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Ancient Greek Quotes

ancient Greeks

Classic Ancient Greek quotes, proverbs, maxims and phrases.

page 3 of 6


  Relationships
Marcus AureliusΟι άνθρωποι γεγόνασιν αλλήλων ένεκα. Ή δίδασκε ούν ή φέρε.

Men exist for the sake of one another. Guide them then or bear with them.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VIII, 59

6 likes
EpictetusΤα καθήκοντα ταις σχέσεσι προσμετρείται.

The duties count in addition to relations.

—  Epictetus, 50-120 AD, Ancient Greek Stoic philosopher

(for the things a philosopher should not neglect)

3 likes
  
  Neighbors
Ancient Greek phraseΟξύτερον οι γείτονες βλέπουσι των αλωπεκέων.

Neighbors see better than foxes.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

6 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΦθονερόν αεί των γειτόνων όμμα.

Always envious the eye of the neighbor.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

3 likes
  
  Love
DiogenesΔιογένης τον έρωτα είπε σχολαζόντων ασχολίαν.

Diogenes said that love is an occupation for the lazy.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

11 likes
PlatoΕπ᾽ ευτυχία τη μεγίστη παρά θεών η τοιαύτη μανία [ο έρως] δίδοται.

The madness of love is the greatest of the blessings of the gods.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

10 likes
EuripidesΠοιητήν δ’ άρα Έρως διδάσκει, καν άμουσος ή το πριν.

Love of course teaches poetry, even to those who had no idea about poetry before.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

6 likes
  
  Men & Women
EuripidesΟύ το κάλλος, ω γύναι, αλλ’ αρεταί τέρπουσι τους ξυνευνέτας.

It’s not beauty but character that pleases husbands.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromache

7 likes
EuripidesΠικρόν νέα γυναικί πρεσβύτης ανήρ.

It’s bitter for a young woman an old husband.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Phoenix

7 likes
HesiodΟύ μεν γαρ τι γυναικός άμεινον αγαθής.

There is nothing better than a good wife.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -702

5 likes
EuripidesΆριστον ανδρί κτήμα συμπαθής γυνή.

The best possession of a man is a sympathetic woman.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Antigone

4 likes
DemocritusΈνιοι, πόλεων μεν δεσπόζουσι, γυναιξί δε δουλεύουσι.

Some people rule cities and are slaves to women.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
DemocritusΥπό γυναικός άρχεσθαι ύβρις είη εν ανδρί εσχάτη.

To be ruled by a woman is the ultimate disgrace for a man.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
EuripidesΓυναίκα και ωφελίαν και νόσον ανδρί φέρει μεγίσταν.

A woman brings both great benefit and great distress to man.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcmeon

3 likes
EuripidesΤα μεν γαρ άλλα δεύτερα αν πάσχη γυνή, ανδρός δ’ αμαρτάνουσα, αμαρτάνει βίου.

Other misfortunes are secondary for a woman, but if she loses her husband, she loses her life.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromache

2 likes
  
  Eroticism
HerodotusΆμα δε το χιτώνι εκδυομένω, εκδύεται και την αιδώ γυνή.

When a woman takes off her robe, takes off her shyness as well.

—  Herodotus, 480-420 BC, Ancient Greek historian, the “ father of History”

4 likes
  
  Sex
DiogenesΛυχνίας σβεσθείσης, πάσα γυνή ομοία.

When the lamp goes off, all the women are the same.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

11 likes
AristophanesΜα Δί’ ουδὲ δέομαί γ’, αλλά βινείν βούλομαι.

By Zeus, I don’t need anything, I just want to get laid!

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Lysistrata

10 likes
AristophanesΑφεκτέα τοίνυν εστίν ημίν του πέους.

So, we must refrain from the penis.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Lysistrata

7 likes
AristippusΟύτε δια τούτου ούτε άνευ τούτου.

Neither because of it nor without it.

—  Aristippus, 435-355 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

(answering the question “Does Love exist for Sex?”)

6 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΑφροδίσιος γαρ όρκος ουκ εμποίνιμος.

An oath taken during sex is not valid.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

6 likes
  
  Prostitution
MenanderΌμοια πόρνη δάκρυα και ρήτωρ έχει.

A prostitute and a politician pour similar tears.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

15 likes
DemosthenesΟυκ ωνούμαι μυρίων δραχμών μεταμέλειαν.

I will not buy regret for ten thousand drachmas.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

(to the courtesan Lais)

3 likes
  
  Marriage
MenanderΒίον καλόν ζης αν γυναίκα μη έχεις.

