abi in malam crucem
The English phrase "go to hell" is translated into Latin as abi in malam crucem.
This is a common idiomatic way to express extreme annoyance or contempt in Latin, rather than a literal reference to a theological hell.
Meaning: interjection (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means go to the bad cross.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb abi is in the singular imperative, used when addressing one person.
Did you know?
- While the phrase translates to 'go to hell', the Latin word crucem refers to a cross. This suggests that for Romans, the worst possible fate was not a spiritual underworld but a public execution by crucifixion.
- The English word 'in' is a direct linguistic relative of the Latin in. Both descend from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₁én.
- If you were shouting this at a group of people, you would change abi to abite. This shift in the verb ending transforms the curse from a personal attack into a collective dismissal.
Examples in context
- Satis est, abi in malam crucem.That's enough, go to hell.
- Abi in malam crucem et noli me tangere.Go to hell and do not touch me.
Example conversation
Aurelia and Marcus are having a heated argument.
- AureliaTu omnia semper corrumpis, Marce!You always ruin everything, Marcus!
- MarcusNon est mea culpa!It is not my fault!
- AureliaAbi in malam crucem!Go to hell!
- MarcusIra tua me non terret.Your anger does not scare me.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries in, CC BY-SA 4.0.
