21 Phrases Similar to Carpe Diem

The Latin language, rich in its depth and wisdom, has gifted us with numerous phrases that inspire us to live in the present moment.

“Carpe Diem”, a Latin phrase that translates to “seize the day”, is perhaps the most famous of these expressions, encouraging us to grasp the opportunities that life presents.

However, the beauty of the Latin language extends beyond this well-known phrase.

There are several other Latin expressions that serve a similar purpose, inspiring us to cherish the present and live life to the fullest.

In this article, we delve into the world of the Latin language, uncovering phrases akin to “Carpe Diem”. We will dissect their meanings and explore how they promote a present-focused mindset.

So, if you’re keen on expanding your knowledge of Latin phrases that echo the sentiment of Carpe Diem, urging us to embrace the now, then continue reading!

Carpe Diem Meaning

Carpe diem is a Latin phrase that literally means “pluck the day” or “seize the day.” It is a philosophical concept that encourages people to live in the present moment and make the most of every opportunity, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

The phrase carpe diem is first recorded in the Odes of the Roman poet Horace, which were written in the first century BC. In one of his odes, Horace writes:

Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero.

This translates to “Pluck the day, trusting as little as possible in the next one.” Horace’s use of the phrase suggests that life is short and unpredictable and that we should therefore cherish every moment.

The carpe diem philosophy has been popular throughout history and has been invoked by many famous people, including artists, writers, and philosophers. For example, the English poet William Shakespeare wrote:

Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old Time is still a-flying: And this same flower that blooms today To-morrow will be dying.

The carpe diem philosophy can be applied to many different aspects of our lives. For example, we can use it to encourage ourselves to take risks, pursue our dreams, and live a more fulfilling life.

We can also use it to remind ourselves to appreciate the simple things in life, such as spending time with loved ones and enjoying the beauty of nature.

You can also check: 10 Phrases Similar to Cool Beans

14 Latin Phrases similar to Carpe Diem

1. Veni, vidi, vici: I came, I saw, I conquered.
2. Audere est facere: To dare is to do.
3. Memento mori: Remember that you must die.
4. Vita brevis, ars longa: Life is short, art is long.
5. In vino veritas: In wine, there is truth.
6. Acta, non verba: Deeds, not words
7. Quid pro quo: Something for something.
8. Fortuna favet audentibus: Fortune favors the bold.
9. Sapiens qui prospicit: Wise is he who sees ahead.
10. Semper Fidelis: Always Faithful.
11. barba non facit philosophum: a beard does not make a philosopher.
12. Nunc aut numquam: Now or never.
13. Aut viam inveniam aut faciam: I shall either find a way or make one.

1. Veni, vidi, vici

Veni, vidi, vici is a Latin phrase that means “I came, I saw, I conquered.” It is attributed to Julius Caesar, who used it to describe his swift victory over Pharnaces II of Pontus at the Battle of Zela in 47 BC.

The phrase is often used to describe a quick and decisive victory, but it can also be used more generally to express a sense of confidence, determination, and successful completion of a task or goal.

For example, a student might say “Veni, vidi, vici” after finishing a difficult exam, or a business person might say it after closing a major deal. The phrase can also be used in a more figurative sense, such as when someone overcomes a personal challenge or achieves a long-held goal.

2. Audere est facere

Audere est facere translates to “To dare is to do.” This Latin phrase underscores the importance of courage and action in achieving our goals.

It suggests that success comes not just from thinking or planning, but from taking risks and putting plans into action.

This phrase can serve as a powerful reminder to step out of our comfort zones and take bold actions.

Whether it’s starting a new project, taking on a challenging task, or making a difficult decision, the phrase “Audere est facere” can inspire us to act with courage and determination.

In a broader sense, it also echoes the sentiment of Carpe Diem, urging us to seize the opportunities of the present moment, to dare to do, and to live life to the fullest.

