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🏛️elementary latin review

Ago

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

In Latin, 'ago' is a verb that translates to 'I do,' 'I drive,' or 'I act.' It is a key representative of the third conjugation, which is characterized by its unique stem changes and endings. This verb is essential for forming various tenses and moods in Latin, and it serves as a foundation for understanding the complexities of verb conjugation within this group.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. 'Ago' belongs to the third conjugation group in Latin, which typically features verbs with an infinitive ending in '-ere.'
  2. The principal parts of 'ago' are: 'ago, agere, egi, actum,' showing its conjugation across different tenses.
  3. 'Ago' can express various meanings depending on context, including performing an action or exerting influence.
  4. The present tense form of 'ago' is conjugated as 'ago' (I do), 'agis' (you do), 'agit' (he/she/it does), among others.
  5. 'Ago' plays a crucial role in forming compound verbs and expressions related to actions and activities in both classical and ecclesiastical Latin.

Review Questions

  • How does the verb 'ago' exemplify the characteristics of the third conjugation in Latin?
    • 'Ago' exemplifies the characteristics of the third conjugation through its specific infinitive ending in '-ere' and its unique stem vowel changes when conjugated. Unlike first or second conjugation verbs, which have more regular patterns, third conjugation verbs like 'ago' exhibit variations that require careful memorization. Understanding these patterns with 'ago' helps students navigate other third conjugation verbs effectively.
  • What role does the verb 'ago' play in forming the present tense, and how does it demonstrate different forms across persons?
    • 'Ago' serves as a fundamental example when forming the present tense in Latin. It demonstrates how verbs change based on person and number; for instance, in the present tense, it takes the forms 'ago' (I do), 'agis' (you do), and 'agit' (he/she/it does). These variations showcase how Latin verbs are tailored to fit the subject performing the action, which is crucial for proper sentence construction.
  • Evaluate the importance of understanding the verb 'ago' within the context of mastering Latin verb conjugations and overall language comprehension.
    • 'Ago' is critically important for mastering Latin verb conjugations because it acts as a model for third conjugation verbs. By studying 'ago,' learners can gain insights into common patterns and variations found within this group, facilitating easier understanding of other verbs with similar structures. Moreover, since 'ago' often appears in classical texts, comprehending its usage enhances overall language proficiency and aids in translating complex sentences accurately.