παρά λίγο να + subjunctive

Translations

• almost
• nearly
• came close to
• was about to

Literal Translation

by little to + [verb]

Forms

Usage Notes

Always followed by να + subjunctive mood. The meaning is idiomatic and cannot be deduced from individual word meanings. Used to express that something almost happened but didn't.

Etymology

From παρά (by/beside) + λίγο (little), expressing proximity to an action or event that almost happened

Cultural Context

Common expression in Greek to indicate something that almost occurred, often used for dramatic effect or to emphasize how close something came to happening

• Think 'para-little' = almost happened
• Remember 'by a little bit' something nearly occurred