amicus intimus
The English phrase 'bestie' is translated into Latin as amicus intimus.
This phrase is used to refer to a person's closest or dearest friend.
Which one should you use?
While amicus is used to refer to a general friend, amicus intimus specifically identifies someone as a closest or dearest friend.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a female bestie, use the feminine forms amica intima. The plural form for a group of besties is amici intimi.
Did you know?
- In Latin literature, the concept of amicitia (friendship) was often studied as a formal philosophy, with a 'best friend' being seen as a second self.
- The word intimus belongs to a rare group of adjectives like ultimus and extimus that lack a standard positive degree, meaning they were born as superlatives.
- When you call someone your amicus intimus, you are literally saying they are your 'most interior' person.
Examples in context
- Marcus est amicus intimus meus.Marcus is my bestie.
- Quis est amicus intimus tuus?Who is your bestie?
Example conversation
Lucia introduces Gaius to another friend.
- LuciaSalve! Hic est Gaius, amicus intimus meus.Hello! This is Gaius, my bestie.
- GaiusSalve! Laetus sum te videre.Hello! I am glad to see you.
- LuciaVos duo similes estis.You two are similar.
- GaiusGratias tibi, Lucia.Thank you, Lucia.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries amicus, intimus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
