Why Greek Is One of the Coolest Languages to Learn
The Greek language is one of the oldest languages still spoken today. It dates back to the 15th century B.C., making it an incredible tool for understanding ancient history, mythology, and modern European culture.
Today, Greek is the official language of Greece and Cyprus, and also one of the 23 official languages of the European Union. It’s spoken by more than 25 million people around the world—not just in Greece, but also in Greek communities in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and beyond!
The Greek Alphabet
Greek has 24 letters, written in both lowercase and uppercase forms. Many of these letters look different from English, but some are familiar too! Learning the alphabet is the first step to reading Greek books, signs, and stories.
Easy Greek Phrases for Kids
Here are some everyday Greek words and phrases children can learn to say hello, introduce themselves, and be polite in Greek:
- Welcome – Kalos Ilthes / Kalos Orises
- Hello – Yia / Yia sou
- How are you? – Ti kaneis?
- Fine, thank you – Kala, efkharisto
- Please – Parakalo
- What is your name? – Pos se lene?
- My name is… – Me lene…
- Where are you from? – Apo pou ise?
- I am from… – Ime apo…
- Nice to meet you – Kharika gia ti gnorimia
- Good Morning – Kalimera
- Good Afternoon – Kalo Apogevma
- Good Evening – Kalispera
- Good Night – Kalinihta
- Goodbye – Andio
- Thank you – Efkharisto
- You’re welcome – Parakalo
- Sorry – Sighnomi
- Excuse me – Me singhoris
- Bon Appétit – Kali orexi
These phrases are a great way to build confidence and start understanding how Greek people communicate every day.
Did You Know? Thousands of English Words Come from Greek!
Over 50,000 English words have Greek roots. Many of these are used in science, medicine, and philosophy. Here are just a few examples that kids might recognize:
- Alphabet – Alphavitos
- Democracy – Dimokratia
- Idea – Idea
- Logic – Logici
- Rhythm – Rythmos
- Therapy – Therapia
- Museum – Mousio
- Philosophy – Philosophia
- Fantasy – Fantasia
- Zodiac – Zodiacos
Learning Greek helps children understand not only a new language, but also where many of the words they already know come from!
Let Kids Explore Greek with Confidence
Whether it’s saying “hello” to a Greek-speaking friend or reading signs while traveling, learning simple Greek words opens up a whole new world. Dinolingo’s Greek program offers fun and interactive lessons for children. Through animated videos, songs, and games, kids can hear real Greek words and practice speaking in a playful and effective way.
Give your child the gift of a new language, and a window into one of the richest cultures in the world!