Linguam Latinam amo
To say "I love latin" in Latin, use Linguam Latinam amo.
This phrase is a direct way to express a strong liking for the Latin language itself.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of linguam (language, in the accusative case), latinam (Latin, an adjective modifying language) and amo (I love).
Which one should you use?
You can use Latine amo if you want to specify that you love the act of using or speaking Latin, rather than the language as an abstract concept.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase Linguam Latinam amo, the words linguam Latinam are in the accusative case because they function as the direct object of the verb. The verb amo is in the first-person singular present indicative active. Because of this, the subject ego (I) is implied and does not need to be explicitly stated.
Did you know?
- In Latin, the word lingua literally means 'tongue'. When saying Linguam Latinam amo, you are technically saying you love the Latin 'tongue'.
- While amo means 'I love', Latin possesses several other words for love, such as diligere, which describes a love based on esteem and intellectual respect rather than passion.
- The word amo may share an ancient root with the idea of 'taking hold' of something, suggesting that love is seen as a form of grasping or holding on.
Examples in context
- Latinam suavissime amoI love Latin most sweetly
- Ego Latinam ardentissime diligoI ardently love Latin
- Quia linguam Latinam amo, libros legere volo.Because I love the Latin language, I want to read books.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their studies in a library.
- LuciusLinguam Latinamne amas?Do you love the Latin language?
- JuliaIta, linguam Latinam amo.Yes, I love the Latin language.
- LuciusEgo quoque eam amo.I love it too.
- JuliaOptime, Luci!Excellent, Lucius!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries amo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
