Result Clauses

Definition

Result clauses are dependent clauses that express the outcome or result of an action stated in the main clause. They are often introduced by words like 'ut' (so that) or 'ut non' (so that not), and they typically use the subjunctive mood to convey the potentiality or hypothetical nature of the result. Understanding how these clauses function is crucial for interpreting complex sentences and appreciating Latin syntax.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Result clauses usually follow an independent clause and explain what happens as a consequence of it, providing clarity on the relationship between actions.
2. The key introductory word for result clauses is 'ut', which signals that what follows will describe a result related to the main clause.
3. In Latin, a common structure for a result clause includes an expression of degree, such as 'tam', 'tanto', or 'adeo', which intensifies the statement in the main clause.
4. The subjunctive verb form used in result clauses helps convey that the outcome is not certain but rather a potential consequence of the action described.
5. When using 'ut non', a result clause indicates a negative outcome, suggesting that something does not happen as a result of the main clause.

Review Questions

• How do result clauses differ from purpose clauses in Latin?
  • Result clauses and purpose clauses both utilize the subjunctive mood and often start with 'ut', but they serve different functions. Result clauses indicate the consequence of an action stated in the main clause, while purpose clauses explain the intended goal of that action. Essentially, result clauses show what happens as a result, whereas purpose clauses answer why something is done.
• What role does the subjunctive mood play in forming result clauses, and how does it affect their meaning?
  • The subjunctive mood is essential in forming result clauses as it conveys potentiality or hypothetical situations. When a verb is in the subjunctive within a result clause, it implies that the outcome is not guaranteed but rather a possible consequence stemming from the action in the main clause. This use of the subjunctive adds nuance to Latin sentences, highlighting outcomes that hinge on specific conditions.
• Evaluate how understanding result clauses enhances your overall comprehension of complex Latin sentence structures.
  • Understanding result clauses greatly enhances comprehension of complex Latin sentence structures by clarifying how actions relate to one another. Recognizing how these clauses work allows for better interpretation of nuanced meanings in sentences. It reveals layers of intention and consequence, showing how one action can lead to various outcomes. This insight ultimately helps make sense of longer passages and improves translation accuracy.

Related terms

Subjunctive Mood:

A verb mood used to express wishes, possibilities, or hypothetical situations, which is commonly employed in result clauses.

Purpose Clauses:

Dependent clauses that indicate the purpose of an action, often using 'ut' and also employing the subjunctive mood, but distinct from result clauses in their function.

Conditional Sentences: Sentences that express conditions and their possible results, often using 'si' (if) and involving both indicative and subjunctive moods.