In my convalescence I’ve had a lot of screen time since I haven’t been able to do much physically. I was on social media and saw the misuse of the term dictum. Usually, I pass by these things, but in that instance, I gently let the poster know what a dictum is. For me that led down a minor rabbit hole and I wanted to share here my understanding of some basic related terms to think about.
A proverb – a short, pithy saying in general use, stating a general truth or piece of advice. Proverbs things people experience in everyday life. They are based more on common sense rather a universal truth. Example: a stitch in time saves nine.
An adage – a proverb or a short statement expressing a general truth. The difference between a proverb and an adage is that it is a general truth. Example: you’re never too late to learn.
An aphorism – a pithy observation that contains a general truth. It is a cleverly or wittily expressed piece of wisdom. Example: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
A maxim – a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. It’s a nugget of wisdom. A maxim is a rule that connects an action to the reasons for the action. Examples: look before you leap. I out not to lie to people in order to take advantage of them. I ought not to cheat on the test in order to get a good grade.
A dictum – a formal pronouncement from an authoritative source. It is an authoritative statement of a (supposed) truth. Example: Socrates famous dictum, the unexamined life is not worth living.
I think I’m going to play around with each of these and come up with some of my own in hope that it will help with the brain fog I’ve been having as of late… fun little mental exercises.
Please feel free to share some of your examples in the comments if you care to join me.
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