Meaning
To wait and see how a situation develops.
Cultural Background
Politicians often use this phrase to avoid giving a definitive answer to journalists, allowing them to change their mind later without being accused of 'kolotoumba' (a 180-degree turn). In Greek business, 'keeping a stance of waiting' is often seen as a sign of a 'psimenos' (experienced/seasoned) negotiator who doesn't show their cards too early. Greek news headlines are famous for using this phrase to describe market uncertainty or diplomatic tensions, especially regarding relations with neighboring countries. In social circles, if someone is 'keeping a stance of waiting' regarding a friend's drama, it's a way of staying neutral and avoiding 'parea' (group) conflicts.
Sound like a Pro
Use this phrase in a job interview when asked about a difficult decision. It shows you are analytical and not impulsive.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for everything, you'll sound like a politician who never makes a decision. Use it only for significant matters.
Meaning
To wait and see how a situation develops.
Sound like a Pro
Use this phrase in a job interview when asked about a difficult decision. It shows you are analytical and not impulsive.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for everything, you'll sound like a politician who never makes a decision. Use it only for significant matters.
The 'News' Vibe
When you hear this on Greek TV, pay attention to the background music—it's usually serious and dramatic. That's the 'vibe' of the phrase.
Verb Choice
Remember: 'τηρώ' is for formal/written, 'κρατάω' is for spoken/casual.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'τηρώ'.
Η κυβέρνηση ________ στάση αναμονής μέχρι τις επόμενες εκλογές.
The subject is 'Η κυβέρνηση' (third person singular), so the verb must be 'τηρεί'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct option:
The noun 'αναμονή' must be in the genitive case 'αναμονής'.
Complete the dialogue with the appropriate phrase.
Α: Θα αγοράσεις το καινούριο αυτοκίνητο τώρα; Β: Όχι, ____________________ γιατί οι τιμές μπορεί να πέσουν.
The context of waiting for prices to drop makes 'τηρώ στάση αναμονής' the perfect strategic choice.
Match the situation to the most likely use of the phrase.
In which situation would a CEO say 'Τηρούμε στάση αναμονής'?
The phrase implies a strategic pause in a professional/serious context.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Waiting vs. Strategic Waiting
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΗ κυβέρνηση ________ στάση αναμονής μέχρι τις επόμενες εκλογές.
The subject is 'Η κυβέρνηση' (third person singular), so the verb must be 'τηρεί'.
Choose the correct option:
The noun 'αναμονή' must be in the genitive case 'αναμονής'.
Α: Θα αγοράσεις το καινούριο αυτοκίνητο τώρα; Β: Όχι, ____________________ γιατί οι τιμές μπορεί να πέσουν.
The context of waiting for prices to drop makes 'τηρώ στάση αναμονής' the perfect strategic choice.
In which situation would a CEO say 'Τηρούμε στάση αναμονής'?
The phrase implies a strategic pause in a professional/serious context.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot exactly. 'Περιμένω' is just waiting. 'Τηρώ στάση αναμονής' is a strategic choice to wait and observe developments.
No, that would sound very funny. Use 'περιμένω το λεωφορείο'.
The past tense is 'τήρησα στάση αναμονής'.
No, it's very polite and professional. It's a way to say 'I'm not ready to decide yet' without being blunt.
It's understandable but not natural. Greeks always use 'τηρώ' or 'κρατάω'.
Yes, it is standard in formal Greek everywhere.
The opposite would be 'αναλαμβάνω δράση' (to take action).
Yes, it's perfect for professional emails when you need more time.
No, it implies you are very focused on what is happening.
No, 'αναμονής' is singular genitive. It doesn't have a plural form in this phrase.
Related Phrases
περιμένω στο ακουστικό μου
similarTo wait by the phone / wait for news
βλέποντας και κάνοντας
contrastDoing things as they come
εν αναμονή
builds onPending / in waiting
κάθομαι σε αναμμένα κάρβουνα
contrastTo sit on hot coals
παρακολουθώ τις εξελίξεις
similarTo follow developments
