solo se vive una vez
/solo se bibe una beθ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "you only live once" is translated into Spanish as solo se vive una vez.
This phrase is used to encourage someone to take a risk or enjoy life because life is short.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of solo (only), se vive (one lives/is lived) and una vez (one time).
Which one should you use?
The word solo can also be written as sólo with an accent, though the RAE (Royal Spanish Academy) currently recommends omitting the accent even when it means "only".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, it is common to say Solo se vive una vez, así que a gozar.
Did you know?
- While this phrase is a direct translation, Spanish speakers often use the expression carpe diem from Latin to convey the same sentiment in more poetic or formal contexts.
- The word vez is derived from the Latin vicis, which originally meant 'change' or 'alternation' instead of a specific point in time.
- The word se in this expression creates an impersonal construction, turning the phrase into a universal truth that applies to all humanity rather than a specific person.
Examples in context
- Solo se vive una vez.You only live once.Tatoeba #1551458 by Shishir, translation #589575 by darinmex
- El éxito no está garantizado, por eso es importante recordar que solo se vive una vez.Success is not guaranteed, which is why it is important to remember that you only live once.
- Vamos de viaje, ¡total, solo se vive una vez!Let's go on a trip, after all, you only live once!
- Aprovechemos cada oportunidad que se nos presente, solo se vive una vez, ¡dale caña!Let's seize every opportunity that comes our way, you only live once, so go for it!
- ¡Hazlo, que solo se vive una vez!Do it, you only live once!
- No tengas miedo, solo se vive una vez.Don't be afraid, you only live once.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are deciding whether to go skydiving.
- ElenaTengo un poco de miedo, Mateo.I'm a little scared, Mateo.
- MateoNo te preocupes, solo se vive una vez.Don't worry, you only live once.
- ElenaTienes razón, ¡vamos a saltar!You're right, let's jump!
- Mateo¡Así se hace, Elena!That's the spirit, Elena!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries se, solo, una, vez, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
