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Questions & Answers about Discipulus dicit: “Nunc possum orare in templo et mox possum dormire in domo.”
Why does the sentence begin with Discipulus dicit?
In Latin, a speaker often introduces direct speech or reported statements with a verb like dicit ("he says"). Here, Discipulus dicit indicates that the student is the one speaking, similar to saying in English, "The student says..."
Why is possum followed by an infinitive such as orare (to pray)?
In Latin, possum (meaning "I am able"/"I can") commonly pairs with an infinitive to express ability or possibility. So possum orare literally means "I am able to pray."
What is the function of nunc and mox?
Nunc means "now," referring to the present moment. Mox means "soon," indicating a future time. This contrast shows two different time frames: the student can pray now and will soon be able to do something else.
Why do we see in templo and in domo instead of a different form of those nouns?
In Latin, in with the ablative case (here, templo and domo) indicates location ("in the temple," "in the house"). So templo and domo are ablative forms used after in to signify where the actions occur.
Is there any special reason for the word order possum orare in templo rather than possum in templo orare?
Latin word order is relatively flexible, and both sequences are grammatically correct. Speakers often place possum before its infinitive for clarity. The phrase in templo can appear before or after the verb in many sentences without changing the meaning, though style and emphasis may differ.
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