The Latin phrase inter alia carries a quiet authority that belies its modest length. Often translated as "among other things," it appears in court filings,…
Latin often gives a precise shape to feelings that are difficult to describe in English. Infra dignitatem is one such expression. Literally, it means “beneath…
The Latin phrase in toto means “as a whole”, “entirely”, or “in its entirety”. It describes a judgement made by considering the complete subject rather than…
Latin phrases tend to arrive in modern language carrying a weight that their few letters hardly suggest. In situ is a perfect example: two small words that…
The Latin phrase in pace means “in peace”. On a memorial, gravestone or cemetery plaque, it expresses the hope that a deceased person rests peacefully. Its…
Few Latin phrases are as recognisable in Christian worship as In nomine Patris. Usually heard as part of the longer formula In nomine Patris, et Filii, et…
A story does not always need to begin with a birth, a departure, or the first event in chronological order. Sometimes the most compelling opening places…
Latin legal expressions often survive because they describe ideas that modern legal systems still need. In camera is one of those phrases. Although its literal…
“In absentia” is a Latin phrase meaning “in the absence” or “while absent”. In everyday English, it describes something done when a person is not physically…
“Ignorantia legis non excusat” is a Latin legal maxim meaning that ignorance of the law does not excuse a person from its operation. The phrase expresses a…