself. But approaching the waiter with this simple Greek phrase? They’ll be impressed, I’m sure.

2. Tha Ithela Na Eho – I Would Like To Have…

Again, just knowing this phrase isn’t enough. So I’ve got a table below with some common nouns. Don’t worry, I won’t abandon you the way the Olympians abandon their children!

3. Tha Mporousa Na Eho Ligo Nero? – Could I Have Some Water? 

Surprisingly, Nero was a Roman Emperor most known for setting the Great Fire of Rome. But don’t worry, if you say “Tha mporousa na eho ligo nero,” you will get a glass of water.

Learn Greek With Ling!

We have your back at Ling App! Start learning with Ling and improve your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation if you want to have smooth discussions with native speakers. Greek is a handy language to be spoken and to be learned. There are basic Greek words that ought to be learned if one has to visit Greek or the nearby areas where Greek is being used as a first language.

In this article, one can clearly grasp basic ideas and basic words to communicate in Greek with locals in an easy way. You must have realized after readings this article that Greek is not that much tough and anyone who has a good command of English can easily ace this language.