επιλύω
Lemma: επιλύω
Translation: resolve; solve (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐπιλύω (epilúō), composed of ἐπί (epí, 'upon, over') + λύω (lúō, 'to loosen, untie'). The prefix ἐπί adds the sense of 'completely' or 'thoroughly,' while λύω shares roots with English words like 'analysis' and 'paralysis.' The combination creates the metaphorical sense of 'thoroughly untangling' a problem.
Mnemonics
- Think 'epi-loose' - you're loosening up a problem completely until it's solved
- The 'epi' prefix is like 'epic' - you're doing an epic job of solving something
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used in academic, professional, or formal contexts, particularly when discussing problem-solving in mathematics, conflicts, or technical issues.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While επιλύω means to solve or resolve, διαλύω means to dissolve or break up
This word:
Επέλυσε την άσκηση.
He solved the exercise.
Notes: επιλύω is more abstract and positive, while διαλύω is more physical and can be negative
Mnemonic: επιλύω fixes problems, διαλύω breaks things apart