brutus

Thân thiện

Brutus stands in the Roman Senate, holding a scroll.

Definition

Proper noun A historical figure from ancient Rome, Marcus Junius Brutus, primarily known for his role as a leading conspirator in the assassination of Julius Caesar. He is often depicted as a symbol of republican idealism and tragic betrayal.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Brutus was a senator of the Roman Republic.
  • The phrase "Et tu, Brute?" is famously attributed to Caesar upon seeing Brutus among his assassins.
  • Historians debate whether Brutus was motivated by principle or personal ambition.

Advanced Usage

• "Brutus" as an archetype: Used to represent a trusted friend or ally who commits a profound betrayal.
  • In the political scandal, the minister was called a modern Brutus by the press.

Variants and Related Words

• Brutish (adj): Though etymologically related to "Brutus," its modern meaning is 'savage' or 'animal-like,' not directly descriptive of the historical figure.
• Brutalism (n): An architectural style; the connection to Brutus is indirect, through the root word implying heaviness and austerity.

Synonyms

• Conspirator
• Assassin (specifically in the context of Caesar's death)
• Republican (in the Roman historical context, opposing the shift to empire)

Idioms and Phrases

• "Et tu, Brute?": A Latin phrase meaning "And you, Brutus?" or "You too, Brutus?" Used to express shock and profound betrayal by someone considered a close friend.
  • When his business partner sided with the rival company, he could only think, "Et tu, Brute?"

Học thuật

Noun

1. statesman of ancient Rome who (with Cassius) led a conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar (85-42 BC)

Từ đồng nghĩa

• Brutus
• Marcus Junius Brutus