σε αγαπώ μπαμπά
se agapó babá
The English phrase "I love you daddy" is translated into Greek as σε αγαπώ μπαμπά (se agapó babá).
This phrase is an expression of affection used by a child to tell their father that they love him.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of σε (you), αγαπώ (I love) and μπαμπά (daddy/dad).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term μπαμπά is an informal and affectionate term for father, equivalent to 'daddy' or 'dad' in English. The forms Σ' αγαπώ, μπαμπά and Σε αγαπώ, μπαμπά are both informal ways to express this sentiment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word for daddy (μπαμπάς) takes the accusative form μπαμπά because it is being used as a direct address (vocative) in this sentence.
How do you pronounce it?
se agapó babá
Did you know?
- In Greece, the word μπαμπάς is often used as a general term of endearment for older men or respected figures, even if they are not the speaker's actual father.
- The verb αγαπώ comes from the ancient Greek word agápē, which refers to a selfless, unconditional love. This distinguishes it from érōs, the word for romantic or passionate love.
- The term μπαμπάς is an example of an 'onomatopoeic' family term, mirroring the natural babbling sounds of infants found in many different cultures.
Examples in context
- Πατέρα, Σ' αγαπώ τόσο πολύ!Dad, I love you so much!
- Σε αγαπώ μπαμπά, είσαι ο καλύτερος!Se agapo bampa, eisai o kalyteros!I love you daddy, you are the best!
- Σε αγαπώ μπαμπά, ευχαριστώ για το δώρο.Se agapo bampa, efcharisto gia to doro.I love you daddy, thank you for the gift.
- Πες το δυνατά: σε αγαπώ μπαμπά.Pes to dinata: se agapo bampa.Say it loudly: i love you daddy.
Example conversation
A young girl is giving her father a hug before school.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΣε αγαπώ μπαμπά!Se agapó mampá!I love you daddy!
- Νίκος NikosΚι εγώ σε αγαπώ, Κυριακή.Ki egó se agapó, Kyriakí.I love you too, Kyriaki.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΘα με πάρεις αργότερα;Tha me páreis argótera?Will you pick me up later?
- Νίκος NikosΝαι, θα είμαι εκεί.Nai, tha eímai ekeí.Yes, I will be there.
