λόγος
Lemma: λόγος
Translation: reason; logic; word; speech (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek λόγος (logos), derived from λέγω (lego) meaning 'to say, speak, choose, count'. This is one of the most philosophically rich words in Greek, famously used in the opening of John's Gospel ('In the beginning was the Word'). The word gave English numerous derivatives: 'logic', 'dialogue', 'monologue', 'catalogue', 'analogy', and the suffix '-logy' in words like 'biology', 'psychology'. In ancient philosophy, logos represented divine reason, the principle governing the cosmos. The connection between 'word' and 'reason' reflects the Greek belief that rational speech distinguishes humans from animals.
Mnemonics
- Think 'logic' - both come from logos
- Logo-s = the word/reason behind a company's logo
- Logos, logic, dialogue - all about words and reasoning
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Deeply embedded in Greek intellectual tradition. Used in religious contexts (Λόγος του Θεού - Word of God), academic discourse, and everyday speech. Greeks often use 'λόγος τιμής' (word of honor) to emphasize sincerity. The phrase 'δίνω λόγο' (give account) means to explain or justify one's actions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: λόγος is a noun meaning word/reason, while λογικός is an adjective meaning logical/reasonable
Confused word:
Η απάντησή σου είναι λογική.
Your answer is logical.
Notes: Both derive from the same root but serve different grammatical functions
Mnemonic: λόγος is the thing (noun), λογικός describes how something is (adjective)