Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| finis | [ˈfiː.nɪs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈfiː.nis] (narrow) |
feminine, masculine |
| terminus | [ˈtɛr.mɪ.nʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈtɛr.mi.nus] (narrow) |
masculine |
| extremus | [ɛkˈstreː.mʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ekˈstrɛː.mus] (narrow) |
masculine |
| exitus | [ˈɛk.sɪ.tʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈɛk.si.tus] (narrow) |
masculine |
| peractio | [pɛˈraːk.ti.oː] (Classical Latin, narrow) [peˈrak.t͡si.o] (narrow) |
feminine |
In Latin, several words can represent the concept of an ending, depending on whether you are referring to a physical boundary, a completion of a task or the outcome of a situation.
Which one should you use?
finis is the most common word used for a general end, limit or boundary. Use terminus when specifically referring to a physical boundary marker or a terminal point in space. If you wish to describe the very last or outermost part of a sequence or object, use the adjective extremus. Use exitus to describe a consequential end, such as an outcome, a departure or a death. Finally, peractio is used when focusing on the process of completing or finishing a task.
How does it change in a sentence?
finis can be used as either a masculine or a feminine noun depending on the context. terminus, extremus and exitus are masculine nouns or adjectives, while peractio is a feminine noun.
Did you know?
- The word terminus was the name of the Roman god of boundary markers. It was considered a grave religious offense to move a terminus stone.
- Because exitus literally means 'the act of going out', it was frequently used as a euphemism for death.
- The English word 'terminal', often used for an 'ending', comes directly from the Latin terminus, which referred to a physical boundary marker.
Examples in context
- Finis historiae est tristis.The ending of the story is sad.
Example conversation
Lucius and Julia are reading a story together.
- LuciusQuid putas de hoc libro, Iulia?What do you think of this book, Julia?
- JuliaMihi finis valde placet.I really like the ending.
- LuciusCur finis tibi placet?Why do you like the ending?
- JuliaQuia omnes sunt felices.Because everyone is happy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ending” translations and entries finis, terminus, extremus, exitus, peractio, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
