Dictum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dictum
[ˈdɪktəm ]
Definition
legal terminology
A dictum is an authoritative statement or pronouncement, often in a legal context. It may refer to something said by a judge that is not essential to the decision in the case, thus not legally binding but may carry persuasive value. Dicta are typically used to clarify the reasoning behind a decision, offering guidance for future cases. The term has origins in legal writing where judges offer opinions that, while not part of the formal ruling, provide insight into the law.
Synonyms
advice, pronouncement, statement.
Examples of usage
- The court's dictum provided clarity on the legal principles involved.
- In her ruling, the judge issued a dictum that was widely discussed among legal scholars.
- While the dictum is not binding, it can influence lower courts' decisions.
- The legal community often quotes famous dicta from landmark cases.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terminology, a dictum can refer to a judge's remark made in a decision that is not essential to the ruling.
- Such remarks often guide future judicial decisions but are not legally binding.
- Famous Supreme Court cases often contain dictums that shape legal interpretations.
Literature
- Many prominent authors and philosophers use dictums as a way to convey complex ideas succinctly.
- Friedrich Nietzsche is known for his thought-provoking dictums that challenge societal norms.
- A well-crafted dictum can inspire, provoke thought, or offer wisdom in a concise manner.
Education
- In academia, dictums are used to encapsulate theories or principles concisely for students.
- Teachers often use famous dictums from history or science to spark discussions in the classroom.
- A good dictum can serve as a memorable quote that resonates with learners and aids retention.
Pop Culture
- In movies and shows, characters often share dictums that reveal their core beliefs or motivations.
- Famous lines from films can serve as modern dictums, resonating with audiences and impacting culture.
- Social media platforms have transformed dictums into memes that spread quickly and influence popular opinions.
Origin of 'dictum'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin, where it means 'said' or 'spoken'.
- It originates from the Latin verb 'dicere', which means 'to say' or 'to tell'.
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century, often in legal or formal contexts.
The term 'dictum' originates from Latin, meaning 'that which is said'. In legal contexts, it denotes commentary or opinions expressed by a judge or court that are not essential to the resolution of a case but may still impart valuable insights into the interpretation of laws. The use of 'dicta' (the plural form of dictum) has evolved within the legal profession where such statements are regarded for their potential impact on future judicial decisions. Legal professionals often study notable dicta to ascertain trends in judicial reasoning or to understand better the underlying principles that inform legal decisions.