• Used to express the idea of “purpose” in a single noun, meaning it is often used as a shorter replacement for a purpose clause.

• Translated as “for ____” in order to answer the question “for what purpose does something exist?”

• Usually used with an abstract noun (auxilio, subsidio, praesidio, praemio, curae, impedimento, usui)

• Can be translated as a predicate nominative when used as a form of “sum, esse”

Examples:

• • Excidio Libyae. (for the destruction of Libya)

  • Māgnō ūsuī nostrīs fuit. (It was of great service for our men)

  • Optāvit locum rēgnō. (He chose a place for a kingdom)