ματαιότητα — meaning in English: vanity

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Guess the translation for vanity

παραδοχή

paradochí

βροχή

vrochí

συμπεριφορά

symperiforá

προσωπικότητα

prosopikótita

ματαιότητα

mataiótita

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neutral intermediate

Usage

Native speakers often use the word ματαιότητα in discussions that critique excessive pride or self-importance, particularly in social settings or debates about personal values. For instance, it might come up when discussing the superficiality of celebrity culture or during philosophical conversations about the nature of happiness.

Synonyms & nuances

While words like 'pride' and 'arrogance' convey similar meanings, ματαιότητα emphasizes a deeper, often philosophical sense of futility and emptiness, making it ideal for discussions that critique the superficial nature of certain pursuits, such as material wealth or status.

Culture

The word ματαιότητα has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, where it was often linked to concepts of futility and the transient nature of life. Notably, the philosopher Ecclesiastes famously mused about the 'vanity of vanities', a sentiment that has echoed through centuries, connecting the term with profound existential reflections.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of ματαιότητα in English?

The Greek word ματαιότητα translates to 'vanity' in English, conveying a sense of emptiness or lack of worth, particularly regarding one's pride or self-importance.

Q.How do you use ματαιότητα in a sentence?

You can use ματαιότητα in a sentence like: 'Η ματαιότητα της φήμης δεν την ικανοποιούσε', which means 'The vanity of fame did not satisfy her.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using ματαιότητα?

A common mistake is confusing ματαιότητα with other forms of vanity. Remember that it carries a heavier philosophical weight, often implying futility rather than just superficial pride.

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Greek Vocabulary