350+ Latin Quotes, Sayings, And Phrases For Daily Inspiration
Story by:
Kyle Boureston
Published: July 11, 2017
| Updated: November 27, 2025
Latin quotes are ideal for those seeking to inject cleverness, intellect, and refinement into their discussions. The ancient Romans were famous for their wisdom, eloquence, and erudition. Therefore, integrating Latin expressions into your talks can establish a lasting, cultured impression.
If you’re aiming to make a timeless and elegant impact in your conversations, whether in the workplace or at home, you’re in the right spot. This collection gathers 350+ Latin quotes with plain-English meanings you can use in speeches, captions, tattoo ideas, or as a personal motto. Start with a few favorites, keep them close, and use them when it counts. Let’s dive in!
Best Latin Quotes (Editor’s Picks)
These Latin quotes are the classics of the classics. Below, you’ll find some of the best lines ever uttered in any language, and often, these were uttered by some of the coolest dudes in history:
- Amor Omnia Vincit
Love conquers all. – Virgil, Eclogues X
The ultimate romantic line, making people swoon for millennia. This is one of the best Latin sayings! - Vivamus, Moriendum Est.
Let us live, since we must die.
One of the most powerful Latin quotes. - Alea Iacta Est.
The die is cast.
One of the most famous Latin quotes in history. - Flectere si nequeo superos, Acheronta movebo
If I can not bend the will of Heaven, I shall move Hell. – Virgil
When moving Heaven and Earth just isn’t enough. - Condemnant quo non intellegunt.
They condemn that which they do not understand.
A constant failing of humanity, one of the greatest Latin sayings. - Acceptissima semper munera sunt, auctor quae pretiosa facit.
Those gifts are always the most acceptable, which our love for the donor makes precious.
All gifts welcome. - Oderint dum metuant
Let them hate so long as they fear. – Caligula
Long before Machiavelli, Caligula knew what power was all about. - Imperium in imperio.
An empire within an empire.
When one group really separates from the others. - Audentes fortuna iuvat.
Fortune favors the bold. – Virgil
Repeat every time you go flirt with the hottest girl in the room. - Divitae bonum non sunt
Material wealth is not the one good. – Seneca
Makes you feel better for driving that rundown car, right? - Non fortuna homines aestimabo, sed moribus
I do not estimate the men for their fortune, but for their habits. – Seneca
Show your quality in how you behave. - Pars magna bonitatis est velle fieri bonum
Much of goodness consists in wanting to be good. – Seneca
Good news for those of us trying to be good guys. - Hic manebimus optime!
“Here we will stay, most excellently! – Livius
When you’ve found that perfect table at the bar. - Homo sum humani a me nihil alienum puto
I am a human being, so nothing human is strange to me. – Terentius
We all have that strangeness inside. - Animus risu novatur
The spirit is refreshed with laughter. – Cicero
A great line at the beginning of a night with friends. - Amicus certus in re incerta cernitur
One’s friends are known in the hour of need. – Ennius
Anyone who’s had an “hour of need” knows the truth of such Latin quotes. - Caeca invidia est
Envy is blind. – Livius
It’ll sneak up on us for any reason. - Cogito ergo sum
I think, therefore I am. – Descartes
One of the most famous Latin quotes of all time. - Aequam servare mentem
Keep the mind calm. – Horace
Your mantra before a big test or interview. - Crudelius est quam mori semper timere mortem
It is more cruel to always fear death than to die. – Seneca
The YOLO of the ancient world. - Mea mihi conscientia pluris est quam omnium sermo
My conscience is more to me than what the world says. – Cicero
Be who you are, not what people tell you to be. - Nimium ne crede colori
Trust not too much to looks. – Virgil
Wise counsel against being too superficial. - Tempus fugit
Time flies. – Virgil
And you don’t even have to be having fun. - Timendi causa est nescire
Ignorance is the cause of fear. – Seneca
Next time someone calls you a nerd, use this to put them in their place. - Condemnant quo non intellegunt.
They condemn that which they do not understand.
