καλωσορίζει
Wordform Details
Translation: welcomegreet
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
third-personsingularpresentIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: καλωσορίζω
Translation: to welcome; to greet warmly; to receive cordially (verb)
Etymology: Compound word from 'καλώς' (well, nicely) + 'ορίζω' (to define, to determine). The combination literally means 'to define/receive well'. The verb 'ορίζω' comes from Ancient Greek 'ὁρίζω' (horizō), which is also the root of the English word 'horizon' - the line that defines the boundary between earth and sky.
Example Usage
Σας καλωσορίζω στο σπίτι μου.
I welcome you to my home.
Ο δήμαρχος καλωσόρισε τους επισκέπτες στην πόλη.
The mayor welcomed the visitors to the city.
Καλωσορίζουμε τον νέο συνάδελφο στην ομάδα μας.
We welcome the new colleague to our team.
Ο διευθυντής καλωσόρισε τους νέους υπαλλήλους.
The manager welcomed the new employees.
Καλωσορίζουμε τους επισκέπτες με παραδοσιακά γλυκά.
We welcome visitors with traditional sweets.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'καλώς' as 'call well' - you're calling someone well into your home or space.
- The 'ορίζω' part relates to 'horizon' - you're bringing someone into your horizon or personal space.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Welcoming guests is an important aspect of Greek hospitality (φιλοξενία/filoxenia). The phrase 'καλώς ορίσατε' (welcome) is commonly used when receiving guests in homes, businesses, or public events. Greeks take pride in making visitors feel welcome and comfortable.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'καλωσορίζω' specifically means to welcome someone (usually upon arrival), 'χαιρετίζω' is more general and means to greet or salute someone, not necessarily implying a welcome.
Notes: 'Καλωσορίζω' is typically used in more formal or significant arrival situations, while 'χαιρετίζω' can be used for everyday greetings.
Mnemonic: 'Καλωσορίζω' contains 'καλώς' (well) - you're receiving someone well into your space, while 'χαιρετίζω' is related to 'χαίρε' (hello/rejoice) - a simple greeting.