σύμφωνα
Wordform Details
Translation: according toin accordance with
Part of Speech: adverb/preposition
Inflection Type:
invariableIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: σύμφωνα
Translation: according to; in accordance with; in agreement with; as per (adverb)
Etymology: From the neuter plural of the adjective σύμφωνος (symphonos), meaning 'agreeing' or 'harmonious', which derives from σύν (syn, 'together') + φωνή (phone, 'voice'). The word literally means 'with the same voice' or 'speaking together'. This connects to English 'symphony' (harmonious sounds together) and 'telephone' (distant voice). The evolution from 'harmonious voices' to 'in agreement with' shows how musical metaphors became expressions of consensus and reference to authority.
Example Usage
Σύμφωνα με τον καιρό, αύριο θα βρέξει.
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
Σύμφωνα με τον νόμο, αυτό απαγορεύεται.
According to the law, this is forbidden.
Σύμφωνα με τις οδηγίες, πρέπει να το πάρετε δύο φορές την ημέρα.
According to the instructions, you should take it twice a day.
Σύμφωνα με τον καιρό, θα βρέξει αύριο.
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
Σύμφωνα με τα στοιχεία, οι πωλήσεις αυξήθηκαν.
According to the data, sales increased.
Σύμφωνα με τον νόμο, αυτό είναι παράνομο.
According to the law, this is illegal.
Mnemonics
- Think 'symphony' - when voices are in harmony, they're in agreement
- SYN-phona = voices speaking together in agreement
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Extremely common in formal writing, news reports, academic texts, and official documents when citing sources or authorities. Essential for understanding Greek media and formal discourse.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: σύμφωνα is an adverb meaning 'according to' while συμφωνώ is a verb meaning 'I agree'
Confused word:
Συμφωνώ με την άποψή σου.
I agree with your opinion.
Notes: σύμφωνα always requires 'με' (with) to introduce the source, while συμφωνώ is a complete verb that can stand alone
Mnemonic: σύμφωνα = 'according to' (citing source), συμφωνώ = 'I agree' (expressing personal agreement)