A constant failing of humanity, one of the greatest Latin sayings. - 26. Copia ciborum, subtilitas impeditur
The abundance of food hampers intelligence. – Seneca
Said by a man who clearly understood the danger of a buffet. - Veritas numquam perit
Truth never dies. – Seneca
A steady call to chase what is real. - Nemo malus felix
No evil is happy. – Juvenalis
A line to remember when wrongdoers seem to thrive. - Veni, vidi, vici
I came, I saw, I conquered. – Caesar
A victory cry carved into history. - Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori
It is sweet and fitting to die for your country. – Horace
A line meant to honor those who risk everything. - Ignis aurum probat, miseria fortes viros
Fire tests gold; misery tests strong men. – Ovid
A reminder that pressure shapes us. - Labor omnia vincit
Hard work conquers all. – Virgil
Words your parents might quote forever. - Qui totum vult totum perdit
He who wants everything loses everything. – Seneca
A quiet lesson in choosing wisely. - Vive memor leti
Live remembering death. – Flaccus
Morbid, but a nudge to live with intention. - Quam bene vivas refert, non quam diu
How well you live matters, not how long. – Seneca
A timeless expression of quality over quantity. - Noli foras ire, in teipsum redi
Do not wander outward; return to yourself. Inside you lives the truth. – Augustine
Strength for anyone trying to stay true to themselves. - Si vis amari, ama
If you wish to be loved, love. – Augustine
Gentle encouragement for the hesitant. - Vestis virum reddit
The clothes make the man. – Quintilian
A nudge to dress with care. - Amor animi arbitrio sumitur, non ponitur
We choose to love, but we cannot choose to stop loving. – Syrus
A truth felt in countless breakups. - Cui amat periculum in illo peribit
Whoever loves danger will perish by it. – Sirach
A warning fit for every reckless moment. - Odi et amo
I love and I hate. – Catullus
The eternal emotional contradiction. - Serva me, servabo te
Save me and I will save you. – Petronius
The mutual power of helping each other. - Aut viam inveniam aut faciam
I will find the way or make one. – Hannibal
A line for anyone facing resistance. - Nemo mortalium omnibus horis sapit
No mortal is wise at all times. – Pliny
A reminder that nobody gets it right every moment. - Fortis est non perturbari in rebus asperis
The strong do not falter in adversity. – Cicero
Hold steady through hardship. - Omne quod movetur ab alio movetur
Everything that moves is moved by something else. – Aquinas
A simple truth about connection and influence. - Amicitiae nostrae memoriam spero sempiternam fore
I hope the memory of our friendship will be everlasting. – Cicero
A line that belongs in every heartfelt goodbye. - Multi famam, conscientiam, pauci verentur
Many fear their reputation, few their conscience. – Pliny
Most worry about the wrong judge. - Optimum est pati quod emendare non possis
It is best to endure what you cannot change. – Seneca
A grounding phrase for life’s rough patches. - Leve fit, quod bene fertur, onus
The load is light if you carry it well. – Ovid
Perspective turns burdens into lessons. - Divide et impera
Divide and conquered. – Caesar
Advice for when life feels too full of big problems. - Fata volentem ducunt, nolentem trahunt
Fate leads the willing, and drags the unwilling. – Seneca
You’re going there anyway, so enjoy the ride! - Consuetudinis magna vis est
Old habits die hard. – Cicero
So be careful what habits you make. - Fere libenter homines, id quod volunt, credunt.
People almost always willingly believe what you want. – Caesar
The power of persuasion. - Imperare sibi maximum imperium est
To rule yourself is the ultimate power. – Seneca
Tape that on every willpower-defying sweet in the house. - Perfer et obdura; dolor hic tibi proderit olim
Be patient and tough, this pain will serve you one day. – Ovid
Broken-hearted, unemployed, or struggling, remember that it’s making you tougher. - Omnis ars naturae imitatio est
All art is but an imitation of nature. – Seneca
A necessary reminder when we get too invested in our favorite shows. - Exigo a me non ut optimis par sim sed ut malis melior
I require myself not to be equal to the best, but to be better than the bad. – Seneca
Set the right standards so you can meet them. - Mens sana in corpore sano
A sound mind in a sound body. – Juvenal
The ideal we should all aspire to. The Golden Rule in another form. - Aequam memento rebus in arduis servare mentem
In adversity, remember to keep an even mind. – Horace
Latin quotes love a man who keeps his head. - Sedit qui timuit ne non succederet
He who feared that he would not succeed sat still. – Horace
Get out there and try. It’s the only way you’ll ever succeed. - Forsan et haec olim meminisse iuvabit
Perhaps, one day, remembering even these things will bring pleasure. – Virgil
Consolation in the hard times. - Perfer et obdura, dolor hic tibi proderit olim
Be strong and endure, someday this pain will be useful to you. – Ovid
Live through it, and you’ll be stronger. - Dulce bellum inexpertis
War is sweet to the inexperienced. – Erasmus
Putting those calling for wars in their place. - Multo autem ad rem magis pertinet quallis tibi vide aris quam allis
It is much more important what you think of yourself, than what others think of you. – Seneca
Powerful advice for your self-esteem from two millennia ago. - Oportet esse ut vivas, non vivere ut edas
Should eat to live, not live to eat. – Cicero
So put down that extra piece of pizza. - Nunc est bibendum
Now we drink. – Horace
To be shouted out as you enter the bar. - Sapere aude
Dare to be wise. – Horace
Nerd motivation. - Vitiis nemo sine nascitur
No one is born without faults. – Horace
…including you. - Nescit vox miss reverti
The words can not return. – Horace
What you say when you can’t unsend a text or email. - Aegroto dum anima est, spes esse dicitur
As long as there is life there is hope for the ill one, it is said. – Cicero
Anyone who has known a sick loved one knows this. - Saepe ne utile quidem est scire quid futurum sit
Often it is not even advantageous to know what will be – Cicero
So stop trying to guess the future and live now. - Ubi concordia, ibi victoria
Where there is unity, there is the victory. – Syrus
Stick together when it gets tough. - Fallaces sunt rerum species
The appearances of things are deceptive. – Seneca
Don’t trust the shine. Look past the surface, truth usually hides underneath. - Et tu, Brute?
And you, Brutus?” last words of Caesar after being murdered by his friend; used today to convey utter betrayal
Still, the most popular of Latin quotes about betrayal. - Quam se ipse amans, sine rivale
By loving yourself, with no rival. – Cicero
Your greatest strength is your self-belief. - Ferae pericula quae vident fugiunt
The beasts flee the dangers they see. – Seneca
Be at least as smart as the beasts. - Vae victis
Woe to the conquered. – Brennu
Something to chant before a compeitive sports game. - Homo vitae commodatus non donatus est
Man’s life is lent, not given. – Syrus
None of us is entitled to another day, so use your time well.
There are days when motivation slips not because the goal is wrong, but because the words guiding you are not sharp enough to cut through the noise. For a refined set of prompts that expand past Latin and speak to focus, effort, and momentum, read our article Inspirational Quotes.
