Pluralis majestatis
The pluralis majestatis ( lat. , "Plural of sovereignty") is used to mark a person, usually a ruler, as particularly powerful or worthy, or the person distinguishes himself by speaking of himself in the plural. In the case of monarchs or other authorities, the idea that they speak or believe to speak for their subjects or subordinates plays a role. Possibly this use of the plural goes back to the Roman tetrarchy since 293 with its two senior and two junior emperors.
With nobles and dignitaries, the plural was previously common on official occasions (example: "We, Benedictus PP. XVI in the 1st year of our pontificate ..."). Expressions in the pluralis majestatis are always capitalized.
Pluralis excellentiae
In Hebrew grammar , the plural is often used for the purpose of emphasizing the size or meaning of a person or an object. This case, which includes the pluralis majestatis, is called the pluralis excellentiae .
See also
- Pluralis Auctoris (majority of authors)
- Pluralis Modestiae (modesty majority)
- Erzen (pronominal form of address with Er against subordinates)
- Pluralis benevolentiae ( Nurses plural / Pluralis sanitatis)
Individual evidence
- ↑ Duden | Pluralis Majestatis, Pluralis Modestiae and "Nurses Plural". Retrieved October 30, 2017 .
