Ad maiora semper is a Latin phrase that means “always towards greater things”. It is a motivational expression that is used to wish someone success, happiness, and improvement in their life. It is also a popular tattoo choice, as it represents a positive and ambitious attitude. But where does this phrase come from, and who said it first?
The Ancient Roots Of Ad Maiora Semper
The phrase ad maiora semper is derived from the ancient Roman culture, which was rich in proverbs, sayings, and mottos. The Romans used Latin as their official language, and they often coined phrases that captured their wisdom, values, and aspirations. Some of these phrases are still in use today, such as carpe diem, veni vidi vici, or in vino veritas.
The phrase ad maiora semper is composed of three words: ad, which means “to” or “towards”; maiora, which means “greater things” or “higher things”; and semper, which means “always” or “ever”. The phrase can be translated literally as “to greater things always” or “towards higher things ever”.
The phrase ad maiora semper is not attributed to a specific author or source, but it is likely that it was inspired by some of the famous Roman writers and philosophers, such as Cicero, Seneca, or Horace, who often used similar expressions to encourage their readers or listeners to pursue excellence, virtue, and happiness. For example, Cicero wrote in his De Finibus Bonorum et Malorum: “Quamobrem ad maiora nos natura genuit et excitavit” (“Therefore nature has produced and stimulated us to greater things”). Seneca wrote in his Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium: “Ad maiora te quaeso accinge” (“I beg you, prepare yourself for greater things”). Horace wrote in his Odes: “Ad maiora rerum principia tendo” (“I strive towards the greater principles of things”).
The Modern Uses Of Ad Maiora Semper
The phrase ad maiora semper has survived the centuries and has been adopted by various modern contexts and cultures. It is often used as a greeting, a farewell, a toast, or a compliment, to express goodwill, hope, or admiration for someone. It is also used as a slogan, a motto, or a mantra, to inspire, motivate, or challenge oneself or others to achieve more, to improve, or to overcome obstacles.
Some examples of modern uses of ad maiora semper are:
It is the motto of several schools, universities, associations, and organisations, such as the University of Padua in Italy, the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, or the Rotary Club International.
It is the title of several books, songs, albums, and films, such as the book Ad Maiora Semper by the Italian writer and journalist Giorgio Bocca, the song Ad Maiora by the Italian singer Nek, the album Ad Maiora by the Italian band Premiata Forneria Marconi, or the film Ad Maiora by the Italian director Fabrizio Maria Cortese.
It is the tattoo of several celebrities, such as the Italian actress and model Monica Bellucci, the American singer and songwriter Demi Lovato, the Brazilian footballer Neymar, or the British actor Tom Hardy.
Ad maiora semper is a phrase that has a long and fascinating history, and a powerful and uplifting meaning. It is a phrase that can be used to celebrate, to support, or to challenge oneself or others, to always aim for greater things in life. It is a phrase that can be a reminder, a goal, or a dream, to always seek happiness, growth, and fulfillment. It is a phrase that can be a source of inspiration, motivation, or courage, to always face difficulties, to always overcome challenges, and to always achieve success.