Latin Quotes about Wisdom and Knowledge
Wisdom is more than facts. It is the habit of seeing clearly, choosing well, and learning from what life teaches. The lines below carry the distilled judgment of scholars, statesmen, and Stoic thinkers; read them slowly and keep the ones that sharpen how you think.
- Vasa vana plurimum sonant
Empty pots make the most noise.
An epic putdown of fools in any era. - Historia magistra vitae et testis temporum
History is the teacher and witness of times.
A reminder to crack a history book sometimes. - Exitus Acta Probat.
The result justifies the deed
The ends justify the means. - Ad astra per aspera.
Through adversity to the stars.
Stay tough and reach your dreams. - Scientia ipsa potentia est
Knowledge itself is power.
So learn for its own sake. - Faber est suae quisque fortunae.
Every man is the artisan of his own fortune.
So craft the life you want to live. - Non ducor duco.
I am not led; I lead.
Forge your own path forward. - Pecunia, si uti scis, ancilla est; si nescis, domina
If you know how to use money, money is your slave; if you don’t, money is your master.
Put that in your wallet, so you think about all those impulse purchases before you make them. - In absentia lucis, Tenebrae vincunt.
In the absence of light, darkness prevails.
So, be the light! - Dum inter homines sumus, colamus humanitatem.
As long as we are among humans, let us be humane.
There is always a reason to be kind. - Disce quasi semper victurus vive quasi cras moriturus
Learn as if you’re always going to live; live as if tomorrow you’re going to die.
So study and go out and party! - Ad turpia virum bonum nulla spes invitat.
No expectation can allure a good man to the commission of evil.
Good men stay clear of evil, always. - Nullum magnum ingenium sine mixture dementia fuit.
There has been no great wisdom without an element of madness
So let your freak flag fly! You’re a genius! - Ut avertam oculos meos ad intendum
I close my eyes in order to see.
Real truth comes from a place deeper than basic observation. - Vir sapit qui pauca loquitur
That man is wise who talks little.
Better to be quiet and thoughtful than loud and foolish. - Respice, adspice, prospice
Examine the past, examine the present, examine the future.
There’s wisdom in all three directions. - Qui tacet consentire
Who is silent gives consent.
So speak up if you don’t like something! - Qui tacet consentire
Who is silent gives consent.
So speak up if you don’t like something! - Pessimum genus inimicorum laudantes
Flatterers are the worst type of enemies.
Suspicions of lavish compliments can be wise. - Parva leves capiunt animas
Small things occupy light minds.
Tell that to those who are always crying over spilled milk. - Mendacem memorem esse oportet
It is fitting that a liar should be a man of good memory.
Shout that when someone brings up some event from way in the past. - Scientia ac labore
(Knowledge through hard work)
You worked hard to get this nerdy! - Vino vendibili hedera non opus est
(A popular wine needs no ivy.)
If you’ve got what people want, you don’t have to dress it up. - Veritas liberabit
(The truth will make you free.)
Try this out next time someone you know is lying to you. - Verba volant, scripta manent
(Spoken words fly away, written words remain.)
It should be written above every English teacher’s chalkboard. - Barba tenus sapientes
(is literally said to be “wise as far as his beard”)
Sure, he looks clever, but it’s really all in the beard. - Barba non facit philosophum
(A beard does not make a philosopher.)
Maybe spend more time reading books than grooming the ‘stache. - Barba crescit caput nescit
(The beard grows, but the head doesn’t grow wiser.)
Latin quotes clearly have issues with fools with beards. - Corvus oculum corvi non eruit
(A crow will not pull out the eye of another crow.)
When they’re like, they don’t fight. - Experientia docet
(Experience teaches.)
It isn’t always pleasant, but we learn from the tough stuff. - Felicitas multos habet amicos
(Prosperity has many friends.)
Amazing how many people love you when you’ve got a bit of cash. - Nobilitat stultum vestis honesta virum
(Good clothes make a stupid man look noble.)
The power of a good shirt. - Quanti est sapere
(How desirable is wisdom or knowledge?)
A rare sentiment these days, but one worthy of repeating. - Saepe malum petitur, saepe bonum fugitur
(Evil is often sought, good is often shunned.)
The sad state of humanity. - Salva veritate
(With truth preserved.)
Words to cling to when you’re right and no one believes you. - Sapiens nihil affirmat quod non probat
(A wise man states as true nothing he does not prove.)
Great advice to stay quiet when you don’t know the answer. - Suum cuique
(To each his own.)
You already know the expression, now look clever using it in Latin. - Sumus quod sumus
(We are what we are)
Said by the Roman Popeye. - Actio personalis moritur cum persona
(Dead men do not sue.)
Probably the slogan of the Roman mafia. - Doscendo discimus
(By teaching, we learn)
Tell that to a teacher you love. - Memores acti prudentes futuri
(Mindful of what has been done, aware of what will be)
Always live in the past, present, and future. - Aut tace aut loquere meliora silentio
(Be quiet or say something better than silence)
Don’t just talk to hear your voice. - Omnes volumnus plus. Et plus, et plus et plurimus
(We all want more. And more, and more and much more.)
Muttered on the way to our fifth plate at the buffet. - Posside sapientiam, quia auro melior est
(Possessing wisdom is better than owning gold)
For all the poor book-lovers out there. - An dives sit omnes quærunt, nemo an bonus
(Every one inquires if he is rich; no one asks if he is good.)
A reminder of how often we think of our pocketbooks instead of our souls. - A solis ortu usque ad occasum
(From where the sun rises to where it sets.)
