ζήτημα
Lemma: ζήτημα
Translation: issue; matter; question; problem (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ζήτημα (zḗtēma), derived from the verb ζητέω (zētéō) meaning 'to seek, search for, inquire'. The root is related to the concept of inquiry and investigation. This connection to 'seeking' or 'questioning' explains why ζήτημα refers to matters that require attention or resolution.
Example Usage
Αυτό είναι ένα σοβαρό ζήτημα που πρέπει να συζητήσουμε.
This is a serious issue that we need to discuss.
Το οικονομικό ζήτημα απασχολεί πολλούς πολίτες.
The economic issue concerns many citizens.
Είναι ζήτημα χρόνου να βρεθεί λύση.
It's a matter of time until a solution is found.
Θέλω να θίξω ένα ζήτημα που με απασχολεί.
I want to raise an issue that concerns me.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'seeking' (ζητέω) a solution to an 'issue' (ζήτημα).
- The 'ζητ-' sound can remind you of 'seeking' answers to questions or issues.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in political discourse, academic discussions, and everyday conversation when referring to matters that need attention or resolution. The phrase 'είναι ζήτημα...' (it's a matter of...) is commonly used to emphasize the importance or nature of something.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both refer to topics or matters, 'ζήτημα' typically implies something that requires resolution or attention, often a problem or question, whereas 'θέμα' is more neutral and refers to a subject or topic without necessarily implying a problem.
This word:
Το οικονομικό ζήτημα απαιτεί άμεση λύση.
The economic issue requires an immediate solution.
Notes: 'Ζήτημα' often appears in phrases like 'ζήτημα αρχής' (matter of principle) or 'ζήτημα χρόνου' (matter of time), emphasizing its connection to matters requiring resolution.
Mnemonic: Think of 'ζήτημα' as an issue that needs 'seeking' (ζητέω) a solution, while 'θέμα' is just a topic to be discussed.
Explanation: Both words can refer to problems, but 'πρόβλημα' more explicitly denotes a difficulty or obstacle, while 'ζήτημα' can be broader, referring to any matter or issue that requires attention, not necessarily a problem.
Notes: 'Ζήτημα' can sometimes have a more formal or abstract quality, while 'πρόβλημα' often refers to concrete difficulties.
Mnemonic: 'Ζήτημα' is an issue that may need resolution; 'πρόβλημα' is definitely a problem that needs solving.