motto
B2Formal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
A short phrase or sentence that expresses a guiding principle, belief, or ideal for a person, family, organization, or nation.
A phrase or sentence that encapsulates the character, purpose, or aspirations of an entity, often used formally (on coats of arms, logos, mission statements) or informally as a personal slogan.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Differs from a 'slogan' in being more permanent and principled, and from a 'maxim' or 'proverb' in being specifically adopted by an individual or group rather than being general folk wisdom.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. The concept is universal, though historical mottos (e.g., of schools, towns, or noble families) are more frequently encountered in British contexts due to longer institutional histories.
Connotations
Slightly more formal and institutional in British English; can be used more broadly for personal or corporate slogans in American English.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Organization/Person]'s motto is [phrase]to have [phrase] as a mottoto live by the motto [phrase]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To live by one's motto”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in corporate mission statements or branding to encapsulate company values (e.g., 'Think Different').
Academic
Found in heraldry, history, and social studies to describe official phrases of institutions or nations.
Everyday
Used to describe a personal saying or principle one tries to follow.
Technical
Specific term in heraldry for a phrase on a coat of arms.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- The school's motto, 'Persevere and Excel', is inscribed above the main door.
- He found the family motto in an old heraldry book.
American English
- The company's motto is 'Innovation for Everyone'.
- Her personal motto is 'never give up'.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Our team motto is 'work together'.
- The motto is on the school badge.
- The club adopted a new motto to reflect its values.
- What would you choose as your personal motto?
- The nation's motto, 'Liberty and Justice for All', is known by every citizen.
- She tries to live by the motto 'carpe diem'.
- The charitable foundation's motto succinctly encapsulates its philanthropic philosophy.
- Historians debated the origin and intended meaning of the royal motto.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MOTOrcyclist with a tattoo of their life's principle: their MOTTO.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MOTTO IS A COMPASS (it provides direction). A MOTTO IS A FOUNDATION (it underpins actions).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Not directly equivalent to 'лозунг', which is more often a political 'slogan'. Closer to 'девиз', but note that 'девиз' can also mean 'motto' in heraldry.
- Avoid confusing with 'пословица' (proverb) or 'поговорка' (saying).
Common Mistakes
- Using 'motto' for a temporary advertising slogan (use 'tagline' or 'slogan').
- Confusing with 'mantra' (which is more spiritual/repetitive).
- Incorrect plural: 'mottos' is standard; 'mottoes' is less common but acceptable.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely context for the word 'motto'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A motto is typically a permanent, principled statement of belief or purpose for an individual or institution. A slogan is often a temporary, persuasive phrase used in advertising or politics.
Yes, though it's less common. Examples include 'Excelsior' (meaning 'ever upward') or 'Courage'. Usually, it's a short phrase.
Both are correct. 'Mottos' is more common in modern usage.
No, not all countries have an officially declared national motto. Some have well-known unofficial ones, while others have none.