Να 'σαι καλά!
Náse kalá!
To say "have a good day" in Greek, the default is Να 'σαι καλά! (Náse kalá!)
These phrases are used as friendly parting wishes to wish someone well as they leave. While Να 'σαι καλά! is a friendly parting wish, it is also frequently used as a way to say "behave yourself" or "stay out of trouble" depending on the tone.
Which one should you use?
Καλή ημέρα translates to "Good day." whereas Καλή σου ημέρα is an informal way to wish someone a good day. Καλή σας ημέρα is a respectful and polite way to wish someone a good day, and Να περάσετε όμορφα is a polite way to wish someone a nice day in a formal context, while the informal version is Να περάσεις όμορφα.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Να 'σαι καλά! is the singular form used when addressing one person, meaning "May you (singular) be well!"
How do you pronounce it?
Náse kalá!
When do people say it?
When someone wishes you a good day, you can respond with Ευχαριστώ, επίσης, which means "Thank you, likewise".
Did you know?
- While Να 'σαι καλά! is used as a well-wish, a sharp, clipped delivery can turn it into a stinging rebuke meaning 'Go away and leave me alone' or 'Stay out of my business'.
- The particle να in this context traces its roots back to the Ancient Greek particle ἵνα, which was used to introduce a purpose or a result clause.
- When using the more formal Καλή σας ημέρα, you are addressing the person's entire household or status by using the plural 'you', even if only one person is present.
Examples in context
- Καλή σας ημέρα, παιδιάHave a good day, guys
Example conversation
Anastasia is leaving Nikos's house after a visit.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΠρέπει να φύγω τώρα, Νίκο.Prepi na fygo tora, Niko.I have to leave now, Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΉταν χαρά που σε είδα!Itan hara pou se eida!It was a pleasure to see you!
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΕμείς επίσης. Να 'σαι καλά!Emis episis. Na 'sai kala!Us too. Have a good day!
- Νίκος NikosΕυχαριστώ, και εσύ επίσης!Efharisto, kai esy episis!Thank you, and you too!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries να, CC BY-SA 4.0.
