The most common way to say "hello" in Greek is:
- Γειά σου (Yia sou) for informal situations, meaning "hello to you" (singular).
- Γειά σας (Yia sas) for formal situations or when addressing multiple people, showing respect.
Another popular greeting is simply Γειά (Yia), pronounced like "ya," which means "hello" or "hi." For specific times of day, Greeks often use:
- Καλημέρα (Kalimera) to say "good morning."
- Καλησπέρα (Kalispera) for "good afternoon" or "good evening."
- Καληνύχτα (Kalinikhta) for "good night."
Informal greetings among friends might include phrases like "Τι λέει;" (Ti lei?), meaning "What's up?" So, a straightforward and common "hello" is Γειά σου (Yia sou) or just Γειά (Yia). The word Γειά comes from "health," so it is like wishing someone good health when you greet them. For formal or polite use, especially with strangers or elders, use Γειά σας (Yia sas).
