nos
[ˈnoːs]accusative
The English word "us" is translated into Latin as nos.
Meaning: objective case of "we" (pron)
Which one should you use?
In Latin, nos can be an identical spelling for two different functions: it is the accusative form meaning "us", but it is also the nominative form meaning "we" (the subject of a sentence).
How does it change in a sentence?
The form nos is used when "we" functions as the direct or indirect object of a verb. However, note that the form nobis is typically used instead when "we" functions specifically as the indirect object.
Did you know?
- In many Latin texts, the single word nos can be used to represent the 'Royal We', a way for an emperor or deity to refer to themselves in a plural form.
- The Latin word nos shares its ancient roots with the English word 'us' and the German 'uns', all descending from the same Proto-Indo-European ancestor.
- In Latin poetry, the word nos might be placed at the very end of a verse to create a specific rhythmic effect, even if it is the subject of the sentence.
Examples in context
- Quid id ad nos?What does this have to do with us?This sentence shows how to use nos in a question regarding a relationship to a group.Tatoeba #10248667 by soridsolid, translation #2641785 by CK
- Libera nos a malo.Deliver us from evil.This sentence demonstrates nos as the object in a request for protection.Tatoeba #5041089 by sicerabibax, translation #28598 by Dejo
- Nos tu ne curassis.Don't worry about us.This sentence illustrates the use of nos as the object of a verb concerning care or worry.Tatoeba #12343970 by soridsolid, translation #262593 by CK
- Legati nobis auxilium ferunt.The ambassadors bring help to us.
- Eamus nosmet ad theatrum.Let's go to the theater ourselves.
- 218 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gaius and Aurelia are deciding who will accompany the group.
- GaiusVisne nos sequi?Do you want to follow us?
- AureliaIta, vos sequi volo.Yes, I want to follow you.
- GaiusTunc amicus nos videt.Then the friend sees us.
- AureliaBene, eamus nunc.Good, let us go now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “us” translations and entries nos, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nos, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
