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.

Vires, artes, mores.

Strength, arts, morals.

Motto of Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

Viris fortibus non opus est moenibus.

To brave men, walls are unnecessary.

Agesilaus the Great, King of Sparta (c. 375 B.C.), was quoted as saying, "These are the Spartan walls" as he pointed to the citizens in full armor when someone wanted to know why Sparta was without walls.

Virtus ariete fortior.

Virtue is stronger than a battering ram.

Virtus, "virtue", here may also be interpreted as "valor" or "heroism".

Virtus in actione consistit.

Valor lies in action.

Action, not merely with words. How about "Action speaks louder than words"?

Virtus incendit vires.

Manhood rouses one's strength.

Virtus junxit mors non separabit.

Strength has joined [us] and death will not separate [us].

Virtus Unita Fortior.

Strength united is stronger.

The motto on the national and civil flag of the principality of Andorra, an independent republic in the Pyrenees mountains, located between France and Spain. It is one of the world's oldest states.

Virtus vincit invidiam.

Virtue overcomes envy.

Virtute et armis.

By virtue and arms.

Motto of the State of Mississippi, USA.

Virtute et Exemplo.

By Virtue and Example.

Motto of German Emperor Joseph II (1765-1790).

Virtute et fide.

By virtue and faith.

Virtute non astutia. (Latin statement)

Translation: "By excellence, not by cunning."