A priori, et cetera, a posteriori, alter ego, ad hoc, nota bene, mea culpa, etc.
You might have heard some Latin in your time; even as an English speaker, the roots of our language share common ground with the written and spoken language of ancient Rome.
As a result, the Latin proverb has in many cases become one of the default ways of displaying one’s wisdom or intellect in conversation or scholarly musings.
We have picked some of the most beautiful Latin language phrases, some used often, others much more rarely, which we've broken down in these categories:
- Latin phrases about fate and time
- Latin phrases about life
- Latin phrases about death
- Latin phrases about strength
- Latin phrases of advice
- Latin phrases about love
- Philosophical Latin phrases
See how many of these you already know!
Summary of Key Latin Phrases and Sayings
| Category | Latin Quote | Translation | Meaning/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fate and Time | Alea jacta est | The die is cast | Indicates passing a point of no return. |
| Fate and Time | Vulnerant omnes, ultima necat | They all wound and the last kills | Emphasizes the inevitability of death. |
| Fate and Time | Memento mori | Remember that you will die | Reminder of human mortality. |
| Fate and Time | Tempus fugit | Time flies | An acknowledgment of the swift passage of time. |
| Fate and Time | Per aspera ad astra | Through hardships to the stars | Achieving greatness despite difficulties. |
| Inspirational | Audaces fortuna juvat | Fortune favors the bold | Encourages bravery and taking risks. |
| Inspirational | Carpe diem | Seize the day | Encourages living in the present moment. |
| Inspirational | Dum spiro, spero | While I breathe, I hope | Expresses persistent hope. |
| Inspirational | Fortis fortuna adiuvat | Fortune favors the brave | Similar to 'Audaces fortuna juvat'; encourages bravery. |
| About Life | Ad vitam aeternam | To eternal life | Refers to eternal life, often with a religious context. |
| About Life | Aurea mediocritas | The golden mean | Advocates for a balanced and moderate life. |
| About Life | Labor omnia vincit | Work conquers all | Highlights the value of hard work. |
| About Life | Beati pauperes spiritu | Blessed in spirit (are) the poor | Commends spiritual over material wealth. |
| About Life | Amicus Plato sed major amicus veritas | Plato is my friend, but the truth is a better friend | Prioritises truth over loyalty to individuals. |
| About Life | Errare humanum est | To err is human | Acknowledges that making mistakes is human nature. |
| About Life | Nosce te ipsum | Know thyself | Emphasises self-awareness and understanding. |
| About Life | Acta non verba | Actions, not words | Encourages valuing deeds over promises. |
| Wisdom | Quae sunt Caesaris, Caesari | That which is Caesar's, to Caesar | Distinguishes between secular and divine responsibilities. |
| Wisdom | Cogito, ergo sum | I think, therefore I am | Asserts existence through the act of thinking. |
| Wisdom | Ex nihilo nihil | Nothing comes from nothing | Expresses the principle that nothing can be created from nothing. |
| Wisdom | Mens sana in corpore sano | A healthy mind in a healthy body | Promotes physical and mental well-being. |
| Wisdom | Homo homini lupus | A man is a wolf to another man | Reflects on human nature as self-destructive. |
| Wisdom | In vino veritas | In wine, there is truth | Suggests that people speak the truth under the influence of alcohol. |
| Love | Amor vincit omnia | Love conquers all | Emphasizes the power of love. |
| Love | Amor et melle et felle est fecundissimus | Love is rich with both honey and venom | Indicates that love has both sweet and bitter moments. |
| Love | Nunc scio quid sit amor | Now I know what love is | Expresses a realization or deep understanding of love. |
| Love | Amor gignit amorem | Love begets love | Emphasizes that love breeds more love. |
| Love | Ubi amor, ibi dolor | Where there is love, there is pain | Highlights the connection between love and pain. |
| Philosophical | Deus ex machina | God from the machine | Unexpected intervention resolving a situation. |
| Philosophical | Fluctuat nec mergitur | (She) is tossed by the waves but doesn't sink | Symbolises resilience and endurance. |
| Philosophical | Ave, Imperator, morituri te salutant | Hail, Emperor, those who are about to die salute you | Gladiators' salute to the emperor before combat. |
| Philosophical | Habeas corpus | That you have the body | Legal term ensuring individual freedom from arbitrary detention. |
| Philosophical | Veto | I forbid | Denotes opposition to a decision, often in a political context. |
| Philosophical | Veni, vidi, vici | I came, I saw, I conquered | Famous declaration of swift victory. |
| Philosophical | Semper fidelis | Always faithful | Motto of commitment and loyalty. |
| Philosophical | Panem et circenses | Bread and circuses | Criticizes appeasement of the public with superficial pleasures. |
Latin Phrases About Fate and Time
It’s not uncommon for Latin language phrases to reference the themes of fate, destiny and the inevitable march of time, which we must all reconcile as we go through life.
