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Language is a medium of communication and building constructive relationships, and the world encompasses numerous kinds. As per some estimates, some 6500 languages are spoken today.
Every language holds its significance and is vital in building the culture and heritage of the place where it is spoken.
However, many malign Latin by calling it "irrelevant" in the modern world. But that is far from the truth.
Keep reading as we discuss why Latin is still influential, especially if you live in Philadelphia, LA, or other diverse cities in the States.
The History Of Latin
Latin was Europe's lingua franca till the 18th century. Emerging from the lower Tiber River, it quickly spread to Italy and Western and Southern Europe.
In no time, it made its way to central and western Mediterranean coastal regions of Africa. Then, after an increase in Roman political power, it became a medium for international communication.
However, Latin was then replaced by the romance languages:
- French
- Spanish
- Portuguese
- Italian
- Romanian
Regardless, Latin held historical significance as it was a popular and prevailing language worldwide. Today, many people love to learn and speak the language because of its historical importance.
And even today, Latin is widely taught and learned in many parts of the US, from New York to Boston or elsewhere. Nevertheless, many are still committed to studying it because it offers several career-related advantages.
Academics, scientists, doctors, and lawyers regularly learn it because they invariably encounter it. Many other folks also learn it because they know it would improve their communication skills.
Since the Romance languages evolved from Latin, they are still influenced by it. To develop mastery over these languages, knowing Latin helps. It forms the foundation of these latter languages, which can help people converse better.
The Impact Of Latin On English
English is the universal language that is commonly spoken across the world. And those who are aware of the history of English know that Latin heavily influences it.
This is because of England's relationship with the Roman Civilization. Starting from the rise of Catholicism to date, Latin has heavily influenced English.
Some may say that it is a dead language. However, this is not true. It has instead been transformed into English and other Romance languages.
With that said, here are some of the common Latin phrases which are widely used in English communications
- Ad hoc: To this
- Bonus: Good
- Car Alibi: Elsewhere
- Bonafide: With good faith
- Carpe diem: Seize the day
- g.: For example
- Ergo: Therefore
- Et cetera: And so on
- Extra: In addition to
- e: That is
- Impromptu: Spontaneous
- Intro: Within
- Multi: Many
- Per se: In itself
- Pro bono (publico): For the good (of the public)
- Quid pro quo: Something for something
- Re: About (in responses to emails and in other correspondence to refer to an earlier topic of discussion)
- Semi: Half
- Status quo: Existing state of affairs
- Verbatim: In precisely the same words
- Versus: Against
- Vice versa: The other way around
So if you live in LA, Chicago, or any other major city in America, you can learn these words and more with some expert help.
What Is The Importance of Latin?
As mentioned, since Latin has now turned into French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian, one may wonder if it is necessary to learn it at all.
It is worth noting that Latin is an old and literature-rich language. It heavily influences other languages and leaves a blueprint for them.
For instance, German, Chinese (Mandarin), and many similar languages are related to Latin. Hence, it is fruitful to learn it if you want to master other languages.
In addition to this, Latin is a complex language that encompasses rich literature and an abundant flow of unique words and phrases.
As a result, learning such a language sharpens the mind and increases cognitive activity. Fun fact: Law also encompasses numerous Latin phrases and words. Some of them include
Therefore those who want to pursue a degree in Law should have a firm grip on these and many other Latin phrases.
Latin In LA
Apart from other parts of the world, Latin is still prevalent in Los Angeles. There is a burgeoning community of scholars in LA, Boston, and other major cities in the States who speak it.
In addition to that, there are many Latin events organized throughout the state. LA is home to several scholarly and cultural discourses on the history of this language.
For instance, several schools have Latin clubs where impressionable brains can come together and revive the language for their age group.
Other than that, adults have book clubs and history-themed events where they deliberate over the importance of Latin, discussing works like Ceasar's Gallic Wars and Ad infinitum: A Biography of Latin.
Things To Consider When Learning Latin In LA
Los Angeles is a metropolitan city that is substantively developed. It encompasses numerous commercial hubs.
LA is also home to world-class schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutes. They encompass several professional, skilled, and experienced Latin professors and teachers.
In addition to this, you can also find several private tutors who provide quality educational services, including crash courses and classes for individuals to up their Latin game.
Learning a language can be hard in the beginning. And that is entirely normal. This is because a foreign language encompasses numerous unknown terms, words, phrases, and other complex elements.
Remember, investing time and proper attention to a language can help you develop a solid grip on it; one can not learn and excel at Latin overnight. Instead, it requires adequate time and consideration.
If you have little experience of it, you will know that Latin is complex. Hence, it takes more time than usual to learn the language.
A Latin learner will have to spend more than six months acquiring profound expertise in reading, writing, and speaking the language fluently.
Meanwhile, a beginner may face substantive complexities and difficulties in learning the language. However, the real challenge is not to give up and keep your spirits high.
With enough passion for learning the language, amateurs can excel in Latin in no time.
Moreover, consistency is the key to perfection. Similar is the case in learning Latin. One can become a fluent Latin speaker by adopting a consistent attitude towards Latin learning.
Although Latin is a complex language, one can quickly learn and excel if they focus and practice regularly. So, let's have a look at what this includes:
- Learn the basics by learning Roman and Latin alphabets
- Read and paraphrase
- Acquire a deep understanding of the language
- Research, read, write and interact in Latin
- Practice daily
- Immerse yourself in not only learning but living Latin
- Interact with professional Latin speakers
Online Latin Lessons in LA
The recent paradigm shift into the internet era has opened revolutionary doors for learning anything while simply sitting inside the comfort and convenience of your home.
Similarly, Latin can also be learned virtually. Numerous websites encompass rich and helpful content that can help one self-teach themselves by reading and researching on the web.
The internet comprises useful sources, books, articles, blogs, and whatnot. One can easily learn the language and form a firm basis of Latin through reading on the web.
Furthermore, one can also hire private tutors or take online Latin courses. With Latin online courses, you will have private tutors, watch tutorials, take Latin online classes or simply read and learn Latin.
There are many Latin online courses in LA that provide valuable training. In fact, no matter where you are on the planet, Houston, LA, and other cities, you can access Latin online classes.
So, to develop fluency in the language, it is crucial to have a strong foundation of Latin basics.
Unfortunately, some Latin online classes and courses fail to teach the basics constructively, thereby wrecking individuals' whole Latin learning experience.
Learn Latin With Superprof
Since 2010, Superprof has played a prominent role in helping students learn and master Latin. They have extensive experience in teaching students by utilizing digital technologies.
They offer educational support and learning opportunities on numerous subjects, including music, health, wellbeing, languages, career development, art, computer sciences, and more.
Indeed, Superprof has set outstanding precedents during pandemic lockdowns by teaching individuals online.
Superprof provides Latin online classes with professional professors with extensive experience and knowledge.
They work to develop the expertise and talent of their students in 39 countries, including the US, teaching 18 languages 24 hours a day.
Their innovative platform can make lessons fun and engaging while keeping things informative. Students who have mastered their lessons can now fluently speak, read, write and interact in Latin.
All you have to do is sign up, add your preferences, and look for an experienced tutor in your area. The platform offers convenience and ease-of-use that makes it better than most other sources.
Furthermore, if you're vigilant in your efforts, you may also find yourself a tutor who will offer you a free first lesson.
Moreover, students who have tried Superprof substantively verify the platform with rave reviews.
The platform that connects tutors and students
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