sī vīs pācem, parā bellum
The English phrase "if you want peace, prepare for war" is translated into Latin as sī vīs pācem, parā bellum.
Meaning: Translations (proverb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of sī (if), vīs (you want), pācem (peace), parā (prepare) and bellum (war).
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, vīs is the second-person singular present indicative active form of the irregular verb volō. The word pācem is the accusative singular form of pāx, serving as the direct object of the verb vīs. The word parā is the second-person singular imperative form of parāre, used here to give a command or strong advice. Finally, bellum is the accusative singular form of bellum, serving as the direct object of the verb parā.
Did you know?
- The word bellum evolved from an archaic form, duellum, which is linked to the number 'two'. This implies that the very concept of 'war' in Latin was originally rooted in the idea of a 'duel' between two sides.
- While the phrase is a famous proverb today, it is a condensed summary of a long military treatise written by the Roman author Vegetius.
- The word pācem comes from pāx, which is the same root used in the word 'pacify' and the name of the 'Pax Romana' period of Roman hegemony.
Examples in context
- Sī vīs pācem, parā bellum.If you want peace, prepare for war.
- Nemo ignorat: sī vīs pācem, parā bellum.No one is ignorant: if you want peace, prepare for war.
- Dīcit: sī vīs pācem, parā bellum.He says: if you want peace, prepare for war.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing ancient military strategy.
- JuliaCur armatus es, Quinte?Why are you armed, Quintus?
- QuintusSī vīs pācem, parā bellum, Iulia.If you want peace, prepare for war, Julia.
- JuliaEstne hoc sapientia?Is this wisdom?
- QuintusIta est, prudentia est.Yes, it is prudence.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “if you want peace, prepare for war” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bellum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
