μὴ
mḗ
not
A particle expressing qualified negation, typically implying subjective, potential, or contingent non-occurrence rather than categorical denial. Used primarily to negate verbs in contexts of wish, exhortation, command, or potentiality; may also introduce prohibitions or warn against possible outcomes. Functions within a variety of moods (especially subjunctive and optative), as well as in dependent clauses (such as purpose, result, fear, or condition). In interrogatives, often suggests a negative answer. In some constructions (e.g., μὴ οὐ), may reinforce or nuance the negation. Frequently appears in compounds or expressions (e.g., ἐὰν μή 'unless', ἵνα μή 'in order that not').
1 John 2:22 · Word #6
Lexicon G3361
| Lemma | μή |
| Transliteration | mḗ |
| Strong's | G3361 |
| Definition | A particle expressing qualified negation, typically implying subjective, potential, or contingent non-occurrence rather than categorical denial. Used primarily to negate verbs in contexts of wish, exhortation, command, or potentiality; may also introduce prohibitions or warn against possible outcomes. Functions within a variety of moods (especially subjunctive and optative), as well as in dependent clauses (such as purpose, result, fear, or condition). In interrogatives, often suggests a negative answer. In some constructions (e.g., μὴ οὐ), may reinforce or nuance the negation. Frequently appears in compounds or expressions (e.g., ἐὰν μή 'unless', ἵνα μή 'in order that not'). |
Morphology ADV
All morphology codes
| Part of Speech | ADV — Adverb — Modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb |
Common Translation
| Phrase | not |
| Literal | not |
Lexical Info
| Lemma | μή |
| Strong's | G3361 |
SIBI-P1 Translation G3361-01
not (contingently)
| Morphological Notes | Adverbial negative particle (Gr,D); used with non-indicative moods and in dependent clauses to express qualified negation. |
| Rendering Rationale | As an adverbial particle of qualified negation, μή negates in non-indicative, potential, or dependent contexts rather than expressing absolute denial. "Not (contingently)" preserves its subjective or potential force distinct from οὐ. |
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