The mythos of Latin-speaking cultures live on today in the phrases that we often parrot in our day-to-day lives.
“Audaces fortuna juvat”: Fortune favours the bold
Adapted from Virgil's Aeneid, this proverb, also expressed as “Fortune favours the brave” and “Fortune favours the strong”, encourages us to force a change and brave the difficulties. It is unsurprising that historically this phrase has often been used in a military context. “Fortuna” in English refers to luck or its personification, a Roman goddess.
Audacity, however, is not always synonymous with success, but like all proverbs, you must know how to use it wisely.
Nevertheless, this is up there with some of the coolest Latin phrases, and many people use it to this day to inspire confidence in themselves and their peers.
"Fortuna caeca est" – Fortune is blind
This Latin expression reflects on the randomness and unpredictability of fate. Originating from Roman thought, it suggests that good or bad fortune is often distributed without regard for merit or effort. Philosophers such as Boethius explored this idea in The Consolation of Philosophy, highlighting how the wise person should not rely on luck but cultivate inner virtues and resilience.
“Alea jacta est”: The die is cast
Certainly one of the most famous Latin quotes. These are the words uttered by Caesar when crossing the Rubicon with his army, in spite of the fact that a Roman law stipulated that he had to discharge his soldiers before crossing the river.
By disrespecting this order, Caesar was brought into conflict with the Roman Senate. The government considered his actions an insurrection, treason, and declaration of war. The idiom “crossing the Rubicon” is also used in English to suggest passing a point of no return. Another way of phrasing this is with the popular expression “come what may”.
Another way of thinking of this saying is as the Latin words for best or worst… it’s happened now, so we have to go along with it.
We could have chosen from many Latin war phrases, but this one is one of the most poignant.
“Deus ex machina”: God from the machine
Of all the mottos in Latin on this list, “Deus ex machina” is possibly the most well known due to its constant appearance in our critique of media.
Originally a translation of a Greek expression, it makes reference to the theatre and the intervention of gods or goddesses, brought over the stage using special equipment. The divine intervention solved all the problems at the end of the play.
Nowadays, the expression is used when a situation is resolved thanks to an element that was unexpected until that moment. The expression is often used pejoratively for an incredible miracle which is poorly integrated into a story to make a happy ending.
“Vulnerant omnes, ultima necat”: They all wound and the last kills
We tend to love Latin phrases in Latin that imply a dark truth; this is one of the best examples of a quote that does exactly that.
This Latin expression is often inscribed on old sundials or public clocks. It is a way of remembering the passing of time and that every hour could be someone's last.
It teaches us to value our time and reminds us that we are not immune to the effects of time.
The Latin word for health is "salus." It encompasses not only physical health but also safety, well-being, and welfare. In ancient Roman texts, salus often referred to both individual health and the collective health or safety of a community or state.
Latin Phrases About Life
As English speakers, we love Latin phrases about love and life that inspire us and keep us moving through our trials and tribulations. What follows are some cases of Latin phrases that have inspired and emboldened people, both past and present.
“Ave, Imperator, morituri te salutant”: Hail, Emperor, those who are about to die salute you
These words were chanted by the gladiators in front of the Imperial Box before the start of the Games, according to Suetonius. The Romans loved the Circus Games, especially the very bloody fighting of death row prisoners, slaves, or even voluntary barbarians.
