7 Popular Greek Proverbs And Their Meanings

One of my favorite ways to get a real grasp of a new language and culture is by learning some of its proverbs.

In Greek, proverbs are called παροιμίες (paroimies), and they’re packed with generations of wisdom, humor, and a uniquely Hellenic outlook on life.

They’re “chunks” of language that can quickly make your Greek sound much more natural.

Many of these sayings have roots stretching back to Ancient Greece, while others are more modern. But they all give you a glimpse into the Greek way of thinking.

1. Σιγά σιγά η αγουρίδα γίνεται μέλι (Patience is a virtue)

Σιγά σιγά η αγουρίδα γίνεται μέλι.

Siga siga i agourida ginetai meli.

Literal translation: “Slowly, slowly the sour grape becomes honey.”

Meaning: This is a beautiful, visual way of saying that good things take time. Just like a sour, unripe grape needs time on the vine to sweeten and become delicious, our goals and projects need patience to come to fruition. It’s a reminder not to rush the process.

English equivalent: “Patience is a virtue” or “Slow and steady wins the race.”

2. Το μήλο κάτω απ’ τη μηλιά θα πέσει (Like father, like son)

Το μήλο κάτω απ’ τη μηλιά θα πέσει.

To milo kato ap' ti milia tha pesei.

Literal translation: “The apple will fall under the apple tree.”

Meaning: This proverb is used in many languages, and its meaning is straightforward: children often inherit traits, behaviors, or habits from their parents. You might hear a Greek yiayia (grandmother) say this with a knowing smile when she sees a child acting just like their mother or father.

English equivalent: “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

3. Όποιος βιάζεται σκοντάφτει (Haste makes waste)

Όποιος βιάζεται σκοντάφτει.

Opios viazetai skontaftei.

Literal translation: “Whoever hurries, trips.”

Meaning: This is a very direct and practical piece of advice. If you rush through something without paying attention, you’re likely to make mistakes (or literally trip and fall!). It emphasizes the importance of being careful and deliberate in your actions. I’ve found this to be very true in language learning—rushing to speak often leads to more errors than taking a moment to think.

English equivalent: “Haste makes waste.”

4. Μάτια που δε βλέπονται, γρήγορα λησμονιούνται (Out of sight, out of mind)

Μάτια που δε βλέπονται, γρήγορα λησμονιούνται.

Matia pou de vlepontai, grigora lismonountai.

Literal translation: “Eyes that don’t see each other are quickly forgotten.”

Meaning: This proverb speaks to the human tendency to forget people or things that are no longer part of our daily lives. When physical distance separates people, emotional connection can fade over time. It can be used in a sad way, but also as a simple observation of fact.

English equivalent: “Out of sight, out of mind.”

5. Έξω από το χορό, πολλά τραγούδια ξέρεις (Armchair quarterback)

Έξω από το χορό, πολλά τραγούδια ξέρεις.

Exo apo to horo, polla tragoudia xereis.

Literal translation: “Outside the dance, you know many songs.”

Meaning: It’s always easy to criticize or know the “right” thing to do when you’re not the one in the middle of the situation. This proverb calls out people who are quick to give advice from the sidelines without having to face the actual challenge themselves. Picture someone watching others dance and saying, “They should be doing this step,” when they aren’t even on the dance floor.

English equivalent: “Easier said than done,” or it describes an “armchair critic/quarterback.”

6. Το ‘να χέρι νίβει τ’ άλλο και τα δυο το πρόσωπο (Teamwork)

Το ‘να χέρι νίβει τ’ άλλο και τα δυο το πρόσωπο.

To 'na heri nivei t' allo kai ta dyo to prosopo.

Literal translation: “The one hand washes the other and both wash the face.”

Meaning: This proverb has ancient roots and brilliantly illustrates the power of cooperation. One hand can’t wash itself effectively, but with the help of the other, both can become clean. And working together, they can accomplish a bigger task, like washing the face. It’s a fantastic metaphor for teamwork and mutual help.

English equivalent: “You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours,” or more broadly, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

7. Κάλλιο πέντε και στο χέρι, παρά δέκα και καρτέρει (A bird in the hand…)

Κάλλιο πέντε και στο χέρι, παρά δέκα και καρτέρει.

Kallio pente kai sto heri, para deka kai karterei.

Literal translation: “Better five in the hand, than ten and waiting.”

Meaning: This is a classic proverb about risk and reward. It’s wiser to accept a smaller, certain gain than to risk it for a larger, uncertain one. The Greek version uses numbers to make the comparison very clear. Having five of something right now is better than the mere possibility of getting ten later.

English equivalent: “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”

Start listening for Greek proverbs

Now that you know a few common Greek proverbs, keep your ears open for them.

You’ll probably hear them in movies, songs, and everyday conversations with native Greek speakers.

While not necessarily essential to know, understanding proverbs is a significant step toward fluency and impressing people you speak to.

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