Ναι, παρακαλώ
Nai, parakalo
Ναι, παρακαλώ (Nai, parakalo) is the Greek way to say "yes, please".
Ναι, παρακαλώ is used as a polite way to accept an offer or to agree to a request.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of Ναι, which means "yes" and παρακαλώ, which means "please".
How do you pronounce it?
Nai, parakalo
Did you know?
- The word ναι sounds exactly like the English word 'nay', which historically means 'no'. This can cause confusion for English speakers who might think a Greek person is declining an offer when they are actually saying 'yes'.
- In casual conversation, Greeks often signal 'yes' or 'no' with their head. While a nod means 'yes', a single upward tilt of the head often means 'no', which can be mistaken for a 'yes' by foreigners.
- If you use παρακαλώ as a standalone word, you are not just saying 'please', but you are also saying 'you're welcome' in response to a 'thank you'.
Examples in context
- Ναί, παρακαλώ. Σας ευχαριστώ.Yes, please. Thank you.
- Ναι, παρακαλώ, φέρτε μου το μενού.Nai, parakaló, férte mou to menoú.Yes, please, bring me the menu.
Example conversation
Dimitris offers Maria a cup of coffee.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΘέλεις έναν καφέ, Μαρία;Théleis énan kafé, María?Do you want a coffee, Maria?
- Μαρία MariaΝαι, παρακαλώ, Δημήτρη.Ne, parakaló, Dimítri.Yes, please, Dimitris.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΜε γάλα ή σκέτο;Me gála i skéto?With milk or black?
- Μαρία MariaΣκέτο, ευχαριστώ πολύ.Skéto, efcharistó polý.Black, thank you very much.
