δοκιμάζω 30秒了解
- Δοκιμάζω is the Greek verb for 'to test', 'to try on', or 'to taste'.
- It is used for physical objects like food and clothes, as well as abstract concepts like patience.
- It is distinct from 'προσπαθώ', which focuses on effort rather than evaluation.
- It is a regular -ω verb and is essential for shopping and dining in Greece.
The Greek verb δοκιμάζω (dokimázo) is a versatile and essential word in the Greek language, primarily meaning 'to test', 'to try', or 'to sample'. At its core, it suggests an investigative action—performing an act to evaluate quality, flavor, functionality, or character. Whether you are in a fitting room trying on a pair of jeans, in a kitchen tasting a sauce, or in a laboratory conducting an experiment, δοκιμάζω is the verb you need. It captures the moment of transition between uncertainty and knowledge. When you use this word, you are implying that the outcome is not yet fully determined; you are in the process of discovery. For English speakers, it is important to distinguish this from 'προσπαθώ' (prospathó), which means 'to try' in the sense of making an effort to achieve a goal. Δοκιμάζω is about the trial itself, the sampling of an experience or object.
- Culinary Context
- In the kitchen, it refers to tasting food to check for seasoning or readiness. It is the most common way to say 'taste this'.
- Retail Context
- When shopping, it describes the act of trying on clothes or shoes to see if they fit or look good.
Πρέπει να δοκιμάζω το φαγητό πριν το σερβίρω στους καλεσμένους μου.
Beyond the physical, δοκιμάζω extends into the realm of human experience and resilience. In a philosophical or religious sense, it can mean to be tested by life's hardships or to have one's faith put to the proof. This depth makes it a bridge between the mundane (trying a new yogurt) and the profound (testing one's limits). In professional settings, it is used for software testing, beta trials, and quality control. The word implies a standard that must be met. If something is 'tried and true', it has been 'δοκιμασμένο'. This connection to the past participle 'δοκιμασμένος' highlights that once the action of 'δοκιμάζω' is complete, a judgment of reliability follows. This multi-layered nature ensures that as you progress from B1 to C2, you will find new, more abstract ways to employ this verb.
Ο προπονητής θέλει να δοκιμάσει νέους παίκτες στον αυριανό αγώνα.
- Scientific Context
- Used when testing hypotheses or conducting experiments to see if a theory holds up under pressure.
Οι επιστήμονες δοκιμάζουν το νέο φάρμακο στο εργαστήριο.
Μη δοκιμάζεις την υπομονή μου άλλο!
Θέλεις να δοκιμάσεις αυτό το κρασί; Είναι εξαιρετικό.
Using δοκιμάζω correctly requires understanding its aspectual forms. In the present tense, δοκιμάζω implies a continuous or habitual action of testing. For example, 'Δοκιμάζω πάντα τα ρούχα πριν τα αγοράσω' (I always try on clothes before I buy them). However, in most specific instances, you will use the dependent form δοκιμάσω (the aorist stem) after particles like 'να' or 'θα'. For instance, 'Θέλω να δοκιμάσω αυτή τη συνταγή' (I want to try this recipe). This distinction is crucial for English speakers who are used to the word 'try' covering both continuous and specific instances without a stem change. The verb follows the standard first conjugation pattern (type A), making it relatively easy to conjugate once you master the stem 'δοκιμασ-'.
- Direct Object Usage
- Always follow the verb with the item being tested in the accusative case. 'Δοκιμάζω το αυτοκίνητο' (I am testing the car).
- Testing People
- When testing a person's skills or patience, the structure remains the same. 'Δοκιμάζω τις αντοχές μου' (I am testing my endurance).
Αν δοκιμάσεις να φύγεις, θα το μετανιώσεις.
