Μπορώ να έχω τον λογαριασμό;
boro na echo ton logariasmo?
To ask can I get the bill? In Greek, say Μπορώ να έχω τον λογαριασμό.
This is a standard, polite way to ask for the bill in a restaurant or cafe.
What does it mean word for word?
Μπορώ να έχω means can I have, τον means the and λογαριασμό means bill.
How does it change in a sentence?
The Greek question mark looks like an English semicolon, so the written question ends with .
How do you pronounce it?
Romanized, it reads boro na echo ton logariasmo.
When do people say it?
In Greece the waiter usually does not bring the bill until you ask for it, since lingering at the table is normal.
Did you know?
- The word λογαριασμός for 'bill' comes from the same root as the English word 'logarithm'. Both originate from the Greek word for 'reckoning' or 'calculation'.
- In many Greek tavernas, you can ask for the bill without speaking by making a subtle writing motion in the air with your hand.
- When a Greek person offers to pay the entire bill for a group, it is more than just a polite gesture. It is considered a profound act of honor and generosity that traditionally requires the recipient to return the favor in a future outing.
Examples in context
- Συγγνώμη, μπορώ να έχω τον λογαριασμό;Sygnomi, mporo na eho ton logariasmo;Excuse me, can I get the bill?
Example conversation
Nikis and Kyriaki are finishing their meal at a restaurant.
- Νίκος NikosΉταν πολύ νόστιμο το φαγητό.Ítan polý nóstimo to faghitó.The food was very delicious.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΣυμφωνώ, ήταν υπέροχο.Symfonó, ítan ypérocho.I agree, it was wonderful.
- Νίκος NikosΓαρσόν, μπορώ να έχω τον λογαριασμό;Garzón, boró na écho ton logariasmó;Waiter, can I get the bill?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΘα τον φέρω σε ένα λεπτό.Tha ton féro se éna leptó.I will bring it in one minute.
