ξεκίνα
Wordform Details
Translation: to startto begin
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
second-personsingularimperativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ξεκινώ
Translation: to start; to begin; to set off; to depart; to launch (verb)
Etymology: From the prefix ξε- (indicating separation or initiation) combined with κινώ (to move). The root κιν- is related to kinetic energy and cinema in English, both involving movement. The prefix ξε- often indicates the beginning of an action or movement away from a starting point, making ξεκινώ literally mean 'to set in motion' or 'to move from a point of rest.'
Example Usage
Το μάθημα ξεκινάει στις εννιά.
The lesson begins at nine.
Πρέπει να ξεκινήσω για τη δουλειά.
I need to set off for work.
Ξεκινάω μια νέα δουλειά αύριο.
I'm starting a new job tomorrow.
Ξεκινήσαμε νωρίς το πρωί για το ταξίδι.
We set off early in the morning for the trip.
Ξεκινώ για τη δουλειά στις οκτώ.
I leave for work at eight.
Πότε ξεκινάει η ταινία;
When does the movie start?
Ξεκίνησα να μαθαίνω ελληνικά.
I started learning Greek.
Ξεκίνησε να βρέχει.
It started to rain.
Mnemonics
- Think 'X-kinetic' - the X (ξε) gets kinetic energy moving
- Remember 'cinema' from κιν- root - movies start rolling
Cultural Context
Very commonly used in everyday Greek for both physical departure (leaving a place) and abstract beginnings (starting a project, conversation, etc.). Often used in travel contexts and daily scheduling.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: Both mean 'to start/begin' but ξεκινώ often implies physical movement or departure, while αρχίζω is more about temporal beginning of activities or processes
Confused word:
Αρχίζω τη δουλειά μου.
I'm beginning my work.
Notes: ξεκινώ can often be translated as 'set off' while αρχίζω is more 'commence'
Mnemonic: ξεκινώ has 'kinetic' movement, αρχίζω has 'archaic' beginning