αιωνία η μνήμη
aionia i mnimi
The English phrase 'memory eternal' is translated into Greek as αιωνία η μνήμη (aionia i mnimi).
αιωνία η μνήμη is a phrase used in religious services to pray that a deceased person be remembered forever.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective αιωνία (eternal), the definite article η (the) and the noun μνήμη (memory).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
αιωνία η μνήμη is used in formal or religious contexts, specifically within Orthodox Christian funeral rites and memorial services.
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, the adjective αιωνία precedes the noun phrase η μνήμη. This is a common word order in Greek liturgical and poetic expressions to emphasize the quality of the noun.
How do you pronounce it?
aionia i mnimi
Did you know?
- The noun μνήμη is the direct ancestor of the English word 'mnemonic', used to describe devices that aid memory.
- In Greek Orthodox tradition, αιωνία η μνήμη is often chanted as a melodic refrain during a funeral, with the congregation responding in a rhythmic call-and-response.
- The word αιωνία shares its root with the English word 'eon', which refers to an indefinitely long period of time.
Example conversation
Anastasia and Nikos are attending a memorial service.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΉταν πολύ καλός άνθρωπος.Ítan polý kalós ánthropos.He was a very good man.
- Νίκος NikosΝαι, θα μας λείψει πολύ.Ne, tha mas lípsei polý.Yes, we will miss him a lot.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΑιωνία η μνήμη του.Aionía i mními tou.Memory eternal to him.
- Νίκος NikosΑμιν.Amin.Amen.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries η, μνήμη, CC BY-SA 4.0.
