Yia
Yia means “hello” and it is pronounced Yah. It is one of the most commonly used words in the Greek vocabulary.
Oi
It means “no” and it is pronounced oee. The actual word of “no” is pronounced Ohi in Greek, however Cretans have a distinguished way of pronouncing some Greek words.
Ne
Ne means “yes” and it is pronounced Neh.
Kalimera
Kalimera is pronounced Kaleemera and comes from the two words “good” and “day.” It is used to say “good morning.” Proper Cretans swap Ls for Rs, so this sounds Kareemera if you want to sound authentic!
Yia Mas
Yia Mas is pronounced Yah Mas and means “to our health.” It is used to cheer when having a drink! Once again Proper Cretans swap Ys for Zs, so this would sound Zah Mas!!
Ida
Ida stands for “what” and is pronounced eeda. Greeks from other parts of Greece will not understand this as it is only used in Crete!
Ante
Ante stands for “come on” and is pronounced ade.
Ela
Ela is pronounced as it is written and it means “come” or “come on.” It is often used with “ante” and “pame.”
Pame
This is the Greek “vamos” which means “let’s go” and is pronounced pameh.
Opa
Not actually a word but more of an exclamation! It can also be used to say “stop.”
Efharisto
This means “thanks” and it is one of the most common Greek words. It is pronounced efhareesto.
Parakalo
Parakalo means “you’re welcome” and also “please” and its pronunciation is as it reads.
Re or More
These are slang words and are basically the same. They are pronounced reh and moreh. Their origin is from the Ancient Greek word “moros” which actually means stupid, however they are used commonly used in everyday Greek. No one will take offence, trust us!
Filia
Filia stands for kisses and it is said like feelia. It can be used as a goodbye.
Kalinihta
Kalinihta is pronounced Kaleeneehta and comes from the two words “good” and “night.” It is used to say good night.
