Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA |
|---|---|
| mōlior | |
| nītor | |
| appeto | [ˈap.pɛ.toː] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈap.pe.to] (narrow) |
The English verb 'strive' describes making an earnest effort to achieve something. In Latin, the choice of word depends on whether the effort is characterized by undertaking a heavy task, exerting oneself toward a goal or being driven by desire.
Which one should you use?
The form mōlior is used when the striving implies the effort of undertaking a difficult or heavy task. In contrast, nītor implies striving through physical or mental exertion or the act of leaning toward a goal. Finally, appeto is used when the striving is specifically driven by a desire or a longing for a particular object or goal.
How does it change in a sentence?
The forms mōlior and nītor are deponent verbs, which means they possess passive forms but carry an active meaning.
Did you know?
- The root of appeto comes from the Proto-Indo-European word *peth₂-, which originally meant 'to fly' or 'to hasten'.
- While nītor means to strive or exert oneself, its root is also used in Latin to describe the physical act of leaning against a wall or a pillar.
- The verb mōlior describes a struggle so heavy that it suggests the weight of the task itself is what one is 'striving' against.
Examples in context
- Vir diligentissime contendit ut sapientiam adipiscatur.The man strives diligently to attain wisdom.
- Nos laboramus ut hoc negotium perficiamus.We strive to complete this task.
Example conversation
Quintus and Julia are discussing their goals for school.
- QuintusJulia, quid hodiē mōlior?Julia, what am I striving for today?
- JuliaMōlior ut omnia discam.I strive to learn everything.
- QuintusId est optimum opus.That is the best work.
- JuliaTū quoque mōlior, Quinte.You should strive too, Quintus.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “strive” translations and entries appeto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries appeto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
