άχρηστος
Lemma: άχρηστος
Translation: useless; worthless; good-for-nothing; redundant (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἄχρηστος (ákhrēstos), from ἀ- (a-) 'not' + χρηστός (khrēstós) 'useful'. The root χρη- is related to words involving use or necessity, as in χρήση (use). The pattern of α- (negative prefix) + root is common in Greek and appears in English words like 'atheist', 'amoral'.
Mnemonics
- Think 'a-christ-os' - someone who is 'without Christ' is considered 'worthless' in religious context
- Remember 'a' (not) + 'chrēst' (useful) = 'not useful'
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used colloquially as a mild insult. Can be used both for objects and people, though when applied to people it's considered more offensive.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: άχρηστος means 'useless' while άχρωμος means 'colorless'
Confused word:
Το νερό είναι άχρωμο υγρό.
Water is a colorless liquid.
Notes: Both words start with the negative prefix α- but have different roots
Mnemonic: άχρωμος has 'χρώμα' (color) in it