laetus
[ˈɫae̯.tʊs]
The English word happy can be translated into Latin as laetus or beatus.
Meaning: contented, joyous (adj)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA |
|---|---|
| laetus | [ˈɫae̯.tʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈlɛː.tus] (narrow) |
| beatus | [beˈaː.tʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [beˈaː.tus] (narrow) |
Both words express a sense of happiness, but they describe different qualities of that feeling.
Which one should you use?
laetus is used to describe a temporary state of being joyful, bright or cheerful. In contrast, beatus describes a much deeper state of being blessed, fortunate or spiritually happy.
How does it change in a sentence?
The forms change based on the gender and number of the person or thing being described. For laetus, the feminine singular is laeta and the masculine plural is laeti. For beatus, the feminine singular is beata and the masculine plural is beati.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Quid es ita laetus?Why are you so happy?This sentence shows how to ask someone why they are so happy using laetus.Tatoeba #7308380 by jimkillock, translation #24721 by fucongcong
- Beatus esse non vis.You don't want to be happy.This sentence demonstrates the use of beatus to express a desire for a deep or blessed happiness.Tatoeba #2651067 by alexmarcelo, translation #5085535 by CarpeLanam
- De hoc non laetus sum.I'm not happy with this.This sentence shows how to express dissatisfaction or lack of happiness regarding a specific thing using laetus.Tatoeba #7187159 by CarpeLanam, translation #2044542 by CK
- Mortem noli timere, felix est qui hoc tempore pacem invenit.Do not fear death. Blessed is the one who finds peace in these times.
- Mater mea valere gaudeo, felix animi sum.I am happy that my mother is in good health. I am happy of heart.
- 53 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Quintus and Lucia are walking in a sunny garden.
- LuciaLaetus es hodie, Quinte.You are happy today, Quintus.
- QuintusIta, laetus sum sub sole.Yes, I am happy under the sun.
- LuciaEgo quoque laeta sum.I am also happy.
- QuintusHic dies optime procedit.This day is going excellently.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “happy” translations and entries laetus, beatus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries beatus, laetus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
