optime
[ˈɔp.tɪ.meː]
The English phrase "very good" can be translated into Latin using optime.
optime is an expression used to describe something of the highest quality or to answer a question about how someone is doing. You can also use Perbonus to denote an extremely good or excellent quality.
What does it mean word for word?
optime is the superlative adverbial form of bonus, meaning "best" or "very well".
Which one should you use?
Use optime when you want to say someone does something "very well" (adverb), but use optimus/optima/optimum when you want to say a thing is "very good" (adjective).
How does it change in a sentence?
optime is an adverb used to describe actions (e.g., 'speaking very well'), while optimum is the neuter adjective form used to describe things of the highest quality.
Did you know?
- In Ancient Rome, a political group called the optimates used the root of optime to name themselves, claiming they were the 'best men' of the Republic.
- The root of optime is the same one used in English for 'optimism' and 'optimize'. These English words literally mean the act of seeking or making the 'best' possible state.
- In Latin, optime is not just a description but can function as an interjection of approval. A Roman might have exclaimed optime! to signal that a plan was excellent or that they were satisfied with a result.
Examples in context
- Iuma Anglice optime loquitur.Yumi speaks very good English.This sentence is useful for showing how to use optime to describe the way someone speaks.Tatoeba #1563516 by alexmarcelo, translation #424879 by FeuDRenais
- Hoc opus optime factum est.This work was done very well.
- Ut vales? Optime!How are you? Very good!
Example conversation
Lucia meets Marcus on a street and asks about his health.
- LuciaMarce, ut vales?Marcus, how are you?
- MarcusOptime, Lucia, et tu?Very good, Lucia, and you?
- LuciaEgo quoque optime valeo.I am also doing very well.
- MarcusBene est.That is good.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry optime, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
