as in proverb
a short sentence or phrase that expresses a rule guiding the behavior of a particular person or group
"Hope for the best and prepare for the worst" is my motto. The Scout motto is "Be prepared."
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of motto
In 1959, this motto also appeared on John Seabrook’s birth announcement.
—
Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025
The classic mother’s motto: Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.
—Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 14 May 2025
Carey’s motto is often that the item itself doesn’t change.
—Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 May 2025
The jacket also has the club motto Fino Alla Fine printed on it to demonstrate the club’s constant pursuit of excellence.
—Vitas Carosella, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025
The classic mother’s motto: Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.
—Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 14 May 2025
Carey’s motto is often that the item itself doesn’t change.
—Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 May 2025
The jacket also has the club motto Fino Alla Fine printed on it to demonstrate the club’s constant pursuit of excellence.
—Vitas Carosella, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motto
Noun
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To butcher a proverb, if Bielsa is for you, who in that corner of England could possibly be against you?—
Phil Hay,
New York Times,
22 May 2025
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This powerful African proverb reminds us that a community of caring individuals—be it relatives, friends, or community members—plays a vital role in raising a child.—
Ronny Maye,
Essence,
10 May 2025
Noun
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As the saying goes, the comeback is greater than the setback.—
Ryan Gaydos,
FOXNews.com,
22 May 2025
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Final Thoughts There’s a saying in sustainability circles: The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the next best time is right now.—
Emmanuel Carrillo,
Forbes.com,
20 May 2025
Noun
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The use of the words 'genocide' or 'acts of genocide' to describe what is happening in Gaza is no longer debated by international legal experts or human rights organizations.—
Neda Ulaby,
NPR,
29 May 2025
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Letters are limited to less than 250 words and must be signed (no pseudonyms nor initials).You must include your email address, address with city and daytime phone number for verification.—
Letters to the Editor,
The Orlando Sentinel,
29 May 2025
Noun
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That violates another maxim commonly taught in families, schools and religious venues everywhere: Those who can should help those in need.—
Chicago Tribune,
Chicago Tribune,
16 May 2025
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At a place as small as McCabe’s — smaller, even, by far than the El Rey, where Burnett last officially played in 2006 — a statement like that could count as more than just a passing maxim.—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
13 May 2025
Noun
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And so, with gold on a steep upward trajectory: The following chart reflects my thinking, based on these axioms: Tension is going to increase dramatically—even from current levels.—
Clem Chambers,
Forbes.com,
11 Apr. 2025
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But the soul of the Scorpion was not easily vanquished, proving the axiom that driving a slow car fast is better than driving a fast car slow.—
Robert Ross,
Robb Report,
4 Apr. 2025
Noun
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This reflects a growing truth: emotional connection is a business asset.—
Jeff Fromm,
Forbes.com,
22 May 2025
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During Atlanta’s first preseason workout, Griner gathered a few younger players and delivered some hard truths.—
Ben Pickman,
New York Times,
22 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Motto.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motto. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.
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