Definition

1. Noun:
   • An authoritative and often-quoted passage: A passage from a text, especially a classical or highly respected work, that is considered the standard or most authoritative source for a particular idea, concept, or quotation.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Aristotle's discussion of tragedy in "Poetics" is the locus classicus for literary theory.
  • When defining this legal principle, the judge referred to the locus classicus in Blackstone's Commentaries.

Advanced Usage

• As a cited source: The term is used in academic, legal, and literary writing to direct readers to the definitive treatment of a subject.
  • His argument was weak because it failed to engage with the locus classicus on the topic.
• In plural form: The plural is .
  • The scholar's footnotes were filled with references to the loci classici of Roman law.

Variants and Related Words

• Classic (adj/n): Of the highest quality or class; serving as a standard; a work of enduring excellence.
  • Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" is a classic of scientific literature.
• Authoritative (adj): Able to be trusted as being accurate or true; commanding.
  • She consulted the most authoritative text on the subject.

Synonyms

• Definitive passage: The most authoritative and conclusive section of text.
• Standard reference: A source that is regularly used as a point of reference.
• Canonical text: A text that is accepted as authentic and authoritative within a field.

Notes on Usage

• Field-Specific: This term is most commonly found in scholarly, legal, and philosophical writing rather than everyday conversation.
• Latin Origin: It is a Latin phrase adopted into English, meaning "classical place" or "standard passage." Its use implies a shared knowledge of foundational texts within a specific discipline.

Noun

1. an authoritative and often-quoted passage