3. Memento mori

Memento mori is a Latin phrase that translates to “Remember that you must die.” While it may sound morbid at first, the phrase is not meant to evoke fear or despair, but rather to inspire us to live fully and mindfully, knowing that life is finite.

This phrase is a powerful reminder of our mortality, encouraging us to seize the moment and not postpone our dreams and desires. It urges us to appreciate the present, to live in the now, and to cherish every moment we have.

Memento mori serves as a call to action, to live our lives with purpose and passion, and to make the most of each day. It is a stark reminder that our time is limited, and therefore, we must make every moment count.

4. Vita brevis, ars longa

Vita brevis, ars longa, a Latin phrase that translates to “Life is short, art is long,” emphasizes the fleeting nature of life compared to the enduring impact of our creations and achievements.

This phrase encourages us to invest our time and energy into creating something meaningful and lasting.

It can be a call to artists to create their best work, but it also applies to anyone striving to leave a lasting legacy, whether that be through their work, their relationships, or their contributions to society.

Just like Carpe Diem, Vita brevis, ars longa encourages us to seize the moment, to make the most out of our short lives, and to create something that will outlive us, something that will continue to inspire and influence long after we are gone.

5. In vino veritas

In vino veritas is a Latin phrase that means “In wine, there is truth.” It is a popular saying that suggests that people are more likely to speak their true thoughts and feelings when they are intoxicated.

There are a few possible explanations for why this might be the case.

One possibility is that alcohol reduces inhibitions and makes people more likely to say things that they would otherwise keep to themselves.

Another possibility is that alcohol impairs judgment and makes people more likely to say things without thinking them through carefully.

Whatever the reason, the saying in vino veritas is a reminder that people may not always be honest when they are sober.

If you are looking for someone to tell you the truth, it may be best to wait until they have had a chance to sober up.

6. Acta, non verba

Acta, non verba is a Latin phrase that means “actions, not words.” It is a reminder that it is more important to do something than to simply talk about doing it.

This phrase is often used as a motto or slogan by organizations and individuals who want to emphasize their commitment to taking action.

For example, the motto of the United States Merchant Marine Academy is acta, non verba.

7. Quid pro quo

Quid pro quo is a Latin phrase that translates to “something for something.” It refers to a type of mutual agreement or exchange, where something is given in return for something else.

This term is often used in legal and business contexts to describe transactions or deals where both parties benefit from the exchange.

In a broader sense, quid pro quo can also be a reminder of the importance of reciprocity and fairness in our relationships and interactions with others.

It underscores the idea that in order to receive, we must also be willing to give.

Whether it’s in a business negotiation, a personal relationship, or a community project, the principle of quid pro quo can guide us toward more balanced and mutually beneficial outcomes.

8. Fortuna favet audentibus

Fortuna favet audentibus is a Latin phrase that translates to “Fortune favors the bold.”

This phrase emphasizes the idea that those who take risks or act decisively are more likely to succeed.

It encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and seize opportunities as they arise, rather than waiting passively for luck to find them.

For a simple example, consider a person who decides to start their own business.

Despite the risks and uncertainty, they boldly move forward with their plans, believing in their abilities and ideas.

As they work hard and navigate the challenges, they eventually find success.

This is a practical demonstration of “Fortuna favet audentibus” – their boldness in taking the risk of starting a business led to their fortune.

9. Sapiens qui Prospicit

“Sapiens qui prospicit” is a Latin phrase that translates to “Wise is he who sees ahead.”

This phrase emphasizes the importance of foresight and planning in our lives.

It suggests that wisdom comes not just from knowledge, but also from the ability to anticipate future events and prepare for them.

For instance, consider a student who diligently prepares for an upcoming exam weeks in advance rather than cramming the night before.

This student embodies the principle of “Sapiens qui prospicit” by seeing ahead and wisely preparing for the future.

