What is the translation of the Latin aphorism "Carpe diem"?
"Carpe diem" is a Latin aphorism, usually translated "seize the day", taken from book 1 of the Roman poet Horace's work Odes (23 BC). A more literal translation of carpe diem would thus be "pluck the day"—that is, "enjoy the moment". It has been argued by various authors that this interpretation is closer to Horace's original meaning.
In Horace, the phrase is part of the longer carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero, which is often translated as "Seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow (the future)". The ode says that the future is unforeseen and that one should not leave to chance future happenings, but rather one should do all one can today to make one's own future better.
More Info:
en.wikipedia.org
What are your thoughts on this subject?
29 Comments
Janet Dick
Still traditionally known as "Seize the Day".
William Laughlin
"Seize the day" and "enjoy the moment" are quite different.
"Carpe diem" means to make the most of the present time and give little thought to the future, for which there is no guarantee.
"Seize the day" is far more active than the nicety, "enjoy the moment".
Scaussie Ian
It’s Seize the day - period.
Richard D. Boyle
William Laughlin, I agree with your points. In addition, in what world is moment a favored translation of the term diem instead of day? Also, try fitting moment into a literal translation of “per diem”. Doesn't fly.
Jacqueline Tattam
William Laughlin, thank you William…well said ..and beat me to it…as usual 😘
MRogers
William Laughlin, I agree with you and our esteemed colleague Richard D. Boyle mainly to help the two of you get over the agony of your nemeses and their persistent negative votes. You’re in the lead at this point.
Suzanne Wilson
The translation. which is what the question asked, is "seize the day": An explanation of which if being directed at an eight-year old may be acceptable as 'enjoy the day'. .
chipdhf
Seize the day doesn’t mean enjoy the moment but rather grab the opportunity
Leapy Lee
Yet another poor answer from the Lillybot!
Jacinta Cannon
very poor translation!
Helga U. Williams
Seize the day only!
John W Shreve
To me, it means, "Play with the grandkids!"
Mary Ruth Martell
Joris van Pelt, Unfortunately, Lilly doesn't seem to understand ANY language!!!
billyboy915
Dennis Walker,
Too bad that interpretation milks down the gist of the phrase.
William Laughlin
Albeck1994,
Thanks. It actually means to actively make the most of the present, since there is no promise of tomorrow.
"Enjoy the moment" sounds like you're saying, "have a nice time". It is too passive. There is no sense of the imperative with that one.
Albeck1994
William Laughlin, absolutely seize the day
Dennis Walker
I congratulate Lilly on capturing the translation of the metaphor in so few words
Louise Apa
In fact the true translation is “Seize the day “
Stephen Illich
The author of this question never studied Latin!
Barb Schmidt
chose closest to, but was used in Buffy (tv), enjoyed, no still enjoy that show today
William Laughlin
MRogers,
Thanks for your support. It is greatly appreciated. I try not to pay attention to them or keep track. 😂
I guess there will always be someone with an axe to grind. I feel sorry for them. We can't please everyone.
earlepg
It seems to me that Lilly is trying to be cute in tweeking the translation just enough to think that she at least is making everyone think about what it means, without actually parroting the usual, even if correct, answer; all the while maintaining her more juvenile manner. It also seems that quizzclubers are rejecting her reinterpretation. Somehow, I surmise that she cares not.