Signification
To put in work toward a goal.
Contexte culturel
In Greek workplaces, using 'καταβάλλω' shows you respect the hierarchy and take your role seriously. Teachers often use this phrase in report cards to distinguish between 'natural talent' and 'hard work'. News reports on national crises (like wildfires or economic issues) almost always use this phrase to describe state action. Reflects the ancient ideal of 'Arete' (excellence) achieved through 'Agon' (struggle).
The 'Every Effort' Cliché
In formal emails, always use 'Καταβάλλω κάθε δυνατή προσπάθεια'. It's the magic phrase for 'I'm doing my best'.
The Augment Trap
Don't forget the 'ε' in 'κατέβαλα'. Without it, you sound like a beginner.
Signification
To put in work toward a goal.
The 'Every Effort' Cliché
In formal emails, always use 'Καταβάλλω κάθε δυνατή προσπάθεια'. It's the magic phrase for 'I'm doing my best'.
The Augment Trap
Don't forget the 'ε' in 'κατέβαλα'. Without it, you sound like a beginner.
Philotimo
Using this phrase shows you have 'philotimo'—that you care about your work and your reputation.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct form of the verb in the Aorist (Past Simple).
Χθες, ο Γιώργος ___________ (καταβάλλω) μεγάλη προσπάθεια για να τελειώσει την εργασία του.
The Aorist requires the internal augment 'ε' and a single 'λ'.
Which sentence is most appropriate for a formal business email?
Choose the best option:
This uses the correct formal register and professional vocabulary.
Complete the dialogue with the correct phrase.
Δάσκαλος: Γιατί δεν πήγες καλά στο τεστ; Μαθητής: Συγγνώμη, κύριε, αλλά δεν ___________.
While all are grammatically correct, 'κατέβαλα προσπάθεια' would be the most respectful/formal response to a teacher.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Register Comparison
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesΧθες, ο Γιώργος ___________ (καταβάλλω) μεγάλη προσπάθεια για να τελειώσει την εργασία του.
The Aorist requires the internal augment 'ε' and a single 'λ'.
Choose the best option:
This uses the correct formal register and professional vocabulary.
Δάσκαλος: Γιατί δεν πήγες καλά στο τεστ; Μαθητής: Συγγνώμη, κύριε, αλλά δεν ___________.
While all are grammatically correct, 'κατέβαλα προσπάθεια' would be the most respectful/formal response to a teacher.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsNo, it's also used for paying money (e.g., 'καταβάλλω το ενοίκιο'), but 'καταβάλλω προσπάθεια' is a very common fixed collocation.
You can, but it might sound a bit formal or sarcastic. Stick to 'κάνω προσπάθεια' for casual talk.
It's a matter of duration. 'Καταβάλλω' (double λ) is for continuous effort; 'καταβάλω' (single λ) is for a one-time effort.
Expressions liées
κάνω προσπάθεια
similarTo make an effort
καταβάλλω κόπο
similarTo exert toil
καταβάλλω το ποσό
specialized formTo pay the amount
άκαρπη προσπάθεια
builds onFruitless effort
