βγάζω από πάνω μου (κάτι)

Translations

• to shake off
• to get rid of
• to free myself from

Literal Translation

to take out from above me (something)

Forms

Usage Notes

Usually followed by a direct object indicating what is being removed. The phrase requires the preposition 'από πάνω μου/σου/του' etc. to agree with the subject. Often used with negative constructions (δεν μπορώ να...) to express difficulty in letting go.

Etymology

The phrase derives from the physical action of removing something that weighs on or covers someone, metaphorically extended to mean freeing oneself from mental burdens, thoughts, or influences.

Cultural Context

Commonly used in Greek to express the difficulty of mentally detaching from worries, responsibilities, or preoccupations. Often used when someone cannot stop thinking about work, problems, or daily concerns.

• Imagine physically lifting a heavy blanket off your shoulders - that's how you 'take off' mental burdens
• Think 'take from above me' = remove what's weighing me down