άσκηση
Wordform Details
Translation: exercisepracticedrill
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: άσκηση
Translation: exercise; practice; drill; workout; training (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἄσκησις (askesis), meaning 'training' or 'practice', derived from ἀσκέω (askeo) 'to work, to exercise'. The word is related to English 'ascetic' and 'asceticism', which come from the same root referring to rigorous self-discipline and training. The connection to asceticism highlights the original sense of disciplined practice and self-improvement through repetitive effort.
Example Usage
Κάνω άσκηση κάθε πρωί.
I exercise every morning.
Αυτή η άσκηση είναι δύσκολη.
This exercise is difficult.
Χρειάζομαι περισσότερη άσκηση στα μαθηματικά.
I need more practice in mathematics.
Αυτή η άσκηση μαθηματικών είναι δύσκολη.
This math exercise is difficult.
Η άσκηση κάνει καλό στην υγεία.
Exercise is good for health.
Mnemonics
- Think 'ask-easy' - you ask for easy exercises when starting out
- Remember 'ascetic' - monks practice ascetic exercises for discipline
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Widely used in educational contexts for homework exercises, in fitness contexts for physical workouts, and in professional contexts for training drills. Greeks place significant emphasis on both physical and mental exercise as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: ασκός means 'bag' or 'sack', while άσκηση means 'exercise' - they share the same root but have very different meanings
Confused word:
Έβαλα τα ψώνια στον ασκό.
I put the groceries in the bag.
Notes: Both come from the same ancient root related to working or crafting, but evolved different meanings
Mnemonic: άσκηση has the stress on the first syllable and relates to action, ασκός is stressed on the second syllable and is a container