Γεια σας και σας ευχαριστώ
Geia sas kai sas efcharistó
The Greek phrase for "hello and thank you" is Γεια σας και σας ευχαριστώ (Geia sas kai sas efcharistó).
This phrase is used to combine a greeting with an expression of gratitude in a single polite statement.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Health to you and to you I thank you".
How do you pronounce it?
Geia sas kai sas efcharistó
Did you know?
- Because Γεια σας is rooted in the concept of 'health', it is a direct descendant of the Ancient Greek word ὑγίεια, which is the ancestor of the English word 'hygiene'.
- While Γεια σας is the polite form, friends often shorten it to just Γεια. In this casual context, it can function as both 'hello' and 'goodbye'.
- In some Greek islands, the way people greet each other can involve specific hand gestures that complement the verbal 'health' wish.
Examples in context
- Γεια σας και σας ευχαριστώ για τη βοήθεια.Ya sas kai sas efharisto gia ti voitheia.Hello and thank you for the help.
- Γεια σας και σας ευχαριστώ για το δώρο.Ya sas kai sas efharisto gia to doro.Hello and thank you for the gift.
Example conversation
Nikos is entering a shop and receiving a package from Maria.
- Νίκος NikosΓεια σας και σας ευχαριστώ για το δέμα.Geia sas kai sas efcharisto gia to dema.Hello and thank you for the package.
- Μαρία MariaΠαρακαλώ, κύριε Νίκο.Parakalo, kyrie Niko.You're welcome, Mr. Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΕίναι όλα έτοιμα;Einai ola etyma?Is everything ready?
- Μαρία MariaΝαι, είναι εδώ.Nai, einai edo.Yes, it is here.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries γεια, ευχαριστώ, και, CC BY-SA 4.0.
