Greek Greetings

Saying Hello in Greek

When visiting Greece or interacting with Greek speakers, few things spark a warm welcome like greeting someone in their own language. In Greek culture, these simple words carry a special weight in showing politeness, friendliness, and respect. Even if you only learn a few basic phrases, your efforts often lead to more open and enjoyable conversations. So, whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Athens, exploring a village on Crete, or simply meeting Greek friends abroad, these greetings will help you feel more connected.

Though Greek (ελληνικά) might look or sound different from your native language, you’ll find that the most common greetings are easy to pick up. A little practice goes a long way in feeling comfortable using them in everyday situations.

How to Greet Someone

Greek greetings follow similar rules to many cultures: a more formal approach for older people, professional settings, or anyone you want to show extra respect to, and a more casual style for friends, family, or people close to your age group.

Informal Greetings

Use these when speaking to:

• φίλος → friend (male)
• φίλη → friend (female)
• μαμά → mom
• μπαμπάς → dad
• αδερφή → sister
• αδερφός → brother

Formal Greetings

Use these when addressing:

• γείτονας → neighbor (male)
• γειτόνισσα → neighbor (female)
• κύριος → Mr.
• κυρία → Mrs./Ms.
• καθηγητής → teacher/professor (male)
• καθηγήτρια → teacher/professor (female)

Times of the Day:

• πρωί → morning
• μέρα → day
• απόγευμα → afternoon/evening
• νύχτα → night

Greek Small Talk – Don’t Get Confused!

Greeks often greet each other with lively expressions that might confuse a newcomer. You could hear «Πού είσαι;» (Where are you?) even though the person is right in front of them! Or «Τι γίνεται;» (What’s happening?) as a quick “How are you?”—no dramatic event needed. It’s a casual way of showing interest in each other’s life.

Πού χάθηκες; → Where have you been “lost”?
Εδώ ήμουν! → I was here!

Τι γίνεται; → What’s going on?
Όλα καλά! → All good!

With these key Greek greetings, you’ll be ready to start conversations and build rapport. Don’t be shy—practicing even a few words can quickly break the ice and lead to friendly chats about everyday life, Greek cuisine, or local customs.