Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ
ton logariasmo, parakalo
To say "check, please" in Greek, you use Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ (ton logariasmo, parakalo).
This phrase is a polite request used to ask for the bill at a restaurant or cafe.
What does it mean word for word?
Τον λογαριασμό literally means "the bill" (in the accusative case).
How do you pronounce it?
ton logariasmo, parakalo
Did you know?
- The word λογαριασμό shares a root with the English word 'logarithm', as both relate to the Greek concept of 'reckoning' or 'calculation'.
- While you can say Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ verbally, many Greeks will simply make a writing motion in the air with their hand to signal the waiter.
- The word παρακαλώ is a contraction of the Ancient Greek παρακαλέω, which originally meant to 'beseech' or 'entreat' someone.
Examples in context
- Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ.Ton logariasmo, parakalo.The check, please.
- Θα ήθελα τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ.Tha ithela ton logariasmo, parakalo.I would like the check, please.
Example conversation
Kostas and Kyriaki are finishing their meal at a Greek taverna.
- Κώστας KostasΉταν υπέροχο το φαγητό.Itan yperochto to fagito.The food was wonderful.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΣυμφωνώ, ήταν πραγματικά νόστιμο.Symfono, itan pragmatika nostimo.I agree, it was really delicious.
- Κώστας KostasΓαρσόν, τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ!Garson, ton logariasmo, parakalo!Waiter, the check, please!
- Κυριακή KyriakiΘα το πληρώσω εγώ, Κώστα.Tha to plyroso ego, Kosta.I will pay for it, Kostas.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries παρακαλώ, τον, CC BY-SA 4.0.
