Words / C1

joorr-is-PROODNS/ˌdʒʊərɪsˈpruːdns/

Jurisprudence is the theory and philosophy of law, or a particular legal system: medical jurisprudence, a work of jurisprudence. Law is everyday; jurisdiction (this batch) is the power to decide a case. Prudence is caution — a lookalike. Do not call a parking fine jurisprudence.

Meaning

The theory and philosophy of law; a particular system of law.

Examples

• “Medical jurisprudence is not a slogan on the clinic door.”
• “Law is everyday. Jurisdiction is who may decide. A statute is a written rule. Prudence is caution. A ticketing dispute is law in the thin sense, not jurisprudence.”

Good to know

Legal theory / a body of law. Everyday: law. Contrast: jurisdiction (power to decide). Mix-up: prudence (caution). Not a parking ticket.

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