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🏛️elementary latin review

Cura ut valeas

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

Definition

Cura ut valeas is a Latin phrase that translates to 'take care that you be well' or 'I hope you are well'. It expresses a warm sentiment often used in greetings or farewells, emphasizing the speaker's concern for the health and well-being of the recipient. This phrase highlights the importance of personal connection and good wishes in social interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Cura ut valeas is often used at the end of letters as a way to convey best wishes, showcasing a caring attitude.
  2. The phrase reflects a cultural emphasis on health and well-being, which was significant in ancient Roman society.
  3. Using cura ut valeas demonstrates a level of politeness and social etiquette in interactions, enhancing personal relationships.
  4. The phrase can also serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness between individuals, where one's well-being is valued by others.
  5. Variations of this sentiment appear across different languages, showcasing a universal desire for good health and happiness among people.

Review Questions

  • How does cura ut valeas reflect social relationships and etiquette in greetings?
    • Cura ut valeas encapsulates the essence of goodwill in greetings and farewells, highlighting the speaker's genuine concern for the recipient's health. By using this phrase, individuals express not only their hopes for the other person's well-being but also reinforce positive social bonds. This reflects an underlying cultural value placed on personal connections and mutual care within interactions.
  • Discuss the historical significance of cura ut valeas in Roman society and its relevance today.
    • In ancient Rome, expressions like cura ut valeas underscored the importance of health and community. Romans placed great emphasis on well-being as a vital aspect of life, which contributed to their societal norms. Today, this phrase remains relevant as it fosters a sense of empathy and connectedness among individuals, reminding us that caring for others' health continues to be a universal value across cultures.
  • Evaluate how the sentiment expressed in cura ut valeas compares to similar phrases in other cultures and languages.
    • The sentiment behind cura ut valeas is echoed in many cultures through various phrases that convey wishes for health and happiness. For instance, 'take care' in English or 'adios' with good wishes in Spanish reflects similar intentions. Evaluating these comparisons reveals a shared human experience where expressing concern for others' well-being transcends cultural boundaries, emphasizing our collective desire for meaningful connections and mutual support.