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κεφάλι — meaning in English: head

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Guess the translation for head
λίγο
lígo
συμπεριφορά
symperiforá
καλησπέρα
kalispéra
δρόμος
drómos
κεφάλι
kefáli
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informal very common
Usage
Native Greek speakers commonly use the word 'κεφάλι' when discussing health or physical sensations, such as saying 'μου πονάει το κεφάλι' (my head hurts). It can also appear in informal conversations about thoughts or decisions, like 'έχεις το κεφάλι σου στο σωστό μέρος' (you have your head in the right place) when offering advice.
Synonyms & nuances
'Κεφάλι' is the standard term for 'head' in Greek, while 'γοφός' refers specifically to the hip area. You would use 'κεφάλι' in most contexts, whereas 'γοφός' would be reserved for discussions about the body in a more technical or anatomical sense.
Culture
The word 'κεφάλι' has its roots in ancient Greek, where it was often associated with wisdom and authority, symbolizing the seat of thought. In Greek culture, there's a saying 'να έχεις το κεφάλι ψηλά', meaning 'to hold your head high', which reflects the value placed on confidence and dignity.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce κεφάλι?
It is pronounced as 'kefáli'. The emphasis is on the second syllable, making it sound lively and dynamic.
Q.Can κεφάλι be used in idiomatic expressions?
Yes, 'κεφάλι' appears in various idiomatic expressions in Greek, such as 'τον έπιασε το κεφάλι του' which translates to 'he was caught off guard', emphasizing the importance of the head in thinking and perception.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using κεφάλι?
A common mistake is confusing 'κεφάλι' with 'πρόσωπο', which means 'face'. Remember, 'κεφάλι' specifically refers to the head as a whole, while 'πρόσωπο' is just the front part of the head.
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Greek Vocabulary