In the Olympic Motto, "ALTIUS" stand for:

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (3):
The term "ALTIUS" in the original Olympic motto, "Citius, Altius, Fortius," is a Latin comparative adverb that translates directly to "Higher" or "More Highly." This concept encourages Olympic athletes to strive for ever greater heights of achievement and performance, both physically and spiritually. It is not merely about physical elevation, such as jumping higher or climbing higher on the podium, but also about setting loftier goals, elevating one's own standards, and rising above challenges in the spirit of fair competition. The motto, first proposed by Pierre de Coubertin, is designed to be an inspirational program of moral beauty, pushing individuals toward the pinnacle of human capability. The modern version of the motto, "Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter" ("Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together"), retains *Altius* as a central element representing aspiration and excellence.

The incorrect option is (1):
This option states that "ALTIUS" means "Faster." This is incorrect because the Latin word for "Faster" in the Olympic motto is *Citius*. *Citius* is the first word of the tri-part motto and specifically refers to speed and quickness in athletic events such as running and swimming. The virtue of speed, encapsulated by *Citius*, is a fundamental aspect of many sports requiring rapid movement. While speed is a critical component of Olympic performance, it is a separate concept from the idea of reaching greater vertical achievement and higher standards, which is conveyed by *Altius*. Therefore, substituting "Faster" for "Altius" misrepresents the composition and meaning of the official Latin phrase.

The incorrect option is (2):
The option "Stronger" is an inaccurate translation for "ALTIUS." The concept of greater strength, power, and mental fortitude is represented by the third word in the Olympic motto, which is *Fortius*. *Fortius* is the Latin term that calls for athletes to be stronger, enduring the mental and physical rigors of high-level competition. *Altius* is focused on elevation and ambitious goals, standing distinctly from the attribute of strength, which is the domain of *Fortius*. The motto intentionally separates these three concepts to cover a broader range of human athletic endeavor. Confusing "Stronger" and "Higher" would obscure the complete inspirational message.

The incorrect option is (4):
The word "Deeper" is not a part of the Olympic motto's traditional or modern translation. While one might interpret 'deeper' metaphorically in terms of commitment or understanding, it does not align with the core athletic dimensions intended by the phrase. The motto is deliberately structured around comparative adverbs that represent measurable performance improvements: speed (*Citius*), height (*Altius*), and strength (*Fortius*). There is no Latin equivalent in the phrase to suggest the concept of "Deeper." Therefore, this option is factually incorrect and misrepresents the foundational principles and literal translation of the Olympic motto.