ακριβούς
Wordform Details
Translation: expensivecostlydear
Part of Speech: adjective
Inflection Type:
masculinepluralaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ακριβός
Translation: expensive; costly; dear; precise; accurate (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀκριβής (akribḗs), meaning 'exact, precise'. The semantic shift from 'precise' to 'expensive' occurred in Modern Greek, possibly reflecting the idea that precision and quality come at a higher cost. The root is related to the English word 'acrimonious' through the concept of sharpness or precision.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a CREEP-os' price that's so high it makes you creep away
- Remember that accurate (ακριβής) work is often expensive (ακριβός)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in discussions about the cost of living in Greece, especially since the economic crisis of 2008. The dual meaning of precision/expensive is particularly relevant in Greek culture where quality and cost are often closely associated.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While ακριβός primarily means 'expensive' (and secondarily 'precise'), ακριβής means 'precise/accurate' only
Confused word:
Η απάντησή του ήταν ακριβής.
His answer was precise.
Notes: The two words share the same root but have developed distinct primary meanings in modern usage
Mnemonic: ακριβός ends in -ός like 'cost', while ακριβής is about being 'precise'