Another common structure involves δοκιμάζω followed by another verb to express 'trying to do something' in an experimental way. While 'προσπαθώ' is more common for 'attempting', δοκιμάζω can be used when the emphasis is on the experiment. For example, 'Δοκίμασα να φτιάξω σούσι, αλλά απέτυχα' (I tried making sushi [as an experiment/sampling the experience], but I failed). This usage is slightly more common in literary or nuanced speech. In everyday Greek, if you are struggling with a heavy box, you use 'προσπαθώ', but if you are seeing if a key fits a lock, you might use 'δοκιμάζω'. This semantic nuance is what elevates a B1 learner to a B2/C1 level of fluency.
Θα δοκιμάσουμε όλες τις πιθανές λύσεις μέχρι να βρούμε την κατάλληλη.
- Hypotheticals
- Use with 'αν' (if) to suggest a trial. 'Αν το δοκιμάσεις, θα σου αρέσει' (If you try it, you will like it).
Μην ξεχάσεις να δοκιμάσεις τα παπούτσια με κάλτσες.
Έχεις δοκιμάσει ποτέ να κολυμπήσεις σε παγωμένο νερό;
Ο μηχανικός δοκίμασε τη μηχανή και δουλεύει τέλεια.
In Greece, δοκιμάζω is omnipresent in social interactions involving hospitality. Greek culture is deeply rooted in 'philoxenia' (hospitality), and food is its primary medium. You will hear 'Δοκίμασε λίγο από αυτό!' (Try a bit of this!) at every family dinner, wedding, or local 'panigiri' (festival). It is not just an invitation to eat; it is an invitation to share in the host's pride. In restaurants, the waiter might ask 'Θέλετε να δοκιμάσετε το κρασί;' (Would you like to taste the wine?) before pouring. This specific context of 'tasting' is one of the most common ways you will encounter the word in daily life. It implies a sensory evaluation—is it good? Is it to your liking?
- In the Market (Laiki)
- Vendors will offer slices of fruit or cheese, shouting 'Δοκιμάστε, είναι μέλι!' (Try it, it's [sweet as] honey!).
- In Tech & Work
- IT professionals use 'δοκιμαστική έκδοση' for 'beta version' or 'trial version' of software.
Στη λαϊκή αγορά, ο πωλητής μου έδωσε να δοκιμάσω ένα κομμάτι καρπούζι.
Another major arena for δοκιμάζω is the fashion industry and personal shopping. Walk into any store on Ermou Street in Athens, and the first thing a sales assistant might say after you pick up an item is 'Θέλετε να το δοκιμάσετε;' (Do you want to try it on?). The 'δοκιμαστήριο' (fitting room) is a noun derived directly from this verb. Furthermore, in the context of relationships and personal growth, Greeks often speak of 'δοκιμασίες' (trials/ordeals). A difficult period in a marriage or a tough time at work is described as a 'μεγάλη δοκιμασία' (a great trial). Here, the word takes on a weightier, almost epic quality, suggesting that the person is being 'tested' by fate or circumstances to see what they are made of.
Αυτή η δύσκολη περίοδος δοκιμάζει τη δύναμη της φιλίας μας.
- Sports
- When a player is on trial for a team, they are described as being 'υπό δοκιμή' (under trial).
Πήγα στο δοκιμαστήριο για να δω αν μου κάνει το σακάκι.
Ο καινούργιος υπάλληλος είναι ακόμα σε δοκιμαστική περίοδο.
Πρέπει να δοκιμάσουμε το μικρόφωνο πριν ξεκινήσει η ομιλία.
The most frequent mistake English speakers make is confusing δοκιμάζω with προσπαθώ. In English, the word 'try' is a catch-all. You 'try' to open a jar (effort), and you 'try' a new flavor of ice cream (sampling). In Greek, these are distinct. If you use δοκιμάζω when you mean you are making an effort to do something difficult, it sounds like you are just 'sampling' the effort rather than actually attempting to succeed. For example, 'Δοκιμάζω να ανοίξω την πόρτα' sounds like you are testing the door's mechanism, whereas 'Προσπαθώ να ανοίξω την πόρτα' means you are physically struggling to get it open. Always ask yourself: 'Am I testing/sampling this, or am I exerting effort?'
