χαρίσω
Wordform Details
Translation: to give as a giftto donateto present
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
first-personsingularaoristsubjunctiveIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: χαρίζω
Translation: to give as a gift; to donate; to grant; to bestow; to forgive (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek χαρίζομαι (kharízomai), derived from χάρις (kháris) meaning 'grace, favor, kindness'. The English words 'charity', 'charisma', and 'eucharist' share the same root. The core concept relates to giving freely out of goodwill or grace, without expectation of return.
Example Usage
Της χάρισα ένα βιβλίο για τα γενέθλιά της.
I gave her a book as a gift for her birthday.
Ο πατέρας χάρισε το παλιό του αυτοκίνητο στον γιο του.
The father gave his old car to his son as a gift.
Της χάρισε ένα χαμόγελο.
He gave her a smile.
Της χάρισα το χρέος.
I forgave her debt.
Η μουσική χαρίζει χαρά στους ανθρώπους.
Music brings joy to people.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'charity' which comes from the same root and involves giving freely.
- Remember 'charisma' (χάρισμα) - a gift that someone has naturally.
- Think of 'χαρά' (happiness) + 'ίζω' - you make someone happy when you give them a gift.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, giving gifts (χαρίζω) is an important social custom that strengthens relationships. The concept extends beyond material gifts to include forgiveness and showing favor, reflecting the cultural value of generosity and goodwill.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'χαρίζω' means to give something as a gift with no expectation of return, 'δανείζω' means to lend something temporarily with the expectation it will be returned.
Confused word:
Σου δανείζω αυτό το βιβλίο.
I'm lending you this book.
Notes: The distinction is important in social contexts to avoid misunderstandings about ownership.
Mnemonic: Think: χαρίζω (charity) - giving without return; δανείζω (loan) - giving with return.
Explanation: 'Χαρίζω' means to give as a gift, while 'χαιρετίζω' means to greet or salute someone.
Confused word:
Τον χαιρέτισα από μακριά.
I greeted him from afar.
Notes: Though they sound similar, they describe completely different actions.
Mnemonic: For 'χαιρετίζω', think of saying 'hi' (χαίρε) to someone.