μυρίζεις
myrízeis
The phrase "you smell" in Greek is μυρίζεις (myrízeis).
This phrase is used to tell someone that they have an unpleasant body odor. In Greek, the verb μυρίζω can mean both "to smell" (active) and "to have an odor" (stative), so saying "you smell" is often used to imply a bad odor unless an adjective is added.
Which one should you use?
While in English 'you smell' can be neutral, in Greek, using the verb alone to describe a person often carries a negative connotation of body odor.
How does it change in a sentence?
μυρίζεις is the second-person singular present indicative form of the verb μυρίζω.
How do you pronounce it?
myrízeis
Did you know?
- If someone says κάτι μυρίζει in a situation where there is no actual odor, they are using it as an idiom to say 'something is fishy' or that they suspect a lie.
- The verb μυρίζω is related to the ancient Greek word μύρον, which referred to precious oils and perfumes used in antiquity.
- To describe a very strong or pungent smell, Greeks often use the expression μυρίζει μέχρι εδώ, which literally means 'it smells up to here'.
Examples in context
- Μυρίζεις άσχημα.You smell bad.This sentence is useful for saying "You smell bad" using μυρίζεις.Tatoeba #5485804 by Zeus, translation #5006758 by Lindoula
- Μυρίζεις σα χαλασμένο αυγό.You smell like a rotten egg.This sentence is useful for saying "You smell like a rotten egg" using μυρίζεις.Tatoeba #9628329 by TurkishReform, translation #9773266 by Nylez
Example conversation
Maria notices a strong smell when Nikos comes near her.
- Μαρία MariaΝίκο, μυρίζεις πολύ.Niko, myrizis polyNikos, you smell a lot.
- Νίκος NikosΑλήθεια. Γιατί;Alitheia, Giati?Really? Why?
- Μαρία MariaΠρέπει να πάρεις ένα ντους.Prepei na pareis ena ntousYou need to take a shower.
- Νίκος NikosΈχεις δίκιο, θα πάω τώρα.Echeis dikio, tha pao toraYou are right, I will go now.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
