πώς λέγεται
pos legetai
The Greek phrase for "how do you say" is πώς λέγεται (pos legetai).
This phrase is used to ask for the name of an object or the translation of a word into another language.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, πώς λέγεται means "how is it said", utilizing the passive voice of the verb λέω (to say).
Which one should you use?
While πώς λέγεται is the standard way to ask for a name or translation, the colloquial alternative πώς το λένε means "how do they say it".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase πώς λέγεται uses the third-person singular passive form, which functions as a general "how is it called/said" rather than addressing a specific person as "you".
How do you pronounce it?
pos legetai
Did you know?
- The verb within the phrase, λέω, is the same root used in the English word 'lexicon'. This links the simple act of 'saying' in Greek to the formal study of vocabulary in English.
- Because πώς λέγεται uses the third-person singular, it is perfectly safe to use when you do not know whom you are addressing. It avoids the need to choose between the formal εσείς or informal εσύ.
- The colloquial form πώς το λένε uses a plural 'they' to refer to an undefined group of people. This reflects a common Greek linguistic habit of using the plural to describe general social consensus or common knowledge.
Examples in context
- Πώς λέτε 'Good morning' στα ελληνικά;How do you say 'Good morning' in Greek?
- Πως λέγεται 'Delicious' στα ελληνικά;How do you say 'Delicious' in Greek?
- Πώς καλένουμε 'Thank you' στα κρητικά;How do we say 'Thank you' in the Cretan dialect?
- Πώς λέγεται αυτό στα αγγλικά;Pós légetai aftó sta angliká;How do you say this in English?
- Πώς λέγεται η λέξη «μήλο» στα γερμανικά;Pós légetai i léxi "mílo" sta yermaniká;How do you say the word "apple" in German?
Example conversation
Nikos is learning Greek with Maria.
- Νίκος NikosΜαρία, πώς λέγεται αυτό;María, pós légetai aftó?Maria, how do you say this?
- Μαρία MariaΑυτό λέγεται βιβλίο, Νίκο.Aftó légetai vivlío, Níko.This is called a book, Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΕίναι εύκολο, ευχαριστώ πολύ!Eínai éfcolo, efcharistó polý!It is easy, thank you very much!
- Μαρία MariaΠαρακαλώ, Νίκο!Parakaló, Níko!You are welcome, Nikos!
