Meaning
Focusing on the simple pleasures of the moment.
Cultural Background
The 'Taverna' culture is the primary home of this phrase. In Greece, a meal is not just fuel; it is a social contract. To say 'Ό,τι φάμε κι ό,τι πιούμε' is to honor the cook and the company. For Greeks living abroad, this phrase often carries a sense of nostalgia for the 'relaxed' life in the homeland, contrasting with the 'work-first' culture of their new countries. Modern youth use it ironically or as a 'YOLO' equivalent when spending their limited disposable income on a night out. Historically, this phrase was a mantra for the 'manges' (tough guys) of the 1930s who lived on the margins of society and valued immediate pleasure over social status.
The 'Slap' Factor
This phrase is often accompanied by a friendly slap on the shoulder or a raised glass. It's as much a physical gesture as a verbal one.
Don't be too literal
If you say this and then split the bill to the last cent, you've missed the point. The phrase implies a certain level of generosity.
Meaning
Focusing on the simple pleasures of the moment.
The 'Slap' Factor
This phrase is often accompanied by a friendly slap on the shoulder or a raised glass. It's as much a physical gesture as a verbal one.
Don't be too literal
If you say this and then split the bill to the last cent, you've missed the point. The phrase implies a certain level of generosity.
The 'Parea' Spirit
Always use the plural 'φάμε/πιούμε' (we eat/drink). Using the singular would sound selfish and weird.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct verb forms.
Ό,τι ______ κι ό,τι ______, αύριο ποιος ξέρει τι γίνεται!
The proverb uses the dependent (subjunctive) forms 'φάμε' and 'πιούμε' to express the 'let's' or 'whatever we may' sentiment.
In which situation is it MOST appropriate to say 'Ό,τι φάμε κι ό,τι πιούμε'?
Select the best context:
This phrase is designed to alleviate social anxiety about money or time during a communal meal.
Choose the best response for Speaker B.
Speaker A: 'Παιδιά, είναι ήδη 12 το βράδυ και αύριο δουλεύουμε.' Speaker B: '_________________'
Speaker B uses the phrase to encourage staying longer and enjoying the moment despite work the next day.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
The Ingredients of a 'Ό,τι φάμε κι ό,τι πιούμε' Moment
Essentials
- • Good Wine
- • Mezedes
- • Loud Music
- • Close Friends
Practice Bank
3 exercisesΌ,τι ______ κι ό,τι ______, αύριο ποιος ξέρει τι γίνεται!
The proverb uses the dependent (subjunctive) forms 'φάμε' and 'πιούμε' to express the 'let's' or 'whatever we may' sentiment.
Select the best context:
This phrase is designed to alleviate social anxiety about money or time during a communal meal.
Speaker A: 'Παιδιά, είναι ήδη 12 το βράδυ και αύριο δουλεύουμε.' Speaker B: '_________________'
Speaker B uses the phrase to encourage staying longer and enjoying the moment despite work the next day.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is 'ό,τι' (with a comma in traditional spelling) because it means 'whatever'. 'Ότι' without the comma means 'that'.
Only if you are at an informal company dinner and the boss has already set a very relaxed tone. Otherwise, stay safe and avoid it.
Not necessarily, but it implies that you aren't going to be stingy or complain about the cost.
It's more of a traditional proverb, but it's used very informally. It's not 'slang' in the sense of being new or edgy.
Related Phrases
Μια ζωή την έχουμε
similarWe only have one life.
Φάτε, πίετε, αύριο γαρ αποθνήσκομεν
synonymEat, drink, for tomorrow we die.
Καλή όρεξη
builds onEnjoy your meal.
Στην υγειά μας
similarTo our health.
