πάντως (pantōs)
pantōs
surely
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb pantōs conveys a sense of absolute certainty or unwavering determination, often translated as "surely," "by all means," or "altogether." It functions as an intensifier that leaves no room for doubt about the speaker’s intent or the inevitability of an outcome. In practical usage, it signals that something must happen regardless of obstacles, or that a statement is true without exception.
Its meaning shifts slightly depending on whether it appears with a positive or negative context. When used affirmatively, as in Acts 21:22 or 1 Corinthians 16:12, it emphasizes resolve, urging action "by all means" or asserting that something is "surely" the case. In contrast, when paired with a negation, such as in Romans 3:9, it strengthens the denial, meaning "not at all" or "in no wise." This flexibility allows it to serve as a powerful tool for both emphatic affirmation and absolute rejection.
The word derives from pan ("all"), reflecting its comprehensive nature. It appears nine times in the New Testament, with notable occurrences in Paul’s letters where he addresses practical church matters or theological truths. Translators must carefully distinguish between these affirmative and negative contexts to capture the full force of the original Greek, ensuring that the reader perceives the intended level of certainty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word pantōs carries a weight of absolute certainty, often translated as 'surely' or 'by all means.' It is not merely a suggestion but a declaration that leaves no room for doubt. When Paul uses it in his letters, he is emphasizing resolve and the inevitability of God’s purposes, urging believers to act with unwavering determination regardless of obstacles.
In your daily walk, this word reminds us that our faith is grounded in certainty. Whether facing challenges or opportunities, we can trust that God’s plans are firm. It encourages us to pursue what is right with full commitment, knowing that our efforts align with a divine purpose that will not fail. This assurance brings peace and strength in uncertain times.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- by all means2×
- at all2×
- entirely1×
- at all;1×
- Surely1×
- Certainly1×
- By all means1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πάντως8×
- πάντως·1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 18:21
but taking his leave of them, he said, “I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem, but I will return again to you if God wills.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.
Paul uses 'by all means' to show his determined commitment to keeping the feast, highlighting how believers should pursue God's call with urgency.
-
Romans 3:9
What then? Are we better than they? No, in no way. For we previously warned both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin.
Here 'in no way' strengthens Paul’s denial that Jews are superior, establishing a foundational truth about universal sinfulness before grace.