μερικές φορές
merikés forés
The English word 'sometimes' is translated into Greek as μερικές φορές (merikés forés). Wiktionary also lists ενίοτε (eníote) and καμιά φορά (kamiá forá).
Meaning: on certain occasions, but not always (adv)
Ways to say it
| Greek | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| μερικές φορές | merikés forés |
| ενίοτε | eníote |
| καμιά φορά | kamiá forá |
All forms are adverbs used to indicate that something happens on certain occasions, but not always.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase μερικές φορές literally translates to 'some times'.
Which one should you use?
While μερικές φορές is the standard expression, you may encounter ενίοτε in more formal or literary contexts and καμιά φορά is used to express 'sometimes' or 'once in a while' in a more casual manner.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Use ενίοτε for a more formal or literary tone, and use καμιά φορά when speaking casually or colloquially.
How do you pronounce it?
merikés forés
Did you know?
- The word φορά used in μερικές φορές shares the same root as the English word 'metaphor', which literally means a 'transfer' or 'carrying across'.
- The phrase καμιά φορά uses καμιά, which is a colloquial version of κανенά. In negative sentences, this same root creates the word for 'none' or 'nothing'.
- The word ενίοτε is built from the root for 'one', implying that 'sometimes' is the occurrence of a single, isolated instance among many.
Examples in context
- Μερικές φορές κάνουμε λάθη.We sometimes make mistakes.This sentence shows how to use μερικές φορές to talk about making mistakes.Tatoeba #5443780 by Zeus, translation #248225 by CK
- Μερικές φορές σε καταλαβαίνω.Sometimes I understand you.This sentence shows how to use μερικές φορές to express understanding someone.Tatoeba #5515083 by Zeus, translation #5506618 by confusedchild02
- Μερικές φορές έρχεται με βλέπει.He sometimes comes to see me.This sentence shows how to use μερικές φορές to describe someone visiting.Tatoeba #2467851 by Zeus, translation #291997 by CK
- 12 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Nikos and Kyriaki are talking about their morning routines.
- Νίκος NikosΠίνεις καφέ κάθε πρωί, Κυριακή;Pineis kafe kathe proi, Kyriaki?Do you drink coffee every morning, Kyriaki?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΌχι, μερικές φορές πίνω τσάι.Ochi, merikes fores pino tsai.No, sometimes I drink tea.
- Νίκος NikosΠροτιμάς το πράσινο τσάι;Protimas to prasino tsai?Do you prefer green tea?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝαι, μου αρέσει πολύ.Nai, mou aresei poly.Yes, I like it a lot.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sometimes” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries φορά, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
