Subject Line Tag: @ᴱᴸᴸᴴᴺᴵᴷᴬ.ᴳᴺᴼˢᴵˢ
The verb “to know” in Modern Greek is expressed through two primary verbs, each capturing different dimensions of knowledge:
ξέρω (xéro) — to know facts, information, or how to do something. This is the everyday, colloquial verb for knowing. It answers questions like “Do you know where the station is?” or “Do you know how to swim?” This verb derives from Ancient Greek ἐξεύρω (exeúrō), “to find out completely.”
γνωρίζω (gnorízo) — to know in a more formal sense, to be acquainted with, or to recognize. This verb is used for knowing people (”Γνωρίζεις τον Γιάννη;” — Do you know Yannis?), for formal announcements (”Σας γνωρίζω ότι...” — I inform you that...), and for introductions. It derives from γνῶσις (gnósis), the Greek word for knowledge that gave English “gnostic,” “diagnose,” and “prognosis.”
μαθαίνω (mathéno) — to learn, to find out, to come to know. While primarily meaning “to learn,” this verb is often used where English might say “Did you hear/find out that...?” (”Έμαθες ότι παντρεύτηκε;” — Did you hear that she got married?).
The distinction between ξέρω and γνωρίζω parallels distinctions in other languages: French savoir/connaître, Spanish saber/conocer, German wissen/kennen. Understanding when to use each verb is essential for natural Greek expression.
Grammar Note: Both ξέρω and γνωρίζω are first conjugation verbs (-ω verbs). ξέρω has some irregular forms (particularly in the past tense: ήξερα). γνωρίζω is regular, following the -ίζω pattern.
Course Index:
https://latinum.substack.com/p/index
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ξέρω (xéro) is the everyday verb for knowing facts, information, and skills -
γνωρίζω (gnorízo) is more formal, used for acquaintance and official contexts -
ξέρω + να + verb = “to know how to” (Ξέρω να κολυμπάω — I know how to swim) -
γνωρίζω often implies personal acquaintance with people -
“Δεν ξέρω” (I don’t know) is among the most common phrases in Greek -
Greek distinguishes types of knowing more precisely than English
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46.1a Δεν ξέρω τίποτα 46.1b den (then) not xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG típota (TEE-po-ta) nothing
46.2a Ξέρεις πού είναι το φαρμακείο; 46.2b xéreis (KSEH-rees) know-2SG poú (poo) where eínai (EE-neh) is to (to) the-NEUT.NOM farmakeío (far-ma-KEE-o) pharmacy
46.3a Γνωρίζω τον Γιώργο από το σχολείο 46.3b gnorízo (gno-REE-zo) know-1SG ton (ton) the-MASC.ACC Yiórgo (YOR-go) George apó (a-POH) from to (to) the-NEUT.NOM scholeío (skho-LEE-o) school
46.4a Ξέρει να μαγειρεύει πολύ καλά 46.4b xérei (KSEH-ree) knows-3SG na (na) to-SUBJ mageirévei (ma-yee-REV-ee) cook-3SG polý (po-LEE) very kalá (ka-LAH) well
46.5a Δεν γνωρίζουμε τις λεπτομέρειες 46.5b den (then) not gnorízoume (gno-REE-zoo-meh) know-1PL tis (tees) the-FEM.ACC.PL leptoméreis (lep-to-MEH-ree-es) details-ACC.PL
46.6a Ξέρω ότι έχεις δίκιο 46.6b xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG óti (OH-tee) that écheis (EH-hees) have-2SG thíkio (THEE-kyo) right-NEUT
46.7a Ποιος ξέρει την αλήθεια; 46.7b poiós (pyos) who xérei (KSEH-ree) knows-3SG tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC alítheia (a-LEE-thee-a) truth-ACC
46.8a Γνωρίζετε την κυρία Παπαδοπούλου; 46.8b gnorítzete (gno-REE-zeh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC kyría (kee-REE-a) Mrs. Papathopoúlou (pa-pa-tho-POO-loo) Papadopoulou
46.9a Ήξερα ότι θα έρθεις 46.9b íxera (EE-kse-ra) knew-1SG óti (OH-tee) that tha (tha) will értheis (EHR-thees) come-2SG
46.10a Τα ξέρω όλα αυτά 46.10b ta (ta) them-NEUT.ACC.PL xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG óla (OH-la) all-NEUT.PL aftá (af-TAH) these-NEUT.PL
46.11a Γνωρίζουν καλά την περιοχή 46.11b gnorítzoun (gno-REE-zoon) know-3PL kalá (ka-LAH) well tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC periochí (peh-ree-o-HEE) area-ACC
46.12a Δεν ξέρω αν θα έρθει 46.12b den (then) not xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG an (an) if tha (tha) will érthei (EHR-thee) come-3SG
46.13a Ξέρεις τι ώρα είναι; 46.13b xéreis (KSEH-rees) know-2SG ti (tee) what óra (OH-ra) time eínai (EE-neh) is
46.14a Σας γνωρίζω τον διευθυντή μας 46.14b sas (sas) to-you-PL.FORMAL gnorízo (gno-REE-zo) introduce-1SG ton (ton) the-MASC.ACC thiefthyntí (thee-ef-theen-DEE) director-ACC mas (mas) our
46.15a Ξέρουμε πολύ καλά τι συμβαίνει 46.15b xéroume (KSEH-roo-meh) know-1PL polý (po-LEE) very kalá (ka-LAH) well ti (tee) what symvaínei (seem-VEH-nee) happens-3SG
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46.1 Δεν ξέρω τίποτα. Den xéro típota. “I don’t know anything.”
