repetō
The English verb 'repeat' can be translated into Latin as repetō, iterō or instaurō depending on the specific context.
Meaning: do or say again (verb)
Ways to say it
| Latin |
|---|
| repetō |
| iterō |
| instaurō |
While all these terms can mean to do or say something again, they are used in different contexts. repetō can mean to repeat an action, but it often carries a strong connotation of demanding or reclaiming something that was lost or taken.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb repetō is composed of the prefix re- (again) and petō (to seek or go towards), literally meaning to seek again or to demand back.
Which one should you use?
Use iterō when the focus is on the act of doing something a second time, such as a second iteration. Use instaurō when the sense of repeating implies renewing, restoring or completing a process again, like renewing a vow or a ritual. In contrast, repetō often implies a repetitive seeking or reclaiming.
Did you know?
- While repetō means to repeat, the root petō also means to attack or assault, linking the act of 'seeking' with aggression.
- The verb instaurō was often used when describing the rebuilding of a temple or the restarting of a sacred fire, blending 'repeat' with 'sacred restoration'.
- The word iterō is the ancestor of the English word 'iterate', but in Latin it specifically emphasized the second time an action occurred.
Examples in context
- Haec repetenda suntThese need to be repeated
- Repete hoc, quaesoRepeat this, please
- Iterationem facere iuvat in memoria retinendaRepeating helps in retaining it in memory
- Reitera hoc, si visRepeat this if you want
- Verba tua repetō.I repeat your words.
- Cur hoc repetō?Why do I repeat this?
Example conversation
Lucius is teaching Julia a phrase in Latin.
- LuciusDic hoc verbum, Iulia.Say this word, Julia.
- JuliaNon intellego, Luci.I do not understand, Lucius.
- LuciusTunc repetō pro te.Then I repeat it for you.
- JuliaGratias tibi ago.Thank you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “repeat” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
