αδικία
Lemma: αδικία
Translation: injustice; unfairness; wrongdoing (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀδικία (adikia), from ἄδικος (adikos) 'unjust, wrong', from ἀ- (a-) 'not' + δίκη (dikē) 'justice, right'. The root δίκη gives us English words like 'dictate' and 'verdict'. Understanding that the 'α-' prefix means 'not' (like 'a-' in 'amoral') helps remember this means 'absence of justice'.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a-' (not) + 'dike' (justice) = 'not justice'
- Remember that 'dikē' is related to 'dictate' - when justice isn't dictated properly, you have αδικία
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in social and political discourse, particularly when discussing social justice issues or personal grievances. The concept of αδικία is deeply embedded in Greek culture's strong sense of justice and fairness.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While αδικία means 'injustice', αδυναμία means 'weakness' or 'inability'
Confused word:
Έχω αδυναμία στα γλυκά.
I have a weakness for sweets.
Notes: Both words start with 'α-' (meaning 'not'), but have different roots
Mnemonic: αδικία has 'δικ' (justice) in it, while αδυναμία has 'δυναμ' (power/strength)