Citius, altius, fortius

Definition

'Citius, altius, fortius' is a Latin phrase that translates to 'faster, higher, stronger.' It serves as the Olympic motto, emphasizing the spirit of competition and striving for excellence in athletic performance. This motto captures the essence of human endeavor and the pursuit of personal bests in sports, encapsulating the ideals of perseverance and improvement that define the Olympic Games.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Citius, altius, fortius' was adopted as the Olympic motto in 1894 at the founding of the International Olympic Committee.
2. The motto reflects not only physical prowess but also the mental strength required to compete at high levels in sports.
3. This phrase encourages athletes to continuously push their limits and strive for improvement in their performance.
4. Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games, believed that these three words embodied the essence of competition and athletic excellence.
5. The motto has become synonymous with the Olympic movement and is a rallying cry for athletes from around the world during the Games.

Review Questions

• How does 'citius, altius, fortius' reflect the values embodied in Olympism?
  • 'Citius, altius, fortius' embodies the values of Olympism by promoting the idea that athletes should strive for improvement in all aspects: physical abilities (faster), personal achievements (higher), and resilience (stronger). This motto encourages athletes not only to outperform their previous selves but also to embrace values like respect and friendship. Through this pursuit of excellence, Olympism aims to create a harmonious balance between mind and body while inspiring athletes and spectators alike.
• Discuss how 'citius, altius, fortius' influences the mindset of athletes during competitions.
  • 'Citius, altius, fortius' serves as a powerful motivator for athletes by instilling a growth-oriented mindset. Athletes internalize these principles as they prepare for competitions, pushing themselves to break personal records and achieve higher standards. The mantra inspires them to embrace challenges, persevere through adversity, and find joy in their journeys toward self-improvement. This shift in mindset fosters a culture where striving for excellence becomes a shared goal among competitors.
• Evaluate how 'citius, altius, fortius' has impacted global perceptions of athletic achievement since its adoption.
  • 'Citius, altius, fortius' has significantly influenced global perceptions of athletic achievement by setting a universal standard for excellence in sports. Since its adoption as the Olympic motto in 1894, it has inspired generations of athletes worldwide to reach beyond their limits. The phrase encapsulates not just competitive success but also cultural values surrounding sportsmanship and dedication. As a result, it has helped shape an international identity around athletics where people celebrate not only victories but also personal growth and determination in pursuit of greatness.

Related terms

Olympism: 'Olympism' refers to the philosophy of life that promotes the balance between body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing the values of friendship, respect, and excellence in sports.

Athletics: 'Athletics' is a collection of sporting events that includes running, jumping, throwing, and walking, which are typically featured prominently in the Olympic Games.

Spirit of Competition: 'Spirit of Competition' describes the mindset and attitude that athletes bring to their sport, characterized by determination, respect for opponents, and the drive to achieve personal or team goals.