εὐπροσωπέω
euprosōpéō
G2146 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To present a good or pleasing outward appearance; to make a favorable impression by external means. In some contexts, particularly metaphorical or rhetorical, refers to making a display or exhibiting oneself with intent to appear commendable or attractive, regardless of underlying reality. The term implies intentional outward presentation, often with the nuance of superficiality or concern for human approval.
Semantic Range
to appear outwardly attractive, to make a favorable impression, to present oneself advantageously, to put on a good front, to make a show or display for appearance's sake
Root / Etymology
From the compound of εὖ ('well') and πρόσωπον ('face, countenance, outward appearance'), thus literally 'to have a good face/outward appearance.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
Attested rarely, and only in later Greek (Hellenistic and Koine), especially in rhetorical or polemical contexts. In the New Testament, notably Galatians 6:12, it refers to those who 'wish to make a good showing in the flesh,' i.e., who are concerned with appearances or gaining esteem in human terms rather than true substance. The term has little to no occurrence in Classical Greek; its nuance in Koine is shaped by contexts of personal presentation and motives related to public impression. It contrasts with terms for inner integrity, emphasizing the difference between outward display and inward reality. English translations such as 'make a good impression' or 'make a fair show' capture part of the sense but may understate the performative or superficial aspect implied. The underlying root, πρόσωπον, itself ranges from face to person to public persona, affecting the composite's rhetorical force.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from a compound of εὖ and πρόσωπον; to be of good countenance, i.e. (figuratively) to make a display:--make a fair show.
Root Family
εὐπροσωπέω (euprosōpeō) — face, outward appearance, persona; present a good face
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2146-01 |
εὐπροσωπῆσαι | euprosopesai | V AOR ACT INF |
to make a good showing | to present a good outward appearance | to present a good outward appearance | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2146-01 |
Galatians 6:12 | εὐπροσωπῆσαι | euprosopesai | V AOR ACT INF |
to make a good showing | to present a good outward appearance | to present a good outward appearance |