as a motto

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a motto" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a guiding principle or a short statement that encapsulates the beliefs or ideals of an individual or organization. Example: "The company adopted 'Innovation and Integrity' as a motto to reflect its core values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He offered a disclaimer that could serve as a motto for awards shows everywhere.

The New York Times

That could serve as a motto for central bankers, who are cautious by nature and profession.

The New York Times

These days, the New York Police Department embraces "Out and Proud" as a motto.

The New York Times

Ben Franklin proposed as a motto of the Republic "Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God".

The New York Times

Some Christians have What Would Jesus Do? as a motto; I have What Would Douglas Think?

The Guardian - Tech

As a motto for a young male child in Alaska, Trow suggests: "Wounded by the Million, Healed One by One".

The New Yorker

It might stand as a motto for this modest but imposing work: "Nobody has the truth in their pocket".

The New York Times - Books

Alcoholics Anonymous also embraced it and circulated it widely as a motto for its 12-step program.

The New York Times

This could stand as a motto for almost all the stories here, though the littleness of the piece varies.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It seems as good a motto as any for the festival.

The Guardian

On a wall near the children's section, there's a quote from Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are": "And now," cried Max, "let the wild rumpus start!" That's as good a motto as any for a good independent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a motto" to introduce a concise phrase that encapsulates the core values or guiding principles of an individual, group, or organization. This helps to clearly define their identity and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "as a motto" for general descriptions or vague aspirations. Ensure the phrase introduced is specific, memorable, and genuinely reflects the core principles, not just a superficial goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a motto" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that introduces or identifies a guiding principle, belief, or slogan. Ludwig shows its common usage in attributing a specific phrase to an entity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Books

20%

Film

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a motto" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to introduce a guiding principle or slogan. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It serves to highlight and emphasize core values, and while suitable for formal writing, it maintains a neutral register. Remember to use "as a motto" when you want to clearly define the essence or guiding philosophy of an individual, group, or organization. Alternatives include "as a guiding principle", "as a slogan", and "as a creed".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a guiding principle

Emphasizes the role of the motto as a foundational belief.

as a slogan

Highlights the motto's function as a short, memorable phrase.

as a watchword

Suggests the motto serves as a reminder or signal.

as a creed

Implies the motto is a formal statement of beliefs.

as a mantra

Indicates the motto is a frequently repeated phrase for focus.

as a maxim

Highlights the motto's nature as a general truth or rule of conduct.

as a byword

Suggests the motto is a characteristic expression.

as an emblem

Conveys that the motto serves as a symbolic representation.

as a catchphrase

Focuses on the motto's role as a popular or well-known expression.

as an expression

Underscores that the motto is a verbal articulation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "as a motto" in a sentence?

You can use "as a motto" to introduce a guiding principle. For example, "They adopted 'never give up' "as a motto" for their team."

What are some alternatives to saying "as a motto"?

You can use alternatives such as "as a guiding principle", "as a slogan", or "as a creed" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "as a motto" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a motto" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, as long as the phrase introduced genuinely functions as a core principle or belief.

What's the difference between "as a motto" and "as a theme"?

"As a motto" refers to a concise phrase representing core values, while "as a theme" refers to a recurring idea or subject in a work of art or discussion. They are not interchangeable.