επειδή
Lemma: επειδή
Translation: because; since; as (conjunction)
Etymology: Derived from Ancient Greek ἐπεί (epei, 'since, because') + δή (dē, 'indeed, truly'), combining to form a stronger causal conjunction. The element ἐπεί comes from ἐπί (epi, 'upon, on') + εἰ (ei, 'if'), literally meaning 'upon which' or 'after which', evolving to indicate causality.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'επειδή' as 'epi-day' - the day upon which something happens (for a reason).
- The 'επει' part sounds a bit like 'a pie' - 'I ate a pie because I was hungry'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Used frequently in everyday speech and writing to explain reasons or causes. It's one of the most common conjunctions in Greek and is essential for constructing complex sentences.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'because', 'επειδή' is slightly more formal and is used primarily as a conjunction, whereas 'γιατί' can also be used as an interrogative 'why?'
Notes: 'επειδή' tends to introduce a subordinate clause, while 'γιατί' can start a new sentence.
Mnemonic: 'επειδή' is for statements only, while 'γιατί' can ask 'why?' too.
Explanation: 'διότι' is more formal and literary than 'επειδή', though they have the same meaning.
Confused word:
Απορρίφθηκε η αίτηση διότι δεν πληρούσε τις προϋποθέσεις.
The application was rejected because it did not meet the requirements.
Notes: 'διότι' is common in academic, legal, or formal written contexts, while 'επειδή' is more versatile.
Mnemonic: Think of 'διότι' as the 'therefore' of Greek - more formal and used in official contexts.