AI Tutor
Ever wonder how scientists name complicated things like bioluminescence or microphotography without breaking a sweat?
They use ancient Greek roots like snap-together building blocks, where each piece carries a precise, fixed meaning.
Why do so many Greek-based science words look tricky to say out loud?

Greek Pronunciation Rules

Greek uses specific letter combinations called graphemes that make predictable sounds when translated into English.
For instance, the Greek letter phi turns into ph (sounding like /f/), while chi turns into ch (sounding like /k/).
What happens when you encounter a massive four-syllable word in your science textbook?

Decoding Step-by-Step

To decode an unfamiliar word, split it into its combining formsβ€”the core root units that hold the word's definition.
Take chronometer: chron means time, and meter means a measuring tool. Put together, it's an instrument that measures time.