Latin Proverbs, Mottoes, Phrases, and Words: Group N
(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.
Non est magnus pumilio, licet in monte constiterit; colossus magnitudinem suam servabit, etiam si steterit in puteo. (Latin proverb)
Translation: "A dwarf is not tall, even though he stand on a mountain; a colossus keeps his height, even though he stand in a well."
From Seneca, Ad Lucilium Epis (c. A.D. 65).
Non est tanti.
It is not of such great importance.
Also translated as, "It's no big deal."
Non est tuum, fortuna quod fecit tuum. (Latin proverb)
Translation: "Count not that as yours which fortune has made yours."
Non est vivere sed valere vita est.
Life is not being alive but being well.
Also translated as, "Life is more than just being alive."
Non fluctu nec flatu movetur. (Latin proverb)
He is not moved by either wave nor wind.
Non ignara mali, miseris succurrere disco. (Latin proverb)
Translation: "No stranger to misfortune myself, I learn to relieve the sufferings of others."
One rationale for helping people in distress, from Virgil's Aeneid. With these words, Dido, Queen of Carthage, greeted Aeneas and his companions, who were in exile.
Non incautus futuri. (Latin motto)
Translation: "Not unmindful of the future."
A motto that is based on the one that appears on the Lee (or Le) family crest, Ne incautus futuri, of the Washington and Lee University located in Virginia, USA. and is said to be referenced often in public events at the university.
non licet; n.l.
[it is] not permitted.
non liquet; n.l.
It is not clear.
A term used by lawyers when a case is not proven.
Non mihi, non tibi, sed nobis.
Not for you, not for me, but for us.
Non ministrari sed ministrare.
Not to be served, but to serve or Not to be ministered to, but to minister.
Motto of Queens College, Charlotte, North Carolina and Wellesley College, Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA.
Non nobis nascimur. (Latin phrase)
We are not born for ourselves.
Non nobis nati.
Born not for ourselves.
Non nobis sed communitati.
Not for ourselves but for the community.
Non nobis sed omnibus.
Not for ourselves but for everyone [all mankind].
Units of mottoes and proverbs listed by groups: A to X.
