Fortune favours the bold – meaning, origin, and usage

Whenever someone’s on the precipice of making a big decision, you might hear someone say “fortune favours the bold.” If you’ve ever wondered where this phrase comes from, you’ve come to just the place!

In this article we’ll be covering what the phrase means, how it originated, and how it tends to be used today. We will also cover notable uses of the phrase, including within literature and the media. Finally, we will then wrap up with a discussion on similar and synonymous sayings.

So, without further ado, let’s get straight to it!

What is the meaning of the phrase “fortune favours the bold”?

The phrase “fortune favours the bold” is an old proverb which means that success, luck and good fortune tends to favour those who are courageous and take risks. Or in other words, being brave and/or taking a risk can lead to favourable consequences.

This saying is intended to motivate the listener or reader to be bold and brave, and to take decisive action for favourable or fortunate results. The proverb implies that being daring can lead to positive outcomes.

What is the origin of the phrase “fortune favours the bold”?

There remains some speculation as to who first coined the term “fortune favours the bold.” However, we do know that it dates back to at least the year 161 BC.

One early written recorded use of the phrase” fortune favours the bold” is often attributed to the Roman poet Virgil from his Latin work “Aened”in the year 161 B.C. In the poem the phrase was originally written in Latin, and read “audentes fortuna iuvat.”

However, the Latin phrase also appeared in a play called Phormio, written by a Roman Afircan playwright by the name of Terence.

The phrase was quickly popularised and sources say that the phrase was later used by Pliny the Elder in A.D. 79 when he led a fleet on a risky rescue mission to Pompeii to investigate the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius. This mission cost him his life.

There is also a similar famous proverb that reads “Boldness is the beginning of action, but fortune controls how it ends.” This proverb is was used by the ancient Greek philosopher Democritus (circa 460 B.C. - 370 B.C.)

How to use the phrase “fortune favours the bold” - with examples

“Fortune favours the bold” is a word of encouragement for someone to take a stand, or make a start, or to simply be bold, in order to achieve luck and success. It is used to inspire confidence, especially when a risk needs to be taken.

Many organisations have been known to use the proverb as their motto, and it is used the world over for motivating others. The phrase is particularly popular in leadership and coaching, and generally anywhere where a little encouragement can be used to advantage.

Here are some examples of the phrase in use in everyday conversation for context:

Go for it - fortune favours the bold!
Don’t just stand there - fortune favours the bold!
Waiting around isn’t going to get you anywhere. You know what they say, “fortune favours the bold.”

Notable uses of the phrase and theme “fortune favours the bold” in politics, literature and the media

In addition to early uses, variations of the phrase “fortune favours the bold” appeared in speeches given by the likes of Napoleon Bonaparte. Before his ultimate downfall, Napoleon’s military and political rise was based on strategic risk-taking, believing that decisive action leads to glory.

Similarly, former UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill also used variations of the phrase “fortune favours the bold.” His speeches during his leadership during World War II embodied the belief that fortune rewards those who stand firm in the face of adversity.

Real life examples of the concept of fortune favouring the bold can be seen in business. For example with Steve Jobs and Apple (1990s-2010s), where Jobs’ philosophy embodied bold innovation, turning Apple into a global tech leader. Then there’s Elon Muskand& SpaceX (2000s-Present), where Musk’s space ventures follow the principle of taking risks to achieve greatness.

Similar examples can also be found in the field of sports. For example, consider Michael Jordan of NBA Chicago Bulls was known for taking high-pressure shots in crucial moments.

His “flu game” (1997 NBA Finals) demonstrated his fearless mindset, despite severe illness, he played and led the Bulls to victory.

The themes of boldness and bravery leading to success are a frequent feature in literature and non-fiction, even when the phrase isn’t used directly. For example, in “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes (1605), and in “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville (1851),

More recently, the theme has seen prominence in the book and TV series “Game of Thrones” by George R.R. Martin (1996–2019), where several characters, including Daenerys Targaryen and Tyrion Lannister, follow the belief that fortune favors those who take decisive and ambitious actions.

Examples of this theme in film can be seen in “Gladiator” (2000) in “Dead Poets Society” (1989), and in “The Dark Knight“ (2008).

What are some other ways of saying “fortune favours the bold”?

Here are some synonymous phrases that can often be used in place of “fortune favours the bold”:

Nothing ventured, nothing gained
Fortune favours the brave
Risk-takers reap rewards
Who dares, wins
Risk brings reward
Faint heart never won fair lady
Courageous action is often rewarded

Final word

So, to sum up the phrase “fortune favours the bold” expresses the idea that being brave and/or taking a risk can lead to favourable results. It is an old proverb dating back to Ancient Rome, with similar sayings coming from Ancient Greece not long before.

The proverb “fortune favours the bold” remains popular to this day, which says a lot for it’s timelessness, and versatility. It has influenced politics, literature, media, and business. Whether in epic battles, corporate boardrooms, or personal journeys, the phrase encourages taking risks to achieve greatness.