Τα λέμε σύντομα
Ta léme sýntoma
The English phrase "see you soon" is translated into Greek as Τα λέμε σύντομα (Ta léme sýntoma).
Τα λέμε σύντομα is used as a way to say goodbye. In many contexts, the phrase functions as an idiom meaning "we'll talk" or "we'll catch up."
Meaning: goodbye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The literal translation of Τα λέμε σύντομα is "We say them soon." The part Τα λέμε means "we say them" (referring to things or words) and σύντομα means "soon."
Which one should you use?
While Τα λέμε σύντομα is used for a general "see you soon," you can use Τα λέμε σε λίγο if you expect to see the person much sooner, such as within a few minutes or an hour.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Τα λέμε σύντομα is an informal or semi-formal phrase typically used among friends and acquaintances. The shorter version, Τα λέμε, is also an informal way to say "see you soon."
How does it change in a sentence?
The idiomatic component Τα λέμε translates to "we say them" or "we'll talk."
How do you pronounce it?
Ta léme sýntoma
Did you know?
- While English speakers focus on the eyes with 'see you', Greeks often focus on the tongue by using the verb 'λέω' (to say) to signify an upcoming meeting.
- Because Τα λέμε implies a future conversation, using it when you actually intend to move away permanently or never speak to someone again would be a massive social blunder.
- The word σύντομα shares its root with the word for 'brief' or 'short', treating time as a physical distance that can be shortened.
Examples in context
- "Αντίο." "Τα λέμε σύντομα.""Bye." "See you soon."This example shows a common exchange between a farewell and the response Τα λέμε σύντομα.Tatoeba #11650574 by carlosalberto, translation #11650540 by carlosalberto
- Τα λέμε σύντομα.See you soon.This example demonstrates the standalone use of Τα λέμε σύντομα.Tatoeba #11274032 by carlosalberto, translation #456665 by lukaszpp
- Τα λέμε σύντομα, λοιπόν.Ta leme sintoma, lipon.See you soon, then.
Example conversation
Eleni and Nikos are finishing a coffee date.
- Ελένη EleniΉταν ωραία που σε είδα, Νίκο.Itan oraia pou se eida, Niko.It was nice seeing you, Nikos.
- Νίκος NikosΚι εμένα επίσης, Ελένη.Ki emena episis, Eleni.Me too, Eleni.
- Ελένη EleniΤα λέμε σύντομα λοιπόν.Ta leme syntoma loipon.See you soon then.
- Νίκος NikosΝαι, ορίστε το τηλέφωνό μου.Ne, oriste to tilefono mou.Yes, here is my phone number.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