If the gladiator lost, it was the public who decided whether he lived or died by lowering or raising their thumb. The motto recalls the pride of the gladiators, who had only one thing to save: their lives.
Compared with other languages, a Latin quote about death is certainly sure to send a shiver down the spines of those who hear it. You can tell a Latin quote refers to death because in Latin words, death is represented by ‘mor’ such as in this quote and “Memento mori”.
The Latin word for power is "potentia", which refers to ability, might, or influence. Another key term is "imperium", used in political and military contexts to mean command, authority, or sovereign power. Meanwhile, "auctoritas" relates more to moral authority or prestige—the kind of influence one earns through respect rather than force. Each word reflects a different aspect of how the Romans understood and exercised power.
“Ad vitam aeternam”: To eternal life
We can swear a love or friendship "ad vitam aeternam", one that is forever and ever.
However, this phrase isn’t always interpreted as exclusively Latin love words.
According to beliefs and traditions, this proverb is rather pessimistic, as it implies that we are dead. Indeed, eternal life is linked to Paradise for worthy Christians or eternal hell for sinners. Another way of translating this phrase is "to life everlasting".
Discover the best dictionaries for translating Latin…
"Dum spiro, spero" – While I breathe, I hope
This optimistic Latin phrase captures the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. "Dum spiro, spero" reminds us that as long as we are alive, there is always a possibility for change, growth, or recovery. Often used to convey resilience and perseverance, it reflects a mindset that refuses to give in to despair. Whether facing personal challenges or larger struggles, this phrase encourages hope as a vital force that sustains life itself.
"Fluctuat nec mergitur”: (She) is tossed by the waves but doesn't sink
A motto used by the city of Paris since 1358 by the Guild of Boatsmen along the river Seine. At a time when access to the open sea was crucial for the city, boats were the most effective means of transport.
It became the official motto of Paris in 1853, it accompanies the ship on the coat of arms of Paris. Henri Tausin explains perfectly why this motto was chosen.
The motto recalls “the dangers that Paris has seen, the terrible revolutions that have agitated it, the crises of all kinds it has suffered” and expresses “the idea of vitality, strength, perpetuity that characterises the long and glorious existence of this city.”
This is not the only example of a large group of people using Latin phrases for love of someone or something, but it is definitely a good one.
Learn all about the languages derived from Latin…
Latin Phrases About Death And Loss
Death was a recurring theme in Roman philosophy, poetry, and religion. The Latin language captures mortality with both poetic reflection and philosophical clarity. These latin phrases about loss remind us of the inevitability of death, encouraging us to value life and live meaningfully.
"Memento mori "– Remember you must die.
A classic reminder from Stoic and Christian traditions, urging us to keep our mortality in mind. Far from morbid, it serves as motivation to live each day with purpose and humility.
"Post mortem nihil est, ipsaque mors nihil" – After death, there is nothing, and death itself is nothing.
Attributed to Seneca, this phrase expresses a serene view of death as the absence of sensation and fear. A comforting thought for those who embrace life’s transient nature.
"Mors ultima linea rerum est "– Death is everything’s final limit.
From the Roman poet Horace, this line presents death as the unavoidable conclusion of all things. It’s a poignant reflection on the impermanence of even the grandest achievements.
"Pallida mors aequo pulsat pede pauperum tabernas regumque turres"– Pale death knocks with impartial foot at the huts of the poor and the towers of kings.
Another gem from Horace, this phrase underlines the universal reach of death. It comes for all—rich or poor—without discrimination.
Latin Phrases About Strength
Romans greatly admired inner fortitude, resilience, and bravery in the face of adversity. These phrases encapsulate the idea that strength comes not just from power, but from courage, perseverance, and virtue.
The most common Latin word for strength is "virtus", which originally meant manliness or valour in Roman times. Over time, it came to signify moral excellence, courage, and inner strength. Another word, "fortitudo", refers more specifically to physical strength or fortitude—resilience in the face of hardship. Both terms were highly valued in Roman philosophy, especially in Stoic thought.