You live a good life if you don’t have a wife.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

10 likes
HesiodΠαρθενικήν δε γαμείν, ως κ’ ήθεα κεδνά διδάξης.

Marry a virgin, so that you can teach her the right manners.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -699

7 likes
MenanderΓυνή δικαία του βίου σωτηρία.

A good wife is the salvation of [a man’s] life.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

4 likes
HesiodΜήτε τριηκόντων ετέων μάλα πολλ᾽ απολείπων μητ᾽ επιθείς μάλα πολλά· γάμος δε τοι ώριος ούτος.

Neither being far short of thirty years nor much above; this is the right time for marriage.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -695

4 likes
DemocritusΓαμβρόν ο μεν επιτυχών, εύρεν υιόν. Ο δε αποτυχών, απώλεσε και θυγατέρα.

The man who is lucky in his son-in-law gains a son, whilst the man who fails loses a daughter.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
EuripidesΟύποτε φήσω γάμον ευφραίνειν πλέον ή λυπείν.

Never say that marriage brings more joy than pain.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcestis

3 likes
AntiphanesΩς εστι το γαμείν έσχατον του δυστυχείν.

For marriage is the worst misfortune!

—  Antiphanes, 405-335 BC, Ancient comic poet

2 likes
  
  Adultery
EuripidesΈρωτες υπέρ μεν άγαν ελθόντες ουκ ευδοξίαν ουδ’ αρετάν παρέδωκαν ανδράσιν.

Excess of passion brings no glory or honor to men.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

4 likes
  
  Parents
Alexander the GreatΣτους γονείς οφείλομεν το ζην, στους δε διδασκάλους το ευ ζην.

We are indebted to our parents for living, but to our teachers for living well.

—  Alexander the Great, 356-323 BC, King of Macedon

16 likes
DemocritusΠατρός σωφροσύνη μέγιστον τέκνοις παράγγελμα.

The prudence of the father is the greatest commandment for the children.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

6 likes
  
  Woman
DiogenesΛυχνίας σβεσθείσης, πάσα γυνή ομοία.

When the lamp goes off, all the women are the same.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

11 likes
MenanderΘάλασσα και πυρ, και γυνή τρίτον κακόν.

Sea, fire and, the third evil, woman.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

10 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΓυναικί κόσμος οι τρόποι, ουχί χρυσία.

The real ornament of woman is her character, not jewelry.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

—  Αρχαιοελληνική παροιμία

10 likes
EuripidesΤης μεν κακής κάκιον ουδέν γίγνεται γυναικός, εσθλής δ’ ουδέν εις υπερβολήν πέφυκ’ άμεινον.

Nothing is worse than a truly bad woman, and nothing better than a truly good one.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Melanippe

9 likes
AristotleΓυνή ανδρός φθονερώτερον και μεμψιμοιρότερον.

Women are more envious and more querulous than men.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

8 likes
EuripidesΈνδον μένουσαν την γυναίκα είναι χρεών εσθλήν, θύρασι δ’ αξίαν του μηδενός.

A woman should be good for everything at home, but, out of the door, good for nothing.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Meleager

8 likes
EuripidesΠλην της τεκούσης, θήλυ παν μισώ γένος.

Except for the one that gave birth to me, I hate the entire genus of women

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Melanippe

7 likes
HomerΕπεὶ ουκέτι πιστά γυναιξίν.

We can never trust women again.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey XI

6 likes
MenanderΔιά τας γυναίκας πάντα τα κακά γίγνεται.

All evil is done because of women.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

6 likes
AristotleΤο θήλυ έχει το βουλητικόν αλλ' άκυρον.

The female has the will but not the strength.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
AristophanesΧρήματα πορίζειν ευπορώτατον γυνή, άρχουσά τ᾽ ουκ αν εξαπατηθείη ποτέ. Αυταί γαρ εισιν εξαπατάν ειθισμέναι.

Woman is adept at getting money for herself and will not easily let herself be deceived. Because they are used to deceive.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Ecclesiazusae

5 likes
MenanderΓυνή γαρ ουδέν οίδε πλην ό βούλεται.

Women know nothing excpet from what they want.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

5 likes
AristophanesΟυδέν εστι θηρίον γυναικός αμαχώτερον.

There is no beast like woman so untamed.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Lysistrata

4 likes
EuripidesΓυνή γυναικί σύμμαχος πέφυκε πως.

A woman is a woman’s natural ally.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alope

4 likes
AesopΠυρ, γυνή και θάλασσα, δυνατά τρία.

