Maxim 9.1.18
Facts are more powerful than words.
Facta sunt potentiora verbis.
Source: Bouvier's Law Dictionary; Weisman, 101d
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
Deeds and circumstances carry greater evidentiary weight than mere declarations — the law looks to what was done, not merely what was said. (Duplicate maxim — see also 11.2.1.)
Where this applies
- The other party says one thing but their actions tell a completely different story.
- Someone promised to do something but their behavior shows the opposite intent.
- They keep making claims that contradict what they actually did.
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 9.1.18 — Facts are more powerful than words. — Bouvier's Law Dictionary; Weisman, 101d (Facta sunt potentiora verbis.)
Found an error? Suggest a correction →