"Fortes fortuna adiuvat" – Fortune favors the brave
Often cited in military contexts, this phrase celebrates bravery and risk-taking. It suggests that those who act boldly are more likely to be rewarded, not because luck randomly chooses them, but because courage creates opportunities. In Roman culture, this idea reflected the belief that fortune is not passive—it responds to decisive action. The phrase was famously used by Pliny the Elder before embarking on his ill-fated rescue mission during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
"Per aspera ad astra" – Through hardships to the stars
A powerful metaphor for strength in adversity. It implies that the most rewarding outcomes are reached through struggle and determination.
"Nil desperandum" – Never despair
A short but impactful phrase meaning there is always hope, no matter how dire the situation. It's ideal for moments that call for resilience.
"Virtus in arduis" – "Courage in difficulties"
This phrase honours the strength it takes to face life's challenges head-on. True virtue, it suggests, is revealed not in ease but in hardship.
Latin Phrases of Advice
Some of the best Latin words are Latin words for success and the associated advice that they can impart to their recipients.
Hopefully, reading some of these famous Roman quotes might fill you with ‘fortitudo’ (Bravery in Latin).
“Amicus Plato sed major amicus veritas”: Plato is my friend, but the truth is a better friend
You might have expected to see some famous quotes from Plato, but did you expect to see one about him?
This is a quote from Aristotle, found in his book Nicomachean Ethics. As a disciple of Plato, he was a great admirer of the philosopher. However, despite his admiration, he did not blindly follow the words of his master but dared to question his teaching in order to come closer to the truth.
Today, these words can be used by any person questioning or taking a stand against their teacher.
"Aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem" – Remember to keep a calm mind in difficult times
Also from Horace’s Odes, this phrase is rooted in Stoic values. It encourages emotional balance and rational control, especially during hardship. The message is to remain steady—neither overjoyed by success nor crushed by misfortune—embodying the ideal of ataraxia, or serene detachment from external events.
“Aurea mediocritas”: The golden mean
Taken from the Odes of Horace, a Latin poet, these verses are not as pejorative as one might think. The “golden mean” or “golden middle way” implies that one should be content to lead a peaceful life without the hassle and worry that opulence would bring.
Excess of any variety is seen as dangerous, life is therefore about finding the right balance. This proverb is similar to the more commonly used phrase in English “a happy medium”.
“Beati pauperes spiritu”: Blessed in spirit (are) the poor
The seventh verse from the Sermon on the Mount (Gospel according to Matthew, V, 3) and the seventh Beatitude, today these words commend those that succeed without intelligence. The phrase teaches us to be poor in the economic sense rather than a spiritual sense by learning to detach oneself from worldly goods.
Have you wondered about the origins of the Latin alphabet?
There isn’t one direct word in Latin that exactly means successful as in modern English. However, "felix" (meaning fortunate, happy, or blessed) and "prosperus" (prosperous or favorable) are often used to describe someone enjoying success. For achievements or outcomes, the phrase "res secundae" means favourable circumstances or successes. Romans viewed success as closely tied to luck, virtue, and divine favor.
“Carpe diem”: Seize the day
From a poem by Horace, the complete phrase is “carpe diem quam minimum credula postero”, literally meaning “be the least credulous possible for the next day”. It is generally translated into English as “live in the present without worrying about tomorrow” to keep the poetic genre.
Horace was known to be an epicurean and therefore enjoyed the pleasures life had to offer him. This same idea comes up in Ronsard's poems, and in particular Sonnets for Helen: “Gather today the roses of life”. It can be interpreted as an incentive to enjoy every moment of such a short human existence.
“Errare humanum est”: To err is human
The complete phrase is "errare humanum est, persevare diabolicum", which means "to err is human, but to persist in error (out of pride) is diabolical". It is often attributed to Seneca, but it is known to have existed before.
It is a philosophical maxim to forgive the mistakes made by humans who are not perfect. However, the maxim is also about understanding our errors, so we can improve. The second part explains this point well: being stubborn about your errors is inexcusable.
The maxim can be compared to the writing of a more recent author, John Powell, who says that "the only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing".
How well do you know your Latin declensions?
“Nosce te ipsum”: Know thyself
Translated from ancient Greek, this expression is one of the three precepts engraved at the entrance of the temple of Delphi and the oldest according to Plato.
