γνώσεις
Wordform Details
Translation: knowledgelearning
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininepluralaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: γνώση
Translation: knowledge; cognition; awareness; understanding (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek γνῶσις (gnôsis, 'knowledge'), derived from the verb γιγνώσκω (gignṓskō, 'to know, to recognize'). The English words 'gnosis', 'diagnosis', 'prognosis', and 'cognitive' share this same Greek root. The concept of γνώση was particularly important in Greek philosophy, where it referred to knowledge acquired through direct experience rather than mere information.
Example Usage
Η γνώση είναι δύναμη.
Knowledge is power.
Έχει βαθιά γνώση της ελληνικής ιστορίας.
He has deep knowledge of Greek history.
Οι γνώσεις του στα μαθηματικά είναι εντυπωσιακές.
His knowledge of mathematics is impressive.
Απέκτησα πολλές γνώσεις στο πανεπιστήμιο.
I acquired a lot of knowledge at university.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'gnosis' in English, which means mystical or spiritual knowledge.
- The 'gn' sound in Greek often relates to knowing (like in English 'cognition').
- Remember the phrase 'diagnosis' which means 'through knowledge' - identifying an illness through medical knowledge.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, γνώση is highly valued and associated with education and intellectual development. The pursuit of knowledge has been central to Greek identity since ancient times, with philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle emphasizing its importance. Today, education remains highly valued in Greek society.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'γνώση' means 'knowledge', 'γνώμη' means 'opinion'. Knowledge is factual and objective, while an opinion is subjective.
Confused word:
Η γνώμη μου είναι ότι πρέπει να μελετήσουμε περισσότερο.
My opinion is that we should study more.
Notes: Both words share the same root related to knowing, but γνώση refers to objective information while γνώμη refers to subjective views.
Mnemonic: γνώση (knowledge) is what you know; γνώμη (opinion) is what you think.
Explanation: While 'γνώση' means 'knowledge', 'γνωριμία' means 'acquaintance' or 'meeting someone'.
Notes: Both words share the same root related to knowing, but have different applications.
Mnemonic: γνώση is about knowing information; γνωριμία is about knowing people.