46.2 Ξέρεις πού είναι το φαρμακείο; Xéreis poú eínai to farmakeío? “Do you know where the pharmacy is?”
46.3 Γνωρίζω τον Γιώργο από το σχολείο. Gnorízo ton Yiórgo apó to scholeío. “I know George from school.”
46.4 Ξέρει να μαγειρεύει πολύ καλά. Xérei na mageirévei polý kalá. “She knows how to cook very well.”
46.5 Δεν γνωρίζουμε τις λεπτομέρειες. Den gnorízoume tis leptoméreis. “We don’t know the details.”
46.6 Ξέρω ότι έχεις δίκιο. Xéro óti écheis thíkio. “I know that you’re right.”
46.7 Ποιος ξέρει την αλήθεια; Poiós xérei tin alítheia? “Who knows the truth?”
46.8 Γνωρίζετε την κυρία Παπαδοπούλου; Gnorítzete tin kyría Papathopoúlou? “Do you know Mrs. Papadopoulou?” (formal)
46.9 Ήξερα ότι θα έρθεις. Íxera óti tha értheis. “I knew that you would come.”
46.10 Τα ξέρω όλα αυτά. Ta xéro óla aftá. “I know all of this.”
46.11 Γνωρίζουν καλά την περιοχή. Gnorítzoun kalá tin periochí. “They know the area well.”
46.12 Δεν ξέρω αν θα έρθει. Den xéro an tha érthei. “I don’t know if he will come.”
46.13 Ξέρεις τι ώρα είναι; Xéreis ti óra eínai? “Do you know what time it is?”
46.14 Σας γνωρίζω τον διευθυντή μας. Sas gnorízo ton thiefthyntí mas. “Allow me to introduce our director to you.”
46.15 Ξέρουμε πολύ καλά τι συμβαίνει. Xéroume polý kalá ti symvaínei. “We know very well what is happening.”
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46.1 Δεν ξέρω τίποτα. Den xéro típota.
46.2 Ξέρεις πού είναι το φαρμακείο; Xéreis poú eínai to farmakeío?
46.3 Γνωρίζω τον Γιώργο από το σχολείο. Gnorízo ton Yiórgo apó to scholeío.
46.4 Ξέρει να μαγειρεύει πολύ καλά. Xérei na mageirévei polý kalá.
46.5 Δεν γνωρίζουμε τις λεπτομέρειες. Den gnorízoume tis leptoméreis.
46.6 Ξέρω ότι έχεις δίκιο. Xéro óti écheis thíkio.
46.7 Ποιος ξέρει την αλήθεια; Poiós xérei tin alítheia?
46.8 Γνωρίζετε την κυρία Παπαδοπούλου; Gnorítzete tin kyría Papathopoúlou?
46.9 Ήξερα ότι θα έρθεις. Íxera óti tha értheis.
46.10 Τα ξέρω όλα αυτά. Ta xéro óla aftá.
46.11 Γνωρίζουν καλά την περιοχή. Gnorítzoun kalá tin periochí.
46.12 Δεν ξέρω αν θα έρθει. Den xéro an tha érthei.
46.13 Ξέρεις τι ώρα είναι; Xéreis ti óra eínai?
46.14 Σας γνωρίζω τον διευθυντή μας. Sas gnorízo ton thiefthyntí mas.
46.15 Ξέρουμε πολύ καλά τι συμβαίνει. Xéroume polý kalá ti symvaínei.
