Greek architecture
- noun
- /ɡrik ˌɑrkɪˈtɛkʧər/
- In Greek architecture, columns were classified into Classical orders.
- Classical Greek architecture
Examples
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The medium was to communicate without distracting the viewer and, like Schinkel's conception of Greek architecture, transparency made Classical works accessible to the layperson without a written commentary.
Academic text (1990) -
This aspect of Anschaulichkeit associates structural clarity with Classical Greek architecture, and indirectly, with the prestige of a Classical education.
Academic text (1990) -
Whereas Forster regarded Greek architecture as symbolic of earthly humanity, the interior piers of a Gothic cathedral seemed otherworldly, impressing one as "the trees of a primeval forest."
Academic text (1992) -
The Parthenon is a quintessential example of Greek architecture that showcases symmetry and grandeur.
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Many government buildings in the United States reflect the principles of Greek architecture, emphasizing order and beauty.
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Greek architecture is known for its iconic columns and elaborate details.
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is the straightforward composition of 'Greek' (pertaining to Greece) modifying 'architecture' (building design), so the phrase denotes architecture of or in the Greek style. This adjective+noun pattern is highly compositional and cross-linguistically common, so a B1 learner who knows both words would readily infer the meaning.
Etymology
Greek architecture comes from the buildings of ancient Greece: imagine a row of tall columns holding up a temple roof, with careful balance and carved decorations like leaves or curved shapes on top. That clear image of columns, symmetry and decoration is why the phrase means the old Greek 'style' of building design.