English Translation
He’s very curious.
The Greek word “περίεργος” (períergos) means “curious” or “strange.” Its etymology can be broken down as follows:
- The prefix “περί-” (peri-) means “around” or “about.”
- The root “έργος” (érgos) comes from the ancient Greek word “ἔργον” (érgon), which means “work” or “deed.”
When combined, “περίεργος” can be interpreted as “one who works around” or “one who is concerned with various matters.” In a more figurative sense, it has come to mean someone who is inquisitive or curious about things that may not directly concern them, often implying a sense of prying or meddling.
Thus, the etymology reflects the idea of someone who is interested in a variety of subjects or who engages in activities that may be outside their immediate concern, leading to the modern meanings of “curious” or “strange.”
English Translation
He’s very curious.
The word “περίεργος” (períergos) can be used in different contexts, and its meaning can vary based on the situation:
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Curious/Investigative: In a positive sense, it can describe someone who is naturally interested in the world around them, eager to learn, explore, and understand various subjects. This usage reflects a sense of intellectual curiosity and a desire for knowledge.
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Nosey/Prying: In a more negative context, “περίεργος” can refer to someone who is overly inquisitive about other people’s affairs, often intruding into matters that do not concern them. This connotation implies a lack of boundaries and can be seen as annoying or inappropriate.
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Strange/Weird: Additionally, “περίεργος” can describe someone who is considered a bit out of the ordinary or eccentric. In this sense, it can imply that a person has unusual interests or behaviours that set them apart from the norm, which might be perceived as “weird” or “different.”
Overall, the word carries a range of meanings that can be context-dependent, allowing it to describe both positive curiosity and negative prying, as well as eccentricity.