10. Semper Fidelis

Semper Fidelis means “always faithful.” It is the motto of the United States Marine Corps, and it is a commitment to steadfast loyalty and devotion.

For Marines, Semper Fidelis means being faithful to their country, to their fellow Marines, and to the Corps itself.

It means being willing to put the needs of others before your own, and to sacrifice everything, even your life, for the mission.

Semper Fidelis is also committed to excellence. Marines are expected to hold themselves to the highest standards, both in their personal and professional lives. They are expected to be disciplined, courageous, and resourceful.

Semper Fidelis is a powerful motto, and it is one that Marines take very seriously.

It is a reminder of the sacred bond that they share with each other, and of the commitment that they have made to serve their country.

11. Barba non facit philosophum

Barba non facit philosophum means “a beard does not make a philosopher.”

This Latin phrase is a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and that wisdom and knowledge cannot be judged by external attributes.

The phrase suggests that a person’s worth and intellect should be measured by their actions and their character, rather than their physical appearance.

For example, someone might look like a scholar or a philosopher because they have a beard and wear glasses, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are wise or knowledgeable.

Similarly, someone might not look like a traditional scholar or philosopher, but they could still possess deep knowledge and wisdom.

In essence, barba non facit philosophum reminds us not to judge a book by its cover, and to value substance over appearance.

12. Nunc aut nunquam

“Nunc aut nunquam” is a Latin phrase that translates to “Now or never.”

This phrase underscores the importance of seizing the moment and taking immediate action.

It suggests that opportunities may not always be available, and that delaying or hesitating could result in missed chances.

For instance, imagine a salesperson who has a potential client who is interested in their product. If the salesperson hesitates and doesn’t make the sale right away, the client might lose interest or find a different product.

“Nunc aut nunquam” serves as a reminder to take decisive action when opportunities arise. It encourages us to act with urgency and not let fear or doubt hold us back.

Whether it’s in our personal lives, our careers, or our relationships, the principle of “Nunc aut nunquam” can motivate us to seize the day and make the most of the opportunities that come our way.

13. Aut viam inveniam aut faciam

The phrase “Aut viam inveniam aut faciam” is a Latin expression that translates to “I will either find a way or make one.”

The phrase is often attributed to the ancient Carthaginian general Hannibal, who famously crossed the Alps with his army to launch a surprise attack on Rome during the Second Punic War.

This powerful statement encapsulates a mindset of determination, resilience, and resourcefulness.

It reflects an unwavering commitment to overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s goals, regardless of the challenges or limitations that may arise.

The phrase can be interpreted as a call to action, an invitation to adopt a proactive and driven approach in life.

It encourages individuals to seek solutions, explore alternatives, and take responsibility for their own success. It embodies a refusal to simply accept defeat or let circumstances dictate one’s destiny.

8 English Phrases similar to “carpe diem“

• YOLO: An acronym for “you only live once.” This slang phrase is often used to justify taking risks or living life to the fullest.
• Live in the moment: This phrase encourages people to focus on the present moment and appreciate the here and now.
• No time like the present: This phrase is used to motivate someone to take action now, rather than waiting until later.
• Make hay while the sun shines: This phrase encourages people to take advantage of opportunities when they are available.
• Life is short: This phrase is a reminder that life is precious and fleeting, so we should make the most of it.
• Live with no regrets: This phrase encourages people to live their lives in a way that they will not regret later.
• Follow your dreams: This phrase encourages people to pursue their passions and dreams, even if they are difficult to achieve.
• Make a difference: This phrase encourages people to use their time and talents to make a positive impact on the world.

Final Thoughts 

Carpe diem is a timeless Latin phrase that has been used for centuries to inspire people to make the most of life and seize every opportunity. While it may be an ancient phrase, its message still resonates.

By understanding its meaning and exploring some of its alternative translations, we can better appreciate and apply this concept in our own lives.

We can also use the English-language versions of the phrase to remind ourselves of the importance of embracing life and using our time wisely.