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Ancient Languages/Latin translation request.

Expert: Maria - 5/2/2005

Question
Hello,

I'm going to be getting a tattoo of the phraze, "while I breathe I learn". And what I have so far in latin is, "Dum spiro congosco. I was hoping you could help me out on this translation so I can know I have the right one.
Thank you!
Neil

Answer
Hello,

The best translation for the phrase "While I breathe I learn" is in Latin :

1-“Dum spiro, disco”

As for the translation “Dum spiro, congosco”, please note that the verb ‘congosco' is wrong.
The correct form of this verb is ‘cognosco' and then the phrase reads as follows:

”Dum spiro, cognosco”.

Finally I must point out that the Latin verb DISCO(Present indicative. 1st.person singular) means exactly ‘I learn', while COGNOSCO (Present indicative. 1st.person singular) means either ‘I know' or ‘I learn'.

Have a nice day.
Maria
_________________________________________________
NOTA BENE
DUM is ‘while'
SPIRO is ‘I breathe'
DISCO (COGNOSCO) is ‘I learn'

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 10	Politeness = 10
Comment	Maria, I just wanted to say thanks for being so prompt, in interpreting the prase. If it ever becomes popular, you will be able to take credit for being the translator. Hey now that I think of it, this phrase makes for an interesting title for the book! Be Well, and thanks again! What a cool service this is! KK