eng lit vocab

Carpe diem

"Seize the day" — make the most of the present time.

Caveat emptor

"Let the buyer beware" — the principle that the buyer alone is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before a purchase is made.

E Pluribus Unum

"Out of many, one"

In Vino Veritas

"In wine, there is truth"

Cogito Ergo Sum

"I think, therefore I am" — foundational proposition of modern philosophy formulated by René Descartes.

Pro Bono

Professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment (free work).

Per Diem

A daily allowance or payment earned per day.

Veni Vidi Vici

"I came, I saw, I conquered" — famously stated by Julius Caesar after the Battle of Zela.

Memento Mori

"Remember that you must die" — an object or phrase serving as a reminder of mortality.

In situ

In the original, natural, or proper place (e.g., a tumor that has not metastasized or spread into neighboring tissues).

Et Tu, Brute?

A historical and literary phrase used as an allusion to unexpected betrayal by a close friend.

S.P.Q.R. (Senatus Populusque Romanus)

"The Senate and Roman People" — the official motto and emblem representing the Roman Republic and Empire.

Ars Gratia Artis

"Art for the sake of art"

Hoi Polloi

The masses; the common people.

Hoi Oligoi

The few; the elite or ruling class.

Ad Astra Per Aspera

"Through hardships to the stars"

Amor Vincit Omnia

"Love conquers all"

In Loco Parentis

Assuming the responsibilities and legal role of a parent.

Quo Vadis

"Where are you going?"

Invalid (noun)

A person made weak or disabled due to illness or injury.