A mic drop response to “Did you have a long day?” - Difficilius est sarcire concordiam quam rumpere
(It is more difficult to restore harmony than sow dissension.)
It’s easier to break it than to fix it. - Etiam sanato vulnere cicatrix manet
(Though the wound is healed, a scar remains.)
When we hurt people, it never wholly goes away. - Errare humanum est
(It is human to err.)
None of us is perfect. - Laudari a viro laudato maxima est laus
(To be commended by a man of high repute is the greatest possible praise.)
It’s why we’re so eager for our heroes to like us. - Et ipsa scientia potestas est
(And knowledge itself, is power)
It’s still the secret to rising in the world. - Non qui parum habet, sed qui plus cupit, pauper est
(It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.)
Having a lot can be its own curse. - Malum sed mulliere, sed necessarium malum
(Women are evil, a necessary evil)
Spoken by ancient men complaining about their girlfriends. - Multa hospicia, nullas amicitias
(Many acquaintances, no friends)
A sign of a lonely life. - Hominibus plenum, amicis vacuum
(Crowded with men, yet bare of friends.)
Likely an unfriendly place to be. - Desideratum
(A thing desired, but regretfully wanting)
What do you call that game you are saving up to buy? - Bellum se ipsum alet
(War feeds itself.)
Which is why it is always happening. - Eram quod es, eris quod sum
(I was what you are, you will be what I am – engraved in gravestones)
A powerful reminder of our mortality. - Factis ut credam facis
(No need for words, trust deeds.)
Don’t believe promises, believe people who deliver. - De hoc multi multa, omnes aliquid, nemo satis
(Of this, many have said many things, all something, no one enough.)
About those important issues, people don’t focus enough. - Qualis pater, talis filius
(As is the father, so is the son.)
A reminder for all the new fathers out there. - Vox et praeterea nihil
(A voice and nothing more.)
Say it to those who are always talking and talking badly about others.
Latin Quotes About Overcoming Adversity
When things got tough, the Romans got tougher. These Latin quotes really distill that strength and resilience into a few words, so you can channel those qualities yourself.
- Viris fortibus non opus est moenibus
(To brave men, walls are unnecessary.)
Because you’ll break them down. - Accensa domo proximi, tua quoque periclitatur
(When the house of your neighbour is in flames, your own is in danger.)
We’re all in this together. - Ars longa, vita brevis
(Art is long, life is short.)
So dedicate time to making your immortal art. - Dulcius ex asperis
(Sweeter after difficulties.)
For the nice guys who have been through a lot. - Omnes una manet nox
(One night awaits everyone.)
We all head in the same direction in the end. - Nil desperandum
(Never despair!)
Even in the tough times. - Virtus incendit vires
(Manhood rouses one’s strength.)
For anyone depressed on their 18th birthday. - Non omnia possumus omnes
(We can’t all of us do everything.)
Wise words about making tough choices. - Permitte divis cetera
(Leave all else to the gods.)
Advice to stop worrying about what you can’t control. - Malum quo communius eo peius
(The more common an evil is, the worse it is.)
And we’re all guilty of a few of those evils. - Per angusta ad augusta
(Through difficulties to honors.)
Words to inspire getting over setbacks. - Igne natura renovatur integra
(Through fire, nature is reborn whole.)
Sometimes it’s all got to burn away. - Damnant quod non intelligunt
(They condemn what they do not understand.)
It’s why you used to get teased. - Errare humanum est, perseverare diabolicum
(To err is human; to persist in it is diabolical.)
Time to learn from your mistakes. - Nunquam non paratus
(Never unprepared; always ready.)
As we all should be. - Sine labore non erit panis in ore
(Without work there will not be any bread in your mouth.)
Latin quotes have no time for lazy people. - Nihil obstat
(Nothing stands in the way.)
Not if you’re really determined to get somewhere. - Non progredi est regredi
(To not go forward is to go backward.)
Never feel like you’ve come “far enough.” - Non sum qualis eram
(I am not such as I was.)
Signs of growth from experience. - Fluctuat nec mergitur
(It is tossed by the waves, but it does not sink.)
A tough ship, or a tough person. - Aut vincere aut mori
(Either to conquer or die.)
For moments when there can be no compromise. - Disce aut discede
(Learn or leave.)
The lesson of life. - Disce pati
(Learn to endure.)
A lesson best learned early. - Sunt facta verbis difficiliora
(Works are harder than words.)
For those who keep failing to deliver on promises. - Legum servi sumus ut liberi esse possimus
(We are slaves of the laws in order that we may be free.)
Throw this out next time someone asks why we need laws. - Per me quod eritque fuitque estque patet
(That which is and was and will be lies open through me.)
We are the conduits of time. - Volo, non valeo
(I am willing but unable.)
Your answer when asked to a party you can’t attend. - Semper ad meliora
(Always towards better things.)
Your true north in life. - Audax at fidelis
(Bold but faithful.)
How you want your friends to see you. - Luctor et emergo
(I struggle and emerge.)
No matter what you throw at me. - Perveniet ad altitudinem
(Reach for the heights.)
No point in settling for less. - Hoc est bellum
(This is war.)
Use that after someone insults you. - Invictus maneo
(I will remain unconquered.)
A great gamer quote. - Sic ego nec sine te nec tecum vivere possum
(So I can’t live either without you or with you.)
Latin quotes know how breakups work. - Unus pro omnibus, omnes pro uno
(One for all, all for one.)
A classic line, renewed in an old language. - Mors ultima linea rerum est
(Death is the ultimate limit.)
