κοντεύω να + subjunctive

Translations

• to be about to
• to be on the verge of
• to almost

Literal Translation

I approach to + subjunctive

Forms

Usage Notes

Always followed by να + subjunctive. Often used with emotional contexts or to express urgency. Can express both positive anticipation and negative consequences that are imminent.

Etymology

From the verb κοντεύω (to approach, to get close to) combined with να + subjunctive to express imminent action or state

Cultural Context

Commonly used in everyday Greek to express that something is about to happen or that someone is very close to doing something, often with emotional intensity

• Think 'contact' - getting so close you're about to make contact with the action
• Remember κοντά (near) - you're near to doing something