περιφέρεια
Lemma: περιφέρεια
Translation: region; periphery; circumference; province; district (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek περιφέρεια (periphereia), from περιφέρω (peripherō, 'to carry around'), from περί (peri, 'around') + φέρω (pherō, 'to carry'). The English word 'periphery' is a direct cognate. The concept relates to carrying or extending around a central point, which evolved to describe the outer boundary of a circle (circumference) and later administrative regions surrounding a center.
Example Usage
Η Αττική είναι η πιο πυκνοκατοικημένη περιφέρεια της Ελλάδας.
Attica is the most densely populated region of Greece.
Ο περιφερειάρχης ανακοίνωσε νέα έργα για την περιφέρεια.
The regional governor announced new projects for the region.
Η περιφέρεια του κύκλου υπολογίζεται με τον τύπο 2πr.
The circumference of a circle is calculated using the formula 2πr.
Mnemonics
- Think 'periphery' in English - the outer edge or boundary of something
- Περι (peri) means 'around' and φέρω (fero) means 'to carry' - imagine carrying something around the edges of a circle
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In modern Greece, 'περιφέρεια' is an important administrative division. Greece is divided into 13 administrative regions (περιφέρειες) which are further subdivided into regional units. Each περιφέρεια is headed by a περιφερειάρχης (regional governor) who is elected by popular vote.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both words can translate to 'region' or 'area', 'περιφέρεια' specifically refers to an administrative division or the circumference of a circle, whereas 'περιοχή' is a more general term for any area or vicinity.
Notes: 'Περιφέρεια' has a more official, administrative connotation, while 'περιοχή' is more general and informal.
Mnemonic: 'Περιφέρεια' contains 'φέρ' (carry) - think of an official region that carries administrative responsibilities, while 'περιοχή' is just any area.