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1814. Optative of Wish.—In independent sentences the optative without ἄν is used to express a wish referring to the future (negative μή): ὦ παῖ, γένοιο πατρὸς εὐτυχέστερος ah, boy, mayest thou prove more fortunate than thy sire S. Aj. 550. From this use is derived the name of the mood (Lat. opto wish).

a. So even in relative sentences: ““ἐά_ν ποτε, δ̀ μὴ γένοιτο, λάβωσι τὴν πόλιν” if ever they capture the city, which Heaven forbid” L. 31.14.

b. Under wishes are included execrations and protestations: ““ἐξολοίμην” may I perish” Ar. Ach. 324, ““καί σ᾽ ἐπιδείξω, ἢ μὴ ζῴην, δωροδοκήσαντα” and I will prove that you took bribes, or may I not live” Ar. Eq. 833.

American Book Company, 1920.

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hide References (2 total)
  • Cross-references to this page (2):
    • Raphael Kühner, Bernhard Gerth, Ausführliche Grammatik der griechischen Sprache, KG 1.pos=2.2
    • Jeffrey A. Rydberg-Cox, Overview of Greek Syntax, Verbs: Mood
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