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About Maria
Expertise
I am an expert in Latin Language and Literature and I'll be glad to answer any questions concerning this matter.

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Over 25 years teaching experience.

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I received my Ph.D. in Classics from Genova University (Italy).
 
   

You are here:  Experts > Homework Help > Latin Language > Latin > Translation help- please =]

Latin - Translation help- please =]


Expert: Maria - 4/27/2008

Question
Hello!  I was wondering if you could help me trainslate the phrase  "The biggest risk in life is not taking one" for me.  It's not for a tattoo or homework, I was just curious and could not find it anywhere online, it is one of I think the most important sayings out there and I'm trying to live life by following it!!


Thank you so much for your help.
Michelle

Answer
Hello,

The best translation of the important saying you mention is the following:

-“Periculum non adire maximum est periculum”.

See below for grammatical analysis.

Best regards,
Maria
___________________________________________________________
Note that:

-The biggest = MAXIMUM (superlative of MAGNUS, big, in the nominative neuter agreed with PERICULUM)

-risk = PERICULUM (nominative neuter, 2nd.declension)

-in life = it is omitted in Latin as it is obviously  understood.

-is = EST (from SUM, I am)

-not = NON

-taking = ADIRE ( infinitive of ADEO)

-one = PERICULUM. Latin in fact repeat the term PERICULUM (risk) to emphasize it.

As you can see, Latin word order is different from English.


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