παράσταση
Lemma: παράσταση
Translation: performance; show; representation; presentation; display (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek παράστασις (parastasis), composed of παρά (para, 'beside, alongside') + στάσις (stasis, 'standing, position'). The root relates to 'standing before' or 'presenting before an audience.' The English cognate 'parastasis' exists in rhetoric, meaning a digression or aside. The word shares the same root as English 'static' and 'status' through the Greek στάσις. This theatrical and presentational meaning evolved from the literal sense of 'placing something before others to view.'
Example Usage
Η παράσταση άρχισε στις οκτώ.
The performance started at eight.
Έδωσε μια εξαιρετική παράσταση.
He gave an excellent performance.
Η παράσταση των στοιχείων στον πίνακα.
The presentation of data on the board.
Πήγαμε σε μια θεατρική παράσταση.
We went to a theatrical performance.
Η παράσταση των στοιχείων ήταν σαφής.
The presentation of the data was clear.
Mnemonics
- Think 'para-' (beside) + 'stasis' (standing) = standing beside the stage for a performance
- Remember 'parastasis' - a rhetorical term for presentation
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Widely used in Greek cultural life, especially for theater, cinema, and cultural events. Greeks have a strong theatrical tradition dating back to ancient times, so this word appears frequently in cultural discussions, entertainment listings, and artistic contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: παράσταση refers more to artistic performances or theatrical shows, while παρουσίαση is more about formal presentations or introductions
Notes: παράσταση has more artistic/entertainment connotations, while παρουσίαση is more formal/business-oriented
Mnemonic: παράσταση = performance (think theater), παρουσίαση = presentation (think business)