Greek · Question Words

μήπως

mípos

Perhaps (question particle)

Intermediateparticle

Definition

A particle that makes a question softer or more polite.

Example

Μήπως ξέρετε πού είναι η τράπεζα;

Do you happen to know where the bank is?

Etymology

'Μήπως' (mípos) combines the ancient particle μή (mē, meaning 'not') and πώς (pós, meaning 'how'), transforming into a form of expression used for uncertainty. Its form has remained stable through time.

How & Where It’s Used

'Μήπως' functions as a softener for questions, primarily used in informal spoken contexts. It is prevalent in everyday conversations across Greece.

Watch “Perhaps (question particle)” pronunciation on YouTube
questiongrammar

Related Terms