praevalere
To prevail in Latin is praevalere.
The verb means to be superior in strength, dominance, influence or frequency. It is used when someone or something gains the advantage over others or has the upper hand.
Meaning: To be superior in strength, dominance, influence or frequency, to have or gain the advantage over others, to have the upper hand (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound formed by combining the prefix prae-, meaning 'before' or 'in front of', with the base verb valere, meaning 'to be strong'.
How does it change in a sentence?
praevalere is a second conjugation verb. If you need to express that he, she or it prevailed in the past, you can use the third-person singular perfect indicative form praevaluit.
Did you know?
- The Latin word valere shares a root with the word 'valentines'. This stems from the idea of being strong in love or health, rather than just romantic affection.
- The root verb valere is the ancestor of the English word 'value'. In Latin, to have 'value' was literally to be strong or healthy enough to be useful.
- Because valere describes a state of being strong, it is the root of the Latin word for 'farewell', vale, which literally tells someone to 'be well'.
Examples in context
- Etiam in adversis difficilibusque rebus superare possumus.Even in adverse and difficult situations, we can prevail.
- Concordia inter nos valere debet.Harmony should prevail among us.
- In hac pugna, virtus praevalere debet.In this fight, virtue must prevail.
Example conversation
Gaius and Julia are discussing a competition.
- GaiusCredisne nos praevalere?Do you believe we will prevail?
- JuliaCerte, Gai, sumus fortes.Certainly, Gaius, we are strong.
- GaiusSed hostes multi sunt.But the enemies are many.
- JuliaAnimo nostro praevalere possumus.We can prevail through our spirit.
