δυνατέω
dynatéō
G1414 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To be able, to have power or capacity; to be strong or capable of doing something. In various contexts, δυνατέω describes the possession or exercise of power, ability, or strength, whether physical, mental, social, or moral. The term may also refer to prevailing against challenges, accomplishing or achieving objectives, or being in a position of influence. In figurative uses, it can imply being potent or effective.
Semantic Range
to be able, to be powerful, to be capable, to prevail, to be effective, to accomplish, to exercise strength
Root / Etymology
From the adjective δυνατός ('able, powerful, possible'), which is derived from the verb δύναμαι ('to be able, to have power').
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, δυνατέω is relatively rare, occurring more often in Koine and Hellenistic texts. It generally indicates the possession or exercise of the power to act or effect outcomes. In the Septuagint and New Testament, δυνατέω is used to describe individuals or entities who are able, strong, or capable, sometimes in situations of adversity (e.g., overcoming or prevailing). While English translations often render it as 'be mighty' or 'be able,' these can obscure nuances of actual capacity or efficacy in context. The word is consistently less common than related terms (e.g., δύναμαι or ισχύω), and typically emphasizes capacity established by inherent strength or resources rather than mere possibility. Its range is primarily positive; it does not normally refer to illegitimate or coercive power. In Septuagintal usage, it can occasionally overlap with Hebrew terms for strength or capacity (such as יָכֹל or גָּבַר).
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from δυνατός; to be efficient (figuratively):--be mighty.
Root Family
δυνατέω (dynateō) — to be able, to have power, to be capable
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1414-01 |
δυνατεῖ | dunatei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
is able | is able | is able | 3 |
Occurrences in Scripture
3 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1414-01 |
Romans 14:4 | δυνατεῖ | dunatei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
is able | is able | is able |
G1414-01 |
2 Corinthians 9:8 | δυνατεῖ | dunatei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
is able | is able | is able |
G1414-01 |
2 Corinthians 13:3 | δυνατεῖ | dunatei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
is powerful | is able | is able |