| Miscellaneous |
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To express the idea of result, Latin employs the subjunctive introduced by ut. If the clause is a negative one, the ut is followed by such negatives as non, nemo and nihil.
Often in the clause preceding a result clause there is a sign word which indicates that a result clause is to follow. Such sign words are tam(so), ita(so), tantus-a-um(so great) and talis (of such a kind).
Result clauses can readily be distinguished from purpose clauses when they are negative (ne = purpose, ut + negative such as non = result) and when the sign words appear in the preceding clause. Otherwise, one must rely on the meaning of the sentence.
Sample sentences:
Tanta fecit ut urbem servaret.
He did such great things that he saved the city. As a result of his great deeds he saved the city.
Haec fecit ut urbem servaret.
He did these things so that he might save the city. He did these things for the purpose of saving
the city.
Tam strenue laborat ut multa perficiat.
He works so energetically that (as a result) he may accomplich many things.
Strenue laborat ut multa perficiat.
He works energetically so that he may accomplish many things (for the purpose of accomplishing).
Hoc tanta benevolentia dixit ut eos non offenderet.
He said this with such great kindness that he did not offend them (as a result he did not offend).
Hoc dixit ne eos offenderet
He said this in order that he might not offend them (for the purpose of not offending).
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