Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ
Ton logariasmo, parakalo
The English phrase "can I have the bill" is expressed in Greek as Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (Ton logariasmo, parakalo).
Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ is the standard, polite way to ask for the bill in a restaurant or cafe in Greece.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "The bill, please".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Cyprus, you may use the phrase Θα μπορούσα να εξοφλήσω τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ. to mean "Could I settle the bill, please?"
How does it change in a sentence?
The word λογαριασμό (logariasmo) is in the accusative case because it is the direct object of an implied verb like 'bring' or 'give'.
How do you pronounce it?
Ton logariasmo, parakalo
When do people say it?
In Greece, raising your hand slightly with your palm facing downwards signals "May I have the bill?"
Did you know?
- The word λογαριασμό shares a root with the English word 'logarithm', as both derive from the Greek term for 'calculation'.
- Greek culture often treats the bill as a collective matter, so it is common for one person to pay for everyone rather than splitting the λογαριασμό exactly.
- The word παρακαλώ actually contains the roots for 'beseech' and 'call', which in ancient times meant to 'invite' or 'entreat' someone.
Examples in context
- Θα ήθελα τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ.Tha ithela ton logariasmo, parakalo.I would like the bill, please.
- Μπορείτε να φέρετε τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ;Borite na ferete ton logariasmo, parakalo?Can you bring the bill, please?
Example conversation
Nikos and Maria are finishing their dinner at a restaurant.
- Νίκος NikosΤον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ.Ton logariasmo, parakalo.The bill, please.
- Μαρία MariaΜαζί ή χωριστά;Mazi i chorista?Together or separate?
- Νίκος NikosΜαζί, ευχαριστώ.Mazi, efcharisto.Together, thank you.
- Μαρία MariaΟρίστε τον λογαριασμό.Oriste ton logariasmo.Here is the bill.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries παρακαλώ, τον, CC BY-SA 4.0.
