Definitions
- Referring to a statement or saying that is considered authoritative or widely accepted. - Describing a formal pronouncement or declaration made by a person in authority. - Talking about a maxim or principle that is considered to be true or wise.
- Referring to an official proclamation or order issued by a person in authority. - Describing a decree or command that has the force of law. - Talking about a formal announcement or directive that is binding and must be obeyed.
List of Similarities
- 1Both dictum and edict are formal words.
- 2Both refer to statements or pronouncements made by people in authority.
- 3Both carry a sense of authority and must be taken seriously.
- 4Both can be used in legal or political contexts.
- 5Both imply that there are consequences for not following the statement or order.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Dictum is more commonly used in philosophical or literary contexts, while edict is more commonly used in legal or political contexts.
- 2Scope: Dictum can refer to any authoritative statement, while edict specifically refers to a formal order or proclamation.
- 3Force: Edict carries a stronger sense of authority and must be obeyed, while dictum may be more of a suggestion or advice.
- 4Connotation: Dictum can have a positive or negative connotation depending on the context, while edict often carries a negative connotation due to its association with authoritarianism.
Remember this!
Dictum and edict are both formal words that refer to statements or pronouncements made by people in authority. However, dictum is a more general term that can refer to any authoritative statement, while edict specifically refers to a formal order or proclamation that must be obeyed. Additionally, edict carries a stronger sense of authority and often has a negative connotation due to its association with authoritarianism.