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These are the grammar rules for ξέρω (to know facts/skills) and γνωρίζω (to know/be acquainted with).
εγώ ξέρω (egó xéro) — I know εσύ ξέρεις (esý xéreis) — you know (singular informal) αυτός/αυτή/αυτό ξέρει (aftós/aftí/aftó xérei) — he/she/it knows εμείς ξέρουμε (emeís xéroume) — we know εσείς ξέρετε (eseís xérete) — you know (plural/formal) αυτοί/αυτές/αυτά ξέρουν (aftoí/aftés/aftá xéroun) — they know
Note the irregular stem ήξερ- (íxer-):
εγώ ήξερα (egó íxera) — I knew εσύ ήξερες (esý íxeres) — you knew αυτός/αυτή/αυτό ήξερε (aftós/aftí/aftó íxere) — he/she/it knew εμείς ξέραμε (emeís xérame) — we knew εσείς ξέρατε (eseís xérate) — you knew αυτοί/αυτές/αυτά ήξεραν (aftoí/aftés/aftá íxeran) — they knew
εγώ γνωρίζω (egó gnorízo) — I know εσύ γνωρίζεις (esý gnorízeis) — you know αυτός/αυτή/αυτό γνωρίζει (aftós/aftí/aftó gnorízei) — he/she/it knows εμείς γνωρίζουμε (emeís gnorízoume) — we know εσείς γνωρίζετε (eseís gnorítzete) — you know αυτοί/αυτές/αυτά γνωρίζουν (aftoí/aftés/aftá gnorítzoun) — they know
εγώ γνώρισα (egó gnórisa) — I knew/met εσύ γνώρισες (esý gnórises) — you knew/met αυτός/αυτή/αυτό γνώρισε (aftós/aftí/aftó gnórise) — he/she/it knew/met εμείς γνωρίσαμε (emeís gnorísamε) — we knew/met εσείς γνωρίσατε (eseís gnorísate) — you knew/met αυτοί/αυτές/αυτά γνώρισαν (aftoí/aftés/aftá gnórisan) — they knew/met
ξέρω is used for: -
Knowing facts: Ξέρω ότι η γη είναι στρογγυλή (I know that the earth is round) -
Knowing information: Ξέρεις πού μένει; (Do you know where he lives?) -
Knowing how to do something: Ξέρω να οδηγώ (I know how to drive) -
General knowledge: Δεν ξέρω τίποτα για αυτό (I don’t know anything about this)
γνωρίζω is used for: -
Knowing people: Γνωρίζω τον Πέτρο (I know Petros) -
Being acquainted with places: Γνωρίζω καλά την Αθήνα (I know Athens well) -
Formal contexts: Γνωρίζετε τους κανονισμούς; (Are you aware of the regulations?) -
Introductions: Σας γνωρίζω τη γυναίκα μου (Allow me to introduce my wife to you) -
Official announcements: Γνωρίζουμε ότι... (We inform [you] that...)
ξέρω + ότι (know that): Ξέρω ότι έχεις δίκιο — I know that you’re right
ξέρω + να + verb (know how to): Ξέρω να κολυμπάω — I know how to swim
ξέρω + interrogative (know wh-): Ξέρεις πού είναι; — Do you know where it is?
ξέρω + αν (know if/whether): Δεν ξέρω αν θα έρθει — I don’t know if he’ll come
γνωρίζω + person (know someone): Γνωρίζεις τον Νίκο; — Do you know Nikos?
γνωρίζω σε + person (introduce to): Σου γνωρίζω τον φίλο μου — I introduce my friend to you
Mistake 1: Using γνωρίζω for skills -
❌ Γνωρίζω να κολυμπάω (incorrect) -
✓ Ξέρω να κολυμπάω (I know how to swim)
Mistake 2: Using ξέρω formally for people in introductions -
❌ Σας ξέρω τον διευθυντή (incorrect for introductions) -
✓ Σας γνωρίζω τον διευθυντή (Allow me to introduce the director)
Mistake 3: Confusing past tense forms -
ξέρω → ήξερα (imperfect, irregular) -
γνωρίζω → γνώρισα (aorist, regular)
Mistake 4: Word order with object pronouns -
✓ Τον ξέρω (I know him) — pronoun comes BEFORE the verb -
✓ Δεν τον ξέρω (I don’t know him) — pronoun follows δεν but precedes verb
μαθαίνω (mathéno) means “to learn” but is often used for “finding out” or “coming to know”: -
Έμαθες τα νέα; — Did you hear the news? (lit. “Did you learn the news?”) -
Μόλις το έμαθα — I just found out -
Πώς το έμαθες; — How did you find out?
