potius mori quam foedari
The English phrase "death before dishonor" can be translated into Latin as potius mori quam foedari.
This motto expresses the sentiment that it is better to die than to live with a loss of honor or dignity.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase potius mori quam foedari is a literal construction meaning "rather to die than to be dishonored".
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase potius mori quam foedari, the word foedari is the passive infinitive form of foedare, which means to make something foul, ugly or shameful. Thus, foedari means "to be dishonored" or "to be made foul". Additionally, the preposition Ante means "before".
Did you know?
- In ancient Rome, the ultimate 'dishonor' known as ignominia could lead to the legal loss of citizenship and all civil rights.
- The phrase's logic is tied to virtus, a Roman ideal that blended military bravery with moral integrity, making the loss of such a quality a fate worse than death.
- In the phrase potius mori quam foedari, the word quam is used as 'than' because of a linguistic process called 'contamination'.
Examples in context
- Miles semper dicit: potius mori quam foedari.The soldier always says: death before dishonor.
- Pro patria, potius mori quam foedari.For the country, death before dishonor.
Example conversation
Quintus and Julia discuss their commitment to their principles.
- QuintusQuid facies si truth te cogit?What will you do if the truth forces you?
- JuliaPotius mori quam foedari, Quinte.Death before dishonor, Quintus.
- QuintusRecte dicis, Julia.You are right, Julia.
- JuliaSic est.It is so.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries potius, quam, CC BY-SA 4.0.
