φυσικῶς

physikōs

G5447 adverb

SILEX Entry

Definition

In a manner pertaining to nature or natural characteristics; by inherent or instinctive disposition, as opposed to by rational reflection or by supernatural, spiritual, or cultivated means. Indicates action or state that arises from the essential qualities or order of nature, especially as contrasted with that which is due to reason, law, or revelation.

Semantic Range

naturally, by nature, by innate disposition, by instinct, in accordance with natural properties, as opposed to artificially or supernaturally

Root / Etymology

Adverbial form of φυσικός (physical, natural), from φύσις (nature, intrinsic quality or order). Derived by adding the adverbial ending -ως to the adjective φυσικός.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In Koine Greek, φυσικῶς is used relatively rarely and most notably appears in contexts emphasizing behavior or qualities that arise without teaching, reasoning, or supernatural intervention—hence, 'by nature,' 'instinctively,' or 'according to natural disposition.' The term appears once in the New Testament (Romans 1:26), likely in contrast to behavior viewed as contrary to natural order (παρὰ φύσιν, para physin). In philosophical Greek literature (especially Stoic and medical writers), naturally/natural order is often opposed to conventions (νόμος), teachings, or customs. Standard English translations (e.g. 'naturally,' 'physically,' 'instinctively') generally represent its range, but may overlook nuances distinguishing 'natural as in accordance with innate constitution' from later senses like 'physical' as opposed to 'spiritual.'

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

adverb from φυσικός; "physically", i.e. (by implication) instinctively:--naturally.

Root Family

φυσικῶς (physikōs) — naturally, by nature, by inherent quality, instinctively

Root φυσικ- to be natural, according to nature, by inherent quality

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G5447-01 φυσικῶς phusikos ADV instinctively by nature by nature 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G5447-01 Jude 1:10 φυσικῶς phusikos ADV instinctively by nature by nature