And the only one we should recognize. - Hodie mihi, cras tibi
(It is my lot today, yours tomorrow.)
For those who think they are immune to tough times.
Wisdom builds through small, consistent choices. You can explore our article Latin Phrases About Life for durable mottos that steady your decisions. Keep a favorite close and return to it whenever you need direction.
Latin Quotes that can be used in Everyday Conversation
You don’t always have to come off as pretentious when you use Latin quotes. Plenty of Latin phrases like these 64 quotes can be thrown into your conversation completely naturally.
- Semper Fidelis
(Always faithful)
Whisper that to your girlfriend. - Semper Idem
(Always the same.)
Say it with a yawn at the start of a boring class. - Et in Arcadia ego
(Even in Arcadia, here I am.)
Words to send off loved ones. - Alis propriis volat
(She flies with her own wings)
How do you describe the independent women you admire? - In umbra, igitur, pugnabimus
(Then we will fight in the shade.)
A line even cooler in Latin. - Vir prudens non contra ventum mingit
(A wise man does not pee against the wind.)
Somehow crass, poetic, and true. - In vino veritas
(There is truth in wine)
Adoring bar walls for thousands of years. - Faber est quisque fortunae suae
(Each man is the maker of his own fortune.)
It’s in your hands. - Male parta male dilabuntur
(What has been wrongly gained is wrongly lost.)
When someone steals your stuff. - Utile dulci
(The useful with the agreeable)
The ideal type of friend. - Acta est fabula, plaudite
(The play is over, applaud!)
Throw that out at an audience that forgets to respond. - Quis, quid, ubi, quibus auxiliis, cur, quomodo, quando?
(Who, what, where, with what, why, how, when?)
For those who forget all the details of their stories. - Caveat emptor
(Let the buyer beware)
Romans knew about scammy products. - Factum fieri infectum non potest
(It is impossible for a deed to be undone.)
When you’re asked if you’ll complete the project. - Lupus non timet canem latrantem
(A wolf is not afraid of a barking dog.)
How you respond to those trying to intimidate you. - Ceteris paribus
(All other things being equal.)
Just add that into your debate script somewhere. - Amore et melle et felle es fecundissimus
(Love is rich with honey and venom.)
Love’s dual nature in one line. - Quid infantes sumus
(What are we, babies?)
A classic taunt, now in Latin! - Sine qua non
(An absolutely necessary component or ingredient.)
The friend who glues the group together. - Fiat lux
(Let there be light.)
A fancy way to turn on the lights. - Vade retro me, Satana
(Get off my back, Satan.)
So much cooler in Latin. - Carpe vinum
(Seize the wine)
The correct response to carpe diem. - Hannibal ad portas
(Hannibal is at the gates.)
When stuff really hits the fan. - Dulce periculum
(Danger is sweet.)
Looks sweet, scrawled across your motorcycle. - Mea culpa
(My apology; my error)
The classy way to apologize. - Ad infinitum
(On toward infinity.)
From Rome’s Buzz Lightyear. - Eo ipso
(By this act or fact.)
Throwing down the fancy language gauntlet when debating. - In camera
(In secret.)
That’s right, “camera” meant “secret.” - Ne plus ultra
(Nothing more beyond.)
Response to “Do you have anything else to say?” - Potest solum unum
(There can be only one.)
How do you argue over the last free ticket? - Brutum fulmen
(An empty threat.)
Mumble that next time someone threatens you to act tough. - Sub rosa
(Under the rose; private or secret.)
Invite a girl for a meeting “sub rosa.” - Nullus agenti dies longus est
(No day is long for the busy.)
Stay busy and avoid boredom. - Cui bono?
(Who benefits?)
Asked when looking for a motive in ancient crimes. - Vox nihili
(The voice of nothing.)
A dismissal for fools for the ages. - Ad finem
(To the end; at or near the end.)
Answer to, “How long will you binge-watch this show?” - Amor nummi
(Love of money.)
Call someone greedy in a way they won’t understand. - Arcanum arcanorum
(Secret of secrets.)
For those secrets you really don’t want shared. - Ars amandi
(The art of loving.)
The subject you’ll study your whole life. - Deo volente
(God willing.)
Repackage a cliched phrase in a new language. - Die dulci fruere
(Have a nice day.)
Test that out when leaving work next time. - Dixi
(I have spoken.)
End conversations like a Roman emperor. - Et nunc et semper
(Now and forever.)
The only kind of promise that matters. - Hic jacet
(Here lies.)
Posted above your bed. - Lege atque lacrima
(Read ’em and weep.)
Bet you didn’t know that line was so old. - Magister mundi sum
(I am the master of the universe!)
Another masterful taunt from the ancient world. - Non plus ultra
(Nothing above that!)
Written on the edges of the world by Hercules. - Novus homo
(A new man.)
Show the changed man you’ve become in the old way. - Felix culpa
(Happy mistake.)
A far cooler way to use that phrase than the English. - Simul et dictum et factum
(At the same time both said and done.)
Proving you’re a person of deeds to others. - Sine die
(Unknown period of time.)
Your answer when your parents ask when the chores will be done. - Pro bono (publico)
(For the public good.)
Still a popular legal term today. - Tabula rasa
(Blank slate.)
The Romans knew how to let people start over, too. - Sic et non
(Yes and no.)
Latin quotes for the non-committal. - Ab imo pectore
(From the bottom of the heart.)
Showing earnestness in the old tongue. - Ab intra
(From within.)
Where all our truth is found. - Totum dependeat
(Let it all hang out.)
