Καταλαβαίνω λίγο ελληνικά.

in Greek

Breakdown of Καταλαβαίνω λίγο ελληνικά.

• λίγο: a little
• καταλαβαίνω: to understand

Questions & Answers about Καταλαβαίνω λίγο ελληνικά.

What does each word mean in the sentence Καταλαβαίνω λίγο ελληνικά?

• Καταλαβαίνω = I understand (present tense, 1st person singular).
• λίγο = a little, a bit (adverb showing degree).
• ελληνικά = Greek (the Greek language; literally the neuter plural of the adjective ελληνικός used as a noun).

Where is the word I? Why is it not written?

Greek is a pro‑drop language. The verb ending -ω in καταλαβαίνω already shows the subject is 1st person singular, so the pronoun εγώ (I) is optional. You add Εγώ only for emphasis: Εγώ καταλαβαίνω λίγο ελληνικά (I, as opposed to others, understand…).

What tense and form is Καταλαβαίνω?

It’s the present indicative active, 1st person singular. Aspectually it’s imperfective, so it describes a current/general ability or ongoing action: I understand / I am understanding.

How do you pronounce the sentence?

• Whole sentence (IPA): [kata.laˈveno ˈliɣo eliniˈka]
• Tips:
  • αι in καταλαβαίνω sounds like English e in bet.
  • β is v, not b.
  • γ in λίγο is a voiced velar fricative [ɣ], a soft gh sound.
  • η is i (ee), ω/ο are both o.
  • Stresses: κα‑τα‑λα‑βαί‑νω, λί‑γο, ε‑λη‑νι‑κά.