Definition:
The term "ipse dixit" is a Latin phrase that means "he himself said it." In English, it refers to a statement or assertion that is presented as true based solely on the authority of the person making it, without any evidence or reasoning to support it. Essentially, it implies that someone is making a claim that should be accepted because of who they are, not because of any proof.
In more advanced discussions, "ipse dixit" can be used to highlight logical fallacies where one relies on authority rather than evidence. In academic debates, calling out an "ipse dixit" can be a way to challenge someone's argument.
While "ipse dixit" itself is not part of any idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, it might be used in phrases such as: - "Take it with a grain of salt" – meaning to view a statement skeptically. - "To take someone's word for it" – meaning to accept what someone says without questioning it, which can be problematic if it’s an "ipse dixit."
"Ipse dixit" is a term used to describe a claim that relies solely on the authority of the person making it, without any supporting evidence.