An invitation to complete honesty. - Fac ut vivas
(Get a life.)
Tell people off without them ever knowing. - Ad honorem
(For honor.)
An old-fashioned idea in an old-fashioned language. - Amor patriae
(Love of one’s country; patriotism.)
Romans were some of the most patriotic people in history. - Dictum factum
(What is said is done.)
So mind your words. - Ex animo
(From the heart; sincerely.)
Sign off your letters with that. - Semper fortis
(Always brave.)
Your new dog’s name. - Viriliter agite
(Act in a manly way.)
Say that before you leave the house every day. - In esse
(In existence.)
Your answer to “Where’s so-and-so?” - Aut bibat, aut abeat
(Either drink or go.)
For those who try to end the party early. - Ex abrupto
(Without preparation.)
How you tend to show up for tests? - Infra dignitatem
(Beneath one’s dignity.)
Another thing to say when your parents ask you to do chores. - Indictum sit
(Be it unsaid.)
When it’s better to just drop the conversation. - Non sequitur
(It does not follow.)
And why don’t we ride zebras like horses? - E pluribus, unum
(Out of many, one.)
It’s on the back of U.S. currency. - Ultima ratio
(The last resort.)
When all other options are exhausted. - Citius, altius, fortius
(Faster, higher, stronger)
Spoken by Rome’s Kanye West. - Vive hodie
(Live today.)
Advice for every day, from then to now. - Volventibus annis
(As time goes by.)
Or, “as the years roll on.” - Amare et honorare
(Love and honor)
Two key markers in your life. - Ad astra
(To the stars)
A great title for your sci-fi book. - Nunc aut numquam
(Now or never)
One of the Latin quotes has been building courage for centuries. - Bono malum superate
(Overcome evil with good)
Wise advice when we’ve been wronged. - Cuiusvis temporis homo
(A man of all times)
Your new nickname.
Latin Words
You don’t always have to drop a massive, epic quote to throw a little Latin into your conversation. If nothing else, just take these 40 key Latin words and let those speak for you.
- Amor
(Love)
What it’s all about. - Fortis
(Strength)
Of mind or body. - Virtus
(Power)
The great corruptor. - Bellator
(Warrior)
The noble profession has existed from ancient times. - Vita
(Life)
Your most precious resource. - Sapiencia
(Wisdom)
The most desired quality in the ancient world. - Libertas
(Freedom)
What we all desire.
Big goals look smaller when you break them into repeatable steps. Focus on the next task and protect your pace. Explore our collection of Hustle Quotes for steady guidance you can apply today.
Latin Quotes about Leadership
If there’s one subject Romans knew about, it was leadership. These Latin quotes teach us how to be leaders and what it means to lead ourselves and others.
- Virtute et armis
(By virtue and arms or “by manhood and weapons”)
Virtue first, but there’s always the tools of last resort. - Creo quia absurdum est.
(I believe because it is absurd.)
The foundation of faith. - Vitam Impendere Vero.
(Dedicate your life to truth.)
There’s no higher calling. - Aquila non capit muscas.
(An eagle does not catch [does not bother with] flies.)
As an easy way to dismiss pesky criticism or complaints. - Panem et circenses.
(Bread and circuses.)
Ancient words about bad leadership. - Caesar non supra grammaticos.
(The Emperor is not above the grammarians.)
Which is why we get to laugh when a leader looks foolish. - Viriliter agite estote fortes
(Quit ye like men, be strong)
For those moments, you’re struggling with your courage. - Docendo disco, scribendo cogito.
(I learn by teaching, think by writing.)
So engage in both activities. - Corruptissima republica plurimae leges.
(The more numerous the laws, the more corrupt the state.)
A case for a few, simple rules. - Sustinere est difficilius quam aggredi
(To endure is harder to attack)
So attack! - Amor est vitae essential
(Love is the essence of life)
There would be no life if there were no love. Just as love is necessary to give birth to new life, love is necessary for people to live, too. This motto teaches us that love is essential for living without it, what is there to life? - Omnium Rerum Principia Parva Sunt.
(The beginnings of all things are small.)
So don’t feel bad starting small. - Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt.
(Men generally believe what they want to.)
You can only do so much to convince people. - Audere est Facere
(To do is to dare)
In praise of being bold. - Vincit qui se vincit
(He conquers who, conquers himself.)
You’re the one holding you back. - Non ducor, duco
(I am not led, I lead.)
Stop being a follower. - Aut cum scuto aut in scuto
(Either with shield or on shield.)
A classic fight or die fighting Latin quote. - Semper paratus
(Always prepared)
That’s half the battle. - Acta non verba
(Actions, not words.)
Speak less, do more. - Animis opibusque parati.
(Prepared in minds and resources (ready for anything).
Whatever comes at you, you can handle it. - Compos sui
(Master of himself.)
So you can master anything. - Lupus pilum mutat, non mentem
(The wolf changes his coat, not his disposition.)
Words of warning when some people claim they have changed. - Nosce te ipsum
(Know thyself.)
Where knowledge starts. - Aut neca aut necare
(Either kill or be killed)
Words to post on your Xbox One. - Ductus exemplo
(Leadership by example)
Latin quotes are all about proving yourself in your actions. - Humilitas occidit superbiam
(Humility conquers pride)
It seems weaker, but it’s the stronger emotion. - Praesis ut prosis ne ut imperes
(Lead in order to serve, not in order to rule)
A reminder of why you want to lead. - Si vis pacem, para bellum
(If you want peace, prepare for war)
A sad necessity in life. - Vivere est vincere
(To live is to conquer)
It’s how we move forward. - Vivere militare est
(To live is to fight)
If you aren’t fighting, you’re giving up. - Asumpit tuas responsabilitates
(Take charge)
Or, “take your responsibilities.” - Ego amissus pugna sed autere bellum
(I lost the battle but I won the war)
A setback doesn’t have to be the end. - Nemini cedere
(Yield to no one)
Prove your stuff against all comers.
