Explain the grammatical construction 'in consiliis capiendis' in "sunt in consiliis capiendis mobiles" (Caesar, De Bello Gallico, IV.5)

The whole phrase is an ablative of manner; it describes the adjective "mobiles" (flexible). They are "mobiles" in regard to "consiliis capiendis" (the act of making plans). 

"Capiendis" is a gerundive, a passive verbal adjective, that describes "consiliis." As it is an adjective it agrees in number case and gender with it's complement, "consiliis" (a neuter noun in the ablative plural.) 

The whole phrase would be translated "they are flexible when making plans."

Answered by Fergus W. Latin tutor

1422 Views

See similar Latin A Level tutors

Related Latin A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I approach translation of a latin sentence?


How do lines 4–9 (verum Acerronia ... infertur) give a strong impression of Agrippina's quick thinking and intelligence?


How do I comment on the ‘stylistic features’ of a set text?


What is the difference between a gerund and a gerundive?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences