In Deo speramus
The English phrase "in God we trust" can be translated into Latin as In Deo speramus.
This phrase expresses faith and reliance on a divine power.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition In (in), the noun Deo (God) and the verb speramus (we hope or we trust).
Is it said differently in some regions?
The variation In Deo Confidimus is primarily associated with the Anglophone tradition.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase In Deo speramus, Deo is the ablative singular form of Deus, which is required by the preposition In when expressing a state within something. The verb speramus is the first-person plural present indicative active form of sperare.
Did you know?
- The verb sperare is the root of the English word 'despair', which literally means the loss of hope.
- The Latin word speramus means 'we hope', which suggests that the Latin version of the phrase is more about hope than the absolute certainty implied by the English 'trust'.
- The word Deo is derived from the Ancient Greek word Δηώ, which was a synonym for Δημήτηρ and the counterpart to the Roman goddess Cerēs.
Examples in context
- In Deo speramus semper.In God we trust always.
- In Deo speramus et vincemus.In God we trust and we will prevail.
Example conversation
Two friends are reflecting on their difficult journey through a storm.
- MarcusMarce, non timemus.Marcus, we are not afraid.
- JuliaIta, in Deo speramus.Yes, in God we trust.
- MarcusCertissime, Iulia.Most certainly, Julia.
- JuliaIpse nos adiuvat.He himself helps us.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Deo, in, CC BY-SA 4.0.