Latin Quotes to Live By
People have been using Latin quotes to tell how to live for more than two thousand years. You may be late to the trend, but there’s still a lot of great wisdom in these words.
- Veritatis simplex oratio est.
(The language of truth is simple.)
So stop complicating it and speak straight. - Acta deos numquam mortalia fallunt.
(Mortal actions never deceive the gods.)
You aren’t fooling anyone. - Carthago delenda est.
(Carthage must be destroyed.)
When Rome said it, they meant business. - Ex Nihilo Nihil Fit
(From nothing comes nothing)
If you don’t try, nothing happens. - Auribus teneo lupum.
(Holding a wolf by the ears.)
Probably not a good idea. - Castigat ridendo mores.
(Laughing corrects morals.)
The power of comedy. - Astra inclinant, sed non obligant
(The stars incline us, they do not bind us.)
We are the masters of our fate. - Magna Servitus Est Magna Fortuna.
(A great fortune is a great slavery.)
Maybe you don’t want to make it rich. - Quis Costodiet Ipsos Custodies?
(Who will guard the guards?)
The risks of giving anyone too much power. - Absentem laedit cum ebrio qui litigat
(To quarrel with a drunk is to wrong a man who is not even there.)
Keep that in mind when your roommate comes home at 3 am next time. - Abundant dulcibus vitiis
(Nobody’s perfect.)
Including you and everyone who fails you. - Sic gorgiamus allos subjectatos nunc.
(We gladly feast on those who would subdue us.)
No mercy on your enemies! - Mea navis aëricumbens anguillis abundant.
(My hovercraft is full of eels.)
A gloriously absurd “Latin” phrase. - Absit invidia
(Let ill will be absent.)
Great advice when making up after an argument. - Natura non constristatur.
(Nature is not saddened.)
It is, unfortunately, indifferent. - Mea navis aëricumbens anguillis abundant.
(My hovercraft is full of eels.)
Probably not of ancient origin. - Caveat venditor,
(Seller beware.)
The twin of the more famous phrase. - Amici probantur rebus adversis
(Friends are tested in adversity.)
That’s when you know they’re real friends. - Cave quid dicis, quando, et cui
(Beware what you say, when, and to whom.)
Always watch your words. - Dum vivimus, vivamus
(While we live, let us really live.)
We only have so much time, so enjoy it. - Nemo dat quod non habet
(No one gives what he does not have.)
So don’t expect more than people can give. - Non omne quod nitet aurum est
(Not everything that is shining is gold.)
Don’t trust appearances. - Ubi bene, ibi patria
(Where you feel good, there is your home.)
Home is where you want to be. - Ultra posse nemo obligatur
(No one is obligated beyond what he is able to do.)
Don’t feel you are responsible beyond your limits. - Vincit omnia veritas
(Truth conquers all things.)
So seek truth. - Memento vivere
(Remember that you are alive)
You aren’t a robot, no matter how your job makes you feel. - Dum spiro spero
(While I breathe, I hope)
There’s still time to change things. - Homo sine amore vivere nequit
(A man without love cannot live)
It’s why we must always seek love. - Amicitia quae desinere potest, vera nunquam fuit
(A friendship that can cease, was never a true friendship)
Words of comfort to those who have lost friends. - Annorum vinum, socius vetus et vetus aurum
(Old wine, old friend and old gold)
Latin quotes know a thing about the value of old things. - Veram amicitiam in adversa fortuna videbamus
(We’ll see true friendship in times of bad luck)
When the going gets tough, you know who is with you. - Audi, vide, tace, si vis vivere in pace
(Use your ears and eyes, but hold your tongue, if you would live in peace.)
Don’t say foolish things in the heat of the moment. - Abbati, medico, patrono que intima pande
(Conceal not the truth from thy physician and lawyer.)
Only a fool lies to either. - Cor nobile, cor immobile
(A noble heart is an immovable heart.)
So we aspire to that nobility. - Fit scelus indulgens per nubila sæcula virtus
(In times of trouble leniency becomes crime.)
Sometimes, we’ve got to be tough. - Crede quod habes, et habes
(Believe that you have it, and you do.)
The ancient “fake it to make it.” - Hostium munera, non munera
(Gifts of enemies are no gifts.)
Don’t trust every compliment. - Forma bonum fragile est
(All that is fair must fade)
Beauty is temporary, so look for what is permanent. - In dubio, abstine
(If you are unsure what it is best to do, do nothing at all.)
Sometimes, it’s best not to act. - Latet enim veritas, sed nihil pretiosius veritate
(Truth is hidden, but nothing is more beautiful than the truth.)
Even when you can’t see it, seek it. - Ignorantia non excusat
(Ignorance is not an excuse)
Throw that out next time someone says, “But I didn’t know!” - Fortis cadere, cedere non potest
(The brave may fall, but cannot yield.)
You prove your bravery in your resilience. - Parvis imbutus tentabis grandia tutus
(Once you have accomplished little things, you can attempt great things)
Start with baby steps before you take big leaps. - Omnia mutantur nos et mutamur in illis
(All things change, and we change with them.)
