What Are False Friends?
False friends, also known as false cognates, are words in two languages that appear similar but differ significantly in meaning. They can arise from historical connections, borrowing, or mere coincidence. Because of their deceptive familiarity, false friends often trip up language learners, especially when translating or speaking spontaneously.
Common False Friends Between English and Greek
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common and confusing false friends between English and Greek. These examples will help you be more mindful during your Greek language journey.
1. Actual (English) vs. Ακτουαλ (Greek: ακριβής or πραγματικός)
In English, “actual” means real or factual. In Greek, the similar-sounding word “ακτουαλ” or the borrowed “ακτουάλι” refers to something current or up-to-date, more akin to the English “current” or “present.” The correct Greek word for “actual” in the sense of real is “πραγματικός.”
2. Sympathy (English) vs. Συμπάθεια (Greek)
While “sympathy” in English means compassion or pity for someone else’s misfortune, the Greek “συμπάθεια” means “liking” or “affection.” So, saying you have “συμπάθεια” for someone in Greek implies you like them, not that you feel sorry for them.
3. Eventually (English) vs. Εβεντουάλι (Greek: τελικά)
“Eventually” in English means “in the end.” However, Greek speakers often use “εβεντουάλι” (a borrowed word) to mean “possibly” or “maybe,” which is closer to the English “possibly” or “perhaps.” The correct Greek word for “eventually” is “τελικά.”
4. Library (English) vs. Λιβράριο (Greek: βιβλιοθήκη)
In Greek, “βιβλιοθήκη” means library, while “λιβράριο” is not commonly used. However, English speakers might confuse the Greek “βιβλιοπωλείο” (bookstore) and “βιβλιοθήκη” (library), since they both relate to books. Remember, “βιβλιοθήκη” is where you borrow books, not buy them!
5. Editor (English) vs. Εντιτορ (Greek: συντάκτης or εκδότης)
In English, “editor” refers to someone who prepares written content for publication. In Greek, the word “εκδότης” means “publisher,” and “συντάκτης” means “editor” or “writer.” Using “editor” as a direct translation can cause confusion about someone’s actual job role.
6. College (English) vs. Κολέγιο (Greek: πανεπιστήμιο or λύκειο)
In Greek, “κολέγιο” often refers to a private secondary school or a specialized post-secondary institution, not a university as in American English. The Greek for “university” is “πανεπιστήμιο.”
7. Angel (English) vs. Αγγελία (Greek)
While “άγγελος” in Greek means “angel,” the word “αγγελία” means “advertisement” or “announcement.” Don’t mix up these heavenly and commercial concepts!
Why Do False Friends Exist?
False friends can result from historical borrowing, shared linguistic roots, or simple coincidence. Sometimes words evolve differently after being borrowed, or they are adapted to fit new meanings in each language. For example, Greek has borrowed many English words, sometimes giving them a new twist that doesn’t match the original meaning.
How to Avoid False Friends in Greek
- Use Context: Always consider the context in which a word is used. If something doesn’t make sense, double-check its meaning.
- Consult Reliable Resources: Use trusted Greek-English dictionaries and language learning platforms like Talkpal to verify definitions and usage.
- Practice with Native Speakers: Engaging in conversation with native Greeks will help you spot and remember these tricky words.
- Keep a False Friends List: Maintain your own list of false friends and review it regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Conclusion
False friends are a common stumbling block for English speakers learning Greek, but with awareness and practice, you can avoid misunderstandings and communicate more accurately. By familiarizing yourself with these misleading word pairs and using comprehensive language learning tools like those offered by Talkpal, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Greek vocabulary and speaking with confidence. Remember, every linguistic challenge is an opportunity to deepen your understanding and enjoy the rich journey of learning Greek!