- Confusion with 'Ελέγχω'
- 'Ελέγχω' means to check or control. Use 'δοκιμάζω' for the initial test of functionality, but 'ελέγχω' for verifying details or maintaining control.
- Aspect Errors
- Learners often forget to switch to 'δοκιμάσω' after 'να'. 'Θέλω να δοκιμάζω' implies a desire to be constantly testing, which is rarely what you mean.
Λάθος: Δοκιμάζω να μάθω ελληνικά. (Sounds like you are just 'tasting' the language experience).
Another mistake involves the passive voice. While 'δοκιμάζομαι' exists, it is often used for being tested by life or being on trial. A common error is trying to say 'The food is being tested' using a passive form that sounds unnatural. In Greek, it is much more common to use the active voice or an impersonal construction. Also, be careful with the preposition 'σε'. While in English we 'test something on someone', in Greek you usually 'δοκιμάζεις κάτι σε κάποιον' or 'σε κάτι'. However, when trying on clothes, you don't need a preposition for the clothing itself; it's just 'δοκιμάζω το πουκάμισο'. Confusion often arises when translating 'try out for'. In Greek, you don't 'try out for' a team; you 'περνάω από δοκιμαστικά' (go through trials).
Σωστό: Προσπαθώ να λύσω την άσκηση. (I am making an effort).
- Preposition Pitfalls
- Avoid saying 'δοκιμάζω για'. You just 'δοκιμάζεις' the object directly. 'Δοκιμάζω την τύχη μου' (I try my luck), not 'για την τύχη μου'.
Λάθος: Θέλω να δοκιμάσω για τη θέση. Σωστό: Θέλω να κάνω αίτηση για τη θέση.
Προσοχή: Η λέξη δοκιμασία σημαίνει 'ordeal', όχι απλά 'test' (που είναι 'τεστ' ή 'εξέταση').
Μην μπερδεύετε το δοκιμάζω με το 'γεύομαι' (to taste/savor). Το δεύτερο είναι πιο επίσημο και ποιητικό.
Greek offers several alternatives to δοκιμάζω depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms will help you sound more natural and precise. While δοκιμάζω is the general-purpose word for testing and trying, words like 'ελέγχω', 'πειραματίζομαι', and 'γεύομαι' provide more specific shades of meaning. For example, if you are a scientist, you might prefer 'πειραματίζομαι' (to experiment) to describe the process of testing a theory. If you are a food critic, 'γεύομαι' (to savor/taste) suggests a more sophisticated level of engagement with the flavors than the simple 'δοκιμάζω'.
- Δοκιμάζω vs. Προσπαθώ
- 'Δοκιμάζω' is to test/sample. 'Προσπαθώ' is to attempt/exert effort. You 'δοκιμάζεις' a new hobby, but 'προσπαθείς' to finish a marathon.
- Δοκιμάζω vs. Ελέγχω
- 'Ελέγχω' means to check or verify. You 'δοκιμάζεις' a new car to see if you like it, but you 'ελέγχεις' the oil level to make sure it's correct.
Αντί για δοκιμάζω, μπορείς να πεις 'κάνω μια απόπειρα' αν αναφέρεσαι σε μια προσπάθεια.
In formal contexts, especially in writing, you might encounter 'θέτω υπό δοκιμασία' (put to the test) or 'υποβάλλω σε έλεγχο' (submit to inspection). These are more heavy-duty versions of δοκιμάζω. Another interesting alternative is 'τεστάρω' (testáro), which is a direct loanword from English. While 'τεστάρω' is common in tech and casual speech, δοκιμάζω remains the more 'Greek' and versatile choice. For trying on clothes, there is no real alternative to δοκιμάζω, though you might hear 'βάζω πάνω μου' (put on me) in very informal settings. Knowing when to switch from the common δοκιμάζω to a more specific term like 'εξακριβώνω' (to ascertain/verify) is a hallmark of advanced proficiency.
