αλήθεια
Lemma: αλήθεια
Translation: truth; reality; fact (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀλήθεια (alḗtheia), literally meaning 'un-forgetting' or 'un-concealing'. Composed of ἀ- (a-, 'not') + λήθ- (lēth-, 'forgetting, concealment'). The same root gives us the mythological river Lethe, the river of forgetfulness in the underworld. The concept implies that truth is what remains when nothing is hidden or forgotten.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a-LETH-eia' as 'not letting' the truth be hidden
- Remember Lethe (river of forgetfulness) - αλήθεια is the opposite: remembering/revealing
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, the concept of truth (αλήθεια) has deep philosophical roots dating back to ancient times. It was a central concept in Greek philosophy, particularly in Platonic thought, where it represented not just factual accuracy but the nature of reality itself.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: This is simply the plural form, but learners sometimes mistake it for a different word
This word:
Η αλήθεια πονάει.
The truth hurts.
Confused word:
Υπάρχουν πολλές αλήθειες.
There are many truths.
Notes: The singular form is much more common in everyday usage
Mnemonic: Single truth ends in -α, multiple truths end in -ες