We’re just a part of nature. - Omnia causa fiunt
(Everything happens for a reason.)
The classy way to deliver this consolation. - Morte magis metuenda senectus
(Old age should rather be feared than death)
The ancient “better to burn out than fade away.” - Luceat lux vestra
(Let your light shine)
Power advice in any language. - Accipe quod tuum, alterique da suum.
(Take what is yours, leave theirs to them)
Avoid overreach. - Facilius est vitae risus
(Life is easier with a smile)
So why not just be happy? - Tempus edax rerum
(Time is the devourer of things.)
Tough but true words. - Veritas vincit
(Truth prevails.)
Shout this when you finally win an argument. - Vulpem pilum mutare, non mores.
(A fox may change its hair, not its tricks.)
If they wronged you before, don’t listen when they say they’ve changed. - Silentium est aureum
(Silence is golden)
We really underrate quiet.
What Makes Latin Phrases Cool?
Mastering the use of powerful phrases in another language is in itself quite cool. Latin, being a dead language, means you are taking something that’s fallen out of use and keeping it alive through the usage of phrases from it. Not only that, Latin phrases are full of symbolism despite being somewhat short – the phrases have incredible brevity and depth of meaning.
Furthermore, much of modern media uses several of its phrases, helping the otherwise dead language stay relevant and trendy despite its age. So, Latin phrases are cool for many reasons, and many people find them cool as well.
Why Should You Learn Latin Phrases?
As stated above, Latin is finding plenty of use in modern media, science, law, and other fields of study. Learning them will help ease the confusion you get when encountering a Latin term in these fields… and also enables you to understand their use in media. Many English expressions also originate from Latin phrases, and learning their origins can help deepen your familiarity with them. So, Latin, not just its phrases, has plenty of uses; learning from it can help you in many topics.
5 Most Famous Latin Books of All Time
Now that you’ve learned plenty of Latin phrases that will undoubtedly add color to your conversations, you’re likely a little more interested in the language as a whole. If you’d like to learn more about Latin, here are some of the best and most famous books on Latin of all time – thankfully, in English to help even new students learn.
Hopscotch – Julio Cortázar
This Latin-American novel tells the story of Horacio Oliviera. A child’s death and the disappearance of his mistress, La Maga, prompt him to move to Buenos Aires and start a new life as a salesman. But astonishing adventures and a colorful cast of characters await him there. An excellent read for those who want to learn a little Latin on the side.
The House of the Spirits – Isabel Allende
Isabel Allende’s first bestseller novel, The House of the Spirits, is lauded as one of the most important novels of the twentieth century. It chronicles the troubled and interesting lives of the Trueba family. It spans three whole generations of the family members’ lives in a magical story about love and fate.
Chronicle of a Death Foretold – Gabriel García Marquez
This story tells about a strange murder that happened 27 years before the story’s beginning. An affair causes the groom to return the bride to her family in utter disgrace – and she is forced to reveal her lover. Yet, when her brothers threaten to murder that same man, no one seems to want to stop them – so why?
On the Nature of Things – Lucretius
Unlike the other books here, which are novels, On the Nature of Things is a poem. Full of scientific theories and philosophical musings, this book of poems combines powerful, fervid poetry with moral and philosophical quandaries about humanity and the spirit.
The 12 Caesars – Suetonius
De vita Ceaesarum, its original name, is a set of biographies, twelve of Julius Caesar and the first eleven emperors of the Roman Empire. It details their lives, accomplishments, and discussions about them and is perfect for those who love history and want to learn more about the most famous rulers of all time.
Why do Americans use Latin phrases?
It’s because each Latin expression has no better sayings in the English language; the phrases contain internal wisdom that cannot be explained in fewer English words. History trivia questions often cite that everyday English can’t hope to be more concise than Latin already is.
How to Pick the Best Latin Phrases That Make You Look Cool
Now that you’re informed on a few important and famous Latin phrases, you must be wondering how to find your own. So, here are some tips on how to pick your favorite Latin phrase.
1. Choose a subject.
Naturally, you’ll want to choose a subject first before picking a Latin phrase to remember. Latin has many sayings and quotes about particular subjects, and many concepts like fortune and fate originate from Latin itself. So, pick a subject to focus on first, there will likely have been plenty of quotes about it.
2. Research thoroughly.
Research famous quotes about your chosen subject using a dictionary or the Internet. Whether you search word by word or by an entire proverb to see if it has any Latin equivalent, the important part is to make sure it has been used before, so you’re not using something completely unfamiliar.
3. Pick the right one for the situation.
The last thing you want to do when picking a Latin phrase is to visualize the situation you’re going to use it in. Many Latin quotes are used in specific situations and communicated in fewer words than in ordinary English. So, when you see a host of Latin quotes using similar words, pick the right one for the situation you’ll use it in.
More Awesome Quotes
Why stop with Latin quotes? We’ve got all these in store for you as well!
- Go Nordic with viking quotes and phrases!
- Use inspirational sayings to motivate you to reach the stars.
- With quotes about strength and being strong during hard times, you always have the right words to say.
- Deploy fear quotes to crush your fears to take on any challenge.
Wrapping Up
Latin has a way of saying big things with a few sharp words. These phrases carry centuries of thought, war, love, philosophy, and humor in them, which is why they still feel alive today. Whether you use them to sound clever, to remind yourself of something important, or simply because the expression fits better in Latin than English, they add weight and character to everyday language. Use these anywhere to impress friends or throw down like an old-school gentleman. Wherever you use them, you’ll be sure to make an impression. Benediximus! (Good luck!)
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