εμπειρία
Wordform Details
Translation: experience
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: εμπειρία
Translation: experience; expertise; skill; practice; know-how (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐμπειρία (empeiría), derived from ἔμπειρος (émpeiros) meaning 'experienced, skilled', which comes from ἐν (en) 'in' + πεῖρα (peîra) 'trial, attempt, experience'. The root πεῖρα is related to English 'peril' and 'pirate' (one who attempts/tries). The word shares its root with 'empirical' in English, both relating to knowledge gained through direct observation and experience rather than theory. This connection to empiricism makes it memorable - empirical evidence comes from εμπειρία.
Example Usage
Έχει μεγάλη εμπειρία στον τομέα του μάρκετινγκ.
He has extensive experience in the field of marketing.
Η εμπειρία είναι ο καλύτερος δάσκαλος.
Experience is the best teacher.
Αποκτήσαμε πολύτιμη εμπειρία από αυτό το ταξίδι.
We gained valuable experience from this trip.
Έχω πολλή εμπειρία στη δουλειά μου.
I have a lot of experience in my job.
Χρειάζεται εμπειρία για αυτή τη θέση.
Experience is needed for this position.
Mnemonics
- Think 'empirical' - both come from the same root and relate to knowledge from experience
- Em-PEER-ia: you gain experience from your peers
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Highly valued in Greek culture, especially in professional contexts. Often used when discussing qualifications for jobs or when giving advice. Greeks frequently emphasize the importance of practical experience over theoretical knowledge.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: πείρα is more informal and often refers to practical, hands-on experience, while εμπειρία is more formal and can include broader life experiences or professional expertise
Confused word:
Έχω πείρα στο μαγείρεμα.
I have experience in cooking.
Notes: Both are correct, but εμπειρία sounds more professional and is preferred in formal contexts
Mnemonic: εμπειρία is more 'empirical' (formal/scientific), πείρα is more personal/practical