Definition

Noun: - Modern Greek: The form of the Greek language used from the late medieval period to the present day, encompassing all contemporary spoken and written varieties. It is the direct descendant of Ancient Greek.

Usage

• Modern Greek is used to specifically distinguish the current stage of the Greek language from its historical forms, such as Ancient Greek or Medieval Greek.
• It refers to the standardized language of Greece (Standard Modern Greek) and its dialects.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Demotic": Often used synonymously with the standard spoken and written form of Modern Greek, especially in contrast to the formal "Katharevousa" variety, which was used in official contexts until the late 20th century.
  • The poet wrote in the demotic form of Modern Greek.

Variants and Related Words

• Demotic Greek (n): The vernacular, naturally evolved form of Modern Greek that became the official standard.
• Katharevousa (n): A purified, archaic form of Modern Greek, formerly used for official and literary purposes.
• Greek (n): The general term for the Hellenic language family, which includes both Ancient and Modern Greek. When used without qualification, "Greek" often refers to Modern Greek in contemporary contexts.

Synonyms

• Contemporary Greek
• New Greek

Notes on Meaning

• The term Modern Greek specifically denotes the linguistic period, not a stylistic quality. It is not used to mean "Greek that is trendy or current" in a figurative sense.

Noun

1. the Greek language as spoken and written today