πάλαι
pálai
Originally, 'a long time ago' or 'since long ago,' used to denote a point in the distant past either absolutely (e.g., in antiquity) or relative to a referenced time. In certain contexts, it describes something old or ancient, or refers to a state or action which began in the distant past and continues or is remembered. Rarely, functions adjectivally to signify 'ancient' or 'former.' The adverbial use is primary, but elliptical adjectival usage also appears, especially in formulaic expressions.
Matthew 11:21 · Word #20
Lexicon G3819
| Lemma | πάλαι |
| Transliteration | pálai |
| Strong's | G3819 |
| Definition | Originally, 'a long time ago' or 'since long ago,' used to denote a point in the distant past either absolutely (e.g., in antiquity) or relative to a referenced time. In certain contexts, it describes something old or ancient, or refers to a state or action which began in the distant past and continues or is remembered. Rarely, functions adjectivally to signify 'ancient' or 'former.' The adverbial use is primary, but elliptical adjectival usage also appears, especially in formulaic expressions. |
Morphology ADV
All morphology codes
| Part of Speech | ADV — Adverb — Modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb |
Lexical Info
| Lemma | πάλαι |
| Strong's | G3819 |
SIBI-P1 Translation G3819-01
long ago
| Morphological Notes | Adverb (Gr,D); indeclinable; denotes temporal reference to the distant past. |
| Rendering Rationale | "Long ago" directly reflects the primary adverbial sense of πάλαι as denoting a point or state in the distant past. As an adverb, it modifies time without inflection, preserving its basic temporal force. |
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