Excuses are a part of everyday life, whether you’re late for work or just want to avoid plans. In Greek, there are plenty of creative ways to express them.
Perfect for Being Late:
Κόλλησα στην κίνηση.
/Kóllisa stin kínisi/
“I got stuck in traffic.”
A classic excuse for being late. Works every time!
Έπαθα λάστιχο.
/Épatha lásticho/
“I got a flat tire.”
Use this one when you need a more dramatic reason for being late. Northern Greeks might even say, έπαθα φούιτ /épatha foúit/!
Suitable for Avoiding Plans:
Θα έχω επισκέψεις.
/Tha écho episképsis/
“I’m expecting visitors.”
Perfect when you want to stay home and relax.
Δεν είμαι πολύ καλά. Είμαι άρρωστος.
/Den eímai polí kalá. Eímai árrostos/
“I’m not feeling well. I’m sick.”
A polite and convincing excuse for skipping out.
Great to avoid Romantic Situations:
Έχω κανονίσει.
/Écho kanonísei/
“I already have plans.”
Use this when you want to gently turn down an invitation.
Σου αξίζει κάτι καλύτερο.
/Sou axízei káti kalýtero/
“You deserve someone better.”
A dramatic way to break up with someone while boosting their ego.
Perfect for School or Work Excuses:
Είχα πολλή δουλειά.
/ícha pollí douliá/
“I had too much work.”
A solid excuse for not doing your homework.
Ένα ρακούν μπήκε στο σπίτι…
/Éna rakún bíke sto spíti/
“A raccoon got into the house…”
Change this to a chicken (κότα) for a more believable Greek version.
Bonus Tips for Convincing Excuses:
Use the filler word μωρέ (moré) for extra sincerity:
Μωρέ, είμαι λίγο κουρασμένος…
/Moré, eímai lígo kourasménos…/
“I’m a bit tired…”
Follow the “apology + reason” formula:
Συγγνώμη, δεν γίνεται γιατί…
(Synchnómi, den gínetai giatí…)
“Sorry, it’s not possible because…”
Add any excuse:
- Έχω πολλή δουλειά. (I have a lot of work.)
- Είμαι άρρωστος. (I’m sick.)
- Βαριέμαι. (I’m bored.)
Now you can make excuses like a true Greek!
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See you in the next one!
Ta leme!
