Dear Language Enthusiast,
Welcome to the Latin Monthly, the free Internet newsletter from Transparent
Language. It's our way of helping you practice your language skills, as you learn about the
culture of ancient Rome.
Latin is a very logical language. It follows rules to the point of neurosis-- which is precisely
why it drives some learners crazy! And, yes, that aspect of the language is a direct reflection
of the spirit of ancient Rome, where powerful men were afraid to act until they had carried out
repetitive rituals and consulted their horoscopes.
As a result, there are far fewer idioms in Latin than in modern languages like Spanish and
French; for an idiom, aside from being a colorful and unique expression, is also a form of
illogic. And it is playful in a way that does not conform to the strict ideals of Rome-- or of
the Catholic Church, where Latin found a foster home that nurtured it up until the present day.
Nevertheless, we here at Transparent Language have put together a short list of idioms to test
your Latin skills. Can you match the following expressions to their English counterparts? The
answer key is at the bottom of this newsletter.
Sincerely,
Transparent Language
www.transparent.com
latine:
1. certiorem facere
2. novus homo
3. ex industria
4. opus est
5. verba dare
6. aes alienum
7. ex animo
8. ab ovo usque ad mala
9. operae pretium esse
10. res secundae
11. sales
12. terga dare
13. ad unguem
In English:
A. to deceive
B. debt
C. sincerely
D. on purpose
E. to be worthwhile
F. prosperity
G. jokes
H. to run away
I. to a T
J. from start to finish
K. it is required
L. to inform
M. an upstart
Answer Key for the Latin Idioms Quiz: 1-L, 2-M, 3-D, 4-K, 5-A, 6-B, 7-C, 8-J, 9-E, 10-F, 11-G, 12-H, 13-I
