γεια σας, με λένε
geia sas, me lene
The English phrase "hello, my name is" is translated into Greek as γεια σας, με λένε (geia sas, me lene).
This phrase is a polite greeting used when introducing yourself to another person for the first time.
What does it mean word for word?
The part με λένε literally translates to "they call me".
Which one should you use?
While γεια σας, με λένε is a standard polite option, you may encounter other forms depending on the level of formality: Γεια, είμαι… is used for a more casual "hey, I'm…" and Χαίρετε, το όνομά μου είναι… is the formal way to say "hello, my name is…".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are introducing yourself to only one person in an informal setting, you can use γεια σου, με λένε instead of γεια σας, με λένε. Additionally, the word είμαι translates to "I am" in Greek.
How do you pronounce it?
geia sas, me lene
Did you know?
- The word γεια shares the same root as the English word 'hygiene'. Both come from the Ancient Greek ὑγιής, meaning 'healthy'.
- If you use the more formal Χαίρετε, you are using a verb that means 'to rejoice' or 'to be glad'.
- The formal greeting Χαίρετε is a direct survival from Ancient Greek. While γεια is used for daily life, Χαίρετε evokes a classical and highly respectful tone.
Examples in context
- Γεια σας, με λένε Μαρία και είμαι η νέα σας δασκάλα.Gia sas, me lene Maria kai eimai i nea sas daskala.Hello, my name is Maria and I am your new teacher.
Example conversation
Two people meeting at a professional conference.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΓεια σας, με λένε Γιώργος.Geia sas, me lene Giorgos.Hello, my name is Giorgos.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΧαρημένη που σας γνωρίζω, είμαι η Αναστασία.Charimeni pou sas gnorizo, eimai i Anastasia.Pleased to meet you, I am Anastasia.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΕίναι χαρά μου, Αναστασία.Einai chara mou, Anastasia.It is my pleasure, Anastasia.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΕυχαριστώ πολύ για την ευγένεια.Efcharisto poly gia tin eygeneia.Thank you very much for the kindness.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries γεια, με, CC BY-SA 4.0.
