How to Say "Start" in Greek - How To Say Guide

ξεκινώ

xekinó/kse.ciˈno/

To start in Greek is ξεκινώ (xekinó).

The verb ξεκινώ is used both to indicate the beginning of an action and to mean setting off or departing on a journey.

Meaning: to begin (verb)

Which one should you use?

While ξεκινώ is a common way to say start, the synonym αρχίζω is often used specifically for the formal beginning of an event or a process.

To say 'I started', use the past tense form ξεκίνησα. To say 'I will start', use the future tense form θα ξεκινήσω.

The word is pronounced /kse.ciˈno/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the third syllable.

Modern Greek keeps ξεκινώ and αρχίζω as distinct, but in Ancient Greek, the root of αρχίζω related to 'arche', meaning 'origin' or 'first place'. This is the same root found in the English word 'archetype'.
In Greek, the concept of 'starting' is linguistically tied to the idea of 'untying' or 'setting loose', as seen in the prefix ξε-.
The word ξεκινώ shares a deep root with the word κίνηση, which means 'movement'. This reveals that to 'start' in Greek is conceptually linked to the act of putting something into motion.

Η έναρξη του συνεδρίου είναι στις 9 π.μ.
The start of the conference is at 9 a.m.
Ξεκινάω την προετοιμασία για το ταξίδι μου.
I'm starting to prepare for my trip.
Αρχίζω να μάθαινω πιάνο.
I'm starting to learn how to play the piano.
Πότε ξεκινώ τη δουλειά;
Pote xekinó ti doulia;
When do I start work?

Kyriaki and Giorgos are discussing their morning schedule.

Κυριακή Kyriaki

Γιώργο, πότε ξεκινώ τη διατροφή μου;
Giórgo, póte xekinó ti diatrofí mou?
Giorgos, when do I start my diet?
Γιώργος Giorgos

Ξεκίνα τη Δευτέρα για να είναι πιο εύκολο.
Xekína ti Deftéra gia na eínai pio eúkolo.
Start on Monday so it will be easier.
Κυριακή Kyriaki

Εντάξει, τότε ξεκινώ από τη Δευτέρα.
Entáxei, tóte xekinó apó ti Deftéra.
Okay, then I start from Monday.
Γιώργος Giorgos

Ακριβώς, καλή τύχη!
Akrivós, kalí týchi!
Exactly, good luck!

Sources

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