ώπα
ópa/ˈo.pa/
The Greek phrase ώπα (ópa) corresponds to the English "opa".
ώπα is an exclamation used to express sudden excitement, joy or to celebrate during lively moments such as dancing or drinking.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced as /ˈo.pa/. It has 2 syllables and the stress is on the first syllable.
When do people say it?
In social contexts, shouting ώπα is a common way to encourage people during traditional Greek music and dancing.
Did you know?
- While it usually means joy, ώπα can also be used as a reflexive exclamation when someone accidentally trips or drops something, similar to 'whoops'.
- In many Greek celebrations, you might hear someone shout ώπα followed by the sound of glass shattering, as breaking plates was once a traditional way to express joy.
- In a dance setting, a performer might shout ώπα to signal a sudden change in rhythm or a dramatic leap, prompting the musicians to increase the intensity.
Examples in context
- Ώπα, τι έκανα!Ópa, ti ékana!Oops, what did I do!
- Ώπα, προσέξτε την τσάντα!Ópa, proséxte tin tsánta!Whoops, watch out for the bag!
Example conversation
Dimitris and Eleni are at a festive dinner party.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΏπα! Μουσική και χορός!Opa! Mousiki kai choros!Opa! Music and dancing!
- Ελένη EleniΕίσαι πολύ ενθουσιασμένος, Δημήτρη.Eisai poly enthousiasmenos, Dimitri.You are very excited, Dimitris.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΕίναι γιορτή, Ελένη!Einai giorti, Eleni!It's a celebration, Eleni!
- Ελένη EleniΈχεις δίκιο, πάμε!Echeis dikio, pame!You're right, let's go!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ώπα, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