Fire, woman and sea, the mighty three.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

3 likes
EuripidesΠολλάς αν εύροις μηχανάς, γυνή γαρ εί.

You will find many machinations since you are a woman.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromache

3 likes
EuripidesΠάντων δυσμαχώτατον γυνή.

Of all the things the hardest to deal with is the woman.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Oedipus

3 likes
AeschylusΟύτοι γυναικός εστιν ιμείρειν μάχης.

Surely it is not for a woman to long for battle.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

2 likes
  
  Children
HeraclitusΧρόνος παις εστι παίζων πεττεύων. Παιδός η βασιλεία.

Time is a child playing checkers; the kingdom belongs to a child.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

7 likes
EuripidesΔεινόν τι τέκνων φίλτρον έθηκεν θεός ανθρώποις.

God has endowed children with magic charm for the men.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

2 likes
  
  Friendship
AristotleΦιλία εστί μία ψυχή εν δυσί σώμασιν ενοικουμένη.

Friendship is one soul living in two bodies.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

26 likes
AntiphanesΦίλος μεν Πλάτων, φιλτάτη δε αλήθεια.

Plato is my friend but the truth is my best friend.

—  Antiphanes, 405-335 BC, Ancient comic poet

15 likes
Chilon of SpartaΕπί δείπνα των φίλων βραδέως πορεύου, επί δε τας ατυχίας ταχέως.

Don’t rush when attending friends’ dinners, but hasten to their misfortunes.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

11 likes
MenanderΚρίνει φίλους ο καιρός, ως χρυσόν το πυρ.

Time tests friends, like fire tests gold.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

7 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΟ φίλος τον φίλον εν πόνοις και κινδύνοις ου λείπει.

A friend does not abandon his friend in difficulties and in danger.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

6 likes
DemocritusΟμοφροσύνη φιλίην ποιεί.

Accord of mind creates friendship.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

6 likes
AesopΦίλος και ίππος εν ανάγκη δοκιμάζονται.

A friend and a horse are tested in a difficult situation.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

6 likes
DiogenesΟι μεν άλλοι κύνες τους εχθρούς δάκνουσι, εγώ δε τους φίλους ίνα σώσω.

Other dogs bite only their enemies, whereas I bite also my friends in order to save them.

—  Diogenes, 410-323 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

5 likes
DemocritusΠολλοί δοκέοντες είναι φίλοι ουκ εισί, και ου δοκέοντες εισίν.

Many who seem to be friends are not, whilst some, who do not seem so, are.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
MenanderΕάν δ’ έχωμεν χρήμαθ’, έξομεν φίλους

If we have money, we shall have friends.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

4 likes
EuripidesΛόγω γαρ ήσαν ουκ έργω φίλοι.

Because they were friends in word, not in deed.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcestis

4 likes
EuripidesΠένητα φεύγει πας τις εκποδών φίλος.

A poor man is abandoned by all his friends.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

4 likes
IsokratesΜηδένα φίλον ποιού, πριν αν εξετάσης πώς κέχρηται τοις προτέροις φίλοις.

Do not become a friend with anybody, before you check how he treats his old friends.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

4 likes
DemocritusΖην ουκ άξιος, ότω μηδείς εστι χρηστός φίλος.

No one deserves to live who has not at least one good-man-and-true for a friend.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΟ φίλος τον φίλον εν κινδύνοις γιγνώσκει.

A friend knows his friend in danger.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

3 likes
IsokratesΒραδέως μεν φίλος γίγνου, γενόμενος δε, πειρώ διαμένειν.

Become a friend slowly, and when you become, try to stay a friend.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

3 likes
DemocritusΕν ευτυχίη φίλον ευρείν εύπορον, εν δε δυστυχίη πάντων απορώτατον.

It is easy to find a friend in prosperity, but when you are unhappy nothing is harder.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

2 likes
EuripidesΌταν δ’ ο δαίμων ευ διδώ, τι δει φίλων;

When your god provides well, who needs friends?

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Orestes

2 likes
  
  Socializing
MenanderΑνδρός πονηρού φεύγε συνοδίαν αεί.

Always avoid the company of a vicious man.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

6 likes
EuripidesΚαι τούτο λυπρόν: συνασοφείν τοις μη σοφοίς.

Yes, that, too is sad: To have to join company with fools!

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

4 likes
MenanderΚακοίς ομιλών καυτός εκβήσει κακός.

