Meaning
Asking about someone's career or life.
Cultural Background
In Greece, it is very common to ask about someone's job early in a conversation. It's not seen as 'money-obsessed' but as a way to understand their daily reality. Similar to mainland Greece, but the dialect might use 'Τι κάμνεις;' instead of 'Τι κάνεις;'. The sentiment of social interest remains identical. The phrase is often used by older generations to 'scout' for potential matches for their children or to brag about their own children's success. Among young professionals, this question is often followed by asking about 'projects' rather than just a job title, reflecting the gig economy.
The 'Formal' Switch
Always use 'Τι κάνετε στη ζωή σας;' if you are talking to someone older or in a position of authority.
Don't be too blunt
If someone is unemployed, this question might be sensitive. Follow their lead if they give a short answer.
Meaning
Asking about someone's career or life.
The 'Formal' Switch
Always use 'Τι κάνετε στη ζωή σας;' if you are talking to someone older or in a position of authority.
Don't be too blunt
If someone is unemployed, this question might be sensitive. Follow their lead if they give a short answer.
The 'General' Add-on
Adding 'γενικά' (generally) at the end makes the question feel less like an interrogation and more like a friendly chat.
Expect a long answer
Greeks love to tell stories. When you ask this, be prepared to listen for a few minutes!
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'κάνω' and the possessive pronoun.
Κύριε Νίκο, τι _______ στη ζωή _______;
Since we are addressing 'Κύριε Νίκο' (Mr. Niko), we must use the formal plural form.
Match the phrase to the most appropriate situation.
Where would you most likely say 'Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου;'
This phrase is used for catching up with people you already have a relationship with.
Which of these is a common response to 'Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου;'
The question asks about your life/career, so 'I work at an IT company' is a logical answer.
Complete the dialogue.
Α: Χάθηκαμε! Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου; Β: ___________
Option B provides a summary of the person's current life activities.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formal vs. Informal
Practice Bank
4 exercisesΚύριε Νίκο, τι _______ στη ζωή _______;
Since we are addressing 'Κύριε Νίκο' (Mr. Niko), we must use the formal plural form.
Where would you most likely say 'Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου;'
This phrase is used for catching up with people you already have a relationship with.
The question asks about your life/career, so 'I work at an IT company' is a logical answer.
Α: Χάθηκαμε! Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου; Β: ___________
Option B provides a summary of the person's current life activities.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, in Greek culture it is a standard social inquiry showing interest.
Yes, but use the formal 'Τι κάνετε στη ζωή σας;'.
'Με τι ασχολείσαι;' is more specific to work/hobbies, while 'Τι κάνεις στη ζωή σου;' is broader.
You can say 'Σπουδάζω [subject] στο πανεπιστήμιο'.
Yes, but in this context, it refers to your 'lifestyle' or 'career path'.
Yes, in a casual or semi-formal email to a colleague or friend.
'Στη' is a contraction of 'σε' (in) and 'τη' (the).
Yes, 'Τι λέει η φάση σου;' is a very casual alternative.
Only if the setting is social (like a party). Don't ask it to a stranger on the street.
You can say 'Τα ίδια, τίποτα το ιδιαίτερο' (The same, nothing special).
In networking, yes. In a formal interview, no.
Only if said with a specific critical tone. Usually, it's just friendly.
Related Phrases
Με τι ασχολείσαι;
synonymWhat do you occupy yourself with?
Πώς πάει η ζωή;
similarHow is life going?
Τι νέα;
builds onWhat's the news?
Πού δουλεύεις;
specialized formWhere do you work?
Τι θα γίνεις όταν μεγαλώσεις;
relatedWhat will you become when you grow up?
