English grammar is described through a vocabulary that often seems older, more formal, and more technical than the language it explains. Terms such as noun,…
The Latin phrase ad infinitum means “to infinity” or “without limit.” It describes an action, process, sequence, or idea that continues indefinitely, with no…
The word extraordinary often sounds as if it simply means “very impressive,” “unusual,” or “better than expected.” Those meanings are correct in modern…
Spanish is one of the world’s most widely spoken languages, yet many of its essential features began in the speech of ancient Rome. From everyday words such as…
Few Latin expressions have traveled so successfully from ancient Rome into modern public debate as O tempora, o mores! Usually translated as “Oh, the times!…
Legal language often preserves the past in unusually visible ways. A contract, court order, or formal pleading may be written in modern English, yet its name…
The legal doctrine of stare decisis is one of the central ideas behind judge-made law. Its Latin name is commonly translated as “to stand by things decided,”…
The term status quo appears in conversations about politics, workplaces, negotiations, relationships, law, and public policy. It sounds formal, yet its meaning…