LATIN BLOG #12: Includes the terms Carpe Diem; Inter Alia; De Jure

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Latin Blog #12: Understanding Latin Phrases Used in Everyday Language

 Carpe Diem (noun)

Carpe = seize

Diem = the day

Literally, it means “seize the day”. Its broader meaning when used in everyday language refers to the notion of jumping at opportunities as they present themselves. The implication here is that if you wait too long you are likely to miss the boat. Also sometimes loosely translated as “seize the moment”.

A less literal interpretation speaks to the notion of living for the moment (and in the moment), living each day to the fullest and appreciating every moment.

 Inter Alia (adverb)

Literally “among other things”. For example, “the committee recommended, inter alia, that that there should be an increase in the marketing budget”.

 De Jure (adverb or adjective)

Based on, or according to the law (The opposite of “De Facto”, discussed in Blog #3).

For example, some countries have “de jure” segregation. That is, segregation is part of their legal system/laws. Other countries may not have de jure segregation but segregation exists in actual practice (this is de facto segregation).

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Author: andrewyiannakis

Andrew Yiannakis, Ph.D., is currently a Research Professor at the University of New Mexico (USA). He is also Professor Emeritus from the University of Connecticut where he taught the Sociology of Leisure, Tourism & Sport, as well as Research Methods and Computer Applications. He also holds the rank of 8th Dan in Traditional Jujutsu and a 6th Dan in Traditional Kodokan Judo. He is the Director of the Institute of Traditional Martial Arts at the University of New Mexico. He is also the Chair of the Traditional Jujutsu Committee of the USJJF. As an amateur historian, he has led several expeditions to Greece to conduct research at Thermopylae, and locate the path the Persians used in 480 BC to encircle, and defeat King Leonidas and the Greek allies. Prof. Yiannakis has published extensively in a number of areas.

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