φεύγω
Lemma: φεύγω
Translation: to leave; to go away; to depart; to flee; to escape; to run away (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek φεύγω (pheúgō), meaning 'to flee, escape, avoid'. This verb is cognate with Latin fugere (from which English gets 'fugitive', 'refuge', 'fugue') and shares the same Proto-Indo-European root *bʰewg- meaning 'to flee'. The connection to English 'fugitive' and 'refuge' makes this particularly memorable - someone who φεύγει is essentially a 'fugitive' from their current location. The word has maintained its core meaning across millennia, making it one of the most stable verbs in Greek.
Example Usage
Φεύγω για τη δουλειά.
I'm leaving for work.
Έφυγε χωρίς να πει αντίο.
He left without saying goodbye.
Πρέπει να φύγω τώρα.
I have to leave now.
Φεύγω από το σπίτι στις οκτώ.
I leave home at eight.
Έφυγε χωρίς να πει τίποτα.
He left without saying anything.
Πρέπει να φύγουμε τώρα.
We have to leave now.
Το τρένο φεύγει στις οκτώ.
The train leaves at eight.
Έφυγε από το σπίτι νωρίς.
He left home early.
Mnemonics
- Think 'FUGITIVE' - someone who φεύγει is fleeing like a fugitive
- The 'φευ' sound is like 'few' - few people stay, most φεύγουν (leave)
- Remember 'refuge' - you φεύγεις to find refuge elsewhere
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Very common in everyday Greek conversation. Often used when leaving social gatherings, work, or any location. Can range from casual departure to urgent escape depending on context. Frequently heard in phrases about travel, work schedules, and social situations.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: φεύγω means to leave/go away while φέρνω means to bring/carry. They're opposite in direction - one takes you away, the other brings something to you.
Confused word:
Φέρνω τα βιβλία.
I'm bringing the books.
Notes: Both start with φε- but have completely opposite meanings regarding movement direction
Mnemonic: φεύγω = FUGITIVE (running away), φέρνω = FERRY (bringing across)