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!

Aaaand….if you truly want to start mastering Greek in style, we recommend starting with our Greek Crash Course.

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See you in the next one!

Ta leme!