Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| carpe diem | /ˌkaɾpe ˈdjem/ |
| disfruta el momento | /disfɾuta el momento/ (from spelling rules) |
While the Latin carpe diem is used in academic, poetic or philosophical contexts, more natural Spanish expressions are used in everyday conversation to convey the same sentiment.
Which one should you use?
carpe diem is a Latin phrase used within Spanish to provide a high-register, literary way to express the concept. In contrast, disfruta el momento is a more common and natural conversational way to say "enjoy the moment".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, an alternative way to express this concept is disfruta el presente. In Spain, people often use the expression aprovecha el día as an equivalent to "make the most of the day".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase disfruta el momento uses the informal singular imperative (tú) and is suitable for friends or peers.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌkaɾpe ˈdjem/
Did you know?
- In Spanish culture, expressing a desire to disfrutar el momento often coincides with the social custom of 'sobremesa', the tradition of staying at the table long after a meal to talk.
- The Spanish word momento can be used to describe a very short time, but also a critical 'moment of truth' (el momento de la verdad), a phrase often associated with bullfighting.
- While carpe diem is borrowed from Latin, the Spanish word momento shares an ancient root with the English word 'movement'. Both derive from the Latin mōmentum, referring to a brief motion or a turning point.
Examples in context
- En la vida, es fundamental apreciar el momento y vivir con pasión y alegría.In life, it is fundamental to appreciate the moment and live with passion and joy.
- Vivimos bajo el lema carpe diem.We live under the motto seize the day.
- Ella siempre dice carpe diem para animarme.She always says seize the day to encourage me.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are discussing their travel plans.
- LucíaDeberíamos viajar ahora, carpe diem.We should travel now, seize the day.
- MateoTienes razón, Lucía, vamos.You are right, Lucía, let's go.
- LucíaNo dejemos pasar esta oportunidad.Let's not let this opportunity pass.
- MateoEstoy de acuerdo, Mateo lo hará.I agree, Mateo will do it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “carpe diem” translations and entries carpe diem, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries carpe, carpe diem, el, momento, CC BY-SA 4.0.