If you associate with bad people, you will also become bad.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

4 likes
  
  Conversation
PlatoΟ εντός της ψυχής προς αυτήν διάλογος… επωνομάσθη διάνοια.

The dialogue within the soul with itself... was named “thinking”.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

11 likes
AristippusΤου μεν κακώς λέγειν συ την εξουσίαν έχεις, του δε μη ακούειν εγώ.

You may have the power to slander, but I have the power not to listen to you.

—  Aristippus, 435-355 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

(refusing to continue a debate)

5 likes
  
  Treating others
CleobulusΌ συ μισείς, ετέρω μη ποιήσεις.

What you hate don’t do to others.

—  Cleobulus, 6th cent. BC, Ancient Greek Poet, one of the 7 sages

9 likes
  
  Politeness
AesopΉθος το πράον και το προσηνές ρήμα.

Character lies in polite and friendly speaking.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

12 likes
Marcus AureliusΑλλήλων καταφρονούντες αλλήλοις αρεσκεύονται και αλλήλων υπερέχειν θέλοντες, αλλήλοις υποκατακλίνονται.

Although they despise each other, they embrace each other, and although they want to be above the others, they bow to each other.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations XI, 14

5 likes
Chilon of SpartaΙσχυρόν όντα πράον είναι, όπως οι πλησίον αιδώνται μάλλον ή φοβώνται.

When you are in a position of power, be well-mannered, if you would have the respect, not the fear, of those around you.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

4 likes
  
  Trust
SolonΚαλοκαγαθίαν όρκου πιστοτέραν έχε.

Put more trust in integrity of character than in an oath.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

7 likes
HomerΕπεὶ ουκέτι πιστά γυναιξίν.

We can never trust women again.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey XI

6 likes
AeschylusΟυκ ανδρός όρκοι πίστις, αλλ’ όρκων ανήρ.

It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Fragments

6 likes
DemocritusΜη πάσιν, αλλά τοις δοκίμοισι πιστεύειν.

Do not trust everybody, only the trustworthy.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
Pittacus of MytileneΜη πάσι πίστευε.

Don’t trust everybody.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

4 likes
HesiodΠίστεις αρ τοι ομώς και απιστίαι ώλεσαν άνδρας.

For trust and mistrust, alike ruin men.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -372

4 likes
  
  Reciprocity
AeschylusΤύμμα τύμματι τίσαι.

You pay the hit with a hit.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

6 likes
Epicharmus of KosΔος τι και λάβε τι.

Give something and take something.

—  Epicharmus of Kos, 530-440 BC, Ancient Greek poet

3 likes
IsokratesΆ πάσχοντες υφ’ ετέρων οργίζεσθε, ταύτα τοις άλλοις μη ποιείτε.

What thou thyself hatest, do to no man.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

3 likes
  
  Reputation
Ancient Greek proverbΠόνος ευκλείας πατήρ.

Hard work is the father of good reputation.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

5 likes
EuripidesΚακώς ακούειν ού μέλει θανόντι μοι.

I don’t care if they speak bad about me after I die.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcestis

3 likes
HesiodΦήμη... κακή αργαλέη φέρει, χαλεπόν δ’ αποθέσθαι.

Bad reputation is grievous to bear and hard to get rid of.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -762

3 likes
Periander of CorinthΖων μεν επαινού, αποθανών δε μακαρίζου.

To be praised while you live, to be beatified after you die.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

2 likes
  
  Gossip
SolonΟ αν μη ίδης, μη λέγε. Ειδώς σιγά.

Don’t talk about the things you don’t know and when you know, don’t say anything.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

7 likes
IsokratesΕυλαβού τας διαβολάς καν ψευδείς ώσιν.

Be afraid of slandering even if it’s not true.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

6 likes
  
  Speaking
TheocritusΆρχεται λέξεων μεν ποταμός, νου δε σταλαγμός.

Now begins a river of words and a trickling of sense.

—  Theocritus, 3rd cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet

(on one of his opponents who was about to make a public speech)

9 likes
MenanderΗ γλώσσα πολλούς εις όλεθρον ήγαγεν.

The tongue has led many men to destruction.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

7 likes
AesopΟμιλείν δυνάστῃ... ως ήκιστα ή ως ήδιστα.

Speak to a tyrant as little as possible or as pleasantly as possible.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

6 likes
Bias of PrieneΆκουε πολλά, λάλει καίρια.

Hear much, speak to the point.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

5 likes
Chilon of SpartaΗ γλώσσα σου μη προτρεχέτω του νου.

