That does not truly belong to one which can be taken from him upon occasion.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) Property that may be seized upon occasion is not truly owned — secure ownership means the thing cannot be taken at the pleasure of another.

Where this applies

• A city can seize a homeowner's land through eminent domain whenever it wants, which means the homeowner's title is not truly absolute.
• A king's subject whose property can be confiscated by royal decree does not truly own that property in the fullest sense.
• An employee's company car can be taken back at any time by the employer, so the employee does not truly own it.