εξηγεί
Wordform Details
Translation: explainsclarifiesinterprets
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
third-personsingularpresentIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: εξηγώ
Translation: to explain; to clarify; to account for; to interpret (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐξηγέομαι (exēgéomai), composed of ἐξ- (ex-, 'out of') + ἡγέομαι (hēgéomai, 'to lead, guide'). The original meaning was 'to lead out' or 'to guide forth', which evolved into 'to lead someone to understanding' - hence 'to explain'. This connects to English 'exegesis' (critical interpretation of text) and shares the same root as 'hegemony' (leadership/dominance). The metaphor of 'leading someone out of confusion' into clarity remains central to its meaning.
Example Usage
Μπορείς να μου εξηγήσεις τι συνέβη;
Can you explain to me what happened?
Ο καθηγητής εξηγεί το μάθημα.
The professor explains the lesson.
Μπορείς να μου εξηγήσεις αυτό το πρόβλημα;
Can you explain this problem to me?
Ο δάσκαλος εξηγεί το μάθημα με υπομονή.
The teacher explains the lesson patiently.
Δεν μπορώ να εξηγήσω τι συνέβη.
I can't explain what happened.
Mnemonics
- Think 'exit-ego' - helping someone's ego exit confusion
- Remember 'exegesis' - scholarly explanation of texts
- EX-plain = EX-ηγώ (leading OUT of confusion)
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Widely used in educational contexts, everyday conversation, and professional settings. Greeks often use this verb when providing detailed explanations, as Greek culture values thorough communication and ensuring understanding.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: εξηγώ means to explain/clarify while εξετάζω means to examine/test
Notes: Both start with εξ- but serve completely different functions - one clarifies, the other investigates
Mnemonic: εξηγώ = EXplain (both start with EX), εξετάζω = EXamine/TEST