Do not let your tongue outrun your mind.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

5 likes
SolonΤον λόγον είδωλον είναι των έργων.

Speech is the mirror of action.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

5 likes
IsokratesΆ ποιείν αισχρόν, ταύτα νόμιζε μηδέ λέγειν είναι καλόν.

The things that are not good to do are neither good to talk about.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

4 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΕιπών ά θέλεις, αντάκουε ά μη θέλεις

When you say whatever you want [be prepared to] listen to what you don't want.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

—  Ancient Greek phrase

4 likes
DemocritusΛόγος γαρ έργου σκιή.

Speaking is the shadow of action.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
DemosthenesΩς άπας μεν λόγος, αν απή τα πράγματα, μάταιόν τι φαίνεται και κενόν.

All speech is vain and empty unless it be accompanied by action.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

3 likes
SocratesΤο μη καλώς λέγειν ου μόνον εις αυτό τούτο πλημμελές, αλλά και κακόν τι εμποιεί ταίς ψυχαίς.

Not speaking well of others is not only sinful by itself, but lets evil intrude into the soul.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

3 likes
EuripidesΠέρας γαρ ουδέν μη διά γλώσσης ιόν.

Nothing ends unless it passes through the tongue.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ The Suppliants

3 likes
  
  Brevity
DemocritusΑληθόμυθον χρη είναι, ού πολύλογον.

You should speak truthfully; you should not talk too much.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
AristophanesΣοφού προς ανδρός όστις εν βραχεί πολλούς καλώς οίος τε συντέμνειν λόγους.

That man is wise who can say what he wants in a minimum of words.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Thesmophoriazusae

5 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΤο λακωνίζειν εστί φιλοσοφείν.

Brevity is the source of wit.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

4 likes
Chilon of SpartaΓλώσσης κρατάν και μάλιστα εν συμποσίω.

Hold your tongue especially in banquets.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

3 likes
AeschylusΦιλεί δε σιγάν ή λέγειν τα καίρια.

He or silence keeps or speaks in season.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

2 likes
HesiodΓλώσσης τοι θησαυρός εν ανθρώποισιν άριστος φειδωλής.

The best treasure a man can have is a sparing tongue.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -719

2 likes
  
  Talking
DemocritusΠλεονεξίη το πάντα λέγειν, μηδέν δε εθέλειν ακούειν.

It is greed to do all the talking and not be willing to listen.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
Thales of MiletusΟύ τι τα πολλά έπη φρονίμην απεφήνατο δόξαν.

A multitude of words is no proof of a prudent mind.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
PlutarchΑπιστούνται δ’ oι λάλοι καν αληθεύωσιν.

No one believes those who talk much even when they are telling the truth.

—  Plutarch, 47-120 AD, Ancient Greek historian

5 likes
EuripidesΕι μη καθέξεις γλώσσαν, έσται σοι κακά.

If you do not check your tongue, you will be in trouble.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Aegeus

3 likes
SolonΟυδείς αν μωρός σιωπάν εν συμποσίω δύναται.

No fool can be silent at a feast.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

2 likes
EuripidesΑχαλίνων στομάτων, ανόμου τ’ αφροσύνας το τέλος δυστυχία.

Of unbridled talk and lawless follies misfortune is the end.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Bacchae

2 likes
  
  Listening
CleobulusΦιλήκοον είναι μάλλον ή πολύλαλον.

Be fond of listening rather than of talking.

—  Cleobulus, 6th cent. BC, Ancient Greek Poet, one of the 7 sages

5 likes
  
  Silence
MenanderΓυναιξί πάσαις κόσμον η σιγή φέρει.

For all women silence is beauty.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

13 likes
EuripidesΑυτό δε τo σιγάν ομολογούντος εστί σου.

Your very silence is as good as a confession.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Iphigeneia at Aulis

10 likes
SolonΟ αν μη ίδης, μη λέγε. Ειδώς σιγά.

Don’t talk about the things you don’t know and when you know, don’t say anything.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

7 likes
MenanderΜόνη σιγή μεταμέλειαν ου φέρει.

Silence alone is not an apology.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

6 likes
EuripidesΗ γαρ σιωπή τοις σοφοίς απόκρισις.

Silence is true wisdom’s best reply.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

6 likes
Ancient Greek phraseΚρείττον του λαλείν το σιγάν.

Being silent is better than talking.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

4 likes
PindarΤο σιγάν πολλάκις εστί σοφώτατον ανθρώπω νοήσαι.

Often is man’s best wisdom to be silent.

