Meaning
Asking someone to leave.
Cultural Background
In Athens, this phrase is often accompanied by a 'moutza' (extending the palm towards someone) in very aggressive situations, though this is considered extremely rude. Cypriot Greek might use 'Φύου' (Phýou) instead of 'Φύγε', but 'Φύγε από εδώ' is universally understood. The phrase is often used as a direct translation of 'Get out of here!' and is one of the few phrases second-generation Greeks retain. Younger Greeks might use 'Φύγε' as a way to dismiss a 'cringe' or bad joke on social media.
Watch your tone
The same words can be a friendly joke or a serious insult. Smile if you mean 'No way!'
The 'Plural' trick
If you want to sound slightly less aggressive but still firm, use the plural 'Φύγετε', even for one person. It adds a tiny layer of distance.
Meaning
Asking someone to leave.
Watch your tone
The same words can be a friendly joke or a serious insult. Smile if you mean 'No way!'
The 'Plural' trick
If you want to sound slightly less aggressive but still firm, use the plural 'Φύγετε', even for one person. It adds a tiny layer of distance.
Body Language
Greeks often tilt their head back slightly or use a hand wave when saying this dismissively.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to tell someone to leave.
_____ από εδώ, σε παρακαλώ.
We use the imperative 'Φύγε' for a direct command.
Match the tone to the situation.
You just heard that your friend won the lottery. How do you say 'Φύγε από εδώ'?
In this context, the phrase expresses disbelief and excitement.
Which is the plural form of the phrase?
If you are talking to three people, you say:
'Φύγετε' is the plural imperative.
Complete the dialogue.
Α: Μαρία, ο Γιώργος είπε ότι θα φύγει για την Αμερική αύριο! Β: ________! Δεν το πιστεύω!
The context of 'Δεν το πιστεύω' (I don't believe it) makes 'Φύγε από εδώ' the perfect idiomatic response.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Ways to use 'Φύγε από εδώ'
Literal
- • Telling a pet to leave
- • Asking for space
- • Ending an argument
Figurative
- • Hearing a secret
- • Winning a prize
- • A friend's crazy story
Practice Bank
4 exercises_____ από εδώ, σε παρακαλώ.
We use the imperative 'Φύγε' for a direct command.
You just heard that your friend won the lottery. How do you say 'Φύγε από εδώ'?
In this context, the phrase expresses disbelief and excitement.
If you are talking to three people, you say:
'Φύγετε' is the plural imperative.
Α: Μαρία, ο Γιώργος είπε ότι θα φύγει για την Αμερική αύριο! Β: ________! Δεν το πιστεύω!
The context of 'Δεν το πιστεύω' (I don't believe it) makes 'Φύγε από εδώ' the perfect idiomatic response.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, it can be very rude if said to a stranger or in a formal setting. However, among friends, it's often used playfully.
Absolutely not. It would be considered a major sign of disrespect.
'Φύγε' is just 'Leave'. 'Φύγε από εδώ' is more specific: 'Leave from here/this spot'.
Say 'Φύγε από εδώ!' with a high pitch and wide eyes. It's the perfect equivalent.
Related Phrases
Άντε χάσου
similarGo get lost.
Δρόμο
synonymHit the road.
Πήγαινε στο καλό
contrastGo with the good (Goodbye).
Έλα τώρα
builds onCome on now.
