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Latin Language

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  • Do you want a fairly straightforward translation, or just a way for Latin to express that sentiment? If the latter, does it matter if it's authentic?
    – cmw ♦
    Commented May 23, 2021 at 22:15
  • @cmw Thanks for your comment. I suppose the latter would be more appropriate if a direct translation wouldn't express the sentiment. Please could you explain what you mean by authentic?
    – Rocco
    Commented May 23, 2021 at 22:20
  • By authentic, I mean do you want that expression or something very similar to actually be found in Latin writings from the period in which people spoke and wrote Latin as a primary language.
    – cmw ♦
    Commented May 23, 2021 at 22:33
  • 3
    It's artfully phrased in English: to have [it] one's way is to get one's desired outcome, and the way the construction is normally used the subject and the possessive pronoun refer to the same actor (I have my way; he has his way). So after others have you expect their way, but instead get your way; this is unexpected and subtle, alluding to the character of a diplomat who can get their desired outcome without those they are negotiating with realising it – indeed the others feel they've gotten what they wanted, but it is in fact what you wanted.
    – dbmag9
    Commented May 27, 2021 at 13:23
  • 1
    @dbmag9 Thank you so much for your comment, it excellently explains the artistic nature of the phrase - something I failed to do in my original question! I've included a summarised version of this in my question which I hope you don't mind. Hopefully the explanation will allow a more accurate Latin translation be suggested with the meaning in mind.
    – Rocco
    Commented May 28, 2021 at 15:01

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