μη δεχάστε να + subjunctive

Translations

• don't miss out on
• make sure to
• don't refuse to

Literal Translation

don't accept to sit

Forms

Usage Notes

This phrase creates emphasis through irony - by saying 'don't accept/refuse to do X' it actually means 'definitely do X'. Often used in recommendations and suggestions.

Etymology

From the verb δέχομαι (to accept/receive) used in negative imperative form with subjunctive to create an idiomatic expression meaning the opposite of what the literal words suggest

Cultural Context

Common in Greek travel writing and recommendations, often used ironically to strongly recommend something by telling people not to refuse it

• Think 'don't refuse' = 'definitely do it' - the negative becomes a strong positive recommendation