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NeCede's

Maxim 3.2.4

If you know not the names of things, the knowledge of things themselves perishes.

Nomina si nescis, perit cognitio rerum.

Source: Co. Litt. 86; Weisman, 81h Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Precise legal terminology is not pedantry — it is the means by which distinctions in law are preserved and communicated.

Where this applies

  • Technical legal terms are redefined and confusion follows.
  • Someone uses a legal term incorrectly and the distinction between concepts is lost.

Legal domains

interpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 3.2.4 — If you know not the names of things, the knowledge of things themselves perishes. — Co. Litt. 86; Weisman, 81h (Nomina si nescis, perit cognitio rerum.)

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