μεγάλως
megálōs
G3171 adverb
SILEX Entry
Definition
In a great degree, greatly, exceedingly; expressing the manner or intensity of an action or state, typically signifying 'to a great extent' or 'with much intensity.' Can nuance qualitative greatness (nobility, loftiness) or quantitative greatness (measure, amount) depending on context.
Semantic Range
greatly, exceedingly, to a great extent, nobly, splendidly, with much intensity, to an extraordinary degree
Root / Etymology
From the root μεγαλο- (megal-) derived from μέγας (mégas, 'great, large'). The adverbial ending -ως (-ōs) forms adverbs linked to quality or manner from adjectives.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In both Hellenistic and Koine Greek, μεγάλως commonly denotes the extent or intensity of an action or quality, frequently modifying verbs or adjectives. It is found in classical prose (e.g., Herodotus), where it can mean 'nobly,' 'splendidly,' or 'with distinction.' In the Septuagint and New Testament, μεγάλως usually intensifies the sense of another word, as in 'to praise greatly' or 'to suffer greatly.' Its use remains largely consistent from classical to later Greek, though in the New Testament its frequency is limited and often expresses fervor, extent, or emotional magnitude. Standard English translations ('greatly,' 'exceedingly,' 'much') usually capture only the degree, but do not always reflect qualitative nuances. Related terms include μεγάλως (as opposed to μεγάλῳ, the dative singular, not an adverb), and ἄγαν (exceedingly), which overlaps in the sense of excess or extremity but lacks the distinct connotation of 'greatness' in extent or quality.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
adverb from μέγας; much:--greatly.
Root Family
μεγάλως (megalōs) — great, large, vast, important
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3171-01 |
μεγάλως | megalos | ADV |
greatly | to a great extent | greatly | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3171-01 |
Philippians 4:10 | μεγάλως | megalos | ADV |
greatly | to a great extent | greatly |