εξασφαλίζω
Lemma: εξασφαλίζω
Translation: to secure; to ensure; to guarantee; to obtain; to procure (verb)
Etymology: From the prefix εξ- (ex-, meaning 'out' or 'thoroughly') combined with ασφαλίζω (to secure, make safe), which derives from ασφαλής (safe, secure). The root ασφαλ- is related to the English word 'asphalt' through the Greek ασφαλτος, originally meaning 'secure' or 'not liable to fall'. The verb emphasizes the action of making something completely secure or obtaining it with certainty.
Example Usage
Εξασφάλισα τα εισιτήρια για τη συναυλία.
I secured the tickets for the concert.
Η εταιρεία εξασφάλισε ένα μεγάλο συμβόλαιο.
The company secured a big contract.
Πρέπει να εξασφαλίσουμε χρηματοδότηση για το έργο.
We need to secure funding for the project.
Η κυβέρνηση εξασφαλίζει την ασφάλεια των πολιτών.
The government ensures the safety of citizens.
Mnemonics
- Think 'ex-' (thoroughly) + 'asphalt' (secure foundation) = to thoroughly secure something
- Remember 'secure' sounds like the middle part 'σφαλ-'
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in business, legal, and administrative contexts when discussing securing resources, guaranteeing outcomes, or obtaining permits and approvals. Frequently appears in news reports about economic security and government policies.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: εξασφαλίζω means to secure or obtain something, while ασφαλίζω means to insure or make safe
Confused word:
Ασφάλισα το αυτοκίνητό μου.
I insured my car.
Notes: εξασφαλίζω is more about acquisition and guarantee, ασφαλίζω is more about protection and insurance
Mnemonic: εξ- prefix suggests 'getting out' or 'obtaining' something, while plain ασφαλίζω is about protection