The direct object of the second declension will have a different ending from the direct object of the first declension. That’s why Latin can be so challenging.

The singular accusative (direct object) of the second declension will have a -um ending

Cervus campum dēlet. (dēlēre = to destroy. campus = camp, field)

Since “campum” ends in -um, you can guess that this is the direct object. So “cervus” must be the nominative. Hence, the sentence will mean “The deer is destroying the field/camp” .

The plural accusative of the second declension will end in -ōs

Cervus campōs dēlet.

This time, “campōs” ends in -ōs not -um. This is because “campōs” is in the plural. As a result, the sentence will have the meaning, “The deer is destroying the fields/camps”.

Now try translating these sentences :

(1) Magistrī librōs habent. (liber = book. magister = teacher. habēre = to have)

(2)  Virum amāmus.

(3) Deum nōn parētis. (pārēre = to obey. deus = god)

Here are the answers :

(1) The teachers have books.

(2) We love the man.

(3) You all are not obeying the god.