βασικά
vasiká
In Greek, the phrase for 'basics' is βασικά (vasiká).
βασικά is used as a filler word or discourse marker to introduce a main point. It functions similarly to the English word 'basically', signaling to the listener that you are simplifying a complex idea or providing a summary.
What does it mean word for word?
The word βασικά is the adverbial form of the adjective βασικός, which means 'basic' or 'fundamental'.
How do you pronounce it?
vasiká
Did you know?
- The root of βασικά is linked to the concept of a 'king' or 'monarch' through the word βασιλιάς, implying something fundamental is also something supreme.
- In Greek, βασικά can be used to gently contradict someone. By starting a sentence with βασικά, a speaker can signal that the previous person was slightly wrong without being overtly aggressive.
- The adjective βασικός can describe a 'basic' salary or a 'starter' player in sports. In a football lineup, the 'starting eleven' are called the βασικοί players.
Examples in context
- Βασικά, πρέπει να φύγουμε τώρα.Vasiká, prépei na fígoume tóra.Basically, we have to leave now.
- Είναι βασικά μια απλή λύση.Íne vasiká mia aplí lísi.It is basically a simple solution.
- Βασικά, δεν ξέρει την αλήθεια.Vasiká, den xérei tin alítheia.Basically, he doesn't know the truth.
Example conversation
Kyriaki and Giorgos are discussing a plan for the weekend.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΠάμε σινεμά το Σάββατο;Páme sinemá to Sávvato?Shall we go to the cinema on Saturday?
- Γιώργος GiorgosΒασικά, προτιμώ να μείνω σπίτι.Vasiká, protimó na míno spíti.Basically, I prefer to stay home.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΓιατί δεν θέλεις να βγούμε;Giatí den théleis na vgoúme?Why don't you want to go out?
- Γιώργος GiorgosΕίμαι πολύ κουρασμένος, Κυριακή.Eímai polý kourasménos, Kyriaki.I am very tired, Kyriaki.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry βασικά, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
