If you visit Greece or talk to Greek people, you might hear the phrase “Ti les re malaka?” (Τι λες ρε μαλάκα;). This is a very common sentence in Greek, especially between friends. But what does it mean? Let’s learn together!
Breaking the Phrase Down: “Ti les re malaka?”
Let’s look at each word in the phrase:
- Ti les? – This means “What are you saying?” or “What are you talking about?”
- Re – This is a casual word, like “hey” or “man” in English. People use it to talk to friends.
- Malaka – This is a slang word. It is a bad word in Greek, but many people also use it in a friendly way. The literal meaning is not nice (it means someone who masturbates), but most of the time it just means “idiot,” “fool,” or even “dude” – depending on how you say it.
Different Meanings
The meaning of “Ti les re malaka?” changes with the tone of voice and the situation. Let’s look at the two most common ways people use it:
1. Friendly Teasing
In everyday talk between close friends, Greeks use this phrase in a funny and friendly way. It is like saying:
- “What are you saying, man?”
- “Are you serious, dude?”
- “No way, you fool!” (but in a fun, happy way)
This is not rude between friends. It is often used when someone says something funny, crazy, or surprising.
Example 1:
- Your friend says: “I will eat three burgers!”
- You say (laughing): “Ti les re malaka?”
- Meaning: “What are you talking about, man? That’s crazy!”
Example 2:
- Your friend says: “I met a movie star at the beach!”
- You say: “Ti les re malaka?”
- Meaning: “No way, really?!”
2. Rude or Insulting
Be careful! If you say this to someone you don’t know well, it can be very rude. It might sound like:
- “What are you saying, you idiot?”
- “Are you stupid or what?”
So, do not use this phrase with strangers or in formal situations. It can make people angry.
Is It Okay to Use?
✅ Yes, if:
- You are joking with close friends
- You say it with a happy tone
- You know the other person is okay with it
❌ No, if:
- You are talking to a stranger
- You are in a serious or formal place
- You say it in an angry voice
A Short Dialogue Example
Let’s see how two Greek friends might use this phrase:
Yannis: I think I can run 10 kilometers without stopping.
Nikos: Ti les re malaka? You never go running!
(They both laugh)
Conclusion:
The Greek phrase “Ti les re malaka?” can be funny or rude, depending on how and when you use it. It’s very common in Greece, and many young people say it all the time when talking with friends.
If you want to try using it, make sure you use it with people you know well, and always in a fun or friendly way.
You might love …
27 Popular Sayings & Quotes in Greek