Ο κριτικός γεύτηκε το πιάτο με προσοχή (More formal/sensory than 'δοκίμασε').
- Δοκιμάζω vs. Τεστάρω
- 'Τεστάρω' is informal and often used for mechanical or software tests. 'Δοκιμάζω' is appropriate for all contexts, including food and clothes.
Πρέπει να ελέγξουμε τα φρένα πριν το ταξίδι (Specific safety check).
Ο καλλιτέχνης πειραματίζεται με νέα υλικά (Focus on the creative process).
Η ζωή μάς θέτει υπό δοκιμασία καθημερινά (Formal/Philosophical).
按水平分级的例句
Δοκιμάζω το φαγητό.
I try/taste the food.
Present tense, first person singular.
Θέλεις να δοκιμάσεις αυτό;
Do you want to try this?
Use of 'να' with the aorist stem 'δοκιμασ-'.
Δοκιμάζω ένα κόκκινο μπλουζάκι.
I am trying on a red t-shirt.
Present tense in a shopping context.
Δοκίμασε το παγωτό!
Try the ice cream!
Imperative singular (friendly).
Δεν δοκιμάζω ποτέ ψάρι.
I never try fish.
Negative present tense for habits.
Πού είναι το δοκιμαστήριο;
Where is the fitting room?
Noun derived from the verb.
Θα δοκιμάσω την πίτσα.
I will try the pizza.
Future tense.
Δοκιμάζουμε τα παπούτσια.
We are trying on the shoes.
Present tense, first person plural.
Δοκίμασα να οδηγήσω το αυτοκίνητό σου.
I tried driving your car.
Aorist (past) tense.
Πρέπει να δοκιμάσεις αυτά τα γλυκά.
You must try these sweets.
Modal 'πρέπει' with 'να' and aorist stem.
Δεν έχω δοκιμάσει ποτέ σούσι.
I have never tried sushi.
Present perfect tense.
Δοκιμάζω μια νέα συνταγή σήμερα.
I am trying a new recipe today.
Present tense for an ongoing action.
Θέλετε να δοκιμάσετε το κρασί;
Would you like to taste the wine?
Polite plural 'εσείς' form.
Δοκιμάσαμε το νερό και είναι κρύο.
We tried the water and it is cold.
Aorist tense, first person plural.
Μην δοκιμάσεις αυτό το φρούτο, είναι πικρό.
Don't try this fruit, it's bitter.
Negative imperative.
Δοκιμάζω το κλειδί στην πόρτα.
I am trying the key in the door.
Present tense, experimental action.
Ο μηχανικός δοκιμάζει τη νέα μηχανή.
The engineer is testing the new engine.
Professional context.
Θα δοκιμάσω τις ικανότητές μου στο τένις.
I will test my skills in tennis.
Abstract direct object (skills).
Δοκιμάζουμε το λογισμικό για σφάλματα.
We are testing the software for bugs.
Technical context.
Είναι μια δοκιμαστική περίοδος τριών μηνών.
It is a trial period of three months.
Adjective derived from the verb.
Δοκίμασε να του μιλήσεις ευγενικά.
Try talking to him politely.
Using 'δοκιμάζω' for an experimental approach.
Έχεις δοκιμάσει να κάνεις γιόγκα;
Have you tried doing yoga?
Perfect tense in a conversational context.
Δοκιμάζω την υπομονή της μητέρας μου.
I am testing my mother's patience.
Idiomatic usage.
Πρέπει να δοκιμάσουμε όλες τις λύσεις.
We must try all the solutions.
Problem-solving context.
Αυτή η κρίση δοκιμάζει την αντοχή της οικονομίας.
This crisis tests the resilience of the economy.
Abstract sociological usage.
Το φάρμακο δοκιμάζεται σε εθελοντές.
The drug is being tested on volunteers.
