- Meaning and lesson
A life is measured not merely by its number of years, but by the goodness, wisdom, or worth of the way it is lived. One who lives rightly has, in a moral sense, made full and lasting use of life.
The saying urges attention to the quality of conduct rather than longevity alone. It expresses a moral ideal, not a literal promise that virtuous conduct guarantees a longer lifespan, and suggests that an honorable life has depth beyond its duration.
- When it is used
Use it as a reflective moral observation when discussing how to live meaningfully, especially when contrasting virtuous conduct with the simple accumulation of years. Its archaic verb form gives it a traditional, elevated tone; a modern paraphrase may be clearer in ordinary conversation.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: He liveth long that liveth well.