뜻
It is complex.
문화적 배경
The phrase is often used to introduce 'The Greek Paradox'—where something that should be easy (like paying a bill) becomes a multi-step odyssey. In Cyprus, the phrase is used similarly, but often with a local accent and sometimes followed by 'εννά δούμε' (we shall see), indicating a long wait. Second-generation Greeks often use this phrase when trying to explain the complexities of their dual identity or family traditions to non-Greeks. In the startup scene in Athens, this phrase is being replaced by the English 'It's complicated,' but 'Δεν είναι καθόλου απλό' remains the standard for serious professional setbacks.
The 'But' Rule
This phrase is almost always followed by 'γιατί' (because) or 'αλλά' (but). Prepare your explanation!
Gender Agreement
Always check if you are talking about 'το πράγμα' (neuter) or 'η κατάσταση' (feminine).
뜻
It is complex.
The 'But' Rule
This phrase is almost always followed by 'γιατί' (because) or 'αλλά' (but). Prepare your explanation!
Gender Agreement
Always check if you are talking about 'το πράγμα' (neuter) or 'η κατάσταση' (feminine).
Sarcastic Use
You can use it sarcastically when someone does something obviously stupid: 'Ε, δεν είναι και καθόλου απλό να πατήσεις ένα κουμπί!'
Patience
When a Greek says this, they are asking for your patience. Don't rush them.
셀프 테스트
Fill in the correct form of the adjective 'απλό'.
Η διαδικασία για τη βίζα δεν είναι καθόλου ______.
The noun 'διαδικασία' (process) is feminine singular.
Which sentence is the most natural response to: 'Γιατί δεν φτιάχνεις μόνος σου το λάπτοπ;'
Response:
This correctly uses the negation and provides a reason for the complexity.
Match the situation to the correct variation of the phrase.
Situation: You are explaining that a breakup is complicated because children are involved.
This phrase captures the emotional and social complexity of the situation.
Complete the dialogue.
Α: Μπορούμε να πάμε με τα πόδια στην παραλία; Β: ________, ο δρόμος είναι κλειστός και πρέπει να κάνουμε κύκλο.
The explanation about the closed road justifies the use of 'not simple at all'.
🎉 점수: /4
시각 학습 자료
연습 문제 은행
4 연습 문제Η διαδικασία για τη βίζα δεν είναι καθόλου ______.
The noun 'διαδικασία' (process) is feminine singular.
Response:
This correctly uses the negation and provides a reason for the complexity.
Situation: You are explaining that a breakup is complicated because children are involved.
This phrase captures the emotional and social complexity of the situation.
Α: Μπορούμε να πάμε με τα πόδια στην παραλία; Β: ________, ο δρόμος είναι κλειστός και πρέπει να κάνουμε κύκλο.
The explanation about the closed road justifies the use of 'not simple at all'.
🎉 점수: /4
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes! 'Δεν είναι καθόλου απλός άνθρωπος' means someone is complex, deep, or perhaps difficult to deal with.
No, it's actually quite professional. It shows you are thinking about the details and risks.
'Απλό' is about the number of parts/steps. 'Εύκολο' is about the effort required.
Yes, moving 'καθόλου' to the front adds even more emphasis, but it's less common.
A common slangy way to say this is 'Είναι μπέρδεμα' or 'Είναι πακέτο'.
Use 'Δεν είναι τόσο απλό'.
No, 'καθόλου' only works with negative sentences in this context.
Yes, many Greek songs use it to describe complicated love affairs.
Yes: 'Αυτά τα πράγματα δεν είναι καθόλου απλά.'
It is equally common in both, though slightly more frequent in spoken explanations.
관련 표현
είναι περίπλοκο
synonymIt is complex
δεν είναι τόσο απλό
similarIt's not that simple
είναι παιχνιδάκι
contrastIt's a piece of cake
μπλέξιμο
builds onA mess/entanglement