This overlaps with English “Did you hear...?” and is extremely common in spoken Greek.
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The concept of knowledge holds special significance in Greek culture. The ancient Greek philosophical tradition—from Socrates’ “I know that I know nothing” (ἓν οἶδα ὅτι οὐδὲν οἶδα) to Aristotle’s systematic pursuit of knowledge—remains a source of cultural pride. Modern Greeks often invoke this heritage when discussing education, wisdom, and the value of learning.
In Greek social contexts, “knowing someone” (γνωρίζω κάποιον) carries weight. Greece operates significantly on personal connections and networks. When Greeks ask “Γνωρίζεις...;” about a person, they’re often asking whether you have a relationship that could be socially or professionally useful—not merely whether you’ve met.
“Δεν ξέρω” (I don’t know) is heard constantly in Greek conversation. Greeks often use it as a conversational filler, similar to English “you know” or “I mean,” even when they do actually know. It can soften statements, express uncertainty, or buy thinking time: -
“Δεν ξέρω, ίσως...” — I don’t know, maybe... -
“Δεν ξέρω τι να πω” — I don’t know what to say -
“Δεν ξέρω, θα δούμε” — I don’t know, we’ll see
When introducing people, Greeks use γνωρίζω in formal contexts: “Σας γνωρίζω τον κύριο Παπαδόπουλο” (Allow me to introduce Mr. Papadopoulos to you). In casual contexts, simpler constructions prevail: “Αυτός είναι ο Γιάννης” (This is Yannis).
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“Ξέρει ο γάιδαρος το γεντή;” — Does the donkey know the gentleman? (Said when someone acts above their station) -
“Ό,τι ξέρεις ξέρεις, ό,τι δεν ξέρεις δεν ξέρεις” — What you know you know, what you don’t know you don’t know (Accept your limitations) -
“Γνώθι σαυτόν” (Gnóthi saftón) — Know thyself (Ancient Delphic maxim, still quoted)
Greeks place high value on education. University attendance is free, and families often make significant sacrifices to support children’s education. Passing the Panhellenic Examinations (πανελλήνιες εξετάσεις) to enter university is a major life milestone. The verb μαθαίνω (to learn) and its related noun μάθηση (learning) appear frequently in discussions about personal development and social advancement.
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The following passage is from Nikos Kazantzakis (Νίκος Καζαντζάκης, 1883–1957), the Cretan author of Zorba the Greek and The Last Temptation of Christ, whose work explores themes of knowledge, faith, and human striving.
From “Αναφορά στον Γκρέκο” (Report to Greco, 1961):
Τρεις είναι οι δρόμοι που οδηγούν στη γνώση: treis (trees) three eínai (EE-neh) are oi (ee) the-MASC.PL.NOM drómoi (THROH-mee) roads-NOM pou (poo) that othigoún (o-thee-GOON) lead-3PL sti (stee) to-the-FEM gnósi (GNOH-see) knowledge-ACC
ο δρόμος της πράξης, o (o) the-MASC.NOM drómos (THROH-mos) road tis (tees) the-FEM.GEN práxis (PRA-ksees) action-GEN
ο δρόμος της αγάπης, o (o) the-MASC.NOM drómos (THROH-mos) road tis (tees) the-FEM.GEN agápis (a-GAH-pees) love-GEN
ο δρόμος της γνώσης. o (o) the-MASC.NOM drómos (THROH-mos) road tis (tees) the-FEM.GEN gnósis (GNOH-sees) knowledge-GEN
Τρεις δρόμοι διαφορετικοί που φτάνουν στον ίδιο σκοπό. treis (trees) three drómoi (THROH-mee) roads thiaforetikoí (thee-a-fo-reh-tee-KEE) different-MASC.PL pou (poo) that ftánoun (FTAH-noon) arrive-3PL ston (ston) to-the-MASC.ACC íthio (EE-thee-o) same skopó (sko-POH) goal-ACC
Κι αυτοί που ξέρουν ξεχωρίζουν τους τρεις δρόμους ki (kee) and aftoí (af-TEE) those-MASC.PL pou (poo) who xéroun (KSEH-roon) know-3PL xechorítzoun (kse-ho-REE-zoon) distinguish-3PL tous (toos) the-MASC.ACC.PL treis (trees) three drómous (THROH-moos) roads-ACC
μα γνωρίζουν ότι είναι ένας. ma (ma) but gnorítzoun (gno-REE-zoon) know-3PL óti (OH-tee) that eínai (EE-neh) is énas (EH-nas) one-MASC
Τρεις είναι οι δρόμοι που οδηγούν στη γνώση: ο δρόμος της πράξης, ο δρόμος της αγάπης, ο δρόμος της γνώσης. Τρεις δρόμοι διαφορετικοί που φτάνουν στον ίδιο σκοπό. Κι αυτοί που ξέρουν ξεχωρίζουν τους τρεις δρόμους μα γνωρίζουν ότι είναι ένας.
“Three are the roads that lead to knowledge: the road of action, the road of love, the road of knowledge. Three different roads that arrive at the same goal. And those who know distinguish the three roads but recognize that they are one.”
Τρεις είναι οι δρόμοι που οδηγούν στη γνώση: Treis eínai oi drómoi pou othigoún sti gnósi:
ο δρόμος της πράξης, o drómos tis práxis,
ο δρόμος της αγάπης, o drómos tis agápis,
ο δρόμος της γνώσης. o drómos tis gnósis.
Τρεις δρόμοι διαφορετικοί που φτάνουν στον ίδιο σκοπό. Treis drómoi thiaforetikoí pou ftánoun ston íthio skopó.
Κι αυτοί που ξέρουν ξεχωρίζουν τους τρεις δρόμους Ki aftoí pou xéroun xechorítzoun tous treis drómous
μα γνωρίζουν ότι είναι ένας. ma gnorítzoun óti eínai énas.
γνώση (gnósi) — knowledge (feminine noun). From Ancient Greek γνῶσις. This is the abstract noun corresponding to γνωρίζω.
πράξη (práxi) — action, deed (feminine noun). From Ancient Greek πρᾶξις. Related to the verb πράττω (to do, to act).
διαφορετικοί (thiaforetikoí) — different (masculine plural adjective). Agrees with δρόμοι.
φτάνουν (ftánoun) — arrive, reach (3rd person plural present). From φτάνω, a common verb meaning “to arrive” or “to be enough.”
ξεχωρίζουν (xechorítzoun) — distinguish, separate (3rd person plural present). From ξε- (prefix indicating separation) + χωρίζω (to divide).
μα (ma) — but (conjunction). A more colloquial alternative to αλλά, common in literary Greek.
Grammar: Note how Kazantzakis uses both ξέρουν and γνωρίζουν in the final sentence, creating a semantic distinction: “those who know” (ξέρουν — factual knowledge) “recognize” (γνωρίζουν — deeper acquaintance/understanding) the unity of the paths.
Kazantzakis was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature nine times. His work blends Greek folk traditions with philosophical depth, often exploring the tension between body and spirit, action and contemplation.
In this passage from his spiritual autobiography Report to Greco, Kazantzakis articulates a vision of knowledge that transcends Western analytical categories. The “three roads”—action (karma yoga), love (bhakti yoga), and knowledge (jnana yoga)—echo Indian philosophy, which Kazantzakis studied extensively.
The deliberate use of both ξέρουν and γνωρίζουν in the final sentence is characteristic of Kazantzakis’s linguistic precision. Those who truly “know” (ξέρουν—possess the information) also “recognize/are intimately acquainted with” (γνωρίζουν) the deeper truth of unity.
This passage exemplifies how Greek’s two verbs for “knowing” can be deployed for philosophical effect—a resource unavailable in English, which must use “know” for both meanings.
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46.16a —Ξέρετε να χειρίζεστε υπολογιστές; 46.16b xérete (KSEH-reh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL na (na) to-SUBJ cheirízeste (hee-REE-zeh-steh) operate-2PL ypologistés (ee-po-lo-yee-STES) computers-ACC
46.17a —Ναι, ξέρω όλα τα βασικά προγράμματα 46.17b ne (neh) yes xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG óla (OH-la) all-NEUT.PL ta (ta) the-NEUT.PL.ACC vasiká (va-see-KAH) basic-NEUT.PL prográmmata (pro-GRAH-ma-ta) programs-ACC
46.18a —Γνωρίζετε την αγγλική γλώσσα; 46.18b gnorítzete (gno-REE-zeh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC anglikí (an-glee-KEE) English-FEM.ACC glóssa (GLOHS-sa) language-ACC
46.19a —Τη γνωρίζω πολύ καλά, έχω πτυχίο 46.19b ti (tee) it-FEM.ACC gnorízo (gno-REE-zo) know-1SG polý (po-LEE) very kalá (ka-LAH) well écho (EH-ho) have-1SG ptychío (ptee-HEE-o) degree-ACC
46.20a —Ξέρετε κάτι για την εταιρεία μας; 46.20b xérete (KSEH-reh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL káti (KAH-tee) something giá (ya) about tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC etereía (eh-teh-REE-a) company-ACC mas (mas) our
46.21a —Ξέρω ότι είστε πρωτοπόροι στον τομέα σας 46.21b xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG óti (OH-tee) that eíste (EE-steh) are-2PL protopóroi (pro-to-POH-ree) pioneers-NOM ston (ston) in-the-MASC.ACC toméa (to-MEH-a) sector-ACC sas (sas) your-PL
46.22a —Γνωρίζετε κάποιον στην εταιρεία; 46.22b gnorítzete (gno-REE-zeh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL kápion (KAH-pyon) someone-ACC stin (steen) in-the-FEM.ACC etereía (eh-teh-REE-a) company-ACC
46.23a —Δεν γνωρίζω κανέναν, είδα την αγγελία στο διαδίκτυο 46.23b den (then) not gnorízo (gno-REE-zo) know-1SG kanénan (ka-NEH-nan) anyone-ACC eítha (EE-tha) saw-1SG tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC angelía (an-geh-LEE-a) advertisement-ACC sto (sto) on-the-NEUT thiadhíktyo (thee-a-THEEK-tee-o) internet-ACC
46.24a —Ξέρετε τι μισθό περιμένετε; 46.24b xérete (KSEH-reh-teh) know-2PL.FORMAL ti (tee) what misthó (mee-STHOH) salary-ACC periménete (peh-ree-MEH-neh-teh) expect-2PL
46.25a —Ξέρω τα δεδομένα της αγοράς, είμαι ευέλικτος 46.25b xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG ta (ta) the-NEUT.PL.ACC thedoména (theh-tho-MEH-na) data-ACC tis (tees) the-FEM.GEN agorás (a-go-RAS) market-GEN eíme (EE-meh) am-1SG evélikos (ev-EH-lee-ktos) flexible-MASC
46.26a —Πόσο καλά ξέρετε να δουλεύετε σε ομάδα; 46.26b póso (POH-so) how kalá (ka-LAH) well xérete (KSEH-reh-teh) know-2PL na (na) to-SUBJ thoulévete (thoo-LEV-eh-teh) work-2PL se (seh) in omátha (o-MAH-tha) team-ACC
46.27a —Γνωρίζω από εμπειρία τη σημασία της συνεργασίας 46.27b gnorízo (gno-REE-zo) know-1SG apó (a-POH) from empeiría (em-bee-REE-a) experience-ACC ti (tee) the-FEM.ACC simasía (see-ma-SEE-a) importance-ACC tis (tees) the-FEM.GEN synergasías (see-ner-ga-SEE-as) cooperation-GEN
46.28a —Ξέρετε αν μπορείτε να ξεκινήσετε αμέσως; 46.28b xérete (KSEH-reh-teh) know-2PL an (an) if boreíte (bo-REE-teh) can-2PL na (na) to-SUBJ xekinísete (kse-kee-NEE-seh-teh) start-2PL amésos (a-MEH-sos) immediately
46.29a —Ναι, ξέρω ότι είμαι διαθέσιμος από Δευτέρα 46.29b ne (neh) yes xéro (KSEH-ro) know-1SG óti (OH-tee) that eíme (EE-meh) am-1SG thiathésimos (thee-a-THEH-see-mos) available-MASC apó (a-POH) from Theftéra (thef-TEH-ra) Monday-ACC
46.30a —Ωραία, θα σας γνωρίσουμε στους συναδέλφους την πρώτη μέρα 46.30b oréa (o-REH-a) good-NEUT tha (tha) will sas (sas) you-ACC.PL.FORMAL gnorísoume (gno-REE-soo-meh) introduce-1PL stous (stoos) to-the-MASC.ACC.PL synathélfous (see-na-THEL-foos) colleagues-ACC tin (teen) the-FEM.ACC próti (PROH-tee) first-FEM méra (MEH-ra) day-ACC
46.16 —Ξέρετε να χειρίζεστε υπολογιστές; —Xérete na cheirízeste ypologistés? “—Do you know how to operate computers?”
46.17 —Ναι, ξέρω όλα τα βασικά προγράμματα. —Ne, xéro óla ta vasiká prográmmata. “—Yes, I know all the basic programs.”
