dictum Definition
- 1a formal pronouncement from an authoritative source
- 2a short statement that expresses a general truth or principle
Using dictum: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dictum" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The judge's dictum was final and could not be appealed.
Example
Her dictum that honesty is the best policy is still remembered by her students.
Example
One famous dictum of Confucius is 'Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.'
dictum Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for dictum
Phrases with dictum
a statement of law or legal principle that is not necessarily binding but is authoritative and influential
Example
The legal dictum that 'ignorance of the law is no excuse' is often cited in court.
Example
The moral dictum that 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you' is found in many religious traditions.
a statement of political principle or ideology that is used to guide policy or action
Example
The political dictum that 'all men are created equal' is enshrined in the US Declaration of Independence.
Origins of dictum
from Latin 'dictum', meaning 'something said'
Summary: dictum in Brief
A 'dictum' [ˈdɪktəm] is a formal statement or pronouncement from an authoritative source. It can also refer to a short statement expressing a general truth or principle. Examples include the judge's dictum in court, or Confucius' famous dictum 'Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.' 'Dictum' can be further categorized into legal, moral, or political dictums.
