via
[ˈwi.a]feminine
The English word "road" is translated into Latin as via or iter.
Meaning: a way for travel (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| via | [ˈwi.a] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈviː.a] (narrow) |
feminine |
| iter | [ˈɪ.tɛr] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈiː.ter] (narrow) |
neuter |
via is used to describe a way for travel. You can also use the synonym semita if you are referring specifically to a smaller, narrower path or trail.
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between the physical structure and the concept of travel. Use via to refer to the physical road or path itself. In contrast, use iter to refer to a journey or the route, representing the abstract act of traveling rather than the physical structure.
How does it change in a sentence?
via is a feminine noun. The genitive singular form is viae, which is used to indicate possession or a relationship to the road (e.g., "of the road"). The dative plural form is viis, used when expressing that something is for or given to multiple roads.
Did you know?
- The word iter is cognate with an Avestan term meaning 'lifetime', treating a person's life as a road or journey.
- The Latin via influenced the English phrase 'via', used to mean 'by way of', mirroring how Romans viewed the road as the medium of transport.
Examples in context
- Via non est bona.The road is not good.This sentence is useful for stating whether the via is good.Tatoeba #12049421 by carlosalberto, translation #12049395 by carlosalberto
- Quo illa via ducit?Where does that road lead?This sentence helps you ask where a specific via leads.Tatoeba #9621102 by alexmarcelo, translation #2270181 by _undertoad
- Quo haec via ducit?Where does this road lead to?This sentence is useful for asking where a certain via leads to.Tatoeba #9621103 by alexmarcelo, translation #57607 by CS
- In via ambulavi.I walked on the road.
- Amo ambulare per semitam.I love walking along the road
- 45 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Claudia and Gaius are walking through a city.
- ClaudiaHaec via longa est.This road is long.
- GaiusIta, sed via recta est.Yes, but the road is straight.
- ClaudiaUbi est via ad forum?Where is the road to the forum?
- GaiusVia ad forum illic est.The road to the forum is over there.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “road” translations and entries via, iter, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries iter, via, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
