How to Learn Greek by Yourself? Start with an Easy and Free Online Course!

We have adopted an objective and efficient approach to learn how to speak a language easily and quickly: we suggest you start by memorizing words, phrases, and practical expressions that you can use in everyday life and that will be useful when traveling.

Getting used to pronouncing words out loud, such as numbers, is an easy exercise you can often practice and at any time throughout the day. This practice will help you get accustomed to the sounds of your chosen language, making it more familiar.

Once your holidays have begun in Athens or another Greek city, you will be surprised at how familiar and easy to understand it will seem.

Furthermore, using a pocket dictionary is always useful, particularly during a trip. It allows you to find the translation of new words and enrich your vocabulary.

Why Speak Greek While Traveling?

A Civilization Rich in History and Culture

It is impossible to talk about Greece without talking about its culture of today and yesterday. Be it for the ancient sculptures and architecture, or for the cinema of Theódoros Angelópoulos, this country's culture attracts passionate and curious visitors from all over the world.

Indeed, considered the cradle of Western civilization, the country has a rich heritage which persists in almost all areas of science and modern culture, particularly in the human sciences through philosophy and literature.

And you can be sure that even though they have been widely disseminated and translated into many languages, knowing the works which inspired democracy and poetry in their original language could prove to be a pleasure beyond compare.

A Country to Know

The world's leading maritime power, Greece is a tourist-oriented country which receives around 15 million tourists each year, equating to approximately 16% of its GNP.

Beyond the historic buildings and beautiful landscapes, millions of visitors also seek a typically Mediterranean cuisine, designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

In Greece, the cuisine is distinguished by the use of local ingredients, although it has been influenced by the different peoples and civilizations who have lived in the region.

Apart from all these reasons, learning Greek will facilitate your travels to other countries in the region, such as Cyprus (where it is an official language) and Italy.

Make a Success of Your Stay in Greece and Cyprus

Whether you are going to spend a few days with friends on a leisure trip or if you are on a business trip, nothing will be more useful than being able to slip in a few words in the language of your interlocutors. They will appreciate your effort and be more willing to help.

How to Succeed in Having Good Pronunciation Within a Week to a Month?

The only survivor of the Hellenic language family, modern Greek—also called Demotic—has between 15 and 22 million speakers, mainly in Greece and Cyprus, but also in Turkey, Italy, Hungary, and other countries.

The Greek alphabet may seem difficult at first, mainly because several letters or groups of letters are pronounced the same way, but some comparisons with your mother tongue or other languages you have learned will certainly help you to pinpoint the correct pronunciation of the language.

Here are some examples: - Ρ, ρ: Must be pronounced rolled like the Italian R - Θ, θ: Pronounced like the English TH, as in THINK - Δ, δ: Pronounced like the English TH of THIS - ΟΥ, ου: Pronounced [ou] like the French OU We invite you to listen to the pronunciation of the letters by clicking on the following link: Greek alphabet with audio.

1. Start with the Basics

Begin by learning the Greek alphabet and basic pronunciation rules. This foundation will help you read and speak Greek more accurately.

2. Build Your Vocabulary

Focus on everyday words and phrases that you are likely to use. Flashcards and language apps can be very helpful in expanding your vocabulary.

3. Practice Speaking

Speak Greek as much as possible. Practice with native speakers or fellow learners. Use language exchange platforms to find conversation partners.

4. Immerse Yourself

Immerse yourself in the language through Greek media. Watch Greek movies, listen to Greek music, and follow Greek news. This will help improve your listening skills and familiarize you with the cultural context.

5. Use Official Online Resources

There are many official online resources to help you learn Greek:

• Centre for the Greek Language: Offers resources and structured lessons for Greek language learners.
• Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT): Access a variety of Greek media, including news, TV shows, and radio programs to improve your listening skills.
• National Library of Greece: Provides access to a wide range of Greek literature and publications.

6. Take a Language Course

Consider enrolling in a language course with a qualified teacher. Personalized instruction can accelerate your learning and help you master difficult concepts. The Athens Centre offers language courses and cultural exchange opportunities.

7. Stay Consistent

Consistency is key. Practice Greek daily, even if only for a few minutes. Regular exposure and practice will lead to steady progress.

By following these steps and utilizing the available resources, you can start speaking and understanding Greek in no time. Happy learning!