I'm learning ελληνικά

Ναι — meaning in English: Yes

Ne · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for Yes
ενσυναίσθηση
ensynésthisi
Ναι
Ne
αφετηρία
afeteria
Ένα
Ena
προϊόν
proïón
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Greek for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
informal very common
Usage
Native Greek speakers use 'Ναι' in everyday conversations to express agreement or affirmation. You'll hear it in a variety of contexts, such as responding to a question in a café, confirming plans with friends, or during discussions in a business setting when agreeing to terms.
Synonyms & nuances
'Ναι' is often simply translated as 'yes', but it carries a tone of enthusiasm or readiness that other affirmatives may lack. For instance, using 'Μάλιστα' (malista) means 'certainly' and conveys respect, whereas 'Ναι' is more straightforward and casual.
Culture
'Ναι' has roots in the ancient Greek language, where affirmations were key in philosophical debates and dialogues. Its simplicity makes it a staple in both casual and formal communication, embodying the Greek approach to directness and clarity in conversation.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'Ναι'?
'Ναι' is pronounced as 'Ne', rhyming with 'day'. It's a straightforward word that's easy to say and remember.
Q.Can 'Ναι' be used in formal settings?
Yes, 'Ναι' can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, in very formal contexts, you might choose to use 'Μάλιστα' to convey a more respectful affirmation.
Q.What are common mistakes when using 'Ναι'?
One common mistake is overusing 'Ναι' in situations where a more nuanced response is required, such as saying 'yes' to complicated questions without providing additional context or details.
Learn greek with Maspeak →
Greek Vocabulary