multum temporis est ex quo te non vidi
The English phrase "long time no see" is expressed in Latin as multum temporis est ex quo te non vidi.
This phrase is an idiomatic way to say that you have not seen a person for a long period of time.
Meaning: idiomatic: I (or we) have not seen you for a long time (intj)
Did you know?
- The word est can also be a form of the verb edō, meaning 'to eat'.
- The word multum is an adverbial accusative, which means it uses the accusative case to function as an adverb to modify the sense of 'much' or 'a lot'.
- While this phrase is a translation of 'long time no see', Roman speakers would more traditionally use diu to mean 'for a long time'.
Examples in context
- Multum temporis est ex quo te non vidi, amice.Long time no see, my friend.
- Multum temporis est ex quo te non vidi, mea lux.Long time no see, my light.
Example conversation
Two old friends meet unexpectedly in the forum.
- QuintusAurelia! Multum temporis est ex quo te non vidi.Aurelia! Long time no see.
- AureliaSalve, Quinte! Vere te desideravi.Hello, Quintus! I truly missed you.
- QuintusQuid novi in urbe agitur?What is new in the city?
- AureliaMulta nova sunt. Veni mecum!There are many new things. Come with me!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries est, ex, multum, quo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
