η μαμά σου
i mamá sou
The Greek phrase for "your mum" is η μαμά σου (i mamá sou).
This phrase is used to refer to the mother of the person you are speaking to.
Which one should you use?
While η μαμά σου is the common way to say "your mum", η μητέρα σου is a more formal way to say "your mother".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase changes depending on its role in a sentence. Use της μαμάς σου in the genitive case to indicate possession or relationship, such as "of your mum". Use τη μαμά σου in the accusative case when the phrase is the direct object of a verb, such as "I see your mum".
How do you pronounce it?
i mamá sou
Did you know?
- While 'your mum' is a common English insult, saying η μαμά σου in a serious Greek context is purely descriptive and lacks the aggressive 'yo mamma' slang connotation found in English.
- In Greece, it is common to use the phrase μαμά as a general term of endearment for any elderly woman who is acting in a maternal or caring role, even if she is not the speaker's mother.
- In Ancient Greek, the word μάμμη was not just used for 'mother', but was also a common term for a 'grandmother'.
Examples in context
- Η μαμά σου είναι πολύ καλή.I mamá sou eínai polý kalí.Your mum is very kind.
- Πώς είναι η μαμά σου;Pos eínai i mamá sou;How is your mum?
- Η μαμά σου σε κάλεσε;I mamá sou se kálese;Did your mum call you?
Example conversation
Maria and Dimitris are talking about a dinner invitation.
- Μαρία MariaΠότε θα έρθει η μαμά σου;Pote tha erthei i mama sou?When will your mum come?
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΘα έρθει στις επτά.Tha erthei stis epta.She will come at seven.
- Μαρία MariaΘα φτιάξω κάτι γλυκό για τη μαμά σου.Tha ftiaxo kati glyko gia ti mama sou.I will make something sweet for your mum.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΕυχαριστώ πολύ, Μαρία!Efcharisto poly, Maria!Thank you very much, Maria!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries η, μαμά, σου, CC BY-SA 4.0.
