ευκαιρία
Wordform Details
Translation: opportunitychanceoccasion
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ευκαιρία
Translation: opportunity; chance; occasion (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek εὐκαιρία (eukairía), from εὔκαιρος (eúkairos, 'timely, opportune'), which is composed of εὖ (eû, 'well') + καιρός (kairós, 'the right time, opportunity'). The concept of καιρός in Greek thought refers to the right or opportune moment, a time when conditions are perfect for an action. This word embodies the Greek cultural value of seizing the right moment.
Example Usage
Είναι μια καλή ευκαιρία για δουλειά.
It's a good job opportunity.
Μην χάσεις αυτή την ευκαιρία.
Don't miss this opportunity.
Είναι μια καλή ευκαιρία να μάθεις ελληνικά.
It's a good opportunity to learn Greek.
Δεν πρέπει να χάσεις αυτή την ευκαιρία.
You shouldn't miss this opportunity.
Με την πρώτη ευκαιρία θα έρθω να σε δω.
At the first opportunity, I'll come to see you.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'eu' (good) + 'kairos' (time) = 'good time' or 'opportunity'
- Connect with English 'euphoria' for the 'eu' part (meaning good/well)
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, the concept of 'ευκαιρία' is often associated with the importance of recognizing and seizing favorable moments. There's a common saying 'Η ευκαιρία χτυπάει μια φορά την πόρτα' (Opportunity knocks only once), emphasizing the importance of being alert to opportunities.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ευκαιρία' means 'opportunity', 'ευχαρίστηση' means 'pleasure' or 'satisfaction'. They look and sound somewhat similar but have different meanings and uses.
Notes: The prefix 'ευ-' in both words means 'good' or 'well', but the roots are different.
Mnemonic: 'Ευκαιρία' contains 'καιρ' which relates to 'time' (καιρός), while 'ευχαρίστηση' contains 'χαρ' which relates to 'joy' (χαρά).