ProverbHub
English · Latin scriptProverb: Verified

He liveth long that liveth well.

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
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

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