Latin Proverbs, Mottoes, Phrases, and Words: Group V
(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
All entries are from Latin unless otherwise indicated.
The singular form is vis; the plural form is vires.
Caesar used the expression in some lines of poetry about Terence in which he praised his poetic gifts but lamented his lack of comic power. From Suetonius, Lives of the Poets, Terence.
In civil law, a divine or superhuman force; the act of God which refers to any accident produced by any physical cause which is irresistible; such as, lightning, tempests, perils of the seas, tornados, earthquakes, etc.
2. The resistance of matter: "Vis inertiae exists when a body at rest is set in motion, or a body in motion is brought to rest, or when it has its motion changed, either in direction or in velocity."
A loss that results immediately from a natural cause without the intervention of man, and could not have been prevented by the exercise of prudence, diligence, and care. In civil law, this term is sometimes used as synonymous with vis divina or the "act of God".
Motto on the 1776 seal of the State of New Hampshire, USA.
It is also often quoted as Ars longa, vita brevis.
Motto of Derby School, U.K.
Life is more than merely staying alive.
Units of mottoes and proverbs listed by groups: A to X.