Funny Greek Phrases

Greek is full of expressions that sound hilarious – or completely insane – when translated word for word. Here are some favorites that confuse (and delight) Greek learners.

(Literal Translation vs What They Really Mean)

1. Έφαγα πόρτα.

Literal: I ate a door.
Real meaning: I was rejected / turned away.

Used for:

• Being denied entry
• Being ignored
• Romantic rejection

Πήγα στο κλαμπ και έφαγα πόρτα.
I went to the club and got turned away.

2. Μου έφαγε τα αυτιά.

Literal: He/She ate my ears.
Real meaning: He/She talked nonstop / annoyed me with talking.

Perfect for that friend who never stops talking.

3. Πάμε για καφέ.

Literal: Let’s go for coffee.
Real meaning: Let’s talk… for hours!

In Greece, coffee is a social event, not a quick drink.

4. Τα έκανα θάλασσα!

Literal: I made them sea.
Real meaning: I messed everything up.

A very common and very Greek way to admit failure.

5. Έφαγα χυλόπιτα.

Literal: I ate semolina pudding.
Real meaning: I was rejected (romantically).

One of the most famous Greek rejection phrases.