It’s all Greek to me

usgb
phrase

I cannot understand or make sense of it, especially when referring to language, speech or writing.

I tried reading the scientific report, but it’s all Greek to me.
Visual representation of "it’s all Greek to me" - I cannot understand or make sense of it, especially when referring to language, speech or writing.

Often appears as...

  • it's all greek to me when it comes to...
  • even though i tried

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

phrase

I cannot understand or make sense of it, especially when referring to language, speech or writing.

I tried reading the scientific report, but it’s all Greek to me.
Visual representation of "it’s all Greek to me" - I cannot understand or make sense of it, especially when referring to language, speech or writing.

Often appears as...

  • it's all greek to me when it comes to...
  • even though i tried

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "it’s all Greek to me"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Expression

Used when something is too complex to comprehend, not just foreign languages.

Illustration for Figurative Expression
She tried explaining chess strategy, but it’s all Greek to me.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Usage

It’s a casual idiom, suitable for informal conversations rather than formal or academic writing.

Illustration for Informal Usage
Can you explain this tax form? It’s all Greek to me.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Nuance

Recognize this phrase originates from English-speaking cultures, so it may not resonate in non-English contexts.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
When I used 'it’s all Greek to me' in France, they didn’t understand the expression.
Visual representation of the word "It’s all Greek to me"

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