for þæm þe
The English phrase 'because' is translated into Old English as for þæm þe.
The phrase for þæm þe is used as a subordinating conjunction to introduce a causal clause.
Meaning: by or for the cause that, on this account that, for the reason that (conj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition for (for), the demonstrative pronoun þæm (that/the) and the conjunction þe (that/which), literally meaning 'for that, that'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase functions as a subordinating conjunction to introduce a causal clause.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Hie eodon to scipon forþam þe hi woldon faran to norþan.They went to the ships because they wanted to go north.
- for þæm þe hi hæbbeþ hungre.Because they have hunger.
- for þæm þe se cyning is strang.Because the king is strong.
Example conversation
Mildryth and Eadric are discussing a late arrival.
- MildrythHwȳ eart þū lāt?Why are you late?
- EadricIc eom lāt for þæm þe se weg is lang.I am late because the way is long.
- MildrythÞæt is sōð.That is true.
- EadricIc bidde þē forgifnesse.I ask you for forgiveness.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries for, þe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
