χαρακτήρα
Wordform Details
Translation: characternaturequality
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
masculinesingularaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: χαρακτήρας
Translation: character; personality; nature; temperament; trait; letter; symbol; type (noun)
Etymology: From ancient Greek χαρακτήρ (kharaktēr), originally meaning 'engraved mark' or 'stamp', derived from χαράσσω (kharássō) 'to engrave, scratch'. The word entered Latin as 'character' and then English, making it a perfect cognate. The semantic evolution from 'engraved mark' to 'distinctive quality' reflects how permanent marks came to symbolize defining traits. This explains why we use 'character' for both personality traits and written symbols - both are distinctive marks that identify something.
Example Usage
Έχει πολύ καλό χαρακτήρα.
He has a very good character.
Ο κύριος χαρακτήρας της ταινίας είναι ενδιαφέρων.
The main character of the movie is interesting.
Αυτό το γράμμα είναι κινέζικος χαρακτήρας.
This letter is a Chinese character.
Έχει πολύ δυνατό χαρακτήρα.
He has a very strong character.
Οι χαρακτήρες στο πληκτρολόγιο είναι ελληνικοί.
The characters on the keyboard are Greek.
Ο χαρακτήρας της είναι γλυκός.
Her character is sweet.
Mnemonics
- Think 'character' - it's almost identical! The Greek χ sounds like 'h' in 'character'
- Remember: χαρακτήρας = character (both personality AND letters/symbols)
- Visual: imagine engraving your character traits like ancient Greeks carved letters
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, having 'χαρακτήρας' is highly valued - it implies moral strength, integrity, and distinctive personality. Often used in discussions about personal development, education, and social relationships. The phrase 'άνθρωπος με χαρακτήρα' (person with character) is a significant compliment.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: χαρακτήρας is the inherent character/nature, while χαρακτηρισμός is the act of characterizing or describing someone
Confused word:
Ο χαρακτηρισμός του ως τεμπέλης είναι άδικος.
The characterization of him as lazy is unfair.
Notes: χαρακτηρισμός can also mean 'insult' when used negatively
Mnemonic: χαρακτήρας = what you ARE, χαρακτηρισμός = what others SAY you are