Things to know when translating a Latin text.

1. Latin is highly inflected.

   Meaning is carried by word endings (case, number, gender), not word order. You must read endings before assuming relationships.

   
   

2. Identify the verb first.

   The verb anchors the sentence. Determine its tense, voice, and mood before assigning meaning to the rest.

   
   

3. Determine the case of every noun.

   Each case has a function (subject, object, possession, means, etc.). Guessing the case leads to wrong meanings.

   
   

4. Do not translate word-for-word.

   Latin syntax does not map directly onto English. Translate meaning, not position.

   
   

5. Watch for implied words.

   Subjects, verbs (“to be”), and objects are often unstated but understood from context and endings.

   
   

6. Understand participles and infinitives.

   Latin uses these heavily to compress meaning. Misreading them distorts the entire sentence.

   
   

7. Pay attention to conjunctions and particles.

   Small words (ut, cum, enim, autem, quidem) control logic, purpose, cause, and contrast.

   
   

8. Consider context and genre.

   Theology, law, poetry, and history use language differently. The same word may shift meaning by context.

   
   

9. Respect idioms and fixed expressions.

   Some phrases cannot be translated literally. Look for established Latin usages, especially in ecclesiastical or classical texts.

   
   

10. Aim for fidelity before elegance.

    Preserve the author’s meaning first. Smooth English comes after accuracy, not before.

Bonus: The entire Latin language is anarthrous.