—  Pindar, 522-438 BC, Ancient Greek lyric poet

2 likes
AeschylusΤα δ’ άλλα σιγώ. Βους επί γλώσσηι μέγας βέβηκεν.

As to the rest I am silent. A big ox stands upon my tongue.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

2 likes
EuripidesΣιγάς; Σιωπή δ’ άπορος ερμηνεύς λόγων.

You do not speak? But silence is a poor interpreter of words.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Andromeda

2 likes
  
  Seeing
HesiodΠάντα ιδών Διός οφθαλμός και πάντα νοήσας.

The eye of Zeus seeing all and understanding all.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -267

7 likes
Ancient Greek phraseΟξύτερον οι γείτονες βλέπουσι των αλωπεκέων.

Neighbors see better than foxes.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

6 likes
SolonΤοσούτω διαφέρει η φρόνησις των άλλων αρετών, όσω η όρασις των άλλων αισθήσεων.

Prudence is different from the other virtues as much as vision is different from the other senses.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

4 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΕκ του οράν το εράν.

From seeing comes love.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

3 likes
  
  Hiding
DemosthenesΑι γαρ ευπραξίαι δειναί συγκρύψαι τα ονείδη.

Success is apt to cover a multitude of faults.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

6 likes
Ancient Greek phraseΟυδέν κρυπτόν υπό τον ήλιον.

Nothing can be hidden under the son.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

5 likes
  
  Secrets
HeraclitusΦύσις κρύπτεσθαι φιλεί.

Nature is wont to hide herself.

—  Heraclitus, 544-484 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

6 likes
Periander of CorinthΑτυχίαν κρύπτε.

Hide your misfortune.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

4 likes
Thales of MiletusΚακά εν οίκω κρύπτε.

Conceal thy domestic ills.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
  
  Forgiveness
Pittacus of MytileneΣυγγνώμη τιμωρίας κρείσσων.

Forgiveness is better than revenge.

—  Pittacus of Mytilene, 650-570 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

5 likes
  
  Praise & Flattery
AntisthenesΚρείττον εις κόρακας ή εις κόλακας εμπεσείν. Οι μεν γαρ νεκρούς, οι δε ζώντας εσθίουσιν.

It is better to fall in with crows than with flatterers; for in the one case you are devoured when dead, in the other case while alive.

—  Antisthenes, 445-360 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

9 likes
DemocritusΦόβος κολακείην μεν εργάζεται, εύνοιαν δε ουκ έχει.

Fear uses flattery without getting any favors.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

6 likes
AesopΟ φιλών πλήξει σε, ο δε μισών κολακεύσει σε.

He who loves you will insult you and he who hates you will flatter you.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

6 likes
PlatoΗδονών ήδιον έπαινος.

Praise is more sweet than all pleasures.

—  Plato, 427-347 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
Marcus AureliusΒραχύβιον και ο επαινών και ο επαινούμενος και ο μνημονεύων και ο μνημονευόμενος.

Short-lived are both the praiser and the praised, and rememberer and the remembered.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VIII, 21

5 likes
IsokratesΦιλίας μεν αρχή έπαινος, έχθρας δε ψόγος.

The beginning of friendship is praise and of animosity is criticism. criticism.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

4 likes
AntisthenesΠρος τον ειπόντα «Πολλοί σε επαινούσι»: «Τι γαρ», έφη, «κακόν πεποίηκα;»

When somebody told him “many people praise you”, he said “what have I done wrong?”

—  Antisthenes, 445-360 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

3 likes
DemocritusΜεγάλα βλάπτουσι τους αξυνέτους οι επαινέοντες.

Flatterers are seriously damaging the stupid.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
DemocritusΒέλτερον υφ’ ετέρου ή υφ’ εαυτού επαινέεσθαι.

It is better to be praised by someone else than by yourself.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
IsokratesΠολλών χρημάτων κρείττων ο παρά του πλήθους έπαινος.

The praise of the people is much better than most things.

—  Isokrates, 436-338 BC, Ancient Greek rhetorician

3 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΕπαινούμενος, μη πάντα πίστευε.

Being praised don’t believe everything.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

3 likes
Bias of PrieneΑνάξιον άνδρα μη επαίνει διά πλούτον.

Don’t praise an unworthy man for his riches.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

2 likes
  
  Gifts
VirgilΦοβού τους Δαναούς και δώρα φέροντας.

Be afraid of the Greeks bearing gifts.

—  Virgil, 70-19 BC, Roman poet

5 likes
HomerΑλλ' ό γε σιγῇ δώρα θεών έχοι, όττι διδοίεν.

