αληθινά
Wordform Details
Translation: truerealgenuine
Part of Speech: adjective
Inflection Type:
neuterpluralnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: αληθινός
Translation: true; real; genuine; authentic; actual (adjective)
Etymology: From ancient Greek ἀληθινός (alethinos), derived from ἀληθής (alethes) meaning 'true, real'. The root comes from ἀ- (a-, negative prefix) + λήθη (lethe, 'forgetfulness, oblivion') - literally meaning 'not forgotten' or 'unforgotten', thus 'remembered' and by extension 'true'. This connects to the English word 'lethargy' (from Greek λήθαργος) and the mythological river Lethe in Hades that caused forgetfulness. The concept links truth with memory and remembrance, making it philosophically rich - what is true is what is not forgotten or concealed.
Example Usage
Αυτό είναι ένα αληθινό διαμάντι.
This is a real diamond.
Μου είπε την αληθινή ιστορία.
He told me the true story.
Είναι ένας αληθινός φίλος.
He is a true friend.
Είναι αληθινός φίλος.
He is a true friend.
Αυτό είναι αληθινό χρυσάφι.
This is real gold.
Η αληθινή αγάπη είναι σπάνια.
True love is rare.
Mnemonics
- Think 'a-lethal' - not deadly to truth, therefore genuine
- Remember 'Lethe' (forgetfulness) - αληθινός is 'not forgotten' = true
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Often used in philosophical, religious, or literary contexts when discussing authenticity and truth. Common in expressions about genuine feelings, real friends, or authentic experiences.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: αληθής means 'true' in the sense of factual or correct, while αληθινός means 'genuine' or 'real' in nature
Confused word:
Αυτό που λες είναι αληθές.
What you're saying is true.
Notes: αληθής is more about factual accuracy, αληθινός is more about authenticity of nature or character
Mnemonic: αληθινός = genuine thing, αληθής = true statement