συγκεντρώνω
Lemma: συγκεντρώνω
Translation: to gather; to collect; to concentrate; to accumulate; to focus; to assemble (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek συγκεντρόω (synkentróō), from σύν (syn, 'together') + κέντρον (kéntron, 'center'). The word literally means 'to bring to a common center'. The prefix συν- (syn-) is the same as in English words like 'synthesis' or 'synchronize', indicating togetherness or union. The root κέντρον (kentron) gives us English words like 'center' and 'concentrate'.
Example Usage
Συγκέντρωσε όλα τα χαρτιά σου.
Gather all your papers.
Πρέπει να συγκεντρωθώ στη δουλειά μου.
I need to concentrate on my work.
Συγκεντρώνουν χρήματα για φιλανθρωπικό σκοπό.
They are collecting money for charity.
Χιλιάδες άνθρωποι συγκεντρώθηκαν στην πλατεία.
Thousands of people gathered in the square.
Συγκεντρώνουμε χρήματα για φιλανθρωπικό σκοπό.
We are raising money for charity.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'syn' (together) + 'center' - bringing things to one center point.
- Sounds a bit like 'concentrate' which shares the same meaning and etymology.
- Picture a centrifuge that concentrates particles in the center - συγκεντρώνω brings things to the center.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
This verb is commonly used in both everyday and formal contexts in Greek. It's particularly important in political discourse when referring to rallies (συγκεντρώσεις) where people gather to support a cause or political party.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While συγκεντρώνω means 'to gather/concentrate', συγκρίνω means 'to compare'. Both start with 'συγ-' but have different meanings and uses.
Confused word:
Συνέκρινε τα αποτελέσματα των δύο ερευνών.
He compared the results of the two studies.
Notes: The confusion often arises because both verbs start with συγ- and are commonly used in academic and professional contexts.
Mnemonic: συγκεντρώνω has 'κεντρ' like 'center' - bringing to center; συγκρίνω has 'κρίν' like 'criterion' - using criteria to compare.
Explanation: συγκεντρώνω means 'to gather/concentrate' while συγχωρώ means 'to forgive'. They look similar but have completely different meanings.
Notes: Both verbs are common in everyday Greek but operate in completely different contexts.
Mnemonic: συγχωρώ contains 'χωρ' which can remind you of 'chorus' - like a chorus singing in harmony after forgiveness.