It is a sacred formula of humanism that requires man to become aware of his own existence and consciousness. “Know Thyself” invites you to get to know one another better and be aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
A rather complex sentence, which stresses the importance of knowing the Latin declensions by heart!
Latin Words of Wisdom
As we mentioned in the beginning, Latin is often a language of academic prestige and a sign of intelligence. It should therefore come as no surprise that many Latin quotes contain age-old wisdom that still holds true to this day.
“Quae sunt Caesaris, Caesari”: That which is God's, to God; that which is Caesar's, to Caesar
If you’re a Christian, this is possibly one of the best quotes in Latin that you can use to impart Jesus’ teaching. It is used to say that we must recognise the responsibility of a gesture to a person, whether positive or negative.
According to the Gospel, it was Jesus who said "Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's" after the Pharicians asked him if they should pay the tax.
Habeas corpus: that you have the body
Latin phrases love to be short and sweet, but they are often abbreviated from longer passages.
The full Latin phrase is "that you have the person for the purpose of subjecting him/her to (examination)" (habeas corpus ad subjiciendum). It is an Anglo-Saxon institution that serves to guarantee the individual freedom of citizens by protecting him/her against arbitrary arrests.
Voted in 1679 in England, the Habeas Corpus Act is a reaction to attempts at monarchical absolutism.
“Homo homini lupus”: A man is a wolf to another man
“Man is wolf to man” means that man is his own worst enemy. This Latin quote is often used in Latin class.
We see it used for the first time by Plautus in his comedy Asinaria.
From a philosophical point of view, it is a pessimistic view of man, an unscrupulous, selfish and individualistic being, who does not hesitate to destroy others for his own success.
“Veto”: I forbid
Authority alone does not lend value to an idea… Hence, the ‘veto’.
Originally, the veto was a way of opposing a magistrate, regardless of rank, or a decision of the Roman Senate.
Today, the term still denotes opposition to a decision. It is used by the United Nations Security Council for countries contesting decisions. If a country exercises their veto power, the proposal is rejected.
You will find similar quotes in the dozens of Latin languages used throughout the world today!
Check for Latin teacher on Superprof.
Latin Phrases About Love
Love is a central part of human existence. In its many forms and expressions, it's a timeless and universal theme that has been explored extensively in Latin literature and philosophy, from Ovid's Ars Amatoria to Virgil's Eclogues. With its poetic elegance and depth, Latin offers a rich repository of phrases that capture the essence of love, illustrating its power, complexity, and enduring nature.
Latin expressions of love range from the romantic and passionate to the wise and reflective, revealing how deeply the Romans valued emotional connection.
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The Latin word for love is “amor,” which is a masculine noun meaning love, affection, or passion. The verb form is “amare,” which means “to love.” Both are commonly used in classical Latin texts to express feelings of romantic or deep affection.
"Ad vitam aeternam": To Eternal Life
This Latin phrase about love captures the timeless and enduring nature of love. It expresses how love is not confined by time, promising an everlasting bond in the mortal realm. The eternal aspect of live is indeed a recurring theme in Roman poetry and philosophy, reflecting the importance placed on loyalty and devotion.
"Amor vincit omnia": Love conquers all
This phrase, derived from Virgil's Eclogues, encapsulates the omnipotent force of love, capable of overcoming any obstacle. It reflects the Roman belief in the transformative power of love, which can transcend social, political, and personal barriers. This idea is mirrored in countless stories and poems from ancient Rome, where love often emerges as a central, driving force.
"Amor tussisque non celantur" – Love and a cough cannot be hidden
This witty and insightful Latin proverb speaks to the undeniable visibility of love. Just as a cough eventually betrays itself, so too does love—no matter how hard one tries to conceal it. The phrase humorously captures the idea that emotions, particularly love, have a way of revealing themselves through actions, expressions, or even silence. It reminds us that love is a powerful force that naturally surfaces, often when we least expect or intend it to.
Amor animi arbitrio sumitur, non ponitur – “We choose to love, we do not choose to stop.”
This elegant phrase highlights the involuntary and enduring nature of true love. While we may consciously enter into love, we cannot simply turn it off at will. The Romans understood that love, once rooted in the soul, has a will of its own—often defying logic or reason.
