επιλεγμένος
epilegmenos
The English word "chosen" is translated into Greek as επιλεγμένος (epilegmenos).
επιλεγμένος is used to describe someone who has been selected for a particular purpose or honor.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the prefix επι- (upon/for) and the verb λέγω (to pick/choose/say) in its passive participle form.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes its ending to match the gender and number of the person or thing being described: επιλεγμένη is the feminine singular, επιλεγμένο is the neuter singular, επιλεγμένοι is the masculine plural and επιλεγμένες is the feminine plural.
How do you pronounce it?
epilegmenos
Did you know?
- The verb root λέγω is also the ancestor of the English word 'dialect', coming from the Greek διά (through) and λέγω (to speak).
- While επιλεγμένος is the standard word for 'chosen', Greeks often use the word εκλεκτός to describe something 'exquisite' or 'prime', such as 'choice' cuts of meat or high-quality produce.
- The root verb λέγω in επιλεγμένος means both 'to choose' and 'to speak'. This linguistic overlap suggests that in ancient Greek thought, selecting something was conceptually similar to naming it.
Examples in context
- Συγχαρητήρια για την επιλογή σας!Congratulations on your selection!
- Είναι ο επιλεγμένος για τη θέση.Eíne o epilegménos gia ti thési.He is the chosen one for the position.
- Ο επιλεγμένος θα πάρει το βραβείο.O epilegménos tha párei to vrafeío.The chosen one will receive the award.
Example conversation
Kyriaki and Nikos are discussing a promotion at work.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΠώς τα πήγες στη συνέντευξη;Pos ta piges sti synentevxi?How did the interview go?
- Νίκος NikosΕίμαι ο επιλεγμένος για τον ρόλο!Eimai o epilegmenos gia ton rolo!I am the chosen one for the role!
- Κυριακή KyriakiΣυγχαρητήρια, Νίκο, το άξιζες.Syngcharitiria, Niko, to axizes.Congratulations, Nikos, you deserved it.
- Νίκος NikosΕυχαριστώ πολύ, Κυριάκη.Efcharisto poly, Kyriaki.Thank you very much, Kyriaki.
