Tempus fugit

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Tempus fugit is a Latin expression meaning "time flees", more commonly translated as "time flies". It is frequently used as an inscription on clocks. The expression was first used in the verse Georgics written by Roman poet Virgil: Sed fugit interea fugit irreparabile tempus, which means, "But it flees in the meantime: irretrievable time flees".

The meaning is sometimes used less colloquially as: "Meanwhile, the irreplaceable time escapes", expressing concern that one's limited time is being consumed by something which may have little intrinsic substance or importance at that moment.

The expression is succinct and poignant, causing it to appear in numerous ways in modern culture. It appears as titles for television episodes (The X-Files) and musical compositions (jazz pianist Bud Powell, progressive rock group Yes). It also makes many appearances in literature and movies.

See also

• List of Latin phrases

External links

• Ralegh's poem at an English Literature Site

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Last updated on Friday March 07, 2008 at 15:00:25 PST (GMT -0800)
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