Passive voice 'δοκιμάζεται'.
Είναι μια δοκιμασμένη μέθοδος διδασκαλίας.
It is a tried and tested teaching method.
Participle used as an adjective.
Δοκίμασε την τύχη του στο καζίνο.
He tried his luck at the casino.
Common expression 'δοκιμάζω την τύχη μου'.
Η πίστη του δοκιμάστηκε από τις δυσκολίες.
His faith was tested by the difficulties.
Passive aorist.
Θα δοκιμάσω να αλλάξω τον τρόπο ζωής μου.
I will try to change my lifestyle.
Future tense with a complex infinitive-like structure.
Ο προπονητής δοκιμάζει νέες τακτικές.
The coach is trying new tactics.
Strategic usage.
Μην δοκιμάζεις τα όριά μου.
Don't test my limits.
Metaphorical usage.
Η θεωρία αυτή μένει να δοκιμαστεί στην πράξη.
This theory remains to be tested in practice.
Passive subjunctive.
Δοκίμασε την πικρή γεύση της προδοσίας.
He tasted the bitter taste of betrayal.
Literary/Metaphorical usage.
Ο λαός δοκιμάζεται σκληρά από τον πόλεμο.
The people are being severely tested by the war.
Passive voice for suffering/ordeal.
Πρόκειται για μια κρίσιμη δοκιμασία για το πολίτευμα.
This is a critical trial for the political system.
Noun 'δοκιμασία' in a political context.
Δοκιμάζω τις δυνάμεις μου στην πολιτική.
I am testing my strength/potential in politics.
Self-evaluation context.
Οι επιστήμονες υπέβαλαν το υλικό σε δοκιμή.
The scientists subjected the material to testing.
Formal construction with 'υποβάλλω'.
Η σχέση τους δοκιμάστηκε από την απόσταση.
Their relationship was tested by the distance.
Passive aorist for emotional trials.
Δοκιμάστε να δείτε το θέμα από άλλη οπτική.
Try to see the issue from another perspective.
Intellectual suggestion.
Η ιστορία δοκιμάζει την αντοχή των εθνικών μύθων.
History tests the resilience of national myths.
High-level abstract subject.
Ο χρυσός δοκιμάζεται στη φωτιά και ο άνθρωπος στις συμφορές.
Gold is tested in fire and man in misfortunes.
Proverbial usage.
Η λογική δοκιμάζεται από τα παράδοξα της κβαντομηχανικής.
Logic is tested by the paradoxes of quantum mechanics.
Scientific/Philosophical context.
Δοκιμάστηκε το ήθος του σε μια στιγμή απόλυτου κινδύνου.
His character was tested in a moment of absolute danger.
Formal passive for character evaluation.
Η λογοτεχνία δοκιμάζει τα όρια της γλώσσας.
Literature tests the limits of language.
Metalinguistic usage.
Είναι ένας δοκιμαζόμενος κλάδος της οικονομίας.
It is a struggling/tested sector of the economy.
Present participle as an adjective for 'suffering'.
Δοκιμάζω να συλλάβω το νόημα του σύμπαντος.
I try to grasp the meaning of the universe.
Existential usage.
Η δημοκρατία δοκιμάζεται από τον λαϊκισμό.
Democracy is being tested by populism.
Contemporary political analysis.
Summary
The verb 'δοκιμάζω' is your go-to word for any form of sampling or evaluation. Whether you are at a 'laiki' market tasting olives or in a fitting room, this word bridges the gap between curiosity and experience. Example: 'Θέλω να δοκιμάσω αυτό το γλυκό' (I want to try this sweet).
- Δοκιμάζω is the Greek verb for 'to test', 'to try on', or 'to taste'.
- It is used for physical objects like food and clothes, as well as abstract concepts like patience.
- It is distinct from 'προσπαθώ', which focuses on effort rather than evaluation.
- It is a regular -ω verb and is essential for shopping and dining in Greece.