ἐπιμελῶς
epimelōs
G1960 adverb
SILEX Entry
Definition
Carefully, with attention or concern; indicating attentiveness or diligence in carrying out an action. The word expresses a manner of performance marked by care, attention, or thoroughness, especially in matters requiring oversight, management, or responsibility. In extended contexts, it can also imply diligence, conscientiousness, or concern for proper completion.
Semantic Range
carefully, with attention, diligently, thoroughly, with concern, attentively
Root / Etymology
Adverbial form derived from a form of ἐπιμελέομαι (to take care of, to manage, to attend to), compounded from ἐπί ('upon, over') and μέλω ('to be of concern, to care for').
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Koine Greek, ἐπιμελῶς is rare but retains the force found in earlier Greek, denoting careful attention or diligence. Its formation directly mirrors that of its cognate verb ἐπιμελέομαι (to care for, pay heed to), emphasizing the manner in which an action is carried out. The term is most often associated with the attitude or approach to a task rather than the task itself. In the few instances it appears in Hellenistic and early Christian literature, including the New Testament, it signifies more than mere care; it often implies responsibility, oversight, or thorough concern for a person or matter. English translations like 'diligently' or 'carefully' capture the primary sense, though occasional nuance of personal or administrative oversight can be lost. Unlike related adverbs such as σπουδαίως ('eagerly'), ἐπιμελῶς emphasizes the aspect of careful, attentive handling rather than mere enthusiasm or zeal.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
adverb from a derivative of ἐπιμελέομαι; carefully:--diligently.
Root Family
ἐπιμελῶς (epimelōs) — to care for, to be concerned, to attend to
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1960-01 |
ἐπιμελῶς | epimelos | ADV |
diligently | carefully | carefully | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1960-01 |
Luke 15:8 | ἐπιμελῶς | epimelos | ADV |
diligently | carefully | carefully |