differre

Differre is a Latin verb with multiple related meanings centered on the notions of carrying apart, delaying, and differing. The root conveys motion or change in relation to a point of reference, and the prefixed form helps express time, relation, or comparison.

In classical Latin, differre is most commonly used to mean to delay or postpone an action, to defer a decision, or to set something aside for a later time. It is also used in the sense of carrying or bringing something away from one place to another, in the sense of distributing or differentiating parts. A further sense is to differ from another thing or person, that is, to be unlike, or to vary in quality, amount, or opinion. The verb often appears with prepositions to mark the kind of difference: for example, with an ablative to indicate difference from someone or something, or with a phrase indicating variation in a matter.

In Latin later and in related Romance languages, differre developed into cognate verbs that retain the core ideas of delay and difference. The noun differentia (difference) and the adjective differenceus (different) derive from the same root. The sense of "to differ" in opinion or assessment is common in philosophical, rhetorical, and legal texts, where authors contrast two positions, standards, or outcomes.

Usage notes and grammar are typically found in Latin dictionaries and grammars, which treat differre as a versatile, irregular member of the verb stock. Its exact inflected forms and preferred constructions can vary by author and period, so consulting a comprehensive reference is advised for precise conjugation and usage.