Latin Idioms

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clarion call

Meaning: A clarion is a high-pitch bugle.

Example: All of the citizens heard the clarion call and prepared themselves to defend their city.  Read more ➺


beau monde

Meaning: a fashionable society.

Example: He had no interest in the glittering beau monde that he belonged to before his marriage. Read more ➺


under the auspices

Meaning: under the protection, sponsorship, or patronage

Example: We restored the home under the auspices of the historical society. Read more ➺


alma mater

Meaning: the school, college, or university that one attended or in which one has studied

Example: He was delighted when he was offered the position of professor of English at his alma mater. Read more ➺


vim and vigor

Meaning: full of energy and enthusiasm

Example: Even though my grandmother is in her 80s, she is still full of vim and vigor. Read more ➺


pardon me

Meaning: it is a way of apologising for something that has been said or done

Example: Pardon me for offending you. I didn't realise that you were sensitive to the subject. Read more ➺


status quo

Meaning: the existing condition

Example: The countries are now trying to maintain a status quo with regards to their nuclear arsenal which will help them if the situation gets any worse. Read more ➺


haste makes waste

Meaning: If you do things too quickly, you can make mistakes.

Example: He tried to fix the leak in a hurry, but haste makes waste and it got worse. Read more ➺


jot or tittle

Meaning: A very small amount; the tiniest detail.

Example: Not a jot or tittle of truth remained in his excuse. Read more ➺


qui vive

Meaning: State of alertness or watchfulness, especially due to anticipation of danger or surprise.

Example: The security guards remained on the qui vive throughout the night. Read more ➺


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