απεχθές
Wordform Details
Translation: repugnantdetestable
Part of Speech: adjective
Inflection Type:
neutersingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: απεχθής
Translation: repulsive; hateful; odious; repugnant; abhorrent (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀπεχθής (apekhthḗs), composed of ἀπό (apó, 'away from') + ἔχθος (ékhthos, 'hatred'). The root ἔχθος is related to the concept of enmity and hostility. The word literally conveys the sense of something that pushes away or repels due to its hateful nature.
Example Usage
Η συμπεριφορά του ήταν απεχθής προς όλους τους συναδέλφους του.
His behavior was repulsive to all his colleagues.
Θεωρώ απεχθή τη χρήση βίας εναντίον αμάχων.
I consider the use of violence against civilians abhorrent.
Το καθεστώς επέβαλε απεχθείς νόμους που καταπατούσαν τα ανθρώπινα δικαιώματα.
The regime imposed odious laws that violated human rights.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'απεχθής' as 'a-pech-this' where 'pech' sounds like 'yuck' - something you find repulsive.
- The 'απ' (ap) prefix suggests 'away from' - something you want to push away because it's hateful.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
This word is more commonly found in literary contexts, formal speech, or political discourse when describing particularly objectionable behaviors, policies, or characteristics. It carries a stronger emotional charge than more everyday terms for dislike.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'απεχθής' is an adjective meaning 'repulsive/hateful', 'απεχθάνομαι' is a verb meaning 'to abhor/detest'.
Notes: Both words share the same root related to hatred and aversion.
Mnemonic: Remember: 'απεχθής' describes something (adjective), while 'απεχθάνομαι' is something you do (verb).
Explanation: 'Απεχθής' is more formal and can refer to moral repulsion, while 'αποκρουστικός' often refers to physical repulsion or disgust.
Confused word:
Η μυρωδιά ήταν αποκρουστική.
The smell was repulsive.
Notes: 'Απεχθής' tends to be used in more formal or literary contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'απεχθής' for moral disgust and 'αποκρουστικός' for physical disgust.