Thursday, September 26, 2013

Top 5 for Linguists

Here's a list for the folks who have a flair for languages! Each of the five flags I've chosen has a phrase written on it in a language other than English. These flags have been selected for their words rather than their flag designs. Some of the writing is small and may be difficult to read, so I will include the original wording along with the translation.

1. Flag of Belize


Latin: Sub Umbra Floreo
Translation: Under the Shade I Flourish

2. Flag of Saudi Arabia 


The phrase written above the sword is called the Shahada, or Islamic creed. It is written in the Thuluth script.
Translation: There is no god but God and Muhammad is the messenger of God

3. Flag of Massachusetts


Latin: Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem
Translation: By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty

4. Flag of Haiti


French: L'Union Fait la Force
Translation: In Union there is Strength

5. Flag of Brazil 


Portuguese: Ordem e Progresso
Translation: Order and Progress

Some other flags worth checking out in this category are the flags of Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Iran, Iraq, British Virgin Islands, Montana and San Marino.