καλή όρεξη
kalí órexi
The Greek phrase for "good appetite" is καλή όρεξη (kalí órexi).
καλή όρεξη is used to wish someone an enjoyable meal. It is the most common and standard expression used in Greece to wish someone a good appetite.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective καλή (good) and the noun όρεξη (appetite).
Which one should you use?
While καλή όρεξη is the standard form, you may see variations such as Καλή σας όρεξη for formal situations or Καλή μας όρεξη when eating with others.
How do you pronounce it?
kalí órexi
When do people say it?
When someone says καλή όρεξη to you, a common and polite response is ευχαριστώ (thank you).
Did you know?
- Greek has a specific word, κεφάλημα, to describe the feeling of being so full that you cannot eat another bite, the opposite state of όρεξη.
- The noun όρεξη is frequently used metaphorically in Greek to describe a 'zest' or 'drive' for life and success, not just food.
- While καλή όρεξη is common, Greeks often use the phrase γεια μας (to our health) or simply stin ygeia mas when starting a meal to toast the group.
Examples in context
- Σας εύχομαι καλή όρεξη.Sas éfchomai kalí órexi.I wish you a good appetite.
Example conversation
George and Kyriaki are sitting down for dinner.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΤο φαγητό είναι έτοιμο. Καλή όρεξη!To fagito einai etimo. Kali orexi!The food is ready. Enjoy your meal!
- Κυριακή KyriakiΕυχαριστώ, Γιώργο. Καλή όρεξη και σε σένα!Efcharisto, Giorgo. Kali orexi kai se sena!Thank you, George. Enjoy your meal too!
- Γιώργος GiorgosΦαίνεται πολύ νόστιμο.Fainetai poly nostimo.It looks very delicious.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΠράγματι, είναι υπέροχο.Pragmati, einai yperocho.Indeed, it is wonderful.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry καλή όρεξη, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
