είναι σαν να (κάνω X)

Translations

• it's like (doing X)
• it's as if (I'm doing X)

Literal Translation

it is like that I do X

Forms

Usage Notes

Always followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood. The construction creates a hypothetical comparison or simile. Can be used with any person (είναι σαν να είμαι/είσαι/είναι/etc.).

Etymology

Constructed from 'είναι' (is), 'σαν' (like), and 'να' (that/to) followed by a verb in subjunctive mood

Cultural Context

Commonly used in Greek to draw comparisons or describe experiences in a metaphorical way. The construction allows speakers to express how one experience resembles another.

• Think of 'san na' as 'sounds like' in English - both introduce a comparison
• Remember that 'είναι σαν να' always needs a verb afterward to complete the comparison