Moving to a new country involves navigating a new culture, customs, and often a new language. For expats settling in Crete or any part of Greece, learning the local language can significantly enhance the experience, foster deeper connections with locals, and ease the transition into everyday life. While many Greeks speak English, especially in urban areas and tourist spots, mastering some essential Greek phrases can go a long way in making your stay more enjoyable and immersive. Here’s a guide to essential Greek phrases every expat should know.
Basic Greetings and Politeness
Kaliméra (Καλημέρα)
Good morning. Use this phrase until about noon.
Kalispéra (Καλησπέρα)
Good evening. This is appropriate from the afternoon onwards.
Kalínichta (Καληνύχτα)
Good night. Use this when you are leaving for the night or saying goodnight.
Yiá sou (Γειά σου) / Yiá sas (Γειά σας)
Hello/Hi. “Yiá sou” is informal, used for friends and family, while “Yiá sas” is more formal or plural.
Adío (Αντίο)
Goodbye. A simple way to take your leave.
Parakaló (Παρακαλώ)
Please or You’re welcome. It’s used both to ask for something and in response to “thank you.”
Efcharistó (Ευχαριστώ)
Thank you. Expressing gratitude goes a long way in any language.
Signómi (Συγγνώμη)
Sorry or Excuse me. Useful for apologizing or getting someone’s attention politely.
Everyday Interactions
Pos íse? (Πώς είσαι😉 / Pos íste? (Πώς είστε😉
How are you? “Pos íse” is informal, while “Pos íste” is formal or plural.
Kalá, efcharistó (Καλά, ευχαριστώ)
I’m fine, thank you. A typical response to “How are you?”
Ti kánis? (Τι κάνεις😉
What are you doing? or How are you? Another common greeting.
Ne (Ναι)
Yes. Useful for affirmative responses.
Ochi (Όχι)
No. For negative responses.
Entáksi (Εντάξει)
Okay. A versatile word that signifies agreement or understanding.
Shopping and Dining
Póso kostízei? (Πόσο κοστίζει😉
How much does it cost? Essential for shopping.
To logariasmó, parakaló (Το λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ)
The bill, please. Use this in restaurants or cafes.
Échete menú sta Aggliká? (Έχετε μενού στα Αγγλικά😉
Do you have a menu in English? Helpful in restaurants.
Néro (Νερό)
Water. An essential word, especially in the summer.
Kafés (Καφές)
Coffee. Crete has a rich coffee culture, so this will come in handy.
Psomí (Ψωμί)
Bread. Often served with meals.
Transportation
Pou íne to plisiésteros stathmós leoforeíon? (Πού είναι ο πλησιέστερος σταθμός λεωφορείων;)
Where is the nearest bus station? Useful for navigating public transport.
Ena isitírio, parakaló (Ένα εισιτήριο, παρακαλώ)
One ticket, please. Essential for buying tickets for buses, trains, or ferries.
Pos páo ston (στην)…? (Πώς πάω στον (στην)…;)
How do I get to…? Followed by your destination, like a place or address.
Emergency and Health
Voítheia! (Βοήθεια!)
Help! A crucial word to know in emergencies.
Íme arhrostos (ή είμαι άρρωστος)
I am sick. Important for communicating health issues.
Pou íne to kontinétero nosokomío? (Πού είναι το κοντινότερο νοσοκομείο;)
Where is the nearest hospital? Vital information in an emergency.
Eho alérgia (Έχω αλλεργία)
I have an allergy. Important to communicate health conditions.
Socializing
Tha ithela… (Θα ήθελα…)
I would like… Useful for ordering food, drinks, or asking for something politely.
Kalosírthate! (Καλώς ήρθατε!)
Welcome! Often used when welcoming someone to your home or event.
Cháromai pou sas gnorízo (Χαίρομαι που σας γνωρίζω)
Nice to meet you. Essential for introductions.
Péste to xana, parakaló (Πέστε το ξανά, παρακαλώ)
Please say that again. Useful when you didn’t catch what was said.
Cultural Phrases
Stin iyá mas! (Στην υγειά μας!)
Cheers! Commonly used when toasting with drinks.
Kali órexi! (Καλή όρεξη!)
Enjoy your meal! Equivalent to “Bon appétit.”
Kalí týchi! (Καλή τύχη!)
Good luck! A supportive phrase.
Chroniá Pollá! (Χρόνια Πολλά!)
Happy birthday! or Many happy returns! Also used for various celebrations like name days.
Conclusion
Learning essential Greek phrases can significantly enhance your experience as an expat in Crete. It not only shows respect for the local culture but also opens doors to deeper connections and richer experiences. Start with these basic phrases, and you’ll find that your efforts are greatly appreciated by the friendly and hospitable Cretan people. Embrace the language, and soon enough, you’ll feel more at home in this beautiful island paradise.