“Bee’s knees” is an idiom used to describe something of high quality or attractiveness. It originated in the early 20th century and evolved to refer to a popular dance move, song, or romantic interest. While it has lost popularity, it still conveys a sense of uniqueness and superiority. “The bee’s knees” is a common idiomatic […]
In extenso means “full length” and is used to indicate that a document has been printed elsewhere. It can be used in literary and legal circles, often as a footnote or to direct readers to a full version of a work. It is often used in print media and can also appear as a link […]
Ex aequo et bono is a Latin term used in law to refer to cases decided on the basis of justice in specific circumstances, rather than codified law or precedent. It is used in arbitration and international law where legal codes may be ill-defined or contradictory. Its use is rare and requires agreement from all […]
“Hold your horses” is an idiom that advises patience and avoiding rash actions. Its origins are traced to the American South or West in the 19th century. The phrase is used to caution against impulsive behavior and encourage thoughtful consideration of a situation before acting. “Hold your horses” is an idiom that is often used […]
“Feel free” is an idiom meaning “go ahead” or “it’s okay”. It is often used informally to indicate no objection. Idioms can be difficult for non-native speakers to understand. The phrase “feel free” usually means go ahead, as you wish, or it is okay to do so. For example, if one person asks if she […]
The saying “all’s fair in love and war” means that normal rules of behavior are suspended in these situations, allowing for questionable actions. It can motivate individuals to take risks to win someone’s heart, but can also justify endangering others. It can lead to happy unions or harm to others, so not all strategies need […]
Occupation is a figure of speech where the speaker draws attention to something by stating they won’t mention it. It can be used positively, but negative use is more common. Paralipsis and apophasis are similar terms. Proslepsis discusses the topic in more detail. Occupation is a figure of speech whereby the speaker or writer draws […]
“Ibid” is a Latin term used in footnotes to refer to the same source previously cited, saving space and time. It can also be used to refer to the same author’s multiple works. Different citation rules apply, so it’s important to consult a style manual before submitting material for publication. Ibid is a contraction of […]
“Bottom line” is an idiom used to describe the most essential information, often in financial reports. It can also refer to net income, stock prices, and debt. In other situations, it is used to summarize current circumstances without unrelated opinions or facts. The phrase can have positive or negative connotations depending on the results. The […]
The legal concept of “conditio sine qua non” originates from ancient Rome and is used in tort law to refer to an essential condition for an event to occur. It is the basis for the “but for” rule, which determines liability in injury cases. This rule is important in complex cases with multiple potential defendants […]
Mitochondrial Eve is the most recent matrilineal common ancestor of all living humans, who lived in East Africa around 140,000 years ago. Tests based on mitochondrial DNA estimate when she lived and how different human lineages are related. She wasn’t the only human at the time, but represents the person from whom all living humans […]
“Wobbly” means unbalanced or unstable, mentally or physically. “Wonky” can be used interchangeably with “wobbly” for physical instability or to describe eccentric behavior. In modern times, “wonky” can describe detail-oriented workaholics in politics or business, but it can also create an unhealthy obsession with perfection. Former President Bill Clinton’s work sessions with motivated aides were […]
“Beer and skittles” is a British phrase meaning something easy, relaxing, or fun, often used negatively. Skittles refers to a British game similar to bowling. The phrase has no actual connection to drinking beer or playing skittles, but rather connotes a life of luxury. Other phrases with similar meanings include “wine and roses” and “fun […]
A duces tecum subpoena orders someone to bring materials to court. It must include a clear description of the materials needed and cannot be used to “go fishing” for evidence. Privilege applies to certain individuals, and the subpoena can also be used to obtain material for a deposition. Latin is still commonly used in legal […]
The ius cogens, or mandatory law, is a set of principles in international law that cannot be derogated from or suspended by individual nations. It includes issues such as slavery, genocide, and torture, and violations may result in penalties. International tribunals and organizations like the United Nations and European Union may be involved in enforcing […]
Protective orders are court orders that protect victims from harmful or threatening behavior. They define what the defendant can and cannot do, and violating the order can result in jail time. Victims can obtain an order by scheduling a hearing and presenting evidence. Emergency orders can be issued if the victim feels in immediate danger. […]
Taking delivery refers to receiving purchased items or investments, which can vary depending on the jurisdiction. It can include signing a contract or physically receiving goods, and contracts may include accept or pay language to protect sellers. Taking delivery generally means taking delivery of items or investments that a person or business has purchased. Sometimes […]
Pay-on-demand means a specific person or group has direct ownership of a financial instrument, while pay-in-exchange allows anyone in possession full financial control. Pay-to-order and pay-to-the-bar are common methods, while pay-less documents provide full legal and financial control over the terms within. Checks are the most common example of on-demand payment systems. Pay-on-demand is a […]
The use of Latin terms in law dates back to early common law. Inter vivos refers to transfers of property between living people, commonly used in real estate, living trusts, and organ donation. Inter vivos transfers can have tax benefits, and living organ donation is often for kidneys. Inter vivos trusts avoid probate but restrict […]
“Iura novit curia” means “the court knows the law” and is a principle applied in civil law proceedings. The judge decides based on their knowledge of the law, not arguments made by the parties. In criminal law, lawyers argue the legal merits of the case, and the judge decides based on their observations. Iura novit […]
