Questions & Answers about Haec formula facilis dictu est.
Why is haec used here, and what form is it?
Haec is the nominative singular feminine form of the demonstrative pronoun hic, haec, hoc meaning this.
It is feminine singular because it agrees with formula, which is a feminine singular noun. Since formula is the subject of the sentence, haec is also in the nominative.
So:
- haec = this (feminine singular nominative)
- formula = formula / expression (feminine singular nominative)
Together: haec formula = this formula
Why is facilis and not facile?
Because facilis agrees with formula, which is feminine singular.
The adjective facilis, facile means easy. Its forms include:
- facilis = masculine or feminine nominative singular
- facile = neuter nominative singular
Since formula is feminine, Latin uses facilis.
So:
- formula facilis = an easy formula
- not formula facile, because facile would be neuter
What exactly is dictu?