πού
Wordform Details
Translation: where
Part of Speech: adverb
Inflection Type:
interrogativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: πού
Translation: where; in which place (adverb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ποῦ (poû), which comes from Proto-Indo-European *kʷo- (interrogative pronoun). This same root gave rise to English 'who' and Latin 'quo' (where). The interrogative adverb has maintained its function from Ancient Greek to Modern Greek with remarkable consistency.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'πού' as asking 'who' is in a place (similar sounds, though different meanings).
- The accent mark points upward like a question mark, reminding you it's a question word.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
This is one of the most fundamental question words in Greek, used in everyday conversation. It's essential for asking for directions, which is a common need for travelers in Greece.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'πού' (with accent) is the interrogative 'where', 'που' (without accent) is the relative pronoun 'that/which/who'.
This word:
Πού είναι το βιβλίο;
Where is the book?
Confused word:
Το βιβλίο που διάβασα.
The book that I read.
Notes: This is one of the most common mistakes even native speakers make in writing. In speech, there's no confusion as the interrogative 'πού' is stressed.
Mnemonic: The accent in 'πού' rises up like a question mark - it asks a question. No accent in 'που' means no question.
Explanation: 'πού' asks about location (where), while 'πώς' asks about manner (how).
This word:
Πού θα συναντηθούμε;
Where will we meet?
Confused word:
Πώς θα πάμε εκεί;
How will we get there?
Notes: Both are essential question words in Greek.
Mnemonic: 'πού' is shorter and asks for a place; 'πώς' is longer and asks for an explanation.