Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

ad astra per aspera

American  
[ahd ah-strah per ah-spe-rah, ad as-truh per as-per-uh] / ɑd ˈɑ strɑ pɛr ˈɑ spɛˌrɑ, æd ˈæs trə pər ˈæs pər ə /
Latin.
  1. to the stars through difficulties: motto of Kansas.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Latin phrase ad astra per aspera translates as “to the stars through difficulties.”

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

The Latin phrase ad astra per aspera translates as “to the stars through difficulties.”

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026