Ubi amor, ibi oculus – “Where there is love, there is sight.”
This phrase plays on the idea that love opens our eyes to beauty, truth, and understanding. Love sharpens perception and changes the way we see the world—and each other. It's a gentle reminder that love reveals rather than blinds.
In amore veritas – “In love, there is truth.”
A twist on the more familiar in vino veritas (in wine, there is truth), this saying suggests that love brings honesty to the surface. In matters of the heart, true feelings are laid bare, often more so than in words alone.
Philosophical Latin Phrases
Philosophers are prized for their ability to not only observe and make sense of the metaphysical, but also for their ability to eloquently word their insights so that the common rabble can understand their intricate conclusions.
Below are both famous examples of the observation and simplification of truth in our lives.
“Cogito, ergo sum”: I think, therefore I am
This quote is a Latin philosophical proposition coined by René Descartes in his Discourse of Method (1637) and appeared originally in French in the original French “je pense, donc je suis”. This idea is also referred to as “the cogito”.
The idea is that existence is the only certainty that resists any doubt. Only the existence of the thinking human being is certain at the beginning. Descartes taught to completely reform knowledge.
"Memento mori" – Remember you must die
This phrase is a central idea in Stoic and Christian philosophy. Memento mori reminds us of our mortality—not to inspire fear, but to encourage reflection, humility, and purposeful living. By accepting the inevitability of death, we’re urged to live more fully, make meaningful choices, and value each moment. It’s a call to align our actions with what truly matters.
"Veritas vos liberabit" – The truth will set you free
This phrase emphasizes the liberating power of truth—intellectual, moral, or spiritual. While widely known through its biblical usage (John 8:32), it also resonates with philosophical ideals from Socratic to Enlightenment thought. It suggests that freedom—whether from ignorance, illusion, or control—begins with a commitment to truth and understanding.
Ex nihilo nihil: Nothing comes from nothing
These verses are attributed to Lucretius and were taken up by Voltaire in his book Philosophical Dictionary. Speaking of dictionaries, have you ever thought of consulting an English-Latin dictionary to help you with your revision?
The complete phrase is “ex nihilo nihil, in nihilum posse reverti”, which means “nothing comes from nothing, nothing can revert to nothing”. Nothing can be created or destroyed.
In English, the meaning has evolved far from the original translation: “He that wills the end wills the means”. If you are determined to do something, you will find a way.
“Panem and circenses”: bread and circuses
Literally “bread and circus games”, the Latin expression denounces the distribution of bread during games in order to attract the good graces of the people. The expression is taken from Juvenal's Satire X.
Today, it is used to show the skewed relationship between people who are satisfied with “bread and games” without worrying about larger issues and the political powers that may be tempted to exploit these trends in the short term.
Now that we've explored some of the most powerful Latin quotes, you might start to notice them more in your everyday life! Covering universal themes, such as fate and time, inspiration, wisdom, love and the meaning of life, the ubiquity of these quotes demonstrates the enduring impact of the Latin language on culture and modern thought and expression.
For more information about the enduring impact of the Latin language and the value of learning Latin, check out this Ted Talk by Ryan Sellers.
Now get the answers to every question about Latin you've ever had…
Check out our other articles in the Superprof blog if you want to know more about Latin or other subjects!
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True Penance
Latin is a language
As hard as it can be.
You can speak it to your neighbor,
You can speak it to a tree,
Neither will understand you,
No, not in the least;
That is, unless your neighbor
Is a Roman Catholic priest.
Then you can tell him
MEA CULPA, MEA CULPA,
MEA MAXIMA CULPA:
That Latin confess’nal sentence;
And he’ll tell you go and sin no more
And read some Latin as your penance.
-by hardy parkerson, j.d.
lake charles, la, usa
this is good
Hi Ashley! Thanks for your positive feedback, great to hear that you found this article useful!
Very nice phrases. I will use them when convenient.
A great thought provoking taster.
I think panem and circenses should be panem ET circenses. Correct? If you have time, feel free to let me know. Also, you may have added gnothe sauton, know yourself, attributed to Socrates (perhaps not original), as quoted by Platon (means “wide” in English, shortened to Plato, birth name Aristocles, “glory of the best”, as in Heracles, Cleon, and aristocracy).
