μάτην
mátēn
As an adverb, 'to no purpose,' 'in vain,' or 'without result.' Expresses that an action or effort does not achieve its intended goal, is futile, or lacks genuine basis. The sense often includes acting without valid reason, groundlessly, or in a way that is ineffective or fruitless. In some contexts, it can also carry the nuance of acting thoughtlessly or needlessly.
Matthew 15:9 · Word #1
Lexicon G3155
| Lemma | μάτην |
| Transliteration | mátēn |
| Strong's | G3155 |
| Definition | As an adverb, 'to no purpose,' 'in vain,' or 'without result.' Expresses that an action or effort does not achieve its intended goal, is futile, or lacks genuine basis. The sense often includes acting without valid reason, groundlessly, or in a way that is ineffective or fruitless. In some contexts, it can also carry the nuance of acting thoughtlessly or needlessly. |
Morphology ADV
All morphology codes
| Part of Speech | ADV — Adverb — Modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb |
Lexical Info
| Lemma | μάτην |
| Strong's | G3155 |
SIBI-P1 Translation G3155-01
to no purpose
| Morphological Notes | Adverb; indeclinable form used adverbially to modify a verb, indicating manner or result (futility or ineffectiveness). |
| Rendering Rationale | The rendering 'to no purpose' reflects the adverbial force of μάτην, expressing action that is empty of result or lacking valid basis. It preserves the root idea of emptiness and futility inherent in the ματ- stem. |
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