Few Latin sayings have remained as useful in everyday conversation as de gustibus non est disputandum. Usually translated as “there is no disputing about…
Few Latin phrases express moral isolation as sharply as contra mundum. Literally translated, it means “against the world.” Its force, however, depends on what…
Aequum et bonum is a Latin legal expression commonly translated as “the equitable and the good” or “fairness and good conscience.” It captures an enduring idea…
“Veritas temporis filia” is a Latin saying traditionally translated as “truth is the daughter of time.” Its image is memorable because it presents truth as…
Few Latin expressions fit the imagination of space exploration as naturally as ad astra. Translated as “to the stars,” the phrase turns a destination into a…
Few Latin expressions have traveled as successfully from antiquity into modern political language as panem et circenses. Literally translated as “bread and…
When someone presents a claim as true simply because a respected person has stated it, the Latin phrase ipse dixit offers a precise description of what has…
The Latin phrase magnum opus is commonly translated as “great work.” In modern English, it usually identifies an artist’s, writer’s, composer’s, scientist’s,…
Few Latin expressions have traveled so easily across centuries as O tempora, o mores! Its compact rhythm makes it memorable, while its meaning remains useful…
Academic life is filled with Latin. Students earn a bachelor’s degree, researchers publish in proceedings, universities preserve an alma mater, and scholars…