Signification
Advising against overexertion.
Contexte culturel
In Athens and larger cities, the phrase is often used to combat the stress of modern urban life. It's a reminder to slow down. Cretans value 'leventia' (pride/strength) but also 'phronesis' (wisdom). Forcing something is seen as a lack of wisdom. In communities in the US or Australia, this phrase is often one of the few 'advice' idioms that second-generation speakers retain. Greek workplace culture is shifting, but 'Μην το ζορίζεις' remains a common way for colleagues to show solidarity against burnout.
The 'To' Rule
Always include the 'το' even if you aren't talking about a specific object. It makes the phrase sound natural and idiomatic.
Don't use with 'Den'
Saying 'Den to zorizis' sounds like you are observing a fact, not giving advice. Always use 'Min'.
Signification
Advising against overexertion.
The 'To' Rule
Always include the 'το' even if you aren't talking about a specific object. It makes the phrase sound natural and idiomatic.
Don't use with 'Den'
Saying 'Den to zorizis' sounds like you are observing a fact, not giving advice. Always use 'Min'.
The Halara Vibe
Use this phrase to show you understand the Greek way of life—prioritizing peace over unnecessary struggle.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct negation particle and the pronoun.
___ ___ ζορίζεις το κλειδί, θα σπάσει!
We use 'μην' for commands and 'το' as the object pronoun.
Match the phrase to the most appropriate situation.
When would you say 'Μην το ζορίζεις'?
The phrase is used to advise against overexertion or physical strain.
Complete the dialogue with the best response.
Πέτρος: 'Δεν μπορώ να λύσω αυτό το πρόβλημα μαθηματικών, θα μείνω ξύπνιος όλη νύχτα!' Μαρία: '__________'
Maria is advising Petros not to overexert his mind and to rest.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Active vs. Reflexive
Banque d exercices
3 exercices___ ___ ζορίζεις το κλειδί, θα σπάσει!
We use 'μην' for commands and 'το' as the object pronoun.
When would you say 'Μην το ζορίζεις'?
The phrase is used to advise against overexertion or physical strain.
Πέτρος: 'Δεν μπορώ να λύσω αυτό το πρόβλημα μαθηματικών, θα μείνω ξύπνιος όλη νύχτα!' Μαρία: '__________'
Maria is advising Petros not to overexert his mind and to rest.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, it's generally helpful and friendly. However, don't say it to a superior who is giving you a direct order, as it might sound dismissive.
Yes, but usually you would say 'Μην τον ζορίζεις' (Don't force him) or 'Μην την ζορίζεις' (Don't force her).
'Ζορίζω' is more colloquial and implies physical strain or 'hardship'. 'Πιέζω' is more formal and implies direct pressure.
Probably not. It's too informal. Use 'Δεν πρέπει να πιέζουμε τις καταστάσεις' instead.
Not exactly. It means 'Don't try so hard'. 'Don't worry' is 'Μην ανησυχείς'.
Yes, many Greek pop and laiko songs use it to talk about relationships that are failing.
Use the reflexive form: 'Μη ζορίζεσαι'.
Yes, it's very common for parents to say this to kids struggling with toys or homework.
You say 'Μην το ζορίζεις την πόρτα' or simply 'Μην ζορίζεις την πόρτα'.
The formal version would be 'Μην το πιέζετε'.
Expressions liées
Μη ζορίζεσαι
similarDon't strain yourself
Άστο να πάει
synonymLet it go
Σιγά-σιγά
builds onSlowly, slowly
Μην το πιέζεις
similarDon't pressure it
Χαλάρωσε
similarRelax
