συγγενείς
Wordform Details
Translation: relatedrelativekindred
Part of Speech: adjective
Inflection Type:
masculine/femininepluralnominative/accusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: συγγενής
Translation: relative; kin; related; kindred (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek συγγενής (sungenḗs), composed of the prefix συν- (syn-, 'with, together') and the root γένος (génos, 'race, birth, descent'). The word literally means 'born together' or 'of the same race/family'. It shares the same Indo-European root *gen- with English words like 'gene', 'generate', 'genesis', and 'kin'.
Example Usage
Είναι συγγενής μου.
He/She is my relative.
Έχουμε συγγενή χαρακτηριστικά.
We have related characteristics.
Είναι συγγενής μου από την πλευρά της μητέρας μου.
He is my relative from my mother's side.
Έχω πολλούς συγγενείς στην Αθήνα.
I have many relatives in Athens.
Οι συγγενείς μαζεύτηκαν για το Πάσχα.
The relatives gathered for Easter.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'syn' (together) + 'genes' (birth/origin) = people who share origins
- Remember the English word 'congenial' (friendly, pleasant) which shares the same root
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
Family relationships are highly valued in Greek culture. The concept of 'συγγενής' extends beyond immediate family to include extended family members. Greeks often maintain close relationships with their relatives and family gatherings are important social events.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'συγγενής' means 'relative', 'συγγραφέας' means 'writer' or 'author'. They look similar because they both start with 'συγγ-', but have different roots and meanings.
Notes: The prefix 'συγγ-' in both words comes from 'συν-' meaning 'with/together', but they combine with different roots.
Mnemonic: Remember: συγγενής has to do with 'genes' (relatives share genes), while συγγραφέας has to do with 'writing' (γράφω means 'to write').