Plus ratio quam vis
“Reason rather than force.”
Motto of the Jagiellonian University
What does “Plus ratio quam vis” mean?
Plus ratio quam vis translates as “Reason rather than force.”
Arguments should win by persuasion, not by power. The motto defends reasoned debate over coercion.
“Plus ratio quam vis” word by word
| Latin | English | Grammar |
|---|---|---|
| Plus | more | adverb or neuter noun used as an adverb: “more”; the comparative of multum, “much” |
| ratio | reason | nominative singular feminine noun (nominative); from ratio, “reason, reckoning” |
| quam | than | conjunction used after a comparative, “than” |
| vis | force | nominative singular feminine noun (nominative); from vis, “force, violence, strength”; irregular, with no genitive singular |
How to pronounce “Plus ratio quam vis”
The differences are in ratio (classical -tee-oh, church -tsee-oh) and in the v of vis (w versus v). Stress falls on the first syllable of ratio; plus, quam and vis are single syllables.
The story behind it
Word for word the line says “more reason than force”, which is usually put as “reason rather than force”. The elliptical, motto-style wording leaves out the verb and lets the comparison stand alone.
It is the motto of the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1364. The motto belongs to the modern era, not to classical antiquity.
It sets two ways of settling a dispute side by side: the argument that persuades and the pressure that compels. Today it is quoted in contexts of debate, teaching and diplomacy.
How to use “Plus ratio quam vis”
Suited to a debate society, a speech on diplomacy or negotiation, a teacher’s or student’s motto, or a tattoo for someone who values argument over aggression.
- Latin
- Plus ratio quam vis
- English
- Reason rather than force.
- Source
- Motto of the Jagiellonian University
- Era
- Modern Latin
- Theme
- Wisdom
Common mistakes
- The phrase is not a classical Roman saying. It is a modern university motto, so do not credit it to Cicero or another ancient author.
- Quam means “than” here, not “which” or “how”. Plus ratio quam vis compares reason with force.
- Vis is an irregular noun. Do not change its ending as if it were an ordinary regular noun when adapting the phrase.
Questions about “Plus ratio quam vis”
What does “Plus ratio quam vis” mean literally?
Literally “more reason than force”. In natural English it is “reason rather than force”.
Who said “Plus ratio quam vis”?
It is not a quote from one person. It is the motto of the Jagiellonian University in Kraków.
How do you pronounce “Plus ratio quam vis”?
In classical pronunciation: plooss RAH-tee-oh kwahm weess. In church pronunciation: plooss RAH-tsee-oh kwahm veess.
Is “Plus ratio quam vis” correct Latin for a tattoo?
Yes. It is a brief, grammatical motto. Keep the four words exactly as written, since vis is irregular.
More to explore
Translation and grammar checked by Latin Quoter · last reviewed November 2026
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