Dictum vs. Maxim — What's the Difference?

In general usage, a dictum (lit. 'something that has been said' in Latin; plural dicta) is an authoritative or dogmatic statement. In some contexts, such as legal writing and church cantata librettos, dictum can have a specific meaning.

A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct

An authoritative, often formal pronouncement

A succinct formulation of a fundamental principle, general truth, or rule of conduct.

(Law) A side remark made in a judicial opinion that is not necessary for the decision in the case and therefore is not to be regarded as establishing the law of the case or setting legal precedent. Also called obiter dictum.

A self-evident axiom or premise; a pithy expression of a general principle or rule.

An authoritative statement; a dogmatic saying; a maxim, an apothegm.

A precept; a succinct statement or observation of a rule of conduct or moral teaching.

A judicial opinion expressed by judges on points that do not necessarily arise in the case, and are not involved in it.

Alternative case form of Maxim

The report of a judgment made by one of the judges who has given it.

An established principle or proposition; a condensed proposition of important practical truth; an axiom of practical wisdom; an adage; a proverb; an aphorism.

An arbitrament or award.

The longest note formerly used, equal to two longs, or four breves; a large.

An authoritative statement; a dogmatic saying; an apothegm.

A saying that widely accepted on its own merits

A judicial opinion expressed by judges on points that do not necessarily arise in the case, and are not involved in it.

English inventor (born in the United States) who invented the Maxim gun that was used in World War I (1840-1916)

An authoritative declaration

An opinion voiced by a judge on a point of law not directly bearing on the case in question and therefore not binding