Meaning
The future will show the result.
Cultural Background
In Greece, this phrase is often accompanied by a specific gesture: a slight shrug of the shoulders and a downward tilt of the mouth. It shows a mix of patience and acceptance of fate. Cypriot Greek speakers use this phrase similarly, but might also use 'εννά δείξει' (it will show) in the local dialect. The sentiment of waiting for the 'right time' is very strong in Cypriot business culture. Second-generation Greeks often translate this literally as 'the weather will show,' which can confuse English speakers. It's a classic example of 'Greeklish' heritage. For Greek sailors, 'θα δείξει ο καιρός' was historically literal. The weather determined if they could sail or if they would stay in port. This literal life-or-death dependency is where the idiom gets its weight.
The 'Shrug' Factor
To sound like a native, use this phrase when you want to end a conversation that is going in circles about the future.
Don't use 'Χρόνος'
Even though English says 'time will tell,' saying 'θα δείξει ο χρόνος' sounds like a translation error to Greeks.
Meaning
The future will show the result.
The 'Shrug' Factor
To sound like a native, use this phrase when you want to end a conversation that is going in circles about the future.
Don't use 'Χρόνος'
Even though English says 'time will tell,' saying 'θα δείξει ο χρόνος' sounds like a translation error to Greeks.
Skepticism is Key
This phrase is often used with a slightly skeptical tone. It's a way of saying 'I'll believe it when I see it.'
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the idiom.
Δεν ξέρω αν θα πετύχει το σχέδιο, θα ______ ο καιρός.
The idiom uses the simple future third person singular 'θα δείξει'.
Which is the most natural response to: 'Πιστεύεις ότι θα παντρευτούν;'
Πιστεύεις ότι θα παντρευτούν;
'Θα δείξει ο καιρός' is the standard idiomatic expression.
Match the situation to the use of the phrase.
You just started a new medication and your friend asks if it's working.
It's the perfect way to say 'we'll see if it works over time.'
Complete the dialogue naturally.
Α: Θα κερδίσει η ομάδα μας το πρωτάθλημα; Β: Δύσκολο να πούμε από τώρα, ________________.
This completes the thought that it's too early to tell.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΔεν ξέρω αν θα πετύχει το σχέδιο, θα ______ ο καιρός.
The idiom uses the simple future third person singular 'θα δείξει'.
Πιστεύεις ότι θα παντρευτούν;
'Θα δείξει ο καιρός' is the standard idiomatic expression.
You just started a new medication and your friend asks if it's working.
It's the perfect way to say 'we'll see if it works over time.'
Α: Θα κερδίσει η ομάδα μας το πρωτάθλημα; Β: Δύσκολο να πούμε από τώρα, ________________.
This completes the thought that it's too early to tell.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes! In casual conversation, dropping 'ο καιρός' is very common and sounds very natural.
Yes, it's neutral. It's a professional way to say that results are pending.
No, it's neutral. It just means the outcome is unknown. It could be a great surprise!
Because in Greek, 'καιρός' historically meant the 'right moment,' which was often tied to weather conditions for farming.
Technically yes, but usually people just say 'θα δούμε τι καιρό θα κάνει.'
Related Phrases
θα φανεί
synonymIt will be seen.
ίδωμεν
similarWe shall see.
στο τέλος ξυρίζουν τον γαμπρό
builds onThey shave the groom at the end.
κάθε πράγμα στον καιρό του
similarEverything in its own time.
