Formality and informality in the Greek language is not as complicated as other languages. This is because in most cases if one wishes to be formal in a conversation he or she simply addresses the other person as if they were multiple people. This is especially the case when addressing elders. So if I'm saying a formal instead of an informal hello "Γεια σου" becomes "Γεια σας." In this case the "σας" is used to address a single person although normally it would indicate that you are speaking to multiple people. In Greek formal language depends heavily on context.
Another important concept when talking about formality in Greek is surnames. This is especially important when speaking formally about someone in third person. So if you are referring to a Greek politician in a conversation or a paper then you must add "κύριος" prior to the name, which means mister. Surnames are very important in Greek and a sign of respect and acknowledgement.
Comments