ικανός
Wordform Details
Translation: ability
Part of Speech: unknown
Inflection Type:
unknownIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ικανότητα
Translation: ability; capability; competence; capacity; skill (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἱκανός (hikanos) meaning 'sufficient, capable'. The root relates to reaching or arriving at a goal, suggesting competence as something that allows one to 'reach' or 'achieve' objectives. The suffix -ότητα forms abstract nouns denoting qualities or states, similar to English '-ity' or '-ness'.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'icon' + 'ability' - someone who is iconic has special abilities
- The 'ικαν' sound is like 'I can' in English - if you have ικανότητα, you can do something
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in educational and professional contexts, particularly in job applications and academic evaluations. The concept is central to the Greek education system's focus on developing student competencies.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While ικανότητα refers to skill or ability, δυνατότητα refers more to possibility or potential
Confused word:
Υπάρχει η δυνατότητα να ταξιδέψουμε αύριο.
There is a possibility to travel tomorrow.
Notes: ικανότητα implies acquired skill or competence, while δυνατότητα suggests potential or opportunity
Mnemonic: ικανότητα = I CAN do it (skill), δυνατότητα = it might be DONE (possibility)