Translation
indeed, of course; for, since
Examples
difficilis .
The matter was of course a hard one.
, .
He did not come, seeing that he was an enemy.
.
Naturally he knew nothing about these matters.
.
That indeed is true.
.
Why, even the boys know this.
Quippe is an emphasising particle, "of course, naturally, obviously", and it very often carries a sneer: the speaker is pointing out something the other side should have worked out for themselves. It usually stands first in its clause, unlike enim and autem, which must come second.
The construction to learn is quippe qui with the subjunctive, a causal relative clause meaning "seeing that he", "inasmuch as he" - non venit, quippe qui hostis esset. Sallust and Livy use it constantly. Outside that pattern quippe explains rather than joins: it colours a statement that is already there, where nam and enim actually link one clause to another. Read it as "obviously" and you will rarely be far off.
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quippe: worksheet, infographic and listicle
Free printable study downloads for the Latin word "quippe" (indeed, of course; for, since): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.
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Start your free weekThis word is part of lesson 10.