What does Carpe diem mean? Meaning and translation simply explained

The saying "Carpe diem" is not only common to us online, but also offline. We'll tell you exactly what that means in this practical tip.

Carpe diem: translation of the Latin words

• "Carpe" means something like picking or tearing off. "Diem" is the day. The Latin expression can literally be translated as "pick the day".
• In German, the translation "Use the day" has prevailed. However, this expression is often misunderstood, so Carpe Diem loses its actual meaning.

Carpe diem: what does that mean?

• In 23 BC, the poet Horace used the expression "Carpe diem" in one of his poems. He appeals to enjoy the day since life does not last forever.
• Nowadays "Carpe diem" is mostly misunderstood by the translation "use the day". For many, "Carpe diem" means exactly the opposite: that the day is too short to relax and that time should be used sensibly.

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