“All Greek To Me” – Meaning and Origin
The phrase “All Greek to me” is a common idiom used to express a complete lack of understanding. When someone says something is “all Greek to them,” they mean it is incomprehensible, unintelligible, or beyond their grasp. It’s a colorful way of admitting ignorance or acknowledging a subject that is too complex for them to follow. It suggests the topic might as well be in a foreign language – specifically, Greek – because it is equally impossible to decipher.
Origin of “All Greek To Me”
The phrase’s roots are surprisingly old and can be traced back to medieval Latin. The original phrase was “Graecum est, non legitur,” meaning “It is Greek; it cannot be read.” This was not necessarily about the Greek language itself, but rather a dismissive way of labeling anything in a language one didn’t understand. During the Middle Ages, knowledge of Greek was not widespread in Western Europe, so anything written in it was considered inaccessible.
However, the phrase we use today gained prominence thanks to William Shakespeare. In his play Julius Caesar (1599), Casca says, “For mine own part, it was Greek to me.” Here, Casca is explaining that he didn’t understand Cicero’s speech, implying it was as incomprehensible as a language he didn’t know. While not the exact phrasing we use now, it solidified the connection between incomprehensibility and the Greek language in the English lexicon. Shortly after, in 1603, Thomas Dekker also used the phrase in his play Patient Grissel, further cementing its place in popular speech.
Literary Analysis and Significance
The enduring popularity of “All Greek to me” demonstrates its effectiveness as a rhetorical device. It is more engaging and memorable than simply saying “I don’t understand.” The phrase relies on a cultural assumption that Greek is a difficult or unfamiliar language for many, creating a relatable experience for the listener. It adds a layer of humor or self‑deprecation, softening the admission of ignorance.
Its use in literature often signals a character’s limited perspective or lack of knowledge. It can be used for comedic effect, to highlight a character’s naiveté, or to create dramatic irony – where the audience understands something the character does not. Beyond a simple expression of confusion, it can also represent a broader theme of communication barriers or the challenges of accessing knowledge.
Example #1: Modern Song Lyric Usage
In the song “It’s All Greek to Me” by Antigoni Psichrami, the phrase takes on a double meaning. On the surface, it expresses confusion about love, suggesting the singer does not understand the emotions and motivations of her partner. However, it also implies a desire for clarity and a longing for a deeper connection. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the singer’s frustration and vulnerability.
Example #2: Contemporary Fiction – Character Perspective
In Maggie Aldrich’s novel, It’s All Greek to Me, the phrase is used metaphorically to represent a character’s fragmented memories and obscured past. Emily Potens, grappling with loss and a mysterious family history, feels disconnected from her own life. Saying “It’s all Greek to me” is not about a literal language barrier, but about her inability to comprehend her own identity and unravel the secrets of her past.
Example #3: Non‑Fiction and Linguistic Exploration
Mary Norris, in her book Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen, cleverly uses the phrase to highlight the origins of the English language and punctuation. While seemingly paradoxical, she argues that understanding the roots of language – many of which lie in Greek – can shed light on its complexities and nuances. The title plays on the idiom, suggesting that what appears foreign or incomprehensible can be made accessible through careful examination.
Beyond the Phrase: Nuances and Usage
While widely understood, the phrase can carry subtle implications. It is generally considered informal and should be used with discretion in formal settings. It is also worth noting that the phrase does not necessarily imply stupidity, but rather a lack of specific knowledge or expertise. Acknowledging something is “all Greek to you” can demonstrate humility and a willingness to learn.
Here are some examples of the phrase used in sentences:
- “The physics lecture was fascinating, but honestly, most of it was all Greek to me.”
- “Despite years of studying history, the intricacies of ancient Sumerian culture remained all Greek to her.”
- “When the mechanic started explaining the engine problems, it was all Greek to me; I just nodded and hoped for the best.”
- “Hannah is an art student. She started going to advanced computer programming classes, and everything was Greek to her. She decided to start with the basics.”
- “When Matt started explaining the treatment process for weight reduction in his clinic, it was all Greek to David.”
In conclusion, “All Greek to me” is more than just a casual idiom. It is a phrase steeped in history, enriched by literary usage, and capable of conveying a range of meanings – from simple confusion to a deeper sense of alienation or the desire for understanding. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its power and versatility as a linguistic tool.