Εγώ δουλεύω στο γραφείο, ενώ ο αδερφός μου μένει σπίτι.

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Breakdown of Εγώ δουλεύω στο γραφείο, ενώ ο αδερφός μου μένει σπίτι.

• εγώ: I
• μου: my
• σε: at

Questions & Answers about Εγώ δουλεύω στο γραφείο, ενώ ο αδερφός μου μένει σπίτι.

Why is Εγώ used here? Do you always need to say “I” in Greek?

In Greek you don’t need to use the subject pronoun most of the time, because the verb ending already shows who the subject is.

• Δουλεύω στο γραφείο. = I work at the office. (no Εγώ, still clear)
• Εγώ δουλεύω στο γραφείο. adds emphasis, like:
  
  • I work at the office (as opposed to someone else).

So in this sentence, Εγώ contrasts with ο αδερφός μου:

• Εγώ work at the office, while my brother stays at home.

You use Εγώ when you want that contrast or emphasis; otherwise you usually drop it.

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What does δουλεύω mean exactly? Is it the normal verb for “to work”?

Yes, δουλεύω is the everyday, most common verb for “to work”:

• δουλεύω στο γραφείο – I work at the office
• δουλεύεις πολύ – you work a lot

There is also εργάζομαι, which is:

• more formal or official (you’ll see it in news, documents, announcements)
• usually not used in casual conversation

So:

• In normal speech: δουλεύω
• In formal written Greek / official style: εργάζομαι

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What exactly is στο in στο γραφείο? Is it one word or two?