μόνο
Wordform Details
Translation: onlyjustsolely
Part of Speech: adverb
Inflection Type:
invariableIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: μόνο
Translation: only; just; merely; solely (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from the neuter form of the adjective 'μόνος' (monos) meaning 'alone' or 'single'. This shares the same Indo-European root as English words like 'mono-' (as in monologue, monogamy), 'monk' (originally one who lives alone), and 'minimum'. The concept of 'singleness' or 'exclusivity' is preserved in both Greek and English derivatives.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'mono' in English (meaning 'one' or 'single') to remember μόνο means 'only'
- Remember 'monopoly' (exclusive control) to connect with the idea of exclusivity in μόνο
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
A very common word in everyday Greek speech. Its position in a sentence can subtly change emphasis. When placed before a verb, it emphasizes the limitation of the action; when placed before a noun, it emphasizes the exclusivity of the subject.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'μόνο' is an adverb meaning 'only/just', 'μόνος' is an adjective meaning 'alone/by oneself'
Confused word:
Είμαι μόνος στο σπίτι.
I am alone in the house.
Notes: The two words are etymologically related, but serve different grammatical functions.
Mnemonic: μόνο ends with 'o' like 'only', while μόνος ends with 's' like 'solitary'
Explanation: While 'μόνο' means 'only', 'μονός' means 'odd' (as in odd numbers) or 'single' (as opposed to double)
Confused word:
Το πέντε είναι μονός αριθμός.
Five is an odd number.
Notes: The accent placement distinguishes these words both in writing and pronunciation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'μονός' with stress on the final syllable as related to mathematics (odd numbers), while 'μόνο' with stress on the first syllable relates to limitation