The most common way to say “hello” in Greek is Γεια (pronounced “ya”).

Here are the key versions you’ll hear:

  • Γεια – “Hi/Hello” (casual, any time of day).
  • Γεια σου – “Hello” to one person you know well (informal singular).
  • Γεια σας – “Hello” to more than one person or to someone you address politely (formal or plural).

You can think of Γεια as the Greek “hi/bye” because it’s also used when saying goodbye in everyday conversation.