If you’ve started learning Greek, you’ve probably noticed that there are two ways to say “you”:
- εσύ (esý) – informal
- εσείς (eseís) – formal or plural
But when exactly should you use each one? Using the right level of formality is essential in Greek culture — it shows respect, friendliness, or familiarity depending on the situation.
Let’s break it down:
✅ 1. Use “εσύ” (informal) when...
This is the singular and casual “you,” used with:
- Friends
- Family members
- Children
- Pets
- People your own age (especially if you've met before)
- In relaxed settings (cafés, bars, social media)
🗣️ Example:
Εσύ πώς σε λένε;
(Esý pós se léne?) – What’s your name?
👔 2. Use “εσείς” (formal or plural) when...
a) Talking to more than one person
Just like English “you” can mean one person or many, Greek makes this clear:
- Εσείς = you (plural)
🗣️ Example:
Εσείς είστε Έλληνες;
(Eseís eíste Éllines?) – Are you Greeks?
b) Showing respect or politeness
Use εσείς (formal) in these situations:
- With strangers
- With older people
- With professionals (doctors, teachers, police, etc.)
- In business or official settings
- When you want to be extra respectful
- 🗣️ Example:
Πώς λέγεστε;
(Pós légeste?) – What is your name? (formal)
⚠️ What happens if you get it wrong?
Don’t worry — most Greeks are forgiving if you're learning.
But using “εσύ” with someone older or in a formal situation might come off as too casual or even rude.
When in doubt, start formal (εσείς) — and if the person tells you “Μπορούμε να μιλάμε στον ενικό” (We can speak informally), you can switch to “εσύ.”
🧠 Pro Tip: Watch the verb endings!
“Εσύ” and “εσείς” need different verb forms:
| Pronoun | Verb (to be) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Εσύ | είσαι | Εσύ είσαι καλά; (Are you well?) |
| Εσείς | είστε | Εσείς είστε από εδώ; (Are you from here?) |
🎯 Final Tip:
When you meet someone new, especially if they’re older or in a professional role, start with εσείς. It’s safer and more respectful. Let them guide the tone from there.
