Latin words in English

Latin words in English

“Habemus papam” –which, for those of you unfamiliar with Latin, means “We have a pope”.

Here are some other Latin expressions that are stilled used nowadays in modern English:

Impromptu

If something is impromptu, it is spontaneous and catches you by surprise: “We had an impromptu meeting today at work, and everyone was completely unprepared.”

Quid pro Quo

This translates as “something for something” and we use it to mean “of equal exchange or substitution.”  You exchange something someone else’s interest for something of your own interest. “They finally agreed on a quid pro quo agreement, in which John will disclose confidential information to George in exchange for free access to George’s company database.”

Per se

In itself, intrinsically, of an inherent nature. “A few people from work went out for a meal, but it wasn’t really a work-party per se.”

Ad hoc

For one specific case. “I don’t have a contract with the company, but I do translations for them on an ad-hoc basis.”

Bona Fide

Unquestionable, in good faith. “As my colleague and I have never got on with each other, I was surprised when he gave me his bona fide advice on how I could succeed in business.”

Pro Rata

Proportionally, in equal parts.  If something costs you 120€ per year, it costs 10€ per month pro rata.

Ergo

Therefore, consequently. “I’ve never visited England. Ergo I cannot tell you whether English food is good or bad.”

Circa

Around,  about, approximately; usually in reference to dates. Bertrum Bananus, died circa 1400.

Curriculum Vitae

Literally “course of life”. We usually refer to this as a CV. It is a concise account of someone’s education, qualifications, and previous work experience that you send to companies in order to apply for a job.

Versus 

Against. Often denoted by the letter v when writing sporting fixtures. Liverpool v Man Utd is the biggest game in the Premier League.