Questions & Answers about Αυτή δεν πεινάει, αλλά διψάει λίγο.
Does ΑΥΤΉ mean “she” or “this (one)” here?
Both are possible in Modern Greek. Αυτή is the stressed 3rd‑person feminine singular pronoun and can mean:
- she (subject pronoun), or
- this (woman/one) (demonstrative), depending on context.
In natural speech it often just functions as “she,” but without context it could also be understood as “this one (fem.).”
Can I omit the subject pronoun?
Yes. Greek is a pro‑drop language. The most natural version in everyday speech is simply: Δεν πεινάει, αλλά διψάει λίγο. Including Αυτή adds emphasis/contrast: “SHE isn’t hungry (but is a bit thirsty).”
Why is the negative particle δεν used, and when do I use μην instead?
- Use δεν to negate verbs in the indicative (normal statements/questions): Δεν πεινάει = “She isn’t hungry.”
- Use μην with the subjunctive/imperatives (often after να/ας) and in negative commands:
- Να μην πίνεις πολύ. “Don’t (shouldn’t) drink a lot.”
- Μην πίνεις πολύ! “Don’t drink a lot!”
What are the dictionary forms of πεινάει and διψάει, and how are they conjugated?