μετάνοια
metánoia
The English word 'repentance' is translated into Greek as μετάνοια (metánoia).
The term μετάνοια is used to describe the condition of being repentant, penitent or feeling remorse. It is the appropriate word when discussing the concept of repentance within a religious or formal context.
Meaning: condition of being repentant, penitent, feeling remorse (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word μετάνοια is composed of the prefix μετά (meaning after or change) and the noun νοῦς (meaning mind), literally translating to a 'change of mind'.
Which one should you use?
While μετάνοια is a common way to express repentance, the term αναστροφή focuses more explicitly on the idea of turning around or changing direction.
How does it change in a sentence?
The genitive singular form, used to mean 'of repentance', is μετάνοιας.
How do you pronounce it?
metánoia
Did you know?
- The word μετάνοια is the direct ancestor of the English psychological term 'metanoia', used to describe a profound and transformative change in a person's mental outlook.
- In a non-religious context, μετάνοια can be used to describe the simple 'second thoughts' one has after making a mundane daily decision.
- The root word νοῦς in μετάνοια is the source of the English adjective 'noetic', which refers to intuitive or spiritual knowledge.
Examples in context
- The importance of μετάνοια is emphasized in Christian teachings, where believers are encouraged to turn away from sinful actions and embrace a life of righteousness.The importance of repentance is emphasized in Christian teachings, where believers are encouraged to turn away from sinful actions and embrace a life of righteousness.
- During confession, the priest guides the faithful towards achieving μετάνοια through sincere penance and a desire for spiritual growth.During confession, the priest guides the faithful towards achieving repentance through sincere penance and a desire for spiritual growth.
- Ένιωσα βαθιά μετάνοια για τα λάθη μου.Enioisa vathia metanoia gia ta lathi mou.I felt deep repentance for my mistakes.
Example conversation
A man and a woman are discussing a difficult moral decision.
- Κώστας KostasΧρειάζεται κάποια μετάνοια για αυτό το λάθος;Chreiazetai kapia metanoia gia afto to lathi;Is some repentance needed for this mistake?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝαι, η μετάνοια είναι το πρώτο βήμα.Nai, i metanoia einai to proto vimma.Yes, repentance is the first step.
- Κώστας KostasΠώς μπορώ να την δείξω;Pos boro na tin deixo;How can I show it?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΜε την πράξη σου, Κώστα.Me tin praksi sou, Kosta.Through your actions, Kostas.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry μετάνοια, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
