Meaning
Enjoying being with someone.
Cultural Background
The 'parea' is the center of social life. It's common for a parea to stay at a taverna for 4-5 hours just talking. For Greeks abroad, 'parea' is a way to maintain cultural identity and language in a foreign land. In Crete, 'parea' often involves 'mantinades' (rhyming poems) and sharing raki, emphasizing hospitality. In Athens, 'parea' has moved to specialty coffee shops and wine bars, but the sentiment of the phrase remains unchanged.
The 'M'αρέσει' Shortcut
Native speakers almost always say 'M'αρέσει' instead of 'Mou aresei.' It sounds much more natural.
Don't overthink the grammar
Even if you mess up the 'mou/me' distinction, Greeks will understand you, but 'mou' is the mark of a good learner.
Meaning
Enjoying being with someone.
The 'M'αρέσει' Shortcut
Native speakers almost always say 'M'αρέσει' instead of 'Mou aresei.' It sounds much more natural.
Don't overthink the grammar
Even if you mess up the 'mou/me' distinction, Greeks will understand you, but 'mou' is the mark of a good learner.
The power of 'Parea'
If you say this to a Greek person, they will likely invite you to more things. It's a high compliment!
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing pronoun to say 'I like your company.'
___ αρέσει η παρέα σου.
We use the weak form of the personal pronoun in the genitive (μου) with the verb αρέσει.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct form:
'Η παρέα' is singular, so the verb must be 'αρέσει'.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
Νίκος: 'Πέρασα υπέροχα σήμερα!' Μαρία: 'Κι εγώ! _________.'
All these expressions are natural ways to show appreciation for someone's company in Greek.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You just met someone at a party and want to be friendly.
This is the most polite and warm way to express that you are enjoying the interaction.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises___ αρέσει η παρέα σου.
We use the weak form of the personal pronoun in the genitive (μου) with the verb αρέσει.
Choose the correct form:
'Η παρέα' is singular, so the verb must be 'αρέσει'.
Νίκος: 'Πέρασα υπέροχα σήμερα!' Μαρία: 'Κι εγώ! _________.'
All these expressions are natural ways to show appreciation for someone's company in Greek.
You just met someone at a party and want to be friendly.
This is the most polite and warm way to express that you are enjoying the interaction.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt can be, but it's mostly platonic. It's a safe way to show you like someone without being too forward.
Only if you have a very friendly, casual relationship. Otherwise, stick to more formal thanks.
'Παρέα' is everyday and casual; 'συντροφιά' is literary and formal.
You would say 'Δεν μου αρέσει η παρέα σου,' but be careful—it's very blunt and rude in Greek culture!
The verb 'αρέσει' traditionally takes the genitive case (indirect object) in Modern Greek.
Yes, if you are using the formal 'you' (plural) to show respect.
Yes! 'Η παρέα μου' means 'my group of friends.'
You can say 'Και μένα μου αρέσει η δική σου' (I like yours too) or 'Χαίρομαι!' (I'm glad!).
Extremely common! Greek music is full of references to 'parea' and friendship.
Yes, it's very sweet to say to a cousin or a sibling you enjoy hanging out with.
Related Phrases
Κάνουμε καλή παρέα
similarWe get along well / We make good company.
Είσαι καλή παρέα
similarYou are good company.
Μου αρέσεις
builds onI like you.
Περνάω καλά μαζί σου
synonymI have a good time with you.
