Words / C1

DIKT-uh-m/ˈdɪktəm/

A dictum is a formal statement of opinion or a short saying treated as authoritative: a board dictum, a legal dictum. Saying is everyday; a chair’s line does not replace a fire figure.

Meaning

A formal statement of opinion or a short saying treated as authoritative.

Examples

• “A board dictum is not an occupancy certificate; cite the number.”
• “Saying is everyday. Pronouncement is the close twin. A line from the chair is talk. A number on a certificate is the rule. Cite the cap; then quote the dictum if the board still wants it in the minute.”

Good to know

An authoritative saying or ruling. Everyday: saying. A chair’s line ≠ a cap.

Near in meaning

pronouncement, saying, ruling

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