Questions & Answers about Μην έρθεις αργά, σε παρακαλώ.
Why is it μην and not δεν?
Greek uses μη(ν) to negate commands/requests (prohibitions), while δεν negates statements.
- Δεν έρχεται. = He/She doesn’t come.
- Μην έρθεις. = Don’t come.
Why is it έρθεις and not έρχεσαι?
The negative imperative is formed with μην + subjunctive. Έρθεις is the aorist subjunctive (2nd sg). Έρχεσαι is present indicative and can’t be used for a prohibition in this structure. So Μην έρθεις means Don’t come (this time).
What exact form is έρθεις, and what are the main parts of the verb?
- Base verb: έρχομαι (to come)
- Aorist (past): ήρθα (I came)
- Subjunctive 2nd sg: (να) έρθεις (that you come)
- Future: θα έρθω (I will come) So Μην έρθεις = Don’t come.
Can I say Μην έρχεσαι αργά instead? What’s the difference?
Yes, but the meaning shifts:
- Μην έρθεις αργά: single, specific occasion (tonight/this time).
- Μην έρχεσαι αργά: repeated or habitual action (stop coming late in general).
Is Μην αργήσεις another natural way to say this?