-ere

Definition

-ere is a common Latin verb suffix that typically indicates the second conjugation of Latin verbs. This suffix is a key feature for identifying and conjugating verbs in this group, which often express actions or states of being. The presence of -ere signifies specific verb forms and meanings that help in understanding Latin sentence structure and verb usage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. -ere verbs are one of the four main conjugations in Latin, specifically categorized as second conjugation verbs.
2. Common -ere verbs include 'docēre' (to teach), 'tenēre' (to hold), and 'sedēre' (to sit).
3. The present active infinitive form for -ere verbs is formed by taking the stem of the verb and adding -ere.
4. When conjugating -ere verbs, the endings change based on the subject pronoun, affecting how the verb is used in sentences.
5. Recognizing -ere as a suffix helps students distinguish between different types of Latin verbs and aids in proper sentence construction.

Review Questions

• How does the suffix -ere help in identifying the conjugation and meaning of Latin verbs?
  • -ere helps identify second conjugation verbs in Latin, allowing for easier recognition and understanding of their meanings. When you see a verb ending in -ere, you can categorize it as part of this group and apply the specific rules for conjugation. This awareness not only streamlines learning but also enriches comprehension when reading Latin texts.
• Discuss the role of -ere in verb conjugation and how it influences sentence structure in Latin.
  • The suffix -ere plays a vital role in verb conjugation for second conjugation verbs. It sets the foundation for altering the verb endings based on tense, mood, and person. This systematic change affects sentence structure, as understanding these changes enables accurate translation and comprehension of actions expressed within sentences.
• Evaluate the importance of recognizing the -ere suffix when translating Latin texts and how it contributes to overall fluency.
  • Recognizing the -ere suffix is crucial for effective translation of Latin texts because it signals specific verb forms that are fundamental to understanding actions within a narrative. By identifying these verbs correctly, you can discern the intended meaning and context more accurately. This skill enhances overall fluency in Latin, allowing for smoother reading and interpretation of classical literature.

Related terms

Second Conjugation: A category of Latin verbs characterized by their infinitive form ending in -ēre, which includes verbs like 'vidēre' (to see) and 'habēre' (to have).

Conjugation:

The modification of a verb from its base form to express tense, mood, voice, aspect, person, and number.

Infinitive:

The base form of a verb, usually translated as 'to + verb,' such as 'amare' (to love) or 'vidēre' (to see), often used to denote the action without specifying the subject.