01
lateinisch
Latin
Relating to the Latin language or written in the Latin language.
example
Viele wissenschaftliche Begriffe haben einen lateinischen Ursprung.
Many scientific terms have a Latin origin.
lateinisch
Latin
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The adjective 'lateinisch' (Latin) is derived from the language 'Latein' (Latin) and formed with the ending '-isch' (-ish/-ic). This pattern appears in many adjectives that describe origin or belonging.
EXAMPLE
Die Endung „-ung“ ist typisch für viele Wörter lateinischen Ursprungs.
The ending '-ung' is typical of many words of Latin origin.
Context clue
You can easily recognize the main meanings from context. If it is about language, texts, or quotations, the Latin language is meant. If it is about history, law, or the Roman Empire, the culture of the ancient Romans is meant.
EXAMPLE
Viele juristische Fachbegriffe sind lateinisch.
Many legal technical terms are Latin.
Register and style
The use of 'lateinisch' (Latin) for Latin America is considered outdated today and can lead to misunderstandings. The word is mostly associated with ancient Roman culture or the Latin language.
EXAMPLE
Sein Schreibstil erinnerte an alte lateinische Autoren, nicht an südamerikanische.
His writing style was reminiscent of old Latin authors, not South American ones.
Compare with
lateinisch vs römisch
Roman
'römisch' and 'lateinisch' can both have to do with ancient Rome. 'römisch' refers more to the empire, the city of Rome, the people, or things from that culture. 'lateinisch' very often refers to the Latin language or texts in that language. It can also describe the culture of the ancient Romans, but in everyday use, 'lateinisch' quickly makes people think of the language. The words are easy to confuse because Latin was the language of the Romans. As a simple guide: for Rome and the empire, 'römisch' is usually appropriate; for the language, 'lateinisch' is appropriate.
lateinisch
Für die Prüfung übersetzt Sofia einen lateinischen Text.
For the exam, Sofia is translating a Latin text.
römisch
Die Schüler haben im Geschichtsunterricht über römische Straßen gesprochen.
The students talked about Roman roads in history class.
In real life
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