claude ianuam
The English phrase 'close the door' is expressed in Latin as claude ianuam.
This phrase is used as a request or a command to move a door into a shut position.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative verb claude (close) and the accusative singular noun ianuam (door).
How does it change in a sentence?
To command more than one person to close the door, use the plural imperative claudite instead of claude. If you wish to change the command to 'close the doors' (plural), use the plural accusative ianuas instead of the singular ianuam. The form claudas ianuam is the present subjunctive, which is used in subordinate clauses rather than as a direct command.
Did you know?
- The word ianua itself is thought by some linguists to be related to the deity 'Janus', the god of beginnings, gates, and transitions.
- In Roman culture, the threshold of the ianua was a sacred boundary. Spitting or stepping incorrectly over the door's threshold was often seen as a bad omen.
- While claude ianuam is a simple command, the verb claudere is the root of the English word 'recluse', describing someone who is 'shut away' from society.
Examples in context
- Claude ianuam!Close the door!This example shows how to give the direct command 'Close the door!' using claude ianuam.Tatoeba #1262643 by alexmarcelo, translation #3846201 by nubok
- Claude ianuam, quaeso.Close the door, please.This example shows how to make the request more polite by adding 'please' to claude ianuam.Tatoeba #1337540 by alexmarcelo, translation #38524 by CK
- Claude ostium, si placeatClose the door, if it pleases you
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Claudia and Quintus are entering a room.
- ClaudiaQuinte, claude ianuam.Quintus, close the door.
- QuintusIta, claudo.Yes, I am closing it.
- ClaudiaGratias tibi ago.Thank you.
- QuintusLibenter.You're welcome.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
