Are you planning a trip to Greece or learning the language, but feel unsure about how to say hello in Greek properly? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people face this challenge, especially when visiting a new country or learning a new language.
I remember the first time I visited Greece, and how a simple “Καλημέρα” made me feel welcomed right away.
As your guide, we understand the importance of proper greetings in making a great first impression. With our expertise, we’ll help you navigate the most common and culturally relevant greetings in Greek, making sure you connect with locals smoothly.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Formal and informal greetings
- How to pronounce each greeting correctly
- When to use each phrase
Take the first step by reading on—you’ll be confidently greeting Greeks in no time, making your experience more authentic and enjoyable.
Main Ways to Say Hello in Greek
Whether you’re traveling to Greece or learning the language, mastering key greetings is essential. Here are the first three greetings to help you start conversations and connect with locals:
1. Γειά σας (Yia sas)
Γειά σας (Yia sas) is a formal Greek greeting that translates to “Hello” or “Hi.” It is commonly used when addressing someone you don’t know well, elders, or in professional settings. The pronunciation is Yia sas, with “Yia” sounding like the English word “ya,” and “sas” pronounced like “sahs.” It’s often used in both spoken and written language.
To respond to Γειά σας (Yia sas), you can simply say Γειά σας (Yia sas) back, which also means “Hello.” For a more informal tone, you might use Γειά σου (Yia sou), which translates to “Hi” and is used when speaking to someone you know well. Γειά σας (Yia sas) is a polite and respectful way to greet someone in Greece.
According to the study “Vocatives in service encounters: evidence from Greek,” Greek speakers use different address forms (vocatives) depending on the social context. In service settings, formal forms like Γειά σας (Yia sas) are used for politeness, while informal forms like Γειά σου (Yia sou) are used with friends or younger individuals.
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2. Χαίρετε (Cheretete)
Χαίρετε (Cheretete) is a formal Greek greeting that translates to “Hello” or “Greetings.” It is derived from the verb “χαίρω” (cheró), meaning “to be happy” or “to rejoice,” implying a wish for well-being.
Pronounced cher-eh-te-te, with a soft “ch” like in “loch,” it’s typically used in more formal settings, such as business interactions, official events, or addressing groups.
Though it’s not as commonly used in casual conversations today, Χαίρετε remains a polite and respectful greeting. In response, you can simply repeat Χαίρετε, maintaining the formal tone.
3. Καλημέρα (Kalimera)
Καλημέρα (Kalimera) is a common Greek greeting that translates to “Good morning.” It is used to greet people from early morning until midday, typically before noon. The pronunciation is kah-lee-MEH-rah, with emphasis on the second syllable.
One of my friends always greets me with “Καλημέρα!” every morning, making my day feel brighter and more positive.
Καλημέρα is a warm and friendly greeting, widely used in both casual and formal contexts, among friends, family, colleagues, or even strangers. It reflects a wish for a good and pleasant day. To respond, you can simply say Καλημέρα (Kalimera) back. It’s one of the most widely used and culturally important greetings in Greece.
Casual and Modern Ways to Say Hello in Greek
In addition to formal greetings, Greece offers plenty of casual ways to connect. These modern expressions will help you sound more natural when greeting friends or locals in everyday situations:
4. Καλησπέρα (Kalispera)
Καλησπέρα (Kalispera) translates to “Good evening” and is commonly used in Greece from the afternoon until night. The pronunciation is kah-lee-SPEH-rah, with emphasis on the second syllable.
It’s a polite and friendly greeting, often used in both casual and formal settings, when meeting someone later in the day. It can also be used as a way to say “hello” in the evening. To respond, you can simply say Καλησπέρα (Kalispera) back, continuing the friendly tone.
5. Έι (Ei)
Έι (Ei) is an informal Greek greeting, similar to “Hey” in English. It’s widely used in social settings, especially among younger people, close friends, or family members. The pronunciation is Eh-ee, with a relaxed, casual tone.
In Greek culture, this greeting reflects the warmth and closeness of relationships, particularly in more laid-back environments such as cafes, gatherings, or casual conversations. It’s a reflection of the Greek emphasis on friendly, personal interactions. To respond, you can simply say Έι (Ei) back, maintaining the friendly, informal vibe.
6. Γειά σου (Yia sou)
Γειά σου (Yia sou) is an informal Greek greeting, meaning “Hi” or “Hello.” It’s typically used when addressing friends, family, or people you know well. The pronunciation is Yia sou, with “Yia” sounding like “ya” and “sou” like “soo.”
This greeting reflects emphasis on warmth, familiarity, and personal connection. It’s a way to create an inviting atmosphere, often used in casual settings like social gatherings or when meeting someone on the street. A response is usually Γειά σου (Yia sou) back, maintaining the friendly tone.
See Also Hello in Italian
Regional and Cultural Variants of Greetings in Greece
Greece’s diverse regions have their own unique ways of greeting. Explore these culturally rich variations that reflect local traditions, customs, and the warmth of Greek hospitality across the country:
7. Ρε (Re)
Ρε (Re) is an informal Greek greeting commonly used among close friends, family, or younger people. It’s similar to calling someone “Hey” or “Dude” in English, and can convey both attention or affection depending on the tone.