46.18 —Γνωρίζετε την αγγλική γλώσσα; —Gnorítzete tin anglikí glóssa? “—Are you familiar with the English language?”
46.19 —Τη γνωρίζω πολύ καλά, έχω πτυχίο. —Ti gnorízo polý kalá, écho ptychío. “—I know it very well; I have a degree.”
46.20 —Ξέρετε κάτι για την εταιρεία μας; —Xérete káti giá tin etereía mas? “—Do you know anything about our company?”
46.21 —Ξέρω ότι είστε πρωτοπόροι στον τομέα σας. —Xéro óti eíste protopóroi ston toméa sas. “—I know that you are pioneers in your sector.”
46.22 —Γνωρίζετε κάποιον στην εταιρεία; —Gnorítzete kápion stin etereía? “—Do you know anyone in the company?”
46.23 —Δεν γνωρίζω κανέναν, είδα την αγγελία στο διαδίκτυο. —Den gnorízo kanénan, eítha tin angelía sto thiadhíktyo. “—I don’t know anyone; I saw the advertisement on the internet.”
46.24 —Ξέρετε τι μισθό περιμένετε; —Xérete ti misthó periménete? “—Do you know what salary you expect?”
46.25 —Ξέρω τα δεδομένα της αγοράς, είμαι ευέλικτος. —Xéro ta thedoména tis agorás, eíme evélikos. “—I know the market data; I’m flexible.”
46.26 —Πόσο καλά ξέρετε να δουλεύετε σε ομάδα; —Póso kalá xérete na thoulévete se omátha? “—How well do you know how to work in a team?”
46.27 —Γνωρίζω από εμπειρία τη σημασία της συνεργασίας. —Gnorízo apó empeiría ti simasía tis synergasías. “—I know from experience the importance of cooperation.”
46.28 —Ξέρετε αν μπορείτε να ξεκινήσετε αμέσως; —Xérete an boreíte na xekinísete amésos? “—Do you know if you can start immediately?”
46.29 —Ναι, ξέρω ότι είμαι διαθέσιμος από Δευτέρα. —Ne, xéro óti eíme thiathésimos apó Theftéra. “—Yes, I know that I am available from Monday.”
46.30 —Ωραία, θα σας γνωρίσουμε στους συναδέλφους την πρώτη μέρα. —Oréa, tha sas gnorísoume stous synathélfous tin próti méra. “—Good, we will introduce you to your colleagues on the first day.”
46.16 —Ξέρετε να χειρίζεστε υπολογιστές; —Xérete na cheirízeste ypologistés?
46.17 —Ναι, ξέρω όλα τα βασικά προγράμματα. —Ne, xéro óla ta vasiká prográmmata.
46.18 —Γνωρίζετε την αγγλική γλώσσα; —Gnorítzete tin anglikí glóssa?
46.19 —Τη γνωρίζω πολύ καλά, έχω πτυχίο. —Ti gnorízo polý kalá, écho ptychío.
46.20 —Ξέρετε κάτι για την εταιρεία μας; —Xérete káti giá tin etereía mas?
46.21 —Ξέρω ότι είστε πρωτοπόροι στον τομέα σας. —Xéro óti eíste protopóroi ston toméa sas.
46.22 —Γνωρίζετε κάποιον στην εταιρεία; —Gnorítzete kápion stin etereía?
46.23 —Δεν γνωρίζω κανέναν, είδα την αγγελία στο διαδίκτυο. —Den gnorízo kanénan, eítha tin angelía sto thiadhíktyo.
46.24 —Ξέρετε τι μισθό περιμένετε; —Xérete ti misthó periménete?
46.25 —Ξέρω τα δεδομένα της αγοράς, είμαι ευέλικτος. —Xéro ta thedoména tis agorás, eíme evélikos.
46.26 —Πόσο καλά ξέρετε να δουλεύετε σε ομάδα; —Póso kalá xérete na thoulévete se omátha?
46.27 —Γνωρίζω από εμπειρία τη σημασία της συνεργασίας. —Gnorízo apó empeiría ti simasía tis synergasías.
46.28 —Ξέρετε αν μπορείτε να ξεκινήσετε αμέσως; —Xérete an boreíte na xekinísete amésos?
46.29 —Ναι, ξέρω ότι είμαι διαθέσιμος από Δευτέρα. —Ne, xéro óti eíme thiathésimos apó Theftéra.
46.30 —Ωραία, θα σας γνωρίσουμε στους συναδέλφους την πρώτη μέρα. —Oréa, tha sas gnorísoume stous synathélfous tin próti méra.
