scientia
[skiˈɛn.ti.a]feminine
The English phrase 'science' is translated into Latin as scientia.
scientia refers to the collective discipline of learning acquired through the scientific method. While it is used to denote science, it is also related to terms for specific branches of knowledge like Physica (Physics), Oecologia (Ecology) and Mathematica (Mathematics). If you wish to emphasize a specialized branch of knowledge within a science, you might use Disciplina.
Meaning: collective discipline of learning acquired through the scientific method (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
scientia literally means 'knowledge' or 'skill' in a sense broader than the modern English definition of 'science'.
How does it change in a sentence?
scientia is a feminine noun. The genitive singular form, meaning 'of science', is scientiae. The accusative singular form, used as a direct object, is scientiam. The plural form is scientiae, and the accusative plural is scientias.
Did you know?
- The word scientia is a direct relative of the English word 'conscience', which comes from the Latin conscientia, meaning 'shared knowledge'.
- In the Roman world, scientia was often contrasted with sapientia, which referred to wisdom and the practical ability to live a good life.
- A Roman might use scientia to describe a person's 'craftiness' or 'cunning' in a non-academic context.
Examples in context
- Qui sunt fines scientiae?What are the limits of science?This sentence shows how to ask about the limits of scientia.Tatoeba #11847962 by carlosalberto, translation #11847928 by carlosalberto
- Utilem arbitror esse scientiam.I believe science is useful.This sentence uses the accusative form scientiam to express a belief about its utility.Tatoeba #5139703 by alexmarcelo, translation #6360686 by RudeGuyGames
- Scientiae studium valde excitant.Science is very exciting.This sentence demonstrates the use of scientiae in a context regarding the study of science.Tatoeba #5031726 by alexmarcelo, translation #1866459 by Spamster
- Scientiam amareTo love science
- Artes medicinaeThe medical arts
- Disciplina chemicaChemical discipline
- 12 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their favorite subjects in school.
- MarcusQuid studes, Julia?What are you studying, Julia?
- JuliaEgo scientiam disco.I am learning science.
- MarcusEstne scientia difficilis?Is science difficult?
- JuliaNon est, sed est optima.It is not, but it is the best.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “science” translations and entries scientia, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
