Sic currite ut comprehendatis
“So run that you may obtain the prize.”
Vulgate Bible, 1 Corinthians 9:24
What does “Sic currite ut comprehendatis” mean?
Sic currite ut comprehendatis translates as “So run that you may obtain the prize.”
Put in full effort with the goal in sight – run to win.
“Sic currite ut comprehendatis” word by word
| Latin | English | Grammar |
|---|---|---|
| Sic | so, in this way | adverb; points to the manner of running, here “in such a way” |
| currite | run! | command (imperative) plural of curro, “I run”; addressed to several people. To one person: curre |
| ut | so that, in order that | conjunction introducing a purpose (final) clause |
| comprehendatis | you may seize, you may obtain | present subjunctive active, 2nd person plural, of comprehendo, “I seize, grasp, catch”; the subjunctive is required after ut for purpose |
How to pronounce “Sic currite ut comprehendatis”
The two differ only in sic: hard k at the end in Classical, a softer sound like “seek” in common Church practice, though both are acceptable. Stress falls on the second syllable of currite and the third-to-last of comprehendatis.
The story behind it
Word for word the line says “so run that you may seize”. The verb comprehendere means to grasp or catch, and in the context of a race the English versions render it as winning or obtaining the prize.
It comes from the First Letter to the Corinthians (9:24), where Paul compares the Christian life to a footrace: many run, but one receives the prize, so run in such a way as to win. His Corinthian readers knew athletic contests well, as the Isthmian Games were held near their city.
The wording quoted here is that of the Latin Vulgate, the Bible translation associated with Jerome in the late 4th century. Today the line is used as a motto by schools and universities, for example Divine Word University in Papua New Guinea.
How to use “Sic currite ut comprehendatis”
A fitting motto for a school, team or training goal, a message for a graduate or an athlete before a race, or a tattoo and desk reminder about giving full effort. It suits any situation where you want to say that effort should be aimed at a clear goal.
- Latin
- Sic currite ut comprehendatis
- English
- So run that you may obtain the prize.
- Source
- Vulgate Bible, 1 Corinthians 9:24
- Era
- Late Antiquity
- Theme
- Perseverance
Common mistakes
- Currite is plural (“you all, run”). Addressing one person, the form is sic curre ut comprehendas; do not just swap one word.
- Comprehendatis is subjunctive after ut, so it means “that you may obtain”, not “you obtain”. Changing the ending changes the grammar.
- It is not about winning at others’ expense or about speed alone: in context it is an exhortation to disciplined effort toward a goal.
Questions about “Sic currite ut comprehendatis”
What does “Sic currite ut comprehendatis” mean literally?
“So run that you may seize.” English Bibles usually render it “So run that you may obtain the prize” or “run to win”.
Where is “Sic currite ut comprehendatis” from?
From 1 Corinthians 9:24 in the Latin Vulgate, where Paul compares the Christian life to a race.
How do you pronounce “Sic currite ut comprehendatis”?
Classical: sik koor-REE-teh oot kom-preh-hen-DAH-tees. The Church pronunciation is nearly identical, with sic often sounded “seek”.
Is “Sic currite ut comprehendatis” correct for a tattoo?
Yes, it is correct Vulgate Latin. Note that currite is plural, so it addresses a group; for a personal tattoo many people prefer the singular “Sic curre ut comprehendas”.
More to explore
Translation and grammar checked by Latin Quoter · last reviewed November 2026
Explore the Book of 1 Corinthians
Related Latin quotes
One Latin line. Every Monday.
A quote, its translation and the story behind it, free in your inbox.