Latin Phrases
Wisdom Category

Latin Phrases Quotes

Timeless Latin expressions with modern translations

5 Curated Quotes
Cogito, ergo sum
René Descartes
René Descartes
— Discourse on the Method, Part IV

'I think, therefore I am' is a philosophical statement by Descartes, emphasizing self-awareness as proof of existence.

Alea iacta est
Julius Caesar
Julius Caesar
— 49 BC, crossing the Rubicon

This phrase means 'The die is cast,' and was purportedly said by Caesar as he crossed the river Rubicon, marking an irrevocable decision leading to the Roman Civil War.

Carpe diem
Horace
Horace
— Odes, Book I, Poem 11

When Horace penned 'Carpe diem,' which translates to 'Seize the day,' he was urging people to enjoy life and make the most of the present moment.

Veni, vidi, vici
Julius Caesar
Julius Caesar
— 47 BC, after the Battle of Zela

These famous words attributed to Julius Caesar translate to 'I came, I saw, I conquered.' They were used to describe his swift and decisive victory over King Pharnaces II of Pontus.

In vino veritas
Pliny the Elder
Pliny the Elder
— Natural History, Vol XIV, Ch 112

Literally translating to 'In wine, truth,' this phrase suggests that people tend to speak their true thoughts and feelings under the influence of alcohol.