Could anyone help with the definition of the following phrase;
usurpatur de iis opinionibus quae communi hominum consensu comprobantur
it is used of those opinions which are confirmed by the common consent of men
Really useful and entraining. I am now going to test my husbands Latin knowledge!!
Ali Lloyd
Thank you for compiling these. I miss using some of them and enjoyed the others!
You need to have. Don’t let the b’kkTards grind you down. My dad taught me it but I’ve forgotten bits of it
Nil illegitimo carborundum.
Hi Bruce! Thanks for the suggestion! This would be a great quote to add to the article :)
Learnt Latin at school. So useful in everyday life as words can often be broken down to provide meaning. So pleased to have had the opportunity to learn this beautiful so called ‘dead language’.
That’s wonderful to hear! Latin indeed offers a rich foundation for understanding many modern languages and enhances vocabulary comprehension. It’s great that you’ve found it useful and appreciated the opportunity to study it.
Barba non facit philosophum
A beard does not constitute a philosopher
Amazing
Thanks for the lovely feedback!
Vad betyder Habet sua sidera tellus
Hi there! 😊 ‘Habet sua sidera tellus’ means: ‘The earth has its own stars.’ It’s a poetic phrase that can be interpreted to mean that every place or person has its own unique destiny or path to follow. 🌟✨
on my catholic school blazer and hat badge in the 1960s were the initials ‘ V ‘ and ‘ K ‘ what is the meaning
Hi Chris!
The initials ‘V’ and ‘K’ on your Catholic school blazer and hat badge likely had specific significance tied to the identity, values, or motto of your school. Here are a few possibilities:
School Name or Latin Motto:
The initials could represent a Latin motto or the name of the school. For example:
‘V’ might stand for Virtus (virtue) or Veritas (truth).
‘K’ could stand for Karitas (charity) or the name of a saint, school, or location starting with ‘K.’
Thank you for your research and scholarship.
My father learned Latin at prep school circa 1915.
He tried to teach me, but I was too young to understand.
Now, I’m retired, and sadly, too old to absorb a new language. But I enjoyed the Latin quotes tremendously !
Hi Frances. Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for sharing such a personal memory. It’s wonderful to hear about your father’s experience with Latin and his efforts to pass it on to you—it’s a beautiful connection across generations.
Excellent summary – Latin is to the point, logical, and the foundation for much of the English language and is still used in Law and the botanical sciences.
Hi Anthony! Thanks for the feedback, great to hear that you found this article useful! Wishing you all the best :)
Hi Vanessa,
Thank you for publishing my comment.
I have down loaded your excellent list of Latin phrases to add to my first list in my Book of words. The book is designed to document and extend my English and Latin vocabulary and assist memory
I have been fascinated by the actual link between Latin and English . I have only just discovered that some 60% of English words have Latin roots.
If only they had introduced Latin at school not by rules of grammar that switch students off, but historically relevant and life related phrases Such as Bona fiides, Quantum Meruit, Pro rata, Prima facie, Alea iacta est such as when Julius Caesar’crossed the Rubicon I would have paid more attention.
Kind regards Anthony.
Sapere aude,
Hello Anthony,
Thank you for your thoughtful comment! It’s wonderful to hear that you’ve found the list of Latin phrases useful and that you’re incorporating them into your Book of Words—what a fantastic way to expand both your English and Latin vocabulary!
Latin’s influence on English is indeed fascinating, and I completely agree that learning it through historically relevant and real-life phrases makes it far more engaging. Context brings language to life, and phrases like Alea iacta est carry such powerful historical significance. If only more language education embraced this approach!
I truly appreciate you sharing your enthusiasm for language and etymology. Sapere aude indeed—keep exploring and enjoying your linguistic journey!
It’s a great time for me to say thank you for such wonderful maxims that enables us to perfect our speech greatly here in uganda. We appreciate you for that, kindly I’m definitely called Francis from Uganda.
Hello Francis!
Thank you so much for your kind words, I’m so glad to hear that you’ve found the article useful!