Latin Phrases for Farewell and Their Modern Interpretations

When bidding farewell to someone in Latin, one might wonder about the exact phrases used. This article explores the traditional Latin phrases for farewell and their modern interpretations, providing insights into their meanings and how they have evolved over time.

The Evolution of Latin Farewells

In the study of Latin, it is common to come across certain phrases that have taken on meanings different from their literal translation. The phrase 'in proximum' is a good example. While it literally means 'into the nearest,' it has come to signify 'until' in modern usage.

A more complete expression, 'cum rursus occurremus,' is often used, which translates to 'until the next meeting.' This phrase implies not a permanent farewell but a promise of reunification, reflecting the idea that 'this is not goodbye,' but rather 'we will meet once again.'

Another classic expression is 'ad congressum' or 'ad conventum,' both meaning 'towards the next meeting.' These phrases emphasize the idea of a future encounter or gathering rather than a permanent farewell.

Traditional Latin Farewells

The most well-known salutation for parting in Classical Latin is 'ave atque vale.' This phrase is often translated as 'hail and farewell,' meaning 'be well and be well.' It is derived from the imperative forms of the verbs 'avere' (to be) and 'valere' (to be in good health or well). The word 'atque' means 'and' or 'also.'

While 'ave atque vale' is a common farewell, the verb 'vale' (meaning 'be well') can also be used on its own in formal settings. For example, the phrase 'valete' is used when addressing multiple people.

Understanding 'Donec Iterum Conveniant'

Another phrase that has its roots in Latin but is not commonly used today is 'donec iterum conveniant.' This translates to 'until we meet again.' In Latin, 'donec' means 'until,' 'iterum' means 'again,' and 'conveniant' means 'they come together.'

While this phrase serves its purpose, some argue that it is a bit cumbersome. A more concise and elegant way to express this sentiment would be to use 'Ad rursus conventum nostrum,' which means 'towards our next meeting,' or 'Rursus nostrum conventum,' which implies a chance or informal meeting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while modern English and Italian have specific phrases for farewell such as 'until we meet again' and 'arrivederci,' the rich tradition of Latin offers a variety of ways to express these sentiments. Whether in formal or informal settings, understanding these phrases and their cultural context can provide a deeper appreciation for the language and its history.

Keywords: farewell, latin phrases, formal farewells