τετέλεσται
tetélestai
The Greek phrase for 'it is finished' is τετέλεσται (tetélestai).
τετέλεσται is used to denote the absolute completion of a task or a divine mission, famously appearing in a biblical context.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb τελέω (teleō), which means 'to complete', 'to fulfill' or 'to perfect'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form τετέλεσται is in the perfect tense. This emphasizes that an action has been completed and its results remain relevant or permanent, meaning 'it has been completed' or 'it has been fulfilled'.
How do you pronounce it?
tetélestai
Did you know?
- In the ancient world, τετέλεσται was often written on receipts to show that a debt had been paid in full.
- In Ancient Greece, the concept of 'telos' (the root of this phrase) was a central pillar of philosophy, referring to the 'end' or 'purpose' of a human life.
- In modern Greek, while τετέλεσται is understood, a person finishing a project would more likely use the word τελείωσε (teleióse). The form τετέλεσται carries a heavy, almost monumental weight that feels archaic in everyday conversation.
Examples in context
- Η εργασία ολοκληρώθηκε.The work is finished.
- Τελείωσε! Μπορούμε να πάμε για καφέ τώρα.It's finished! We can go for coffee now.
Example conversation
Kyriaki and Nikos are finishing a long project together.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΤέλοια το βιβλίο, Νίκο.Téloia to vivlío, Níko.The book is done, Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΝαι, τετέλεσται επιτέλους!Nai, tételestai epitélous!Yes, it is finished at last!
- Κυριακή KyriakiΕίμαστε πολύ κουρασμένοι.Eímaste polý kourasménoi.We are very tired.
- Νίκος NikosΑς πάμε για καφέ.As páme gia kafé.Let's go for a coffee.