χειρίζομαι (cheirítzome) — to handle, to operate (deponent verb, middle/passive forms only). From χείρ (hand). Used for operating equipment, handling situations.
πτυχίο (ptychío) — degree, diploma (neuter noun). The standard word for university degree. “Έχω πτυχίο στα αγγλικά” = I have a degree in English.
εταιρεία (etereía) — company, firm (feminine noun). The standard business term. Note the spelling with -ει-.
πρωτοπόρος (protopóros) — pioneer, leader (masculine noun/adjective). From πρῶτος (first) + πόρος (way). Plural: πρωτοπόροι.
κανέναν (kanénan) — anyone, no one (accusative masculine). In negative sentences with δεν, it means “anyone”; alone it means “no one.”
διαδίκτυο (thiadhíktyo) — internet (neuter noun). Literally “through-net,” a modern Greek coinage calquing the English term.
δεδομένα (thedoména) — data, given facts (neuter plural). From δίδω (to give). Used in business, science, and computing contexts.
ευέλικτος (evélikos) — flexible (masculine adjective). From εὐ- (well) + ἑλίσσω (to turn). A common term in job contexts.
συνάδελφος (synáthelfos) — colleague (masculine/feminine noun). From συν- (with) + ἀδελφός (brother). Plural: συνάδελφοι.
The Formal “You”: Throughout this dialogue, the interviewer uses εσείς (you-plural) forms to address the candidate formally. This is standard in professional Greek contexts. The candidate reciprocates. Note forms: ξέρετε, γνωρίζετε, περιμένετε, μπορείτε.
Future with θα + verb: “Θα σας γνωρίσουμε” (We will introduce you) shows the simple future formed with θα + verb (here, the dependent/subjunctive form γνωρίσουμε).
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ξ (xi): Pronounced like English “ks” as in “box.” ξέρω = KSEH-ro.
γν (gamma-nu): At word beginnings, often simplified to “n” in casual speech, but correctly pronounced as a voiced velar nasal + n. γνωρίζω = gno-REE-zo.
ζ (zeta): Pronounced like English “z” in “zoo.” γνωρίζω ends with this sound.
ει (epsilon-iota): Pronounced like English “ee” in “see.” This is one of several letter combinations that all produce the “ee” sound.
ου (omicron-upsilon): Always pronounced like English “oo” in “food.” ξέρουμε = KSEH-roo-meh.
Both verbs maintain consistent stress: -
ξέρω: stress on first syllable (KSEH-ro) -
γνωρίζω: stress on second syllable (gno-REE-zo)
In conjugation, stress may shift: ξέρω but ξέρουμε (stress remains), γνωρίζω but γνώρισα (stress shifts in aorist).
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Pronouncing ξ as English “x” instead of “ks” -
Separating γν into two distinct sounds instead of blending them -
Placing stress on the wrong syllable -
Pronouncing ζ as English “z” in “pizza” (with “ts” sound) instead of pure “z”
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The Latinum Institute Modern Language Course applies time-tested classical language teaching methods to modern languages. Since 2006, Latinum has provided high-quality language instruction to autodidact learners worldwide.
This course follows a systematic vocabulary-based approach, using the 1000 most frequent English words as a framework. Each lesson introduces a core concept through: -
Interlinear glossing that makes every word transparent -
Natural sentences demonstrating authentic usage -
Grammar explanations tailored to the word type -
Cultural context that brings the language alive -
Literary citations from major authors -
Genre sections for extended reading practice
The method is designed for self-directed learners who want to achieve genuine reading fluency rather than mere phrase memorization. By building vocabulary systematically while encountering rich authentic texts, students develop the pattern recognition necessary for independent reading.
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The interlinear format—presenting target language, romanization, and English gloss together—allows learners to process Greek text directly without constant dictionary consultation. This accelerates the transition from decoding to genuine reading comprehension.
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✓ Lesson 46 Modern Greek complete
Lesson 46 covers: -
ξέρω (xéro) — to know (facts, information, skills) -
γνωρίζω (gnorízo) — to know (people, be acquainted with), to introduce -
μαθαίνω (supporting verb for “finding out”) -
Full conjugations in present and past tenses -
The distinction between “knowing facts” and “knowing people” -
Key constructions: ξέρω + να, ξέρω + ότι, γνωρίζω + person -
Cultural significance of knowledge in Greek society -
Kazantzakis’s “Report to Greco” (literary citation) -
Job interview dialogue genre (30 total examples)
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