Meaning
Asking for vocabulary.
Cultural Background
Greeks often use hand gestures alongside this phrase. Pointing is common and not considered rude if done to objects while asking for their names. In Cyprus, the dialect is distinct. While 'Πώς λέγεται' is understood, locals might use 'Πώς το λαλούν;' in casual conversation. In 'Greeklish' or diaspora communities, you might hear a mix: 'Πώς λένε το car στα ελληνικά;'. In formal writing or news, 'αποκαλείται' is often used instead of 'λέγεται' to sound more sophisticated.
Use your fingers!
Always point at the object you are asking about. It makes the context clear even if your pronunciation isn't perfect.
Watch the plural
If you are pointing at a pair of shoes or a pile of oranges, remember to use 'Πώς λέγονται αυτά;'.
Meaning
Asking for vocabulary.
Use your fingers!
Always point at the object you are asking about. It makes the context clear even if your pronunciation isn't perfect.
Watch the plural
If you are pointing at a pair of shoes or a pile of oranges, remember to use 'Πώς λέγονται αυτά;'.
The 'What's-it-called' filler
Use 'Πώς το λένε...' when you are searching for a word mid-sentence. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing verb in the correct form.
Πώς _______ αυτά τα πράγματα στα ελληνικά;
Since the subject is 'αυτά τα πράγματα' (these things), the verb must be in the 3rd person plural passive.
Which is the most natural way to ask for the name of an object?
You are pointing at a chair and want to know the Greek word.
Option B is the standard, idiomatic expression for this situation.
Complete the dialogue.
Learner: Συγγνώμη, πώς λέγεται το 'water' στα ελληνικά; Native: _______ 'νερό'.
The answer should mirror the question's use of the passive verb 'λέγεται'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Match 'Πώς λέγονται αυτά;' to the correct context.
The plural 'λέγονται' and 'αυτά' indicate multiple objects.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΠώς _______ αυτά τα πράγματα στα ελληνικά;
Since the subject is 'αυτά τα πράγματα' (these things), the verb must be in the 3rd person plural passive.
You are pointing at a chair and want to know the Greek word.
Option B is the standard, idiomatic expression for this situation.
Learner: Συγγνώμη, πώς λέγεται το 'water' στα ελληνικά; Native: _______ 'νερό'.
The answer should mirror the question's use of the passive verb 'λέγεται'.
Match 'Πώς λέγονται αυτά;' to the correct context.
The plural 'λέγονται' and 'αυτά' indicate multiple objects.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNo, it's better to use 'Πώς τον/την λένε;' for people. 'Πώς λέγεται' is for objects and concepts.
It is always 'στα ελληνικά'. You need the definite article 'τα'.
Use the neuter 'αυτό'. It is the default for unknown objects.
Yes, it's a more informal version. Both are very common.
In an email, it's better to say 'Ποια είναι η ελληνική λέξη για...'.
Related Phrases
Τι σημαίνει αυτό;
similarWhat does this mean?
Πώς το λένε;
synonymHow do they call it?
Πώς ονομάζεται;
specialized formWhat is its name?
Δεν καταλαβαίνω
builds onI don't understand
