λειτουργώ
Lemma: λειτουργώ
Translation: to function; to operate; to work; to serve; to perform a service (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek λειτουργέω (leitourgéō), from λειτουργός (leitourgós, 'public servant'), which is a compound of λεῖτος (leîtos, 'public') and ἔργον (érgon, 'work'). Originally referred to performing public duties or services for the state. The English word 'liturgy' comes from the same root, referring to public religious service or worship.
Example Usage
Το μηχάνημα δεν λειτουργεί σωστά.
The machine is not functioning properly.
Η τράπεζα λειτουργεί μέχρι τις τρεις.
The bank operates until three o'clock.
Η τράπεζα λειτουργεί από τις 8:00 μέχρι τις 2:00.
The bank operates from 8:00 until 2:00.
Το σύστημα λειτουργεί αυτόματα.
The system works automatically.
Η εκκλησία λειτουργεί κάθε Κυριακή.
The church holds service every Sunday.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'liturgy' (religious service) to remember λειτουργώ means 'to function/serve'
- Break it down: λειτ (public) + ουργώ (work) = public work or service
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used when referring to the operation of institutions, machines, systems, or services. Also has religious connotations when referring to church services (λειτουργία).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While λειτουργώ means 'to function/operate', εργάζομαι specifically means 'to work' in the sense of employment or labor.
Confused word:
Εργάζομαι σε αυτό το κατάστημα.
I work at this store.
Notes: λειτουργώ is more often applied to systems, machines, or institutions, while εργάζομαι is typically used for people.
Mnemonic: λειτουργώ is about HOW something works, εργάζομαι is about DOING work.
Explanation: Both involve service, but λειτουργώ focuses on functioning/operating while υπηρετώ means 'to serve' in the sense of being in service to someone or something.
Notes: υπηρετώ has stronger connotations of duty and dedication.
Mnemonic: λειτουργώ is about a system working; υπηρετώ is about a person serving.