κοιμήσου καλά
koimisou kala
The English phrase 'sleep well' is translated into Greek as κοιμήσου καλά (koimisou kala).
κοιμήσου καλά is used specifically to wish someone a good night's rest. While it focuses on the quality of sleep, the standard way to simply say 'goodnight' when leaving or ending a conversation is Καληνύχτα. For a more affectionate tone towards a loved one or significant other, you might say Καλή νύχτα μωρό μου, which means 'goodnight my baby' or 'goodnight my love'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase κοιμήσου καλά is composed of the imperative form of the verb κοιμάμαι (to sleep) and the adverb καλά (well).
Which one should you use?
κοιμήσου καλά specifically wishes someone a good sleep, whereas καληνύχτα is the standard way to say 'goodnight' when leaving or ending a conversation.
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a group of people or to use a formal/polite tone, change the form to the plural κοιμηθείτε καλά.
How do you pronounce it?
koimisou kala
Did you know?
- In Greek, the word κοιμήτομαι can be used as a euphemism for death, similar to how English speakers use the phrase 'fell asleep'.
- In Greek, the verb κοιμάμαι is a reflexive verb, which means that to say 'I sleep', you are literally saying 'I sleep myself'.
- While κοιμήσου καλά is a command to sleep well, it is not considered an impolite order because, in Greek culture, such wishes are seen as expressions of care rather than directives.
Examples in context
- Καληνύχτα, κοιμήσου καλά.Kalinyhta, kimisou kala.Good night, sleep well.
