γεια σας, με λένε
geia sas, me lene
The phrase "hi, my name is" in Greek is translated as γεια σας, με λένε (geia sas, me lene).
This phrase is a polite way to greet someone and introduce yourself by name. While you can also use the phrase το όνομά μου είναι to mean "my name is", or use είμαι to mean "I am", the form με λένε is a way to introduce yourself.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase με λένε literally translates to "they call me". This is because the verb λένε is the third-person plural of λέω (to say or to call), meaning the construction literally means "they call me [name]".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are speaking to one person in an informal setting, you should use γεια σου, με λένε instead of γεια σας, με λένε.
How do you pronounce it?
geia sas, me lene
Did you know?
- If you introduce yourself in a group, you may hear others respond with χάρηκα, which means 'I was glad' or 'pleased to meet you'.
- The construction με λένε uses a passive sense of identity, implying that your name is something others give you or use to identify you rather than a possession you own.
- When you say γεια σας, you are not just saying 'hi', you are actually wishing the person 'health'.
Examples in context
- Γεια σας, με λένε Μαρία.Geia sas, me lene Maria.Hi, my name is Maria.
Example conversation
Nikos and Eleni meet for the first time at a professional event.
- Νίκος NikosΓεια σας, με λένε Νίκος.Geia sas, me lene Nikos.Hi, my name is Nikos.
- Ελένη EleniΧαίρομαι που σε γνωρίζω, Νίκο.Chairomai pou se gnorizo, Niko.I am glad to meet you, Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΕσάς πώς σας λένε;Esas pos sas lene?And what is your name?
- Ελένη EleniΕγώ είμαι η Ελένη.Ego eimai i Eleni.I am Eleni.