The pronunciation is Re, with a short, casual sound. It reflects a relaxed, sometimes playful way of addressing others, often used in informal settings. It can also be used to express surprise or emphasis. The response is usually another Ρε (Re), continuing the laid-back vibe.
8. Καλώς ήρθατε (Kalos irthate)
Καλώς ήρθατε (Kalos irthate) is a formal Greek greeting that translates to “Welcome.” It is used to greet guests or newcomers in both social and professional settings. The pronunciation is Kah-lohs eer-THAH-teh, with emphasis on the second-to-last syllable.
This phrase reflects Greek hospitality, a central value in the culture, especially when inviting someone into your home, business, or a public space. It’s polite and respectful, often used during official events or when addressing a group. To respond, you can simply say Ευχαριστώ (Efcharisto), meaning “Thank you.”
According to the study “Understandings of Impoliteness in the Greek Context,” Greek communication values politeness, especially in formal greetings like Καλώς ήρθατε (Kalos irthate). This greeting reflects the Greek emphasis on hospitality and respect. Impoliteness is generally avoided in formal settings, highlighting the cultural importance of warm, courteous interactions.
9. Καληνύχτα (Kalinikhta)
Καληνύχτα (Kalinikhta) means “Good night” in Greek and is used to wish someone a restful night before they go to bed. Before heading to bed, my Greek friend always says Καληνύχτα, making me feel more relaxed and ready for sleep.
The pronunciation is kah-lee-NEEKH-tah, with emphasis on the second syllable. It’s a friendly and polite way to say goodbye in the evening. To respond, you can simply say Καληνύχτα (Kalinikhta) back.
Before heading to bed, my Greek friend always says Καληνύχτα, making me feel more relaxed and ready for sleep.
Additional Ways to Say Hello in Greek
- Τι κάνεις; (Ti kaneis?) – “How are you?”
Pronunciation: Tee KAH-nees? - Πως είσαι; (Pos eisai?) – “How are you?” (informal)
Pronunciation: Pos EE-seh? - Χρόνια πολλά! (Chronia polla!) – “Many years!” (used for birthdays or celebrations)
Pronunciation: HROH-nya POH-lah! - Καλησπέρα σας (Kalispera sas) – “Good evening” (formal)
Pronunciation: Kah-lee-SPEH-rah sahs - Καλή τύχη! (Kali tychi!) – “Good luck!”
Pronunciation: Kah-LEE TEE-hee! - Συγγνώμη (Signomi) – “Excuse me” or “Sorry”
Pronunciation: See-NOH-mee - Ευχαριστώ (Efcharisto) – “Thank you”
Pronunciation: Ef-khah-ree-STOH - Καλό ταξίδι (Kalo taxidi) – “Have a good trip”
Pronunciation: Kah-LOH tahk-SEE-thee - Αντίο (Adio) – “Goodbye”
Pronunciation: Ah-DEE-oh - Εις το επανιδείν (Is to epanidine) – “See you again”
Pronunciation: Ees toh ep-ah-nee-DEEN - Τα λέμε (Ta leme) – “See you” (informal)
Pronunciation: Tah LEH-meh - Ευτυχισμένο το νέο έτος! (Eftychismeno to neo etos) – “Happy New Year!”
Pronunciation: Ef-tee-khee-SMEH-noh toh NEH-oh EH-tohs! - Πάμε! (Pame) – “Let’s go!”
Pronunciation: PAH-meh - Καλή όρεξη! (Kali orexi) – “Enjoy your meal!”
Pronunciation: Kah-LEE OH-reh-ksee - Τι κάνετε; (Ti kanate?) – “How are you?” (formal, plural)
Pronunciation: Tee KAH-nah-teh? - Με γεια! (Me geia) – “Cheers!” (for drinking)
Pronunciation: Meh GHEE-ah - Καλημέρα σας (Kalimera sas) – “Good morning” (formal)
Pronunciation: Kah-lee-MEH-rah sahs - Στην υγειά σας! (Stin yia sas) – “To your health!”
Pronunciation: Steen ee-YAH sahs! - Χαρούμενη ημέρα! (Charoumeni imera) – “Have a happy day!”
Pronunciation: Ha-ROO-meh-nee ee-MEH-rah - Περαστικά! (Perastika) – “Get well soon!”
Pronunciation: Pe-rah-STEE-kah
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Hello in Greek: A Recap
How do you say hello in Greek? Greek greetings are an essential part of the culture, reflecting respect, warmth, and hospitality. Common greetings like Γειά σας (Yia sas) and Καλημέρα (Kalimera) are used in formal settings, while Έι (Ei) and Γειά σου (Yia sou) are more casual, typically among friends.
For evening greetings, Καλησπέρα (Kalispera) is used, and Καληνύχτα (Kalinikhta) is said before bed. Καλώς ήρθατε (Kalos irthate) is a welcoming phrase used for guests.
From my personal experience, when I visited Greece, I felt the genuine warmth of these greetings, especially Καλώς ήρθατε, which made me feel welcomed immediately. The diversity of greetings, from casual to formal, makes communication in Greece feel personal and connected, reflecting the culture’s emphasis on relationships.