licetne mihi ire ad latrinam
The English phrase "may I go to the bathroom" is expressed in Latin as licetne mihi ire ad latrinam.
This phrase is a polite request used to ask for permission to use the restroom.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "is it permitted to me to go to the latrine". The word mihi means "to me", and ad latrinam means "to the latrine".
How does it change in a sentence?
The suffix -ne is attached to the first word to turn the statement into a question. The word mihi is the dative form of ego, used because the verb licet (it is permitted) requires the dative case for the person receiving permission.
Did you know?
- Ancient Romans used a sponge on a stick, called a xylospongium, in the latrinae instead of toilet paper.
- The word licet is the root of the English word 'licit', which means something that is legally permitted.
- The word latrinam refers to a 'latrine', which in the Roman world was often a communal space where people sat side-by-side without privacy.
Examples in context
- Possumne ad latrinam ire?May I go to the bathroom?
- Ad latrinam ire licet?Is it allowed for me to go to the bathroom?
- Ire ad latrinam licet?Is it alright for me to go to the bathroom?
- An ad latrinam ire possum?Can I go to the bathroom?
- Domina, licetne mihi ire ad latrinam?Lady, may I go to the bathroom?
- Licetne mihi ire ad latrinam ante cenam?May I go to the bathroom before dinner?
Example conversation
Gaius is in a classroom and speaks to his teacher, Lucia.
- GaiusLucia, licetne mihi ire ad latrinam?Lucia, may I go to the bathroom?
- LuciaIta, licet.Yes, you may.
- GaiusGratias tibi ago.Thank you.
- LuciaMone me cum redieris.Let me know when you return.
