Latin Proverbs, Mottoes, Phrases, and Words: Group F

(classical-language maxims, slogans, adages, proverbs, and words of wisdom that can still capture our modern imagination)

Expressions of general truths: Latin to English maxims, proverbs, and mottoes

Word entries are from Latin unless otherwise indicated.

Frustra laborat qui omnibus placere studet.
He labors in vain who strives to please everyone.

You can not please the entire world.

Fugaces labuntur anni.
The fleeting years glide by.

Another translation is, "You wake up one morning and find that you are old."

Fugam victoria nescit.
Victory knows no retreat.

The motto of King Albrecht I of Habsburg, Germany (1298-1308).

Fugit hora.
The hour flies.

Another translation is, "Time flies." Persius, a first-century A.D. Roman poet, is credited with using this expression.

Fugit irreparabile tempus. (Latin motto)
Translation: "Time irretrievably is flying."

Another version is, "We cannot stop time in its tracks." The shorter Tempus fugit is taken from the longer Fugit irreparabile tempus which itself is a slightly shortened form of a line from Virgil's Georgics.

Furari litoris arenas.
To steal the sands of the seashore.

Another version is, "To undertake a never-ending task."

Fures privatorum in nervo ataque in compentibus aetatem agunt; fures publici in auro ataque in purpura.
Those who steal from private individuals spend their lives in stocks and chains; those who steal from the pubic treasure go dressed in gold and purple.
—Marcus Porcius Cato (234-149.B.C.)

Pointing to a page about a kleptomaniac Units of mottoes and proverbs listed by groups: A to X.