θαύμασα
Wordform Details
Translation: wonderadmiremarvel at
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
first-personsingularaoristactiveIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: θαυμάζω
Translation: to admire; to wonder; to marvel; to be amazed (verb)
Etymology: From ancient Greek θαυμάζω, derived from θαῦμα (thauma) meaning 'wonder, marvel'. This root appears in English words like 'thaumaturgy' (miracle-working) and connects to the philosophical concept of wonder as the beginning of wisdom. The word carries the dual sense of both admiration and astonishment that has persisted from classical antiquity, making it particularly rich in expressing both aesthetic appreciation and intellectual curiosity.
Example Usage
Θαυμάζω το έργο του ως καλλιτέχνη.
I admire his work as an artist.
Θαύμασα το ηλιοβασίλεμα στη θάλασσα.
I marveled at the sunset over the sea.
Όλοι θαυμάζουν το θάρρος της.
Everyone admires her courage.
Θαυμάζω πώς καταφέρνεις να είσαι πάντα τόσο ήρεμος.
I wonder how you manage to always be so calm.
Θαυμάζω το έργο του.
I admire his work.
Θαυμάζω το θάρρος σου.
I admire your courage.
Οι τουρίστες θαυμάζουν την Ακρόπολη.
The tourists marvel at the Acropolis.
Θαύμασα την ομορφιά του τοπίου.
I was amazed by the beauty of the landscape.
Θαυμάζω την τέχνη σου.
I admire your art.
Θαυμάζω πώς τα καταφέρνεις.
I wonder how you manage it.
Όλοι θαυμάζουν τη θέα από εδώ.
Everyone admires the view from here.
Mnemonics
- Think 'trauma' but positive - θαυμάζω is being emotionally moved by something wonderful
- Remember 'thaumaturgy' (miracle-working) - θαυμάζω is what you do when you see a miracle
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used in Greek culture to express genuine appreciation for art, nature, or human achievements. Commonly heard in contexts of cultural pride, such as admiring ancient monuments, natural beauty, or artistic accomplishments. The verb carries a sense of respectful appreciation that is valued in Greek social interactions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: θαυμάζω means to admire/wonder while θυμάμαι means to remember. They share the initial θ and similar rhythm but have completely different meanings.
This word:
Θαυμάζω τη σοφία του.
I admire his wisdom.
Confused word:
Θυμάμαι τη σοφία του.
I remember his wisdom.
Notes: Both are common verbs that students often mix up due to similar spelling and rhythm
Mnemonic: θαυμάζω has 'αυ' like 'awe' (admiration), θυμάμαι has 'υ' like 'you' (remembering you)