δείχνω
Lemma: δείχνω
Translation: to show; to point; to indicate; to demonstrate; to display; to reveal (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek δείκνυμι (deiknumi), meaning 'to show' or 'to point out'. This verb is cognate with Latin dicere (to say, tell) and English 'teach' through Proto-Indo-European *deik- meaning 'to show, point out'. The connection to English 'teach' helps remember that showing and teaching are closely related concepts. The root also appears in English words like 'indicate' and 'vindicate', making it a fundamental concept across Indo-European languages.
Example Usage
Μπορείς να μου δείξεις το δρόμο για το σταθμό;
Can you show me the way to the station?
Ο καθηγητής δείχνει στους μαθητές πώς να λύσουν το πρόβλημα.
The teacher shows the students how to solve the problem.
Το ρολόι δείχνει τρεις η ώρα.
The clock shows three o'clock.
Δείχνει να είναι καλός άνθρωπος.
He seems to be a good person.
Ο καιρός δείχνει καλός για αύριο.
The weather appears to be good for tomorrow.
Δείξε μου το δρόμο.
Show me the way.
Δείχνω τις φωτογραφίες στους φίλους μου.
I show the photos to my friends.
Mnemonics
- Think 'DECK-no' - like pointing to a deck of cards to show them
- Remember 'teach' connection - showing is teaching
- DEI-chno sounds like 'DAY-show' - showing something during the day
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Very commonly used in everyday Greek conversation, from giving directions to explaining concepts. Often used with gestures in Mediterranean communication style. Frequently appears in educational contexts and when giving instructions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: δείχνω means to show visually or point out, while λέω means to say or tell verbally
This word:
Δείχνω το σπίτι μου.
I show my house.
Confused word:
Λέω την αλήθεια.
I tell the truth.
Notes: Both can be used to convey information, but δείχνω emphasizes visual demonstration while λέω emphasizes verbal communication
Mnemonic: δείχνω is for eyes (showing), λέω is for ears (telling)