επισημαίνω
Lemma: επισημαίνω
Translation: to point out; to highlight; to emphasize; to note; to draw attention to; to mark; to indicate (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐπισημαίνω, composed of ἐπί (epi-, 'upon, on') + σημαίνω (semaino, 'to signify, mark'). The root σῆμα (sema) means 'sign' or 'mark' and is cognate with English 'semantic' and 'semiotics'. The prefix ἐπί adds the sense of 'upon' or 'in addition to', creating the meaning of marking something for special attention. This verb literally means 'to put a sign upon' something, which evolved into the modern sense of highlighting or emphasizing important points.
Example Usage
Ο καθηγητής επισήμανε τα σημαντικότερα σημεία της διάλεξης.
The professor highlighted the most important points of the lecture.
Θα ήθελα να επισημάνω ότι αυτό είναι πολύ σημαντικό.
I would like to point out that this is very important.
Η έκθεση επισημαίνει τα προβλήματα του συστήματος.
The report highlights the problems of the system.
Mnemonics
- Think 'epi-' (upon) + 'semantic' (meaning) = putting meaning upon something to highlight it
- Remember 'episode' + 'sign' = marking an important episode or moment
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in academic, journalistic, and professional contexts when drawing attention to important details or making observations. Frequently appears in news reports, academic papers, and formal discussions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: σημαίνω means 'to mean' or 'to signify' while επισημαίνω means 'to point out' or 'to highlight'
Notes: επισημαίνω is about drawing attention to something, σημαίνω is about what something means
Mnemonic: επι- prefix adds the action of 'pointing upon' something, while σημαίνω is just about meaning