κερδίζω
Lemma: κερδίζω
Translation: to win; to earn; to gain; to profit; to make money (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek κερδαίνω (kerdaínō), from κέρδος (kérdos) meaning 'profit, gain, advantage'. The root is related to the concept of cleverness and skill in obtaining benefit. The word has maintained its core meaning of acquiring something valuable through effort or chance throughout its history.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'kerdi-zo' as sounding like 'currency-show' - when you win or earn, you show off your currency (money).
- The 'kerd' sound is similar to 'card' - imagine winning a card game and earning money.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Widely used in everyday Greek conversation, especially in contexts of competitions, business, and personal achievement. The concept of 'winning' (κερδίζω) is important in Greek culture, which values achievement and success.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'κερδίζω' means 'to win/earn', 'κερνάω' means 'to treat someone' (to a drink or food).
This word:
Κέρδισα στο λαχείο.
I won in the lottery.
Confused word:
Σας κερνάω ένα ποτό.
I'm treating you to a drink.
Notes: The confusion often happens because both verbs start with 'κερ-' and both can involve money, but in different ways - one is gaining money, the other is spending it on others.
Mnemonic: 'Κερδίζω' has 'δ' (delta) which looks like a triangle pointing up (↑) like profits going up; 'κερνάω' has 'ν' (nu) which can remind you of pouring a drink down.
Explanation: 'Κερδίζω' is a verb meaning 'to win/earn', while 'καρδιά' is a noun meaning 'heart'.
This word:
Κερδίζω την αγάπη της.
I'm winning her love.
Confused word:
Η καρδιά μου χτυπάει δυνατά.
My heart beats strongly.
Notes: These words might be confused by beginners due to similar consonant sounds (k-r-d), but they belong to different parts of speech and have completely different meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Κερδίζω' has 'ε' as its second letter (for 'earn'), while 'καρδιά' has 'α' (think 'a-heart').