Meaning
To show complete indifference toward something.
Cultural Background
The shoe is often used in Greek insults and idioms (e.g., 'θα σου δώσω ένα παπούτσι' - I'll give you a shoe/kick). It represents the lowest point of the body. Cypriot Greek uses the same idiom, but the accent and some surrounding words might change. The sentiment of defiance remains identical. In many Mediterranean cultures, showing the sole of your shoe to someone is a grave insult. This idiom is a verbal version of that gesture. Younger generations often shorten it to just 'Τον γράφω' or use 'Στα @@ μου' (very vulgar, avoid!), making 'παλιά παπούτσια' the 'polite' way to be rude.
Use the Short Version
In a heated moment, just say 'Τον γράφω!' It's faster and packs more punch.
Watch Your Tone
Even though it's not a swear word, your body language should match the dismissal.
Meaning
To show complete indifference toward something.
Use the Short Version
In a heated moment, just say 'Τον γράφω!' It's faster and packs more punch.
Watch Your Tone
Even though it's not a swear word, your body language should match the dismissal.
The 'Mangas' Vibe
Using this makes you sound like a local who knows their way around Greek social dynamics.
Test Yourself
Conjugate the verb 'γράφω' and the possessive pronoun correctly.
Εγώ (γράφω) τον Γιάννη στα παλιά (μου) τα παπούτσια.
The verb must match 'Εγώ' and the pronoun must match the subject.
Which is the correct way to say 'She doesn't care about the rules'?
Ποιο είναι το σωστό;
Option 'a' follows the correct grammar (direct object) and uses the correct adjective (παλιά).
Match the response to the situation.
Situation: Someone tells you that your hair looks messy.
The idiom is used to dismiss unwanted criticism.
Complete the dialogue.
- Μαρία, ο διευθυντής είπε ότι πρέπει να δουλέψεις το Σάββατο. - ________!
The standard idiom uses 'παπούτσια'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΕγώ (γράφω) τον Γιάννη στα παλιά (μου) τα παπούτσια.
The verb must match 'Εγώ' and the pronoun must match the subject.
Ποιο είναι το σωστό;
Option 'a' follows the correct grammar (direct object) and uses the correct adjective (παλιά).
Situation: Someone tells you that your hair looks messy.
The idiom is used to dismiss unwanted criticism.
- Μαρία, ο διευθυντής είπε ότι πρέπει να δουλέψεις το Σάββατο. - ________!
The standard idiom uses 'παπούτσια'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsIt's dismissive. It's not 'bad language,' but it's definitely not polite. Use it with friends, not your grandma.
Yes! 'Γράφω το κρύο στα παλιά μου τα παπούτσια' (I don't care about the cold).
Yes, 'παλιά' is a mandatory part of the idiom.
No, 'παπούτσια' is neuter plural and stays the same. Only 'μου/σου/της' changes.
Yes, 'Δεν με ενδιαφέρει' is the neutral/polite version.
Related Phrases
δεν δίνω δεκάρα
synonymI don't give a dime.
σκασίλα μου
similarI don't care (literally: my burst).
τον έχω γραμμένο
specialized formI have him written (ignored).
ποσώς με μέλει
contrastI care very little.
