κινητήριος δύναμη
Lemma: κινητήριος δύναμη
Translation: driving force; motive power; motivating force; impetus (noun phrase)
Etymology: Compound term from 'κινητήριος' (kinētḗrios, 'motive, driving') and 'δύναμη' (dýnamē, 'force, power'). 'Κινητήριος' derives from the verb 'κινώ' (kinó, 'to move'), which comes from Ancient Greek 'κινέω' (kinéō). The English word 'kinetic' (relating to motion) shares this same root. 'Δύναμη' comes from Ancient Greek 'δύναμις' (dýnamis), which gave English words like 'dynamic' and 'dynamite'.
Example Usage
Η αγάπη για την οικογένειά του είναι η κινητήριος δύναμη πίσω από τη σκληρή δουλειά του.
Love for his family is the driving force behind his hard work.
Η περιέργεια είναι η κινητήριος δύναμη της επιστημονικής έρευνας.
Curiosity is the driving force of scientific research.
Οι νέες ιδέες αποτελούν την κινητήριο δύναμη της καινοτομίας.
New ideas constitute the driving force of innovation.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'kinetic' (movement) + 'dynamic' (power) = a force that moves things forward
- Imagine a car engine as the 'κινητήριος δύναμη' (driving force) that moves the vehicle
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This term is commonly used in both literal contexts (like physics or mechanics) and figurative contexts (like motivation in psychology or driving forces in society). It appears frequently in academic, political, and motivational discourse.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'κινητήριος δύναμη' refers to a motivating or driving force (often abstract), 'κινητήρας' specifically means 'engine' or 'motor' (a physical machine).
Notes: Both terms relate to movement and power, but in different domains - one conceptual, one physical.
Mnemonic: 'Κινητήριος δύναμη' is abstract and motivational; 'κινητήρας' is concrete and mechanical.