έγκλημα
Wordform Details
Translation: crimeoffensefelony
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
neutersingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: έγκλημα
Translation: crime; offense; criminal act (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἔγκλημα (énklēma), derived from the verb ἐγκαλέω (enkaléō) meaning 'to bring a charge against'. The word is composed of the prefix ἐν- (en-, 'in') and καλέω (kaléō, 'to call'). The original sense was 'accusation' or 'complaint', which evolved to mean the act that prompted the accusation. English words like 'claim' and 'acclaim' share the same Indo-European root as the Greek καλέω.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'έγκλημα' as 'in-claim-a' - when someone makes a claim against you in court.
- The 'κλημα' part sounds a bit like 'claim' - a crime is something someone claims you did wrong.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek legal terminology, 'έγκλημα' is a formal term used in criminal law. The Greek Penal Code distinguishes between 'πλημμελήματα' (misdemeanors) and 'κακουργήματα' (felonies), both of which are types of 'εγκλήματα' (crimes).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'έγκλημα' refers to a crime in the legal sense, 'αμάρτημα' refers to a sin or moral transgression, often in a religious context.
Confused word:
Θεωρεί το ψέμα αμάρτημα.
He considers lying a sin.
Notes: 'Έγκλημα' is used in legal contexts, while 'αμάρτημα' is more common in religious or ethical discussions.
Mnemonic: 'Έγκλημα' deals with legal claims, while 'αμάρτημα' deals with moral/spiritual claims.
Explanation: 'Έγκλημα' is a more serious offense (crime), while 'παράπτωμα' is a minor offense or misdemeanor.
Notes: 'Παράπτωμα' can also be used in non-legal contexts for minor mistakes or infractions.
Mnemonic: Think of 'έγκλημα' as a major claim against someone, while 'παράπτωμα' is just a small slip-up.