Dictum

A dictum refers to an authoritative statement, remark, or pronouncement, often one that expresses a principle, belief, or rule. The term is frequently used in legal, philosophical, and academic contexts to denote a brief statement or observation made by someone in a position of authority, such as a judge or expert. In law, a dictum (plural: dicta) is a statement made by a judge that is not essential to the ruling in a case but offers insight or guidance. While dicta are persuasive, they do not carry the binding authority of the court’s decision. In general, a dictum is an important or insightful remark that carries weight, though it may not always be a formal or legally binding rule. The Indonesian equivalent of dictum could be pernyataan or kata-kata bijak, especially when used in a non-legal context.

Synonyms:

• Statement
• Remark
• Pronouncement
• Observation
• Maxim
• Saying
• Comment
• Edict
• Declaration
• Principle
• Aphorism
• Dictate
• Proclamation
• Commandment
• Insight

Sentences Using “Dictum”:

• The judge’s dictum on freedom of speech became a foundational reference in later cases.
• His dictum about the importance of education resonated with many young learners.
• The professor’s dictum on ethics shaped the curriculum for the next generation of students.
• Although the dictum was not binding, it influenced how future cases on the same issue were approached.
• The philosopher’s dictum that “all knowledge begins with experience” has been widely discussed in academic circles.
• The general’s dictum to “never retreat” became the rallying cry for his troops.
• The book is filled with wise dicta from the author, offering valuable lessons on leadership and personal growth.
• The judge issued a dictum that emphasized the need for fairness in all legal proceedings.
• His dictum about the importance of perseverance became the mantra of the startup community.
• The company’s dictum on customer service became a cornerstone of their brand identity.

Related Words:

• Statement
• Remark
• Pronouncement
• Observation
• Aphorism
• Saying
• Maxim
• Dictate
• Edict
• Proclamation
• Declaration
• Commandment
• Advice
• Principle
• Insight

Phrasal Verbs Related to “Dictum”:

• Lay down the law (to make a firm statement or rule, similar to a dictum issued by an authority)
• Speak out (to make an outspoken remark or statement, similar to delivering a dictum)
• Make a pronouncement (to make an authoritative statement or dictum)
• Hand down (to give a ruling, often used in legal contexts when a dictum is issued)
• Offer insight (to provide a guiding remark or dictum on a subject)
• Offer wisdom (to make an insightful remark or dictum)
• Pass on a message (to share a dictum or important statement with others)
• Speak with authority (to issue a dictum or statement that carries weight)
• Set forth (to explain or express a dictum or principle clearly)
• Echo a dictum (to repeat or follow a previously issued dictum)

Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Dictum”:

• A dictum to live by (a principle or statement that guides one’s behavior or philosophy of life)
• By dictum or decree (following a ruling or directive issued by someone in authority)
• In the spirit of the dictum (acting in accordance with the essence or principle of a given dictum)
• A dictum of truth (an authoritative statement considered to be true or wise)
• An immutable dictum (a statement or principle that is considered unchangeable or permanent)
• A dictum of caution (a statement advising careful consideration or action)
• The dictum of history (a historical statement or principle regarded as a guiding force or lesson)
• Preach a dictum (to advocate or promote a particular principle or statement)
• A guiding dictum (a fundamental or central rule or principle that directs decisions or behavior)
• A dictum for the ages (a wise or enduring statement, often one that transcends time)