Double dative

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In Latin grammar, the combination of a dative of reference with a dative of purpose is often known as a double dative.

This construction typically indicates that something is given (or sent, arranged, done, etc.) to or for the benefit of a specified recipient for a specified purpose, or for a specified function. The recipient is identified with the dative of reference, and the purpose or function is identified with the dative of purpose.

An example of a double dative is mittam catenam amicae dono (I shall send the necklace to my friend as a gift; I shall send the necklace to my friend for a gift). Here, both amica and donum take the dative, indicating that the friend is the recipient of the necklace and a gift is the purpose or function of the necklace.

Perhaps the most famous example is "Cui bono?" This phrase, taken from Cicero, is usually rendered in English as something like, "Who benefits?" In fact, it is literally "to whom for a good?"

[edit] See also

• Dative case