καλός — meaning in English: good

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Guess the translation for good

ξενοδοχείο

xenodocheio

υπεύθυνος

ypefthynos

παράξενος

paráxenos

υποκειμενικότητα

ypokeimenikótita

καλός

kalós

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Greek speakers use 'καλός' in casual conversations to describe something positive or of high quality, such as complimenting a meal ('This food is καλός!') or describing a kind action ('He is a καλός person.'). It is commonly used in both social settings and everyday interactions, making it a versatile term.

Synonyms & nuances

'Καλος' can be compared to 'καλύτερος' (better) and 'άριστος' (excellent). While 'καλός' is generally used for good quality or kindness, 'άριστος' indicates a higher standard of excellence. Use 'καλός' for general praise, but choose 'άριστος' when emphasizing exceptional merit.

Culture

'Καλος' has roots in Ancient Greek, deriving from 'καλός' meaning 'beautiful' or 'noble.' This connection highlights the importance of aesthetics and virtue in Greek culture. It reflects a deep appreciation for both inner goodness and outward beauty, which remains significant in contemporary Greek life.

FAQ

Q.What does the Greek word καλός mean in English?

'Καλος' translates to 'good' in English, encompassing various positive connotations such as quality, kindness, and beauty.

Q.How do I use καλός in a sentence?

'Καλος' can be used in several contexts, e.g., 'Αυτή η ταινία είναι πολύ καλή,' meaning 'This movie is very good.' You can also use it to describe someone's character, like 'Είναι καλός άνθρωπος,' meaning 'He is a good person.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word καλός?

A common mistake is using 'καλός' strictly for physical beauty. While it can describe beauty, it primarily means 'good' in a broader sense. Ensure you understand the context to convey the intended meaning accurately.

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Greek Vocabulary