επιχειρηματίας
Lemma: επιχειρηματίας
Translation: entrepreneur; businessman; businesswoman; business person (noun)
Etymology: From the Greek word 'επιχείρηση' (epicheirisi) meaning 'business' or 'enterprise', which comes from the verb 'επιχειρώ' (epicheiro) meaning 'to attempt' or 'to undertake'. The root 'χειρ' (cheir) means 'hand', suggesting that an entrepreneur is someone who 'puts their hand to' or 'undertakes' business ventures. The suffix '-ίας' denotes a person who performs an action or has a profession.
Example Usage
Ο πατέρας μου είναι επιτυχημένος επιχειρηματίας στον τομέα της τεχνολογίας.
My father is a successful entrepreneur in the technology sector.
Πολλοί νέοι επιχειρηματίες αντιμετωπίζουν δυσκολίες στην εύρεση χρηματοδότησης.
Many young entrepreneurs face difficulties in finding funding.
Η Ελλάδα χρειάζεται περισσότερους καινοτόμους επιχειρηματίες.
Greece needs more innovative entrepreneurs.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'epi-' (upon) + 'cheir' (hand) + '-matias' (person who does) = someone who 'puts their hand upon' business ventures.
- Connect with 'enterprise' in English, which shares a similar concept of 'undertaking' a business venture.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greece, small and medium-sized businesses form the backbone of the economy, and the role of the 'επιχειρηματίας' is culturally significant. Family-owned businesses are common, with entrepreneurship often passed down through generations. Since the economic crisis of 2008, there has been increased focus on innovative entrepreneurship and startups in Greece.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Επιχειρηματίας' is a noun referring to the person (entrepreneur/businessman), while 'επιχειρηματικός' is an adjective meaning 'entrepreneurial' or 'business-related'.
Notes: Both words come from the same root 'επιχείρηση' (business).
Mnemonic: Remember '-ίας' ending indicates a person, while '-ικός' indicates a quality or characteristic.
Explanation: While both refer to people in business, 'επιχειρηματίας' emphasizes the entrepreneurial aspect of starting and running a business, while 'εργοδότης' specifically means 'employer' and focuses on the relationship with employees.
Notes: An 'επιχειρηματίας' is usually an 'εργοδότης', but not all employers are entrepreneurs.
Mnemonic: Think of 'επιχειρηματίας' as focused on the 'enterprise' (επιχείρηση), while 'εργοδότης' focuses on giving work ('εργο' = work, 'δότης' = giver).