Latin is classified as a dead language because no country uses it as a primary form of communication. It hasn't been lost altogether; in other words, Latin isn't extinct because scholars are well versed in it and it's the main language of the Catholic Church. The influence of this ancient tongue is still heard today in colleges and universities. In some cases it's hard to avoid using Latin particularly when discussing scientific and legal matters. Here is a list of the most common Latin sayings used in English.
Latin Terms Used in Legal Proceedings
Affidavit – He has declared upon oath. An affidavit is a sworn statement of fact.
Habeas corpus – You have the body. This refers to a writ that requires a person to appear before a court or judge, so the legality of his or her detention can be challenged.
Prima facie – At first sight. In modern legal English this is used in civil and criminal cases. It's a fact thought to be correct unless there's evidence that proves otherwise.
Pro bono – For the good. It's used when lawyers offer their services free of charge.
Subpoena – Fans of the U.S. drama Law & Order have no doubt heard this Latin word spoken numerous times. It means under penalty, and it's a court order used to compel a witness to appear in court on a specific date to give evidence in a trial. If he or she doesn't show up, the person will be punished by the court.
Latin Terms Used in Education and Business
Ad hoc – For this. It refers to the specific objective, situation, or case at hand and for no other.
Alma mater – Literally means nourishing mother. It's used to describe one's old school.
Curriculum vitae – This is often shortened to CV in the world of work, or resume. It means the course of one's life, and these days it's a document every college/university student should prepare even before school is over.
Cum laude – With praise. This is printed on a graduate's diploma.
Magna cum laude – With great praise.
Per diem – By the day. It's used to describe an allowance given to business travelers.
Summa cum laude – With highest praise.
Scientific/Medical Terms Originally from Latin
Homo sapiens – The literal meaning is wise man or thinking man, but in modern times the universally accepted translation is human beings.
Infra – Below, beneath, or underneath. This prefix is added to words like infrared and infrastructure.
In vitro – In glass. An experimental process that occurs in a non-natural setting.
Post mortem – After death.
Rigor mortis – Stiffness of death.
Familiar Latin Expressions
Carpe diem – Seize the day.
Caveat emptor – Let the buyer beware.
Et cetera – And the rest.
Et al – And others.
Lingua franca – Language spoken beyond the population of its native speakers.
Non sequitur – It doesn't follow.
Status quo – The current situation.
Well Known Latin Sayings
Veni, vidi, vici – I came, I saw, I conquered. Short and to the point, this was famously announced by Julius Caesar when he defeated Pharnaces II of Pontus at the Battle of Zela.
Cogito, ergo sum – I think, therefore I am.
Latin terminology is everywhere, and it will likely be used for years to come.
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Scott Hayden - Since joining Suite101 in early 2007, I've contributed articles about travel, history and health. My speciality is writing about workplace ...
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