← G1818 G1820 →

ἐξάπινα

exápina

G1819 adverb

SILEX Entry

Definition

Of a sudden, unexpectedly; indicating that something occurs abruptly or without advance indication, with the nuance of catching someone unprepared. Used adverbially to describe the manner of an event or action that breaks into a situation without warning. Also conveys the sense of 'all at once.'

Semantic Range

suddenly, unexpectedly, all at once, without warning, abruptly

Root / Etymology

Formed from the preposition ἐκ (“out of”) and a stem akin to that found in αἰφνίδιος ('sudden'), itself possibly related to αἰφνής. Etymologically, it signifies that something arises 'out of the blue' or emerges suddenly from a prior state of unawareness.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, ἐξάπινα is rare or unattested; it chiefly appears in Hellenistic and Koine Greek sources, including the LXX and the New Testament, as an adverb describing abrupt or unforeseen events. In comparison, ἐξαίφνης (from ἐκ + αἰφνής) is more common and synonymous, though ἐξάπινα focuses even more on the surprising or disruptive quality of the event. Standard English translations such as 'suddenly' generally capture its sense, but may not always convey the connotation of unexpectedness that can be present in the Greek. The word functions only adverbially and is distinct from adjectives like αἰφνίδιος. It is used, for example, in Acts 28:6 to describe a rapid, unforeseen change in perception or event. The semantic field overlaps with expressions of abruptness or surprise found in both biblical and non-biblical Koine sources.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἐκ and a derivative of the same as αἰφνίδιος; of a sudden, i.e. unexpectedly:--suddenly. Compare ἐξαίφνης.

Root Family

ἐξάπινα (exapina) — out of, sudden, abrupt

Root ἐξ-απιν- out of, sudden, abrupt

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1819-01 ἐξάπινα exapina ADV suddenly all at once suddenly 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1819-01 Mark 9:8 ἐξάπινα exapina ADV suddenly all at once suddenly
← G1818 Greek Lexicon G1820 →