Meaning
Expressing surprise or disagreement about a situation.
Cultural Background
Greeks value 'parrhēsia' (speaking truth to power). This phrase is a modern linguistic tool for that ancient value. In the Cypriot dialect, the phrase is used similarly but might be followed by 'τζαι' (and) instead of 'κι'. Second-generation Greeks often use this phrase even when speaking English ('From where to where?') because the English equivalents don't feel strong enough. Similar 'from-to' logic exists in other Balkan languages, reflecting a shared regional rhetorical style.
Use the 'Greek Shrug'
When saying this, slightly tilt your head and raise your eyebrows for maximum native effect.
Watch your tone
If you say it too loudly, it sounds like you want to start a fight. Keep it curious if you just want info.
Meaning
Expressing surprise or disagreement about a situation.
Use the 'Greek Shrug'
When saying this, slightly tilt your head and raise your eyebrows for maximum native effect.
Watch your tone
If you say it too loudly, it sounds like you want to start a fight. Keep it curious if you just want info.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase with the missing words.
Από πού ___ ___ πού;
The standard colloquial form uses 'κι' (elided και) and 'ως' (until).
In which situation is 'Από πού κι ως πού;' most appropriate?
Situation: Your boss asks you to work on your birthday without pay.
The phrase is used to challenge the logic or fairness of a situation.
Choose the best response for Maria.
Κώστας: 'Πρέπει να μου δώσεις το αυτοκίνητό σου για το Σαββατοκύριακο.' Μαρία: '________'
Maria is challenging Kostas's bold and illogical request.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly to express surprise?
Select the correct usage:
Option B uses the phrase rhetorically to question a surprising claim.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΑπό πού ___ ___ πού;
The standard colloquial form uses 'κι' (elided και) and 'ως' (until).
Situation: Your boss asks you to work on your birthday without pay.
The phrase is used to challenge the logic or fairness of a situation.
Κώστας: 'Πρέπει να μου δώσεις το αυτοκίνητό σου για το Σαββατοκύριακο.' Μαρία: '________'
Maria is challenging Kostas's bold and illogical request.
Select the correct usage:
Option B uses the phrase rhetorically to question a surprising claim.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsIt can be. It's 'confrontational'. Use it with friends or when you are genuinely being treated unfairly.
Only if it's a very informal email to a close friend. Never in business.
'Γιατί' is a simple 'Why'. 'Από πού κι ως πού' adds a layer of 'This makes no sense' or 'You have no right'.
Related Phrases
Πώς και έτσι;
similarHow come?
Γιατί έτσι;
similarWhy so?
Με ποια λογική;
synonymBy what logic?
Έτσι απλά;
contrastJust like that?
