quod

Quod is a Latin word that serves as both a relative pronoun and a conjunction. It is the neuter singular form of the relative pronoun series qui, quae, quod, and it means “that,” “which,” or “what.” It introduces relative clauses and can refer to a neuter antecedent or to a whole idea expressed in a preceding clause.

As a relative pronoun, quod often appears in clauses that identify or explain something. Examples: Hoc est quod video (“This is what I see”), Quod credis, falsum est (“What you believe is false”). The neuter form is used when the antecedent is neuter or when the reference is to a concept rather than a gendered noun.

As a conjunction, quod introduces content clauses, typically after verbs of saying, thinking, believing, or perceiving. In indirect discourse it yields “that” clauses: Dicit quod venit (“He says that he has come”). It also occurs in set phrases such as quod erat demonstrandum, the full form of Q.E.D., meaning “which had to be demonstrated.”

Form and syntax: quod is the neuter singular form used for nominative and accusative cases of the relative pronoun; other gender forms are qui (masc) and quae (fem). Its position in a sentence follows ordinary Latin word order and it functions to connect a noun or idea to a qualifying clause.

See also: Latin grammar; relative pronouns; indirect discourse; Q.E.D.