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Motto: meaning, definitions and examples

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motto

[หˆmษ’tษ™สŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

personal philosophy

A motto is a short phrase or sentence that expresses someone's beliefs, ideals, or guiding principles.

Synonyms

credo, maxim, saying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
motto

A motto is a short, memorable phrase or sentence that sums up the beliefs or ideals of an individual, organization, or institution. It's often used as a guide for behavior or a slogan.

  • The school's motto is 'Knowledge is Power'
  • Our family motto is 'Always do your best
  • '
saying

A saying is a short, commonly known expression that conveys advice or wisdom, often originating from traditional folklore or popular culture. It can be used in various situations to encapsulate a piece of practical knowledge.

  • An old saying goes, 'A stitch in time saves nine
  • ' 'The early bird catches the worm' is another popular saying
maxim

A maxim is a concise statement that expresses a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct. It is often handed down historically or considered a piece of universal wisdom.

  • One famous maxim is 'Honesty is the best policy
  • ' Another well-known maxim is 'Actions speak louder than words
  • '
credo

A credo is a set of firm beliefs or principles that guide someone's actions. It generally refers to personal or organizational philosophy on a more profound, sometimes spiritual, level.

  • Her personal credo is to treat others as she would like to be treated
  • The company's credo is based on integrity and innovation

Examples of usage

  • My motto is 'Carpe Diem' - seize the day.
  • The company's motto is 'Quality over quantity.'
Context #2 | Noun

heraldry

In heraldry, a motto is a phrase or sentence placed beneath a coat of arms, typically expressing a noble family's aspirations or values.

Synonyms

family motto, heraldic motto.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
motto

Used to describe a short phrase or sentence that expresses a guiding principle or belief of an individual or group.

  • 'Live and let live' is her motto.
  • The team's motto is 'Together we achieve more.'
heraldic motto

Typically refers to a motto associated with a coat of arms or a family crest, often reflecting the heritage and values of a noble family.

  • The heraldic motto on the coat of arms reads 'Fortune favors the brave'.
  • His family's heraldic motto is 'By courage and faith.'
family motto

Specifically refers to a phrase or sentence that conveys the values or guiding principles of a particular family, often passed down through generations.

  • Their family motto has always been 'Strength and Honor.'
  • The Carters' family motto is 'Faith, Love, Respect.'

Examples of usage

  • Their family motto is 'Semper Fidelis' - always faithful.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'motto' comes from the Italian word 'motto,' meaning 'word' or 'saying.'
  • It was first used in English in the late 16th century, showing how ideas and expressions can travel across languages.
  • The term was often associated with heraldry, where a family's motto would accompany their coat of arms to convey their values.

Pop Culture

  • Many famous brands have mottos that resonate with their mission, like Nikeโ€™s 'Just Do It,' encouraging action.
  • Movies and books often feature characters with memorable mottos that define their journeys, such as Gandalf's 'A wizard is never late.'
  • In the realm of sports, teams often adopt mottos that inspire fans and players alike, creating a sense of unity and purpose.

Psychology

  • Having a personal motto can boost motivation and improve decision-making, acting as a mental anchor during tough times.
  • Psychological studies suggest that mantras or mottos can enhance focus and reduce stress, similar to positive affirmations.
  • The repetition of a motto can condition the mind to internalize values and direction, shaping behavior and attitude over time.

Education

  • Mottos are often used in educational settings, with schools adopting them to reflect their philosophies and inspire students.
  • Students may create personal mottos to guide their academic goals, fostering a positive mindset towards learning.
  • Mottos can be powerful tools in classroom management, helping educators instill core values like respect and perseverance.

History

  • Throughout history, various political movements have adopted mottos that encapsulate their mission and vision, such as the French Revolution's 'Libertรฉ, รฉgalitรฉ, fraternitรฉ.'
  • In ancient Rome, mottos were often inscribed on public buildings to convey civic virtues and laws to the populace.
  • The use of mottos in military units serves to instill a sense of pride and purpose among soldiers, fostering camaraderie.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,551, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.