Just take in peace what gifts the gods will send.

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Odyssey XVIII

3 likes
EuripidesΚακού ανδρός δώρα όνησιν ουκ έχει.

The gifts of a bad man bring no good with them.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

3 likes
EuripidesΠείθειν δώρα και θεούς λόγος.

It is said that gifts persuade even the gods.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Medea

2 likes
  
  Favors
EpicurusΜάταιόν εστι παρά θεών αιτείσθαι ά τις εαυτώ χορηγήσαι ικανός εστι.

It is futile to pray to the gods for that which one has the power to obtain by himself.

—  Epicurus, 341-270 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

19 likes
MenanderΩς μέγα το μικρόν εστιν εν καιρώ δοθέν.

How big is the little thing that was given at the right time.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

15 likes
MenanderΧάριν λαβών μέμνησο και δους επιλαθού.

Remember the favor you have received and forget the favor you have given.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

11 likes
AristotleΤι γηράσκει ταχύ; Χάρις.

What soon grows old? Favor.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

5 likes
Periander of CorinthΧάριν απόδος.

Turn back a favor.

—  Periander of Corinth, 668-584 BC, tyrant of Corinth

5 likes
MenanderΛαβών απόδος άνθρωπε και λήψη πάλιν.

When you take, give back, and you will take again.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

5 likes
DemocritusΜικραί χάριτες εν καιρώ μέγισται τοις λαμβάνουσι.

Small favors at the right time are huge to those who receive them.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

4 likes
  
  Persuasion
AristotleΤου πιθανωτέρους είναι τους απαιδεύτους των πεπαιδευμένων εν τοις όχλοις.

Before a crowd, the ignorant are more persuasive than the educated.

—  Aristotle, 384-322 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

13 likes
EuripidesΌταν γαρ ηδύς τις λόγοις φρονών κακώς πείθη το πλήθος, τη πόλει κακόν μέγα.

When one with honeyed words but evil mind persuades the mob, great woes befall the state.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Orestes

5 likes
Bias of PrieneΠείσας λαβέ, μη βιασάμενος.

Take by persuasion, not by force.

—  Bias of Priene, 625-540 BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

4 likes
DemocritusΙσχυρότερος ες πειθώ λόγος πολλαχή γίνεται χρυσού.

For persuasion, reasoning is far stronger than gold.

—  Democritus, 470-370 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

3 likes
EuripidesΟυκ έστι Πειθούς ιερόν άλλο πλην λόγος.

Persuasion has only one temple, speech.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

2 likes
  
  Advice
Thales of MiletusΔύσκολον τον εαυτόν γνώναι, εύκολον τω άλλω υποτίθεσθαι.

It is difficult to know yourself; it is easy to give advice to others.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

15 likes
SolonΣυμβούλευε μη τα ήδιστα, αλλά τα βέλτιστα.

Do not counsel what is most pleasant, but what is best.

—  Solon, 630-560 BC, Ancient Greek lawmaker & philosopher

4 likes
EuripidesΡάον παραινείν ή παθόντα καρτερείν.

It is easier to give advice to others who suffer than bear yourself.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Alcestis

3 likes
  
  Submission
ThucydidesΟυ τοις άρχειν βουλομένοις μέμφομαι, αλλά τοις υπακούειν ετοιμοτέροις ούσιν.

I don’t blame those who want to rule but those who are more ready to obey.

—  Thucydides, 460-394 BC, Ancient Greek historian

3 likes
EuripidesΑλλ’ εις το κέρδος παρά φύσιν δουλευτέον.

Yet, for a man to get what he wants, he must go against his own nature and act like a slave.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Phoenissae

3 likes
HerodotusΓη και ύδωρ.

Earth and water.

—  Herodotus, 480-420 BC, Ancient Greek historian, the “ father of History”

(the demand of the Persians from the cities which surrendered to them)

3 likes
EuripidesΤοις κρατούσι μη μάχου.

Do not challenge authority.

—  Euripides, 480-406 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Hecuba

2 likes
  
  Overcoming
SophoclesΣμικρώ χαλινώ δ’ οίδα τους θυμουμένους ίππους καταρτυθέντας.

I know they use a short bridle for wild horses.

—  Sophocles, 496-406 BC, Ancient tragic poet ‐ Antigone

3 likes
  
  Insult
HomerΠοίον σε έπος φύγεν έρκος οδόντων;

What is this word that broke through the fence of your teeth?

—  Homer, c. 800-750 BC, Ancient Greek Poet ‐ Iliad IV

6 likes
AesopΩ ούτος, ού συ με λοιδορείς, αλλ᾿ ο τόπος.

It is your [secure] position, not you, that insults me.

—  Aesop, 620-560 BC, Ancient Greek fabulist

3 likes
  
  Betrayal
Julius CaesarΚαι συ, τέκνον Βρούτε;

And you, son Brutus?

—  Julius Caesar, 100-44 BC, Roman general & Consul

(his last words, spoken in Greek)

11 likes
  
  Competition
HesiodΚαι κεραμεύς κεραμεί κοτέει και τέκτονι τέκτων και πτωχός πτωχώ φθονέει και αοιδός αοιδώ.

Potter bears a grudge against potter, and craftsman against craftsman, and beggar is envious of beggar, and bard of bard.

—  Hesiod, 7th cent. BC, Ancient Greek poet ‐ Works and Days -26

3 likes
  
  Conflict
Marcus AureliusΆριστος τρόπος του αμυνεσθαι το μη εξομοιούσθαι.

The best defense is not to be like your enemy.

—  Marcus Aurelius, 121-180 AD, Roman Emperor ‐ Meditations VI, 6

11 likes
Ancient Greek phraseΠρος λέοντα δορκάς άπτεται μάχης.

A deer picks up a fight with the lion.

—  Ancient Greek phrase

8 likes
  
  Blame
Chilon of SpartaΤον τεθνηκότα μη κακολογείν.

Do not speak evil of the dead.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

18 likes
MenanderΔιά τας γυναίκας πάντα τα κακά γίγνεται.

All evil is done because of women.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

6 likes
Thales of MiletusΕάν ά τοις άλλοις επιτιμώμεν, αυτοί μη δρώμεν

Avoid doing what you would blame others for doing.

—  Thales of Miletus, 643-548 BC, Ancient Greek philosopher

4 likes
MenanderΟυκ έστιν όστις την τύχην ου μέμφεται.

There is no man who does not blame his luck.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

4 likes
Ancient Greek proverbΛύκος εν αιτία γίνεται καν φέρει καν μη φέρει.

The wolf will be blamed either guilty or not guilty.

—  Ancient Greek proverb

4 likes
AeschylusΘ’ Ελέναν; επεί πρεπόντως ελέναυς έλανδρος ελέπτολις.

Helen? Ship destroyer, men destroyer, city destroyer.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian ‐ Agamemnon

(a play on her name and έλω [=kill])

2 likes
  
  Enemies
AntisthenesΠροσέχειν τοις εχθροίς· πρώτοι γαρ των αμαρτημάτων αισθάνονται.

Pay attention to your enemies, for they are the first to discover your mistakes.

—  Antisthenes, 445-360 BC, Ancient Greek Cynic philosopher

16 likes
AristophanesΑπ᾽ εχθρών δήτα πολλά μανθάνουσιν οι σοφοί.

The wise learn many things from their enemies.

—  Aristophanes, 445-386 BC, Ancient Greek comic playwright ‐ Birds

6 likes
MenanderΕχθροίς απιστών ούποτ’ αν πάθοις βλάβην.

Nothing bad will happen to you by distrusting your enemies.

—  Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)

5 likes
  
  Threat
SocratesΑι μεν βρονταί τους παίδας, αι δε απειλαί τους άφρονας καταπλήττουσι.

Kids are afraid of thunders and idiots are afraid of threats.

—  Socrates, 469-399 BC, Ancient Geek Philosopher

24 likes
Chilon of SpartaΜη απειλείν ουδενί. Γυναικώδες γαρ.

Do not threaten anyone. It is a womanly trait.

—  Chilon of Sparta, 6th cent. BC, one of the 7 sages of Ancient Greece

4 likes
  
  Solitude
AeschylusΤο μεν γυναίκα πρώτον άρσενος δίχα ήσθαι δόμοις έρημον έκπαγλον κακόν.

It is horrible for a woman to stay home alone without a man.

—  Aeschylus, 525-456 BC, Ancient Greek tragedian

2 likes
  
  Turmoil
DemosthenesΆτακτα, αδιόρθωτα, αόρισθ’ άπαντα.

Everything is ill-arranged, ill-managed, ill-defined.

—  Demosthenes, 384-322 BC, Ancient Athenian & statesman orator

4 likes
  

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Ancient Greek quotes

 
relevant quote
What is the mind and heart for the man, is Greece for the whole world.
Goethe
 

2024: Manolis Papathanassiou