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

1621 Views

See similar Latin A Level tutors

Related Latin A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the gerundival attraction?


How do you construct indirect commands for prose composition?


What is the best way to approach an unseen translation?


State and explain the case of 